What are the best tourist places to visit in Sri Lanka? The land where the word serendipity was created is also the land where some of the most beautiful landscapes and nature exist. Known for its rolling hills of tea farms and beautiful oceans as well as the local culture that oozes on every street corner, Sri Lanka should be on your list, not convinced, then take a look at the best tourist places to visit in Sri Lanka.
What are the best tourist places to visit in Sri Lanka?
- Yala National Park
- Galle
- Temple of Tooth
- Nuwara Eliya
- The Lotus Tower
- Zoological Gardens of Sri Lanka
- Gangaramaya Temple
- Sigiriya
- Udawalawe National Park Safari
- Adams Peak
There’s no cause for fear when visiting some of the most famous places in Sri Lanka. With local culture still intact and lots of great places to see, you won’t feel like a guest for very long.
1. Yala National Park
The Yala National Park is one of the most famous parks in Sri Lanka and has a great mission in mind as it is a protected reserve with a national park. The park itself holds over 44 varieties of mammals, 215 bird species and of course, its famous leopards, elephants, sloths, bears and more.
2. Galle
Located on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, Galle. Known as a quaint beach town, there’s no doubt that when Visiting Galle, you cannot miss the fact that it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Indeed, the Galle Fort, which was discovered by the Portuguese, holds a mix of European style embedded with South Asian architecture. And definitely don’t miss out on the beautiful boutique places and cafes in this 16th-century beauty.
3. Temple of Tooth
The temple of the tooth is another popular destination merely for its religious meaning for Buddhists. Here at the temple is where the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha resides. More than just its religious meaning, the temple itself holds a lot of cultural meaning to Sri Lankan locals and from user tips, if you go at dusk time, the scenery and lights from the temple are not to miss.
4. Nuwara Eliya
Nuwara Eliya is one of those naturescapes that screams romanticism. With its lush green hills and famous tea farms, there is a stationary train there that honestly looks like it is out of a Harry Potter movie, which makes it even more special. With its misty clouds that cast down on its green hills, we think this destination is more than just a go. Don’t forget and it is a must to try the famous Sri Lankan Ceylon Tea while visiting.
5. The Lotus Tower
Located in Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital, the lotus tower stands as one of the best places to visit in Colombo with its high and mighty stature as one of South Asia’s tallest freestanding structures of 1,168 feet. Get unobstructed views across Colombo when venturing to the top and be able to see the city and the sea at the same time.
6. Zoological Gardens of Sri Lanka
Speaking of Colombo, you can also visit the Zoological Gardens of Sri Lanka. More than just a zoo where animals are seen behind cages, but focuses on wildlife, conservation and welfare. This is a perfect place to get up close and personal with elephants, learn about the different species unique to Sri Lanka and share a great time if you’re visiting with family.
7. Gangaramaya Temple
Wait, there’s more in the capital. This serene location highlights 19th-century contemporary design and mixes in ancient architecture. It is believed that there is a relic of Buddha’s hair at this location as well as the sacred tree. During religious holidays, the temple lights up and you can see a colorful celebration come to life.
8. Sigiriya
Shall we dig into some of the most beautiful places to visit in Sri Lanka? Starting with a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. This Rock Fortress has 1,200 steps to reach the summit and is located in what can only be described as the middle of the forest. The fortress itself is an impressive 600 feet and it has a beautiful view and garden at the top.
9. Udawalawe National Park Safari
If you’re ready to go on an adventure, then definitely visiting the Udawalawe National Park should be on your list. It is an important spot for many tourists as it has leopards, water buffaloes and elephants. Some people have even reported that if you’re lucky enough, a leopard just might walk by your safari jeep.
10. Adams Peak
If you’re lucky enough to visit Sri Lanka, then you can literally do a tour where you just visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Adams Peak is another one on the list and it is the only place where you can see all of Sri Lanka. Named a unique spot in the country, it has a mesmerizing landscape. Vivid greenery, unique rock formations and accommodation at the peak, what more could you want?
The best tourist places in Sri Lanka are waiting for you and there’s no double guessing when it comes to thinking about whether this is a perfect place to visit or not. If we haven’t convinced you enough, check out our Cinnamon, Spice and Everything Nice tour with Global Tribes and let us do the planning for you!
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