Hugh Sitton / Stocksy United
Sri Lanka
Endless beaches, timeless ruins, welcoming people, oodles of elephants, rolling surf, cheap prices, fun trains, famous tea and flavorful food make Sri Lanka irresistible.
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Must-see attractions for your itinerary
Polonnaruwa
Part of Parakramabahu I’s northern monastery, Gal Vihara is a group of beautiful Buddha images that probably marks the high point of Sinhalese rock…
Uda Walawe National Park
With herds of elephants, wild buffalos, sambars and spotted deer, and giant squirrels, this Sri Lankan national park is one of the nation's finest. In…
The East
This 357-sq-km park, once known as Yala East, is much less frequently visited than its busy neighbour, Yala National Park. Consequently, it's a far less…
Jaffna
Long the gatehouse of the city, the vast Jaffna fort, overlooking the Jaffna lagoon, has been fought over for centuries. Today you can wander its walls,…
Colombo
This terracotta-tiled, Dutch-era structure dates back to the early 1600s. Beautifully restored, it's now home to trendy shops, cafes and restaurants. In…
Colombo
Offering a captivating walk through Sri Lankan history, this delightful Colombo museum sprawls across a gleaming white, neo-Baroque building constructed…
Arugam Bay
This long crescent of sand, partially shaded by coconut palms, is as good a reason as any to visit Arugam Bay. In season, its appeal to surfers is obvious…
Mirissa
A vision of tropical bliss, Mirissa Beach boasts powdery pale sand, while its azure water is framed by an arc of coconut palms. The west side is the…
Attractions
Top picks from our travel experts
Galle
A classy retreat from Galle's steamy streets, this refined air-conditioned hotel restaurant is the perfect setting for a great meal, with the formality of…
Polonnaruwa
For three centuries Polonnaruwa was a royal capital of both the Chola and Sinhalese kingdoms. Today's archaeological park is a delight to explore, with…
North of Colombo
Kalpitiya Beach at the northern end of the peninsula consists of a long spit of sand most easily reached by boat across the Kalpitiya lagoon. It's a…
Colombo
A perfect example of how quickly Colombo is changing: what was an industrial canal has been reborn as a waterfront district with simple cafes, food…
The East
This 357-sq-km park, once known as Yala East, is much less frequently visited than its busy neighbour, Yala National Park. Consequently, it's a far less…
Colombo
Just known as Pilawoos, this open-fronted purveyor of short eats is renowned for what may be the best kotthu (rotti sliced up with cheese and other…
Uda Walawe National Park
Supported by the Born Free Foundation (www.bornfree.org.uk), this complex is a halfway house for orphaned elephants. After rehabilitation, the elephants…
Polonnaruwa
Part of Parakramabahu I’s northern monastery, Gal Vihara is a group of beautiful Buddha images that probably marks the high point of Sinhalese rock…
Sigiriya
This prominent rock about 1km north of the Sigiriya site, offers amazing views of Sigiriya from its wide summit. It's a 20-minute hike up to the top, past…
The South
Next to the road, Koggala Lake is alive with birdlife and dotted with islands, one of which features a Buddhist temple that attracts many visitors on poya…
Polonnaruwa
A short stroll north of the Royal Palace ruins, the area known as the Quadrangle is literally that – a compact group of ruins in a raised-up area bounded…
Hotel Renuka & Renuka City Hotel
Colombo
The well-run Renuka is bifurcated into two different buildings. Its 99 rooms are well maintained and have safes, fridges and 24-hour room service. It's…
Polonnaruwa
One of the most evocative structures in Polonnaruwa, the Lankatilaka temple was built by Parakramabahu I and later restored by Vijayabahu IV. This massive…
Sigiriya
Rising dramatically from the central plains, the enigmatic rocky outcrop of Sigiriya is perhaps Sri Lanka's single most dramatic sight. A set of near…
Galle
Super-stylish reproduction posters (Rs 3000) and postcards (Rs 350) covering Sri Lanka through the decades. Many of the beautiful vintage airline images…
The Ancient Cities
Like Minneriya, Kaudulla offers a good chance of getting up close and personal with elephants. In October, there are up to 250 elephants in the park,…
Wilpattu National Park
At 1317 sq km, Wilpattu is Sri Lanka’s largest national park. Hidden in the dense, dry woodland, you'll (hopefully) find an array of wildlife that…
The Ancient Cities
This national park is one of the best places in the country to see wild elephants, which are often present in huge numbers. Dominated by the ancient…
Planning Tools
Expert guidance to help you plan your trip
Best Things to Do
From finding the best surf to trying the ultimate local dishes, here are the top things to do in Sri Lanka
Read articleThings to Know
Here's what you need to know about health, safety and etiquette for a trouble-free trip to Sri Lanka.
Read articleTransportation
Our guide to transportation can help you plan the best way for your travels around Sri Lanka.
Read articleVisa Requirements
Here’s our guide to navigating the entry requirements for visiting Sri Lanka as a tourist, with information on visa types, costs and how to apply for one.
Read articleMoney and Costs
With travel experiences that don't break the bank and incredible hospitality, Sri Lanka is a great place to visit for those on a budget.
Read articleTraveling with Kids
Whether you're traveling with toddlers or teenagers, we give you tips on where to stay and what to do for an unforgettable family adventure in Sri Lanka.
Read articleBest Road Trips
Hire a car and driver or rent a motorcycle and explore the best of Sri Lanka with these road trip routes.
Read articlePlan with a local
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Destination Practicalities23 things you need to know before going to Sri LankaOct 14, 2023 • 11 min read
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