Sigiriya - The Ancient Rock Fortress
Rising dramatically from the country’s central plains, the enigmatic rocky outcrop of Sigiriya is perhaps Sri Lankas single most dramatic sight. Near-vertical walls soar to a
flat-topped summit that contains the ruins of an ancient palace, thought to have been the epicentre of the short-lived kingdom of Kassapa. The early morning vistas across mist-wrapped forests are spellbinding, but make time for the fascinating on-site museum too. Once you’ve scaled the rock, try trekking up neighboring hills for unbeatable views of Sigiriya, towering above its woodland surrounds.
Sinharaja Forest Reserve
Declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Sinharaja Forest Reserve (kingdom of the lion), is a paradise for nature and wildlife lovers. It is home to a vast number of endemic species of birds and mammals of Sri Lanka. About 95 per cent of Sri Lankan endemic birds and more than 50 per cent of endemic mammals are known to have their habitats in this Forest Reserve. Year round, the forest is covered by plenty of rain clouds. It is one of the famous places to visit in Galle. You can experience the leisurely pace of wildlife and the splendour of dense and copious evergreen rainforests.
Galle - A 16th Century Marvel
Galle is an important city in Sri Lanka and is a one-stop destination wherein you can take in all sights and sounds. One of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka is the Galle Fort. The Galle Fort area has wide cobblestoned roads and a number of eateries and cafes. Try and catch the sunset while you are there. There are a number of trinket shops and galleries that you can visit. It is among the most visited places in Sri Lanka. Another picturesque destination for sightseeing in Sri Lanka is the Japanese Peace Pagoda. Quite close to the Unawatuna beach, it is a white dome of serenity.
Anuradhapura - The Greatest Monastic City Of Ancient World
Sri Lanka has historic sites to spare, but Anuradhapura is something special. Dotted with towering, bowl-shaped dagobas (stupas), ruined monasteries and sacred tanks, this is where Sri Lankas spiritual history bubbles to the surface. In the centre of the compound is one of the world’s oldest trees, Sri Maha Bodhi, grown from a cutting taken from the tree that sheltered Buddha as he attained enlightenment, more than two thousand years ago(!) at Bodhgaya in India. A day spent cycling rented bicycles between these colossal structures that loom large above green treetops is one that won’t be quickly forgotten. For more dagoba-spotting, head 13km east to the sleepy village and temple complex of Mihintale.
Polonnaruwa Sacred City – Explore The Golden Past Of Sri Lanka
This city was once the ancient kingdom of Sri Lanka and walking into this still gives a feeling of the Golden Age. Inside one of the most popular Sri Lanka tourist spots, there are still ruins of palaces, shrines and stupas which makes it one of the top touristattractions in Sri Lanka. All these landmarks give closure to the historical remains which hold a glorious past. This place has a lot to explore and gives a peek to the golden past of this side of Sri Lanka. It is among the best Sri Lanka tourist places.
Jaffna - Peep Into The Past
Although a bit crowded, the temple Nallur Kovil is a nice pick among the best places to see in Sri Lanka. Another place of interest is the Jaffna Fort. This fort is in the center of the city and is a tourist hub. If youre in Jaffna, you cannot miss the Nagadipa Purana Vihara, the temple can be accessed by boat. One of calmest among Sri Lanka tourist attractions, the temple is surreal and a wonderful place to meditate.
National Museum of Colombo
If you are a history lover and have a keen eye for architecture, the National Museum is probably one of the first few places to visit in Colombo. Established during 1877, this is the biggest museum in the island nation and is undoubtedly the pride of Sri Lanka. The place houses some of the best and personalised collections of the ancient Kandyan dynasty rulers.