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Sri Lanka, earlier known as Ceylon, is a one of its kind island country in South Asia. The endless beaches, ancient ruins, courteous locals, beautiful elephants, rolling surf, affordable pricing, fun trains, and delectable cuisine make this country a popular destination for tourists from all around the world. Located at a distance of merely 32 km off the coast of India, this country is home to 8 World Heritage sites. Here’s a guide to the best things to do here for an unforgettable experience.
14 Most Popular Things To Do In Sri Lanka
Confused about what to do in Sri Lanka? Here’s a list of the 14 best things to do in Sri Lanka:
1. Explore The Cultural Heritage At Polonnaruwa
Photo: Nahid Sultan / Wikimedia Commons
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Polonnaruwa is one of the famous things to see in Sri Lanka. This ancient city, once the capital of prehistoric Ceylon, houses well-preserved ruins, including temples, palaces, and statues associated with the Brahmanic communities of the Chola Dynasty. This mesmerising place is sure to transport you to the era of the Polonnaruwa kingdom. As you walk through the ruins of the palace of the royal family, their beautiful gardens and relive the grandeur of the stunning Gal Vihara with its impressive rock carvings of Buddha statues.
Location: Cultural Triangle, North Central Province, Sri Lanka
Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Sri Lanka With Family
2. Visit Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Photo: Kelum Chathuranga / Unsplash
Sigiriya, or Lion Rock, is an iconic rock fortress rising 200 metres above the jungle. It features the remnants of a palace, extensive gardens, and ancient frescoes. It is believed that this place was once a large forest but after years of weathering and erosion, a main hill was carved out. King Kashyap then selected it as the ideal place for his palace, decorating the sides with frescos and carving a lion-shaped gate at the base entry. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views and to see the lion’s paws at the gates.
Location: Sigiriya, Matale District, Central Province, Sri Lanka
3. Safari In Yala National Park
Photo: Natasha Yurova / Unsplash
Yala National Park, located in the coastal region of Sri Lanka is a must-visit site for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. It offers a diverse range of biodiversity with species of animals, including elephants, leopards, bears, crocodiles, deer, wild boars, peacocks and various birds. There is a pristine lake in the middle of the park with glistening blue water which the small animals and birds drink from. There are facilities for accommodation and a small eatery inside the premises of the park for the tourists.
Location: Southern and Uva Provinces, Sri Lanka
Suggested Read: Festivals In Sri Lanka You Cannot Miss Out On Experiencing
4. Relax On The Beaches
Photo: Andrew Coelho / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
This country boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Visit Bentota for luxury resorts and water sports, Unawatuna for its lively atmosphere and snorkelling opportunities, and Arugam Bay for world-class surfing, one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka for bachelors. The beaches of the east coast, like Nilaveli and Trincomalee, are perfect for diving and whale watching. A special fact about these beaches is that they are litter-free, thus providing vast expanses of golden sands and crystal-clear water. The cruises and the sunset views from these beaches make for the perfect Instagram-worthy pictures.
Location: East and West Coast Provinces, Sri Lanka
5. Visit Galle Fort
Photo: Grayswoodsurrey / Wikimedia Commons
Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a fortified old city founded by Portuguese colonists in the 16th century. It is considered one of the best-preserved examples of Dutch colonial architecture in Southeast Asia, with its marvellous white buildings, boutique-lined narrow shops, carvings of Dutch origins and more. The Galle Lighthouse and Maritime Museum are must-visit attractions within the fort. You can also take a walk along the pathway out front, as it is located on the beautiful shores of the Indian Ocean.
Location: Galle Dutch Fort, Galle, Sri Lanka
Suggested Read: Water Sports In Sri Lanka For Adventure Enthusiasts And Thrill Seekers
6. Climb Adam’s Peak
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
Adam’s Peak, or Sri Pada, is a pilgrimage site for Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims, and Christians. Visitors will be delighted by this location as it is one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka. The climb involves ascending thousands of steps, but the effort is rewarded with a spectacular sunrise and the sight of the sacred footprint at the summit. The entry stairs are lined with strings of beautiful flags welcoming you to the beautiful journey of the trek. Make sure to have all the necessary equipment for trekking with you, and dress in comfortable clothes to enjoy this memorable trek.
Location: 3 km from Dalhousie village, Sri Lanka
7. Visit The Dambulla Cave Temple
Photo: Michael Gunther / Wikimedia Commons
The Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, is a complex of cave temples carved out from rocks and adorned with Buddhist mural paintings and statues. The temple complex dates back to the 1st century BCE and is another UNESCO World Heritage site. The picturesque building looks straight out of a Dutch painting, with the white walls standing in stark contrast with the charcoal-grey roofs. The iconic golden Buddha statue lies here in the sleeping (Shayan) position and a visit to this auspicious and historic place is considered to bring good luck to one’s life.
Location: Central Province, Matale District, Sri Lanka
Suggested Read: Beaches In Sri Lanka Where The Golden Sandy Shores Await You
8. Enjoy Ayurvedic Treatments At Santani
Photo: Appy89 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Sri Lanka is renowned for its traditional Ayurvedic medicine, a holistic healing system that has been practised for over 3,000 years. Sri Lankan Ayurveda focuses on balancing the body, mind, and spirit to promote overall well-being. Santani is a popular luxury resort where travellers come from afar to avail the benefits of Ayurveda. The practice integrates herbal treatments, dietary guidelines, physical therapies, and spiritual practices, making it one of the most amazing things to do in Sri Lanka. If you are planning a trip, this is a must-do thing for complete relaxation after a tiresome journey.
Location: Arantenna Estate, Werapitiya, Sri Lanka
9. Hike At Horton Plains National Park
Photo: A.Savin / Wikimedia Commons
Horton Plains National Park is a stunning area in the central highlands, known for its unique biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes. The park’s landscape is characterised by rolling plains, misty grasslands, and cloud forests, creating a picturesque and serene environment. Horton Plains is home to a rich diversity of plant and animal species, including endemic birds, butterflies, and the rare Sri Lankan sambar deer. One of the most famous things to do in Sri Lanka is trekking on the trails here. The trek here is of easy difficulty level, making it a must-visit site in Sri Lanka for visitors of all ages.
Location: Horton, Sri Lanka
Suggested Read: Top Airports In Sri Lanka Where Adventure Awaits At The Terminal Gates
10. Experience Colombo
Colombo, the bustling capital of Sri Lanka, is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends modern urban life with rich colonial heritage. Galle Face Green is an oceanfront urban park and a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Gangaramaya Temple is one of Colombo’s most important Buddhist temples. It features a mix of various architectural styles and houses a museum with artefacts from across the world. The National Museum of Colombo is the largest here, showcasing the country’s rich history and cultural heritage, including royal regalia, ancient manuscripts, and traditional artworks.
Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka
11. Visit The Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home
Photo: Venkat Ragavan / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home is a heartwarming sanctuary dedicated to orphaned baby elephants, giving them a safe space to recover before release into the wild. Visitors can observe their bottle-feeding sessions from dedicated viewing platforms. The center emphasises ethical treatment, limiting human contact to ensure successful reintegration with wild herds. Educational displays at the site provide deeper insight into elephant conservation, one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka with kids. A visit here offers an unforgettable glimpse of Sri Lanka’s commitment to wildlife welfare amid scenic natural surroundings.
Location: CRG8+MJF, C.P.D De Silva Rd, B427, Udawalawa, Sri Lanka
12. Hike To Diyaluma Falls
Photo: Jonathan Meyer / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Diyaluma Falls, Sri Lanka’s second highest waterfall, is a spectacular destination rewarding hikers with lush greenery and misty air. The moderately challenging trek meanders through tea plantations, forests, and rocky terrain before unveiling a breathtaking cascade plunging over 200 meters. Adventurers can relax in natural pools along the way, perfect for refreshing dips with panoramic valley views. The soothing sound of rushing water and vibrant flora create an immersive natural experience. Hiking to Diyaluma Falls blends physical activity with nature’s tranquility, making it one of the adventurous things to do in Sri Lanka for couples.
Location: Colombo -wellawaya, Colombo – Batticaloa Hwy, Koslanda, Sri Lanka
13. Enjoy Bird Watching In Bundala National Park
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Bundala National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, boasting a diverse ecosystem of lagoons, wetlands, and dry scrubland supporting hundreds of bird species. Migratory flamingos, pelicans, storks, and many rare waterfowl arrive seasonally, making it one of Sri Lanka’s premier ornithological hotspots. Guided safaris in open jeeps allow nature lovers to spot vibrant birds in their natural habitats, alongside other wildlife like elephants and crocodiles. The park’s tranquil surroundings and rich biodiversity offer a calming retreat into nature’s wonders. Bundala is ideal for those seeking to connect with Sri Lanka’s vibrant and varied avian life.
Location: Weligatta, Bundala, Sri Lanka
14. Discover The Hambantota Salt Pans
Photo: Mikhail Nilov / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The Hambantota Salt Pans reveal a fascinating glimpse into traditional salt production in Sri Lanka’s southeastern coast. Vast, shallow ponds gleam under the sun, where salt is harvested through age-old evaporation methods passed down through generations. Visiting these pans introduces travelers to local livelihoods and ancient industry amidst a unique coastal landscape. The interplay of natural elements; sun, sea breeze, and salt flats; creates stunning photographic opportunities with a rustic charm. Exploring the Hambantota Salt Pans offers both cultural insight and a serene experience far from typical tourist paths, enriching any Sri Lanka itinerary.
Location: In and around Hambantota, southern province of Sri Lanka
This list of top things to do in Sri Lanka will help you make the best of your trip. It is a diverse and captivating destination with a range of activities that cater to various interests. From stunning beaches and ancient temples to wildlife safaris and scenic train rides, Sri Lanka will make you spellbound with its beauty. Make trip planning easy with TripXL, and book your tickets now.
Cover Photo: Yves Alarie / Unsplash
