28 Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka

The island nation Sri Lanka is a magnificent tourist destination for honeymooners, adventurers, nature lovers and those looking for tranquillity. Be it lush green landscapes, mighty mountains, pristine sandy beaches, historical monuments, ancient temples, or mythological sites, Sri Lanka has it all.

The best places to visit in Sri Lanka are listed below.

Currency in Sri Lanka: The official currency in Sri Lanka is LKR. 1 Sri Lankan LKR equals 0.23 Indian Rupee as of 28 February 2023.

*Currency rate changes are subject to the market exchange rate.

Natural beauty is abundant in Sri Lanka. Here are some of the top tourist attractions, beaches, museums, cities, and wildlife sanctuaries in Sri Lanka:

1. Kandy Lake, Kandy

Kandy Lake is one of the largest in Sri Lanka and has a beautiful island in the centre of it. Apart from enjoying the beach vibe, one can also enjoy other activities such as boating, local shopping etc. However, people mainly gather here to get a lovely vacation amidst nature.

• Location: Kandy, Sri Lanka
• Timing: Throughout the day
• Entry Fees: Free

2. Mahiyanganaya Sorabora Lake, Uva Province

A perfect tropical destination, Mahiyanganaya Sorabora Lake,  has a lot to offer nature lovers. You will have a gorgeous view of lush greenery, a soothing environment and the perfect atmosphere for fun camping. Apart from this, you can also enjoy boat riding, fishing, photography etc.

• Location: Badulla district, Sri Lanka
• Timings: Throughout the day
• Entry Fees: Free

3. St. Clair's Falls, Tawalantenne

St. Clair's Falls is a famous nature-visiting spot in Sri Lanka, which attracts tourists from all over the world. The waterfall is also called Little Niagra because of its great wild charm and forceful water flow. The place is mostly visited for trekking, hiking, enjoying diverse flora and fauna etc.

• Location: Tawalantenne
• Timing: Throughout the day
• Entry Fees: Free

4. Bambarakanda Falls, Kalupahana

If you are visiting Sri Lanka, Bambarakanda Falls should be on your itinerary. The surrounding of this majestic fall has a collection of diverse flora and fauna. It is also one of the highest waterfalls in Sri Lanka. People can visit this place to trek, hike and enjoy the natural freshness.

• Location: Kalupahana
• Timing: Throughout the day
• Entry Fees: Free

The list of beautiful natural landscapes to visit in Sri Lanka is as follows:

5. Arthur's Seat, Kandy

Arthur's Seat offers a stunning view of Kandy City over the lake. The site attracts photographers the most to capture the scenic beauty of the place through their lenses. As per folklore, Arthur, a planter, used to view the city by standing on a stone seat under a tree. Now, a platform with a symbolic chair is made for travellers to take pictures.

• Location: Southwest of Kandy Lake, Kandy
• Timings: Throughout the day
• Entry Fees: Free

6. Adam's Peak, Ratnapura

Adam's Peak, famous as Sri Pada, is of great significance to Buddhists, Muslims, Christians and Hindus. On the summit, you can witness a breathtaking view of the surroundings and catch a glimpse of Sri Pada (sacred footprint). You should climb the mountain at night to see the magical sunrise. Nestled right in the middle of Sri Lanka, Adam's Peak is the ideal place for adventure freaks and wildlife lovers.

• Location: 18 km northeast of Ratnapura, central Sri Lanka
• Timing: Throughout the day
• Entry Fees: Free

7. Ella, Colombo

Ella is known for its forest-clad mountains, picturesque tea gardens, magnificent waterfalls, caves, historical temples, and laid-back vibes. This small town amazes me with its beauty and profound calming influence.

• Location: 200 km east of Colombo
• Timing: Throughout the day
• Entry Fees: Free

When in Sri Lanka, you must take time to explore the wilderness and seascapes. The following is a list of places where you can be one with nature:

8. Yala National Park, Colombo

Yala National Park has one of the highest numbers of leopards in the world. Get on the jeep for the jungle safari to witness the leopards, wild elephants, and other wild animals.

• Location: 260 km south-east of Colombo
• Timings: 6 am to 6 pm
• Entry Fees: 4837 LKR for Adults and 2580 LKR for Children. Safari Charge is variable on packs of people.

9. Horton National Park, Dayagama

Horton National Park is an adobe for nature lovers because of the mesmerising landscape and the diverse flora and fauna. This is actually a 2000m high plateau with misty waterfalls, beautiful lakes and a huge variety of wildlife. Thus, the place is perfect for exploring nature, trekking, hiking, photography, etc.

• Location: East Dayagama, Sri Lanka
• Timings: 6 am to 6 pm
• Entry Fees: 4837 LKR for Adults

10. Udawalawe National Park, Udawalawe

You can get a unique experience by visiting Udawalawe National Park in Sri Lanka because of the herd of elephants. The national park is full of exotic wildlife and diverse natural vegetation. Further, the refreshing natural environment will be perfect for you to rejuvenate your body and mind.

• Location: Udawalawe, Sri Lanka
• Timing: 6 am to 6 pm
• Entry Fees: 8062 LKR for Adults and4837 LKR for Children

11. Attidiya Bird Sanctuary, Boralesgamuwa

This is a birdwatcher’s paradise with a variety of 50 bird species. You will find local and migratory birds here in this bird sanctuary. Apart from birds, you can also explore diverse flora and fauna, butterflies etc. In addition, walking in this blissful natural spot will refresh you from the inside.

• Location: Boralesgamuwa in Colombo
• Timing: 9 am to 5 pm
• Entry Fees: 200 LKR for Adults

Here are some beaches that you can visit in Sri Lanka:

12. Bentota Beach, Galle

Bentota Beach is a tranquil tourist spot where you can enjoy the view of the golden sand and attractive marine environment. The seascape will mesmerise you with its gorgeous beauty. Apart from this, you will also have different options for adventure sports on this beach.

• Location: Galle district, Sri Lanka
• Timings: Throughout the day
• Entry Fees: Free

13. Unawatuna Beach, Galle

Famous for its turquoise blue water, Unawatuna Beach in Galle, Sri Lanka, is a tranquil place for spending vacation. Plenty of watersports are available in this area, and you can also visit nearby places such as the Temple of Yatagala Raja Maha Viharaya. The local cuisine is a must-try on this beach.

• Location: Galle district, Sri Lanka
• Timings: Throughout the day
• Entry Fees: Free

14. Mirissa Beach, Matara

Mirissa is a beach paradise famous for whale-watching, local cuisine, and tranquillity. Spend time away from the hustle-bustle of the city, soaking in the sun on a hammock or relaxing on the beach in Mirissa.

• Location: 150 km south of Colombo, Matara district of Southern Province
• Timing: Throughout the day
• Entry Fees: Free

The historical sites of Sri Lanka stand as evidence of major religious events and the rule of powerful dynasties. A visit to these places will let you relive the glorious past:

15. The Royal Palace, Polonnaruwa

The Royal Palace in the city of Polonnaruwa has a connection with the rich history of Sri Lanka and is quite a popular tourist place nowadays. The region attracts tourists from all over the world and can offer a lot. Besides, there are several other nearby historical tourist places which are also worth visiting, and altogether you can spend a nice day trip here.

• Location: Centre of Polonnaruwa
• Timing: 8 am to 6:30 pm
• Entry Fees: 3750 LKR (the total charge for entering the historical city of Polonnaruwa)

16. Ravana's Cave, Ella Town

Indians and those who read the Indian epic Ramayana will indeed be fascinated with this place. Ravana's Cave is supposed to be where Ravan hid the Devi Sita after her abduction.

The cave is near the town of Ella and is located at the base of a cliff. This place also has a waterfall called Ravana's Falls, which becomes a hotspot during the summer.

• Location: 2 km from Ella Town
• Timings: 8 am to 4 pm
• Entry Fees: Free

17. Nuwara Elya, Kandy

Nuwara Elya is a city that serves as a confluence of 19th-century colonial imprints and modern architecture. This city offers a mesmerising train ride that one would never want to stop! Board the train from Kandy to Nuwara Elya to enjoy stunning views of the surrounding tea plantations, waterfalls, and mystic mountains.

• Location: 40 km south-east of Kandy
• Timing: Throughout the day
• Entry Fees: Free

The major cities in Sri Lanka are dotted with architecture ranging from modern skyscrapers to old temples. Here are some cities and famous places in them that you should visit:

18. St Anthony’s Church, Kochchikade

This is a popular weekend getaway in Sri Lanka and a major spiritual place for Christians as well. During festivals, devotees throughout the world gather here for spiritual activities. Further, this church is also believed as a source of positive energy and miracles. Apart from this, the structure is also famous for its attractive style and architecture.

• Location: Kochchikade, Kotahena, Colombo
• Timing: Throughout the day
• Entry Fees: Free

19. The Temple of Sacred Tooth Relic, Kandy

The Temple of Sacred Tooth Relic is a famous tourist destination in Sri Lanka and also a very well-known pilgrim spot. People come here to explore the marvellous Canadian architectural beauty as well as for spiritual activities.

• Location: Sri Dalada Veediya, Kandy
• Timing: 5:30 am to 8 pm
• Entry Fees: Free

20. Ruwanwelisaya, Anuradhapura

Ruwanwelisaya is a great architectural excellence in Sri Lanka and also a famous Buddhist shrine. The stupa was renovated in the 29th century and, till then, has been considered a famous pilgrim spot. Apart from this, the structure is one of the tallest monuments in the world.

• Location: Abhaya Wewa Road, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
• Timing: 5:30 am to 9 pm
• Entry Fees: 1070 LKR for Adults

Here are some of the top museums and parks in Sri Lanka which receive a huge number of visitors:

21. National Museum of Colombo, Mawatha

The National Museum of Colombo is a great place for a short day trip in Sri Lanka. This is one of the largest and oldest museums in Sri Lanka, with a  great collection of historical artefacts. However, you can also visit nearby places for added fun.

• Location: Mawatha, Colombo
• Timing: 9 am to 4 pm
• Entry Fees: 500 LKR for Adults

22. Sri Lanka Cricket Museum, Maitland

Sri Lanka Cricket Museum is a great place for cricket enthusiasts to watch and explore the history of Sri Lankan cricket. One of the main attractions of this museum is the “Hall of Fame” where you can get the details of the players and matches.

• Location: Maitland Pl, Colombo
• Timing: 9 am to 5 pm
• Entry Fees: 500 LKR for Adults, 100 LKR for Children

23. Viharamahadevi Park, Colombo

It is one of the largest parks in Sri Lanka and a very popular tourist spot as it has a lot to offer. The place has a children's playing area, mini zoo, war memorial, aquarium and many more. Apart from this, the cool, tranquil atmosphere will fill your body and mind with lively charm.

• Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka
• Timing: 6 am to 6 pm
• Entry Fees: 20 LKR for Adults

24. National Museum of Kandy, Kandy

The National Museum of Kandy is another popular tourist destination which can provide you with a great insight into the history of Sri Lanka. There are more or less 5000 artefacts in this museum that tourists can explore.

• Location: Kandy, Sri Lanka
• Timing: 9 am to 5 pm
• Entry Fees: 500 LKR for Adults

25. International Buddhist Museum, Kandy

The International Buddhist Museum is a famous tourist destination in Sri Lanka and also a great spiritual place. Here you can get knowledge about the spreading of Buddhism throughout Asia. Apart from this, the great architectural excellence of this temple will never fail to mesmerise you. You can also explore the nearby tourist destinations as well.

• Location: Kandy
• Timing: 8 am to 6 pm
• Entry Fees: 1070 LKR for Adults

Some UNESCO World Heritage sites to visit in Sri Lanka are:

26. Sinharaja Forest Reserve, Sri Lanka

Sinharaja Forest Reserve is a UNESCO world heritage site and one of the most popular destinations for watching wildlife. The sanctuary is a bird lover’s paradise as it is home to major Srilankan birds. Besides, here you can also spot several rare mammals. Apart from this, the lush greenery of this rainforest is also worth enjoying for nature lovers.

• Location: Southwest Sri Lanka
• Timing: 6:30 am to 6 pm
• Entry Fees: 4837 LKR for Adults

27. Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

Anuradhapura is a UNESCO world heritage site and a famous pilgrim spot. The area has gained popularity because of its connection with the Bodhi tree, the tree of enlightenment. In addition, it is a great architectural excellence, and there are many nearby places that you can explore

• Location: Anuradhapura-Padeniya Highway, Sri Lanka
• Timing: 7 am to 5:30 pm
• Entry Fees: 8062 LKR for Adults

28. Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Matale

Sigiriya Fort is on the list of UNESCO world heritage sites and is among the best tourist places in Sri Lanka. This ancient fort is situated at a height of 370 metres amid dense green forests. This place will mesmerise you with its ancient remains, remarkable frescos, and spectacular views.

• Location: Northern Matale district near the town of Dambulla in the Central Province, Sri Lanka.
• Timings: 7 am to 5.30 pm
• Entry Fees: 9675 LKR for Adults