500+Places to Visit in Sri Lanka | Top Rated Attractions in Sri Lanka

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Moon Plains

The mini-Worlds End here has a 360- degree view of the surrounding peaks and towns and makes it one of the best places in Sri Lanka for a panoramic view of mountains. On a clear day, the peaks of nine mountains, including the country’s tallest Piduruthalagala and second tallest Kirigalpoththa, can be seen from here. Other’s that can be seen are Single Tree, Kikiliyamana, Great Western, Konical Hill, Thotupola Mountain, Hakgala and Namunukula mountains. A total of 105 bird species, of which 16 are endemic, have been recorded in the area which is also home to wild boar and deer.
Abhayagiri Stupa – Anuradhapura

Abhayagiri Stupa in Anuradhapura, the second most abundant of the stupas in Sri Lanka, was constructed by King Vattagamini Valagamba (89-77 BC). This continues up to the area of approximately 200 hectares. According to Bhikkhu Fa-Hsien, who toured Sri Lanka in the fifth century, there had been three thousand resident monks in the Mahavihara and five thousand monks in the Abhayagiri. The growth of Abhayagiri spread its peak in the reign of King Mahasen and was the core of Mahayana Buddhism. Buddhist structures found in the suburbs of Abhayagri show that this complex had been an essential educative institution both…
Wewurukannala Vihara temple – Dikwella

Wewurukannala Vihara temple is located Fifteen miles east of Matara in Dikwella, one of the most impressive Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka. An image of a seated Buddha dominates the Wewurukannala Vihara temple. It is 160ft high, a giant statue in Sri Lanka and dates back to King Rajadhi 1782 – 1798. The temple has three sections, the most beloved being about 250 years old; but, this is of no particular interest. The temple walls explain the path towards enlightenment by depicting hundreds of comic strip representations of Buddha’s life events. Amongst one of the chapters is the Chulla Dhammapala…
Nagadeepa Temple

Lord Buddha visited Nagadeepa Island to settle a dispute between Chulodara and Mahodara over a gem-studded throne. Lord Buddha taught the “Dhamma” to the two kings about compassion. The two kings were surprised by the “Dhamma”, and they ended their dispute and allowed the gem-studded authority to Lord Buddha. It is assumed that the Lord Buddha bestowed this throne to the ruler of Kelaniya, who blessed it and built the Kelaniya temple, which is placed near Colombo now.
Indika’s Residence

Indika's Residence offers a tranquil escape with its private garden, 500 meters from the Mahamodara River and 1 km from Rumassala Mountain. The property boasts a range of amenities, including a library, massage services, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Conveniently positioned near T.K.G. Supermarket, the Residence is approximately 3.5 km from Galle Fort and 5 km from the picturesque Unawatuna Beach. Bandaranaike International Airport is situated 150 km away. The rooms are equipped with air conditioning and a fan for comfort. The en suite bathroom includes shower facilities and a toilet with a spray bidet. Indulge in the convenience of room service…
Pulun Waterfalls

Nestled in the verdant heart of Sri Lanka, a short journey from the Ratnapura-Pelmadulla main road near Pathakada junction lies the enchanting Pulun Waterfalls. This modest yet breathtaking natural wonder, accessible via a kilometre-long trek along the Devagama road, is a testament to the island's rich natural beauty. Originating from the Singappuli mountain, Pulun Waterfalls gracefully cascade down in two majestic segments, captivating the hearts and souls of those fortunate enough to witness its beauty.
Parakrama Samudraya Reservoir( wewa)

Parakrama Samudraya Reservoir( wewa) in Polonnaruwa was built by King Parakramabahu the Great; it is a massive tank that once encompassed five large reservoirs. Engineers today say that this intelligent design feature was used to relieve the pressure on the main dam, and many are baffled by the sheer volume of this feat. Including the remains of sluice gates on the dam, plenty of other mysterious design elements and ruins are found across the banks; their purposes have still not been speculated. Apart from its engineering brilliance, the reservoir today has become a quintessential part of the region’s ecosystem, and…
Mirijjawila Dry Zone Botanic Gardens

Dry Zone Botanic Gardens in Mirijjawila is the leading botanic garden in Sri Lanka designed by local experts. The primary botanic garden built after Botanic Garden at Gampaha was built 130 years ago. This premier botanic garden in Sri Lanka began in a semi-arid zone to maintain semi-arid and dry zone plants ex-situ as one of the primary objectives. The other main goals are to conduct studies on plants and promote economic development in the region. Dry Zone Botanic Gardens is the most comprehensive botanic garden in Sri Lanka in terms of space, and the size is 300 acres. An…
Batticaloa Fort

On the eastern coast of Sri Lanka stands a remarkable testament to the colonial history of the island nation—the Batticaloa Fort. Built by the Portuguese in 1628 and later captured by the Dutch on 18th May 1638, this fort has witnessed centuries of colonial rule. Today, it stands as a symbol of resilience and architectural grandeur. Let's delve into the captivating story of the Batticaloa Fort and discover its historical significance.
Dambadeniya

Dambadeniya was the third capital in old Sri Lanka. (1233 – 1283 A.D.) Four kings established it. King Wijayabahu-III (1233 – 1236 A.D) raised his magnificent palace on the rock at Dambadeniya & turned it into the country's capital in 1233 A.D. There was a trodden path from the base to the top of the rock. The first segment of the course was recently built. Holding climbed about 100feet; the stepped way followed the ancient route constructed with decked stones. A sizeable rocky trap made ready to fell on the enemy's battle, attempting to enter the Kingdom on the rock.…
Talaimannar Sand Dunes

There are many dunes in Talaimannar, presenting various types of vacation adventures in Sri Lanka. Desert regions are limited in Sri Lanka, and this is one of the several areas that you can experience such a surrounding. If one sees spots for film tourism, this could be a perfect choice.
Daha Ata Wanguwa (18 Bends Road)

Daha Ata Wanguwa, also known as 18 Bends Road, is a famous asphalted drive found in the Central Province, a convenient mountainous region of Sri Lanka, joining Kandy to Mahiyanganaya. The route has a length of 41km, including 17 hairpin curves. . It's also known as 18 hairpin bend road, and several drivers feared it as one of the challenging roads in the country. Though it is renowned as the 18 bend road, people come across only 17 bends in reality as one curve was eliminated long ago after stretching that section of the road. The surface of the road…
Rambodagalla Buddha statue

Rambodagalla Buddha statue is the most significant and highest rock-carved Samadhi Buddha statue in the world. This statue is 67.5 feet tall, and the entire statue is made from one large granite located on Rambodagalla Monaragala temple in Kurunagala district.
Hikkaduwa Beach

Hikkaduwa has been a significant tourist hotspot, mainly because of Hikkaduwa Beach. The beach is recognised for its palm-fringed scenery with alluring waters; it is ideal for any tourist looking for relaxation, leisure, comfort, and recreation. Various water sports attract adrenaline with snorkelling, diving, surfing, and many more. Though, if you resemble a more low-key holiday, the beach is absolute for the entire family to have a party, frolic in its oceans, or play a bit of beach volleyball. Hikkaduwa Beach is a range of unlimited entertainment.
Thiru koneswaram Temple

Thiru koneswaram Temple is one of the ancient temples in Sri Lanka. In the 16th century, it had one thousand pillars and was esteemed as one of the wealthiest temples in South East Asia. It had large amounts of gold, pearls, precious stones, and silk in its possession, endowed over one thousand years. But, unfortunately, the Temple was demolished by the Portuguese Commander of Army Constantine de Sa de Menzies in 1624 and used the rubbles to build a well-fortified Fort to prevent the Port of Trincomalee from falling to the rivals.
Black fort

The Black Fort, nestled on the eastern side of the Galle Fort in Sri Lanka, stands as a historically significant pentagonal bastion. This imposing structure offers commanding views over the Galle harbour and features a circular platform at its summit, once a strategic position for mounting cannons. Adding to its mystique, it's a two-story building with an intriguing tunnel connecting both floors.
Rangala Natural Pool

Rangala Natural Pool is found in the Rangala village in the town of Teldeniya in Kandy-Mahiyangana road near Kandy. This is one of the most immeasurable natural pools in the Knuckles range.
Manalkadu Sand Dunes

This is a fantastic stretch of dunes that towers up to 16 meters at specific points. Many ruins are buried in these dunes, one of them being an ancient catholic church from the Dutch era, dedicated to St. Anthony’s. The walls of the church can be observed when the dunes move from time to time.
Rumassala hill – Galle

Rumassala hill is located just over 5 kilometres from Galle Fort. It is a popular attraction and natural wonder steeped in mythological stories. According to the chronicle of the Ramayana, the hill is believed to be a part of the Himalayan Mountain Range, as exotic flora that can only be found in the Himalayas flourish here. Assigned as a wildlife sanctuary, Rumassala Hill is a haven for both endemic and migratory birds and the perfect place for bird-watching enthusiasts.
Isurumuniya Museum

Embark on a captivating journey through the Isurumuniya Museum, an archaeological marvel in Anuradhapura. Unveiled in 1984, explore Gupta-style carvings, royal sculptures, and the rich cultural heritage managed by the Department of Archaeology. Isurumuniya Museum is a cultural gem within Anuradhapura's Isurumuniya Temple Complex. This article unveils the historical significance, architectural wonders, and meticulous curation efforts of a museum that is a testament to Sri Lanka's rich heritage.
Scuba Dive Sites in Colombo

It is located 10 kilometres from Colombo CDB, Dehivala. The site also offers a range of species often alien to those accustomed to tropical water marine life. As you descend the line, you start to see a darkened mass that is the superstructure of a cargo freighter. But you wonder at the strange yellow group off in the distance – as you get closer and realize it is an academy of hundreds of snapper swinging out by the wreck's bubble. And glance near, and you'll see all kinds of macro life and don't bypass to look up every so frequently…
Vedda Village in Dambana

Vedda Village in Dambana can be inscribed as one of the most iconic destinations in the Mahiyanganaya and the country itself. The pride of Sri Lankan Heritage, the indigenous tribe of Veddhas, comes from a much older past than prince Vijaya’s landing in the 5th century BC. Archaeological proof intimate that modern Veddha’s Neolithic ancestors inhabited this island as far back as 18,000 BC. On the contrary to popular belief, it is alleged that Veddhas are the origin of the Sinhala race as their language is an ancient dialect of the Sinhala language. Today, the remaining Veddha population is limited…
Bogoda wooden bridge and Temple – Badulla

Bogoda wooden bridge is an ancient bridge situated in the Badulla district, close to Hali Ella town. It can also be named the oldest wooden bridge in the country, which belongs to the era of the Dambadeniya kingdom (1220–1345 AD). The bridge was initially built with wood without using any iron nails. The bridge is built above the Loggal Oya, next to the Bogoda Temple. According to the myths, the old Badulla – Kandy road was utilised by the early Sinhalese kingdom’s era. Moreover, there is an old tunnel you can see at the premises of Bogoda Temple. Even though…
Sandakada Pahana ( Moonstone)

Sandakada Pahana, also called Moonstone, is a semi-circular stone slab usually seen at the bottom of staircases of ancient religious places and any ancient royal palaces in Sri Lanka. It is a novel creation of ancient Sinhalese architecture. The Moonstone placed in the Mahasen’s Palace is the most elegant and best-preserved Moonstone found in Sri Lanka. The symbols and their combination describes a tremendous religious meaning. Prof. Senarath Paranavithana introduced the widely trusted interpretation. According to his statement, The Moonstone means the cycle of Sansara. The level symbolize worldly passions Thanha The lotus represents the final achievement of Nirvana. The…
Mangrove forest in the Kalpitiya lagoon

Mangrove forest in the kalpitiya lagoon at Sri Lanka, located in the Puttalam district of Sri Lanka, is a fast-growing tourist destination located around 165 kilometres north of Colombo. The land and its associated beaches are known for their stunning sunsets and comparative solitude.
Rekawa Mangrove lagoon – Tangalle

Rekawa Mangrove lagoon is a coastal water body located near Tangalle, Hambantota district and 200km from Colombo. The Lagoon possesses rich biodiversity with a diversity of flora and fauna. Rekawa Lagoon is a range of inland water enclosed by mangroves and whole of plant and animal reproduction. Being close to the sea lends for an exciting ecosystem, and it’s interesting to immerse yourself in it. The Lagoon is fit for Kayaking and Canoeing and is full of birds and fishes, and you could hardly spot a water monitor. Therefore after you get a hand at Canoeing, you could be wondering…
Pettah Floating Markets – Colombo

Pettah Floating Markets is located at Bastian Mawatha in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Behind the bustling main streets of Colombo Pettah, this is a place where travellers can experience tranquillity and peaceful water. The floating market assists as a visitor attraction trading local products and local craftsmanships. It consists of 92 stalls and many stands on the Beira Lake boats. The Urban Development Authority carried out the development and beautification of the floating market, and Sri Lanka Army’s engineering units transformed Bastian Street, Pettah Central Bus Stand, and Colombo Fort Railway Station into a greener ecosystem.
Arankele

Arankele is the ancient monastery acclaimed to be the premier Forest Hermitage of Sri Lanka was built in the past for the use of Bhikkhus involved in meditation. It was placed in the Ganewatta Divisional Secretariat Division of the Kurunegala District. This Bhikkhu monastery is in a natural environment, has mountain ranges and plateaus dotted with hundreds of structures such as padhanagharas and Jantagharas (hot water bathing houses), ponds, promenades, caves etc. Of the buildings in the sacred range, the presence of a Jantaghara for the aged and the sick Bhikkhus is of particular importance. In the Jantaghara, rooms are…
Eco Wild Glamping Bambarakanda

Nestled on a mountainside in Belihuloya, Eco Wild Glamping hosts five fully furnished tents and five pop-up tents all with spectacular views of Bambarakanda Falls. Surrounded by three and a half acres of un-spoilt forest, tea bushes and vegetable farming. It is the perfect place to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of city life and to reconnect with nature to sooth your soul.
Sasseruwa Buddha statue

Sasseruwa Buddha statue is located 11km west of the Aukana Buddha statue on a stony mountain with a pathway of 300 steps, rests another standing Buddha sculpture. As at the Aukana statue, as shown by the holes for beams cut into the rock around it. Marauding Dravidian enemies from South India destroyed this covering structure & all other buildings. There are incomplete works from the very head to toe of the statue: the decoration above the head, "Siraspata", wasn't craved into the rock; one of the ears is incomplete; the final shine to the robe of the Buddha was not…

Moon Plains

Abhayagiri Stupa – Anuradhapura

Wewurukannala Vihara temple – Dikwella

Nagadeepa Temple

Indika’s Residence

Pulun Waterfalls

Parakrama Samudraya Reservoir( wewa)

Mirijjawila Dry Zone Botanic Gardens

Batticaloa Fort

Dambadeniya

Talaimannar Sand Dunes

Daha Ata Wanguwa (18 Bends Road)

Rambodagalla Buddha statue

Hikkaduwa Beach

Thiru koneswaram Temple

Black fort

Rangala Natural Pool

Manalkadu Sand Dunes

Rumassala hill – Galle

Isurumuniya Museum

Scuba Dive Sites in Colombo

Vedda Village in Dambana

Bogoda wooden bridge and Temple – Badulla

Sandakada Pahana ( Moonstone)

Mangrove forest in the Kalpitiya lagoon

Rekawa Mangrove lagoon – Tangalle

Pettah Floating Markets – Colombo

Arankele

Eco Wild Glamping Bambarakanda

Sasseruwa Buddha statue

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Moon Plains

Abhayagiri Stupa – Anuradhapura

Wewurukannala Vihara temple – Dikwella

Nagadeepa Temple

Indika’s Residence

Pulun Waterfalls

Parakrama Samudraya Reservoir( wewa)

Mirijjawila Dry Zone Botanic Gardens

Batticaloa Fort

Dambadeniya

Talaimannar Sand Dunes

Daha Ata Wanguwa (18 Bends Road)

Rambodagalla Buddha statue

Hikkaduwa Beach

Thiru koneswaram Temple

Black fort

Rangala Natural Pool

Manalkadu Sand Dunes

Rumassala hill – Galle

Isurumuniya Museum

Scuba Dive Sites in Colombo

Vedda Village in Dambana

Bogoda wooden bridge and Temple – Badulla

Sandakada Pahana ( Moonstone)

Mangrove forest in the Kalpitiya lagoon

Rekawa Mangrove lagoon – Tangalle

Pettah Floating Markets – Colombo

Arankele

Eco Wild Glamping Bambarakanda

Sasseruwa Buddha statue

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