Sri Lanka is located between South Asia and India and is now renowned for its alluring natural beauty & undeniably exciting culture. Sri Lanka has a cultural history dating back to 2000-plus years. Along with that, there are many historical landmarks in the country that attracts tourist from all around the world. Apart from the historical monuments, there are many prominent peaks, Legendary temples, and caves.
In this guide, we are going to list some of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka, some exciting things to do there, and some interesting Sri Lanka tours and packages available to make your Sri Lanka trip a success.
10 Best Places To Visit In Sri Lanka
There are many places that one should visit when in Sri Lanka. Some of these places include - Ella, Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Polonnaruwa, Dambulla Cave Temple, Adams Peak, Nuwara Eliya, and many more.
1. Nuwara Eliya
Nuwara Eliya is one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka. It is a hill station that is famous for its colonial ambiance and golf course. Among these places, Gentlemen's club and Mock-Tudor building are also two places that one should be when in Sri Lanka. This hill station is surrounded by beautiful green tea plantations and stunning waterfalls.
2. Ella, Sri Lanka
Stunning Views, Eye-Catching Sceneries, Spectacular views, and breathtaking countryside, Ella has it all. Ella Gap, located in the southern mountain wall, is right in the middle of beautiful hill slopes, and forests. The place is known to attract thousands of travelers every year. So, if you are visiting Sri Lanka, you should visit Ella and click some amazing pictures.
3. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
Elephants are fascinating creatures. At Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage in Sri Lanka, you can enjoy the heartwarming view of baby elephants as they enjoy the river. This place is around 13 kilometers away from the main town of Kegalle in Sri Lanka. If you are fond of nature and elephants, this place is like a paradise for you.
4. Polonnaruwa, Places to visit in Polonnaruwa
There are many things and places that you should check in Sri Lanka. Polonnaruwa is one of those places to see. This place is famous for its well-preserved archaeological treasures and ancient structures. There are many temples here to visit. So, if you are looking for the best things to do in Sri Lanka, and are a spiritual person, visiting the city is a must for you.
5. Adam's Peak
Adam's Peak is the next place that we would recommend you to visit in Sri Lanka. The breathtaking sunrise view from the top of the slope is something that you should not miss. Adam's Peak is among the UNESCO World's Heritage Sites. Located in middle Sri Lanka, Adam's Peak is renowned for Sri Pada, the footprint of Buddha.
6. Dambulla Cave Temple
Extraordinary cultural artifacts, statues of Buddha, beautiful murals, Dambulla Cave Temple, has it all. In this cave, there are around 150 Buddha statues to admire and capture by the camera. So, check out this place when in Sri Lanka.
7. Old Dutch Fort at Galle
Enjoy a peaceful afternoon at the side of the endless sea, at the charming Old Dutch Fort located in the beautiful location of Galle. This fort is one of the best-preserved sea forts in South Asia. This place is a paradise for every history enthusiast. This fort dates back to the 16th century. So, if you are looking for the things to do in Sri Lanka, visiting Old Dutch Fort is a choice.
8. Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Sigiriya Rock Fortress is one of the famous historical places to visit in Sri Lanka. Not only this, but the fortress is also one of the world heritage sites. There are many reasons for this place being a popular tourist destination. One of those reasons is the beauty of the fortress. The greenery, the architecture, the natural landscape around the fortress are a few reasons why one should visit Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
9. Yala National Park
Sri Lanka has many things to do, visiting Yala National Park, is one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka. This park is home to many beautiful creatures like leopards. Yala wildlife sanctuary is one of the best places to explore for every tourist. Located 200 kilometers away from the town of Bentota, this place is must visit place in Sri Lanka.
10. Colombo
Colombo is the last place on this list but not the last option. No trip to Sri Lanka is complete without visiting the city of Colombo. There are several places that one should visit when in Colombo. The overall beauty of the city is quite eye-catching and mesmerizing.
Mentioned above are some of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka. While planning the visit to Sri Lanka, one should check if the Sri Lanka Travel package you are picking includes these places under activities.
The Means of Commuting
Sri Lanka, once unknown to travelers, is now one of the best places to travel around the world. Unlike other countries, Sri Lanka is well connected by air, land, and sea. Most of Sri Lanka tour packages include the traveling expenses and means. But, if you are to decide which traveling means to opt for, we would recommend travel by air. But in case, if you are a sea and cruise lover and the cruises are available from where you are traveling, you should book one.
Note - If you are traveling from India to Sri Lanka, we would recommend you to take a flight.
Many direct flights are operating every day from India to Sri Lanka.
Best Time To Visit Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka, located on the Southern tip of India, rests between the Bay of Bengal and the Laccadive Sea. Because of its proximity to the equator, the temperature hovers around 27 degrees Celcius all year round. There are two key monsoon seasons and the alternate one. During monsoons, one should avoid surfing and water sports. In short, you should plan the Sri Lanka holidays accordingly.
In short, the best time to visit Sri Lanka is -
December to March - If you want to visit the South & West coast.
April/May - East cost.
Best Indian Restaurants in Sri Lanka
Everyone around the world is fascinated with Indian cuisine. The remarkable taste of spices in India has now spread all over the globe, including Sri Lanka, making the lives of travelers easy. Below is the list of some good Indian Restaurants in Sri Lanka that one should try out.
1. Agra Restaurant
Agra restaurant is among the best Indian food joints in Sri Lanka. The ambiance of this place is exquisite, and the taste of the food is remarkable.
Address - 100/10 Sri Lanka Foundation Mawatha, Colombo 00700, Sri Lanka
Contact - +94 114 723 333
2. Maharaja Palace, Sri Lanka
Unlike other restaurants, Maharaja Palace is one of the most loved Indian restaurants. The place has a vibrant vibe and is a very relaxing ambiance. The food here is also delicious.
Must-Try - Biryani
Address - 1A Rajakeeya Mawatha, Colombo 00700, Sri Lanka
Contact - +94 114 886 000
3. Indian Chaat Corner
India is also famous for its street food. The mingled taste of spicy and sweet is what you will enjoy here.
Must-Try - Pani Puri
Address - 32nd Ln, Colombo 00600, Sri Lanka
Contact - +94 72 410 0282
4. The Mango Tree
The Mango Tree is known for its lengthy menu and delicious taste. Papdi Chaat of this place is very famous.
Address - 82 Srimath Anagarika Dharmapala Mawatha, Colombo 03 00300, Sri Lanka
Contact - +94 117 620 620
5. Thalis Restaurant
Thalis Restaurant is a typical Indian Vegetarian restaurant that is famous for its taste. The food they serve here is quite authentic and delicious. One should try the vegetarian thali. It is exquisite in taste.
Address - Colombo 05., 155 Park Rd, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Contact - +94 112 507 788
So, if you have planned a Sri Lanka tour, this list will help you and make your trip fun and enjoyable.
Best Food Items to Try In Sri Lanka
There are many dishes one should try during the Sri Lanka holidays. Sri Lanka is very famous for its seafood. Some of these dishes include -
1. Fish Ambl Thiyal also known as Sour Fish Curry.
2. Parippu (Dhal Curry)
3. Wambatu Moju, a candied eggplant
4. Appa/ Appam
5. Kukul Mas Curry commonly known as Chicken Curry
6. Polos
7. Fried Salted Fish
8. Sri Lankan Samosas
9. Lamprai
10. Kottu Roti
11. Pol Roti
Some best Sri Lankan Restaurants
These are some of the restaurants in Sri Lanka that serve the best native dishes you should try.
1. Nuga Gama
Address - Colombo3, 77 Galle Rd, Colombo 00300, Sri Lanka
Contact - +94 112 497 468
2. Ministry of Crab
Must-Try - Singapore style crab meat in the chilly sauce.
Address - Old Dutch Hospital Complex, 04 Hospital St, Colombo 00100, Sri Lanka
Contact - +94 112 342 722
3. Curry Leaf
Address - Sir Chittampalam Gardiner Mawatha, 2 Lotus Rd, Colombo 00100, Sri Lanka
Contact - +94 112 492 492
4. Thuna Paha Sri Lankan Restaurant
Address - Battaramulla, Sri Lanka
Contact - 94 112 863 863
5. Curry Pot
Must-Try -
Address - 314/1/A, Kollupitiya Road, 03 Marine Drive, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Contact - +94 112 370 119
Emergency Contact Numbers
In the case of any emergency, you can contact the Indian Embassy in Sri Lanka.
Address - 36, 38 Colombo - Galle Main Rd, Colombo 00300, Sri Lanka
Contact - +94 112 327 587
Usually, all the Sri Lanka Holiday packages have all the information necessary for a Sri Lanka trip. So, keep a check.
Sri Lanka is the country that is best for the people who want to enjoy the touch of nature. Every place in Sri Lanka has a lot of places for a traveler to visit. Every place has its own unique specialty, some have the exquisite landscape to soothe your nerves, and some have extraordinary architecture while others have amazing historical glory to share with you. So, explore and experience the beauty of Srilanka with PML Holidays. We have several exciting hand-curated Sri Lanka Travel packages and offers for you. Check Now.
