Sri Lanka is full of magical places, from ancient ruins to tropical beaches. Here’s a handpicked list of must-see destinations for first-time travelers.
🌿 1. Sigiriya Rock Fortress (Central Province)
Often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” Sigiriya is an ancient rock palace built atop a massive boulder.
- 🧗♂️ Climb 1,200+ steps to the summit for epic views
- 🎨 Marvel at 5th-century frescoes and water gardens
- 📸 Perfect for history buffs and photographers
🚂 2. Ella (Hill Country)
A dreamy mountain village with cool weather and scenic views.
- 🌄 Hike to Little Adam’s Peak or Ella Rock
- 🚆 Ride the famous train from Kandy to Ella (one of the world’s most beautiful train journeys)
- ☕ Visit tea factories and waterfalls
🫖 3. Nuwara Eliya (Hill Country)
Known as “Little England” for its colonial charm and cooler climate.
- 🏞️ Explore tea plantations, lakes, and Horton Plains National Park
- 🌸 Best time: March–April when flowers are in full bloom
- 🐎 Horseback rides and strawberry farms for families
🏛️ 4. Kandy (Cultural Capital)
A sacred city and home to Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist site.
- 🛕 Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic
- 💃 Watch a cultural dance show
- 🚣♀️ Walk around Kandy Lake for a relaxing evening
🏖️ 5. Mirissa (South Coast)
A laid-back beach town with golden sand and turquoise waters.
- 🐋 Go whale watching from November to April
- 🏝️ Chill at beach cafés and palm-tree swings
- 🚣♂️ Try snorkeling or paddleboarding
🐆 6. Yala National Park (Southeast)
Sri Lanka’s most famous wildlife sanctuary.
- 🐘 Spot elephants, leopards, sloth bears, and crocodiles
- 📸 Best for wildlife photography and safaris
- 🚙 Morning and evening jeep safaris available
🕍 7. Galle Fort (Southern Province)
A colonial-era fort town with cobbled streets and seaside views.
- 🏰 Explore Dutch architecture and museums
- 🍽️ Enjoy charming cafés, gelato, and handmade crafts
- 🌅 Catch a magical sunset at the lighthouse
🛕 8. Anuradhapura (North Central Province)
One of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities.
- 🌳 Visit Sri Maha Bodhi, the sacred Bo tree
- 🏯 See ancient stupas and monastic ruins
- 🛕 A UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in Buddhist history
🌊 9. Trincomalee (East Coast)
Ideal for beach lovers looking for peace and crystal-clear waters.
- 🐠 Great for snorkeling and diving at Pigeon Island
- 🛕 Visit Koneswaram Temple on a clifftop
- 🏖️ Less crowded than southern beaches
🏙️ 10. Colombo (Capital City)
Sri Lanka’s bustling capital—full of contrast and color.
🍛 Try a local food tour—don’t miss kottu, hoppers, and fresh seafood
🛍️ Shop at Pettah Market, One Galle Face, or Barefoot
🏛️ Visit museums, parks, and temples
Bonus Tip:
Want to explore all of these comfortably? At Discover Lanka, we create custom tour plans that include the best highlights based on your travel style and budget.
