Perched on the northern tip of the pearl of Asia, Jaffna is a predominantly tamil city with an old school charm. From age old temples, its own historic ruins comprising of the ancient kingdoms of the North, calm and sandy beaches, museums and salt plains along the way, you are sure to find something for your wandering heart to enjoy. If a slow holiday is what you are after this is the place in Sri Lanka to visit. There are a myriad of things to do in Jaffna from sunbathing on the pristine Casuarina Beach or admiring the Nallur Kandaswamy Temple. Visit Jaffna’s most treasured attractions; most of which have stood the test of time, like the Jaffna Library.
Delft Island, off Sri Lanka's northern coast, is known for its unique features, including coral walls, wild ponies, and ancient baobab trees. The island's rich history is reflected in its colonial ruins, such as a Dutch fort and Portuguese church, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and those seeking a serene, off-the-beaten-path experience in the Jaffna Peninsula. There is a story in the history of Shaivism that foxes were transformed into horses for their devotees and given to the king. It is said that the horses here are the horses that were transformed in this way. The reason is that these horses are not found anywhere else in the world. History also says that Rama came here during the Ramayana. This island made a great contribution to the rule of the Cholas. There is a stone growing here. There is a banyan tree, the roots of which cannot be found. It is said that it may be about 300 years old. This is an island with many miracles.
The quiet white-sand beaches, wild donkeys and historic attractions of Mannar are located away from most traveller’s holiday itineraries in Sri Lanka. Although it may be off-the-beaten path, Mannar holds a variety of attractions and things to do for explorers with a taste for adventure. From admiring the Baobab Tree to visiting the Mannar Fort or the Giant’s Tank, come discover the hidden treasures of Mannar in Sri Lanka. Take a stroll through the historic city of Mannar where history and myth come together. Some of the most popular attractions you must visit Talaimannar, Lighthouse, Mannar Island, Giant's Tank, Arippu Dutch Fort, Thanthirimale, The Doric at Arippu, Keeri Beach, Adam's Bridge and Baobab Tree.
Mullaitivu is the main town of Mullaitivu District, situated on the north-eastern coast of Northern Province, Sri Lanka. A largely fishing settlement. During the Kandyan Wars, the British government house in Mullaitivu was attacked by forces of Pandara Vanniyan and Dissava of Nuwara Kalawiya and lay siege to the fort. Captain Drieberg with his force of Malays escaped from the fort in boats and reached Jaffna. Mullaitivu is home to Sri Lanka's national tree, the Naga tree, the beautiful white sand beach of the East, monuments from the era of kings, and many lakes.
Located on the east coast of the island, right next to a natural harbour that was once an epicentre of strategic naval placings in the days of old, the town of Trincomalee is shrouded in many a tale that is both mythological and documented. The town possesses a multitude of experiences for any and all traveller journeying across the east coast of the island. Visit Trincomalee and discover the beauty of this city. There are many things to see and do in the coastal town of Trincomalee. Dotted with ancient places of worship, historical ruins and monuments, and amazing beaches, the town is a kaleidoscopic wonder.
Located in the eastern coast of the island, the city of Batticaloa is one of the more multicultural cities in the island that also showcase the colonial heritage of the country. From the Portuguese to British, and to the many places of worship and amazing beaches, Batticaloa is an idyllic beach getaway that possesses many attractions. The town in the east coast is steeped in heritage, and is known for possessing a multicultural society that embodies the nation’s identity.
Vavuniya is a city in the Northern Province, Sri Lanka. Vavuniya is situated in the middle of the Vanni region and is the gate to northern province where people can access all the northern cities quickly. Vavuniya railway station, which is located on the Northern Line connects Kankesanthurai through to Colombo. One of the most interesting things to do in Vavuniya is visiting the archaeological museum that holds tales of the history. This regional museum exhibits archaeological objects that were discovered in Vavuniya and its nearby surroundings. Chola-era Shiva temples are located around the city.
Kataragama is perhaps one of the most fascinating places in Sri Lanka, particularly in terms of its lore, as well as how it holds religious and cultural significance to all Sri Lankan people! Due to this reason, it’s viewed as a ‘pilgrimage town’, with Buddhists, Hindus, Veddas, and Muslims travelling to Kataragama for various religious regions. The temple’s actual date of establishment hasn’t been defined, though experts speculate it to be sometime between 1100 to the 15th century. Every year, a massive festival takes place at Kataragama, usually between July and August, where devotees undertake a pilgrimage to Kataragama on foot, making stops at various religious sites prior to concluding their journey at the temple. The pilgrimage takes two weeks to complete, after which everyone celebrates with a lineup of festivities, involving dancing and lights, basically like a ‘perahera’.
An ancient city in the heart of the Cultural Triangle, Polonnaruwa is the second kingdom that was established on the island. Established as the capital from 1056 AD, it was the administrative centre until it fell in the 14th century, due to constant Chola invasions from India. However, many vestiges lay scattered in the present-day city, which include places of worship, monuments and relics of royalty. Reimagine a kingdom long lost to time that was once a civilisation that pioneered engineering brilliance and architectural excellence. Ancient temples, religious artefacts, engineering marvels, remnants of what once espoused architectural magnificence, there is a lot to see and do in the ancient city.
Anuradhapura is affectionately referred to as the ‘Garden of Dagobas’. Located in the heart of the Cultural Triangle, this ancient city was documented as the first kingdom of Sri Lanka, dating to the 4th century BC. It was during the peak of this kingdom that Buddhism became the established religion in the country, which is signified by the dominating structure of the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya along with other temples and ruins dotted around the historic town. Stroll along the remnants of the past or cycle around the ancient kingdom instead. Wander about the ruins of the ancient kingdom and reimagine a thriving civilisation unravel in front of your own eyes. Possessing several monuments in the form of ancient temples, and religious artefacts, there are many remnants of a kingdom lost to time.
A bustling town cradled between towering mountains of lush forest and acres of tea in the central highlands. Kandy is home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are a variety of things to do and places to visit in and around Kandy from scenic strolls through Udawatte Kele Forest Sanctuary and Peradeniya Botanical Gardens to witnessing splendid cultural performances and religious parades. Travel to Kandy and explore the last monarchical kingdom of Sri Lanka. Discover some of the top things to do in Kandy as you explore the stunning charms of the city nestled between towering mountains. Explore the most famous attractions in Kandy from the revered Sri Dalada Maligawa to the Royal Botanical Gardens. Immerse yourself in the Kandyan experiences as you learn about the exotic cultures and history of the city.
Nuwara Eliya, meaning the City of Light, is located in the central province of Sri Lanka and is considered the most important region for tea production, with the coolest temperatures in the country, ranging from 10-21 degree celsius. Explore the tea estates, the lakes, picturesque landscapes and historic buildings as you discover the elegance and old school charm of Sri Lanka’s Little England. Explore the hill country’s most treasured attractions during your holiday in Nuwara Eliya. Long walks through bustling Victoria Park can clear negative thoughts from the subconscious. there are plenty of things to do in Nuwara Eliya.
Sigiriya known as Lion Rock pronounced see-gi-ri-yə. The ancient rock fortress is located in the Central Province of Sri Lanka, in the town of Dambulla. A site of historical and archaeological significance that is dominated by a massive column of rock approximately 180 m or 590 ft in high. According to the ancient Sri Lankan chronicle the Chulavamsa, the area was a large forest. Remanences of a forest in the surrounding areas can be viewed today. The rock location was selected by King Kashyapa (AD 477–495) as his capital. King Kashyapa built the palace on top of this rock and decorated the sides with colorful frescoes. After the king’s death, Sigiriya was abandoned as the capital and the royal palace. Sigiriya was later used as a Buddhist monastery until the 14th century. However, Sigiriya today is a UNESCO listed World Heritage Site. It is one of the best preserved examples of ancient urban planning.
Yala is most known for the second largest national park in Sri Lanka. Yala National Park is a lush forest of greenery and wildlife interspersed with ruins from ancient civilisations to give you a truly unique experience of human history and nature, to create a one of a kind experience. Embark on a scenic safari to spot the wildlife endemic in the area and discover the ruins of ancient civilisations. The wild side of Sri Lanka awaits. Embark on an exciting adventure to the famous Yala National Park or visit the nearby Kataragama Temple. Yala’s key attractions vary from the iconic park and its charming wonders to historic temples like Sithulpawwa.
If you’re dreaming of surf, sand and some water sports, Bentota is southern town located less than 2 hours from Colombo. Whether you’re travelling solo or with your kids in tow, this small town is ideal as a quick getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. Bentota draws travellers around the world simply because the town is bordered by the Indian Ocean on one side and the Bentota River on the other, offering a variety of experiences, excursions, accommodation options and more. Explore the top things to do in Bentota from exciting water sports adventures like jet skiing or scenic boat rides along the river. The most famous attractions in and around Bentota vary from architectural masterpieces to natural wonders like the Bentota Lake.
A small town nestled in the hills of Sri Lanka, Ella is surrounded by large peaks which are covered in lush green tea plantations and cloud forests. Come trek through hills, swim under waterfalls and enjoy the splendid mountain landscapes of Ella. Apart from its natural beauty, Ella offers a variety of stunning attractions to visit too.
Built by the Portuguese and later fortified by the Dutch and British, the Galle Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering travellers a plethora of things to explore from a bygone era. Visit historic monuments as you stroll along the ancient ramparts of the fort. This old, culturally harmonious town resembles a quaint European village with cobblestoned streets lined with cafes, bistros, restaurants, boutique retail outlets and more. Galle features a plethora of things to do for any type of traveller. Explore the most treasured parts of this ancient city during your adventure. From the iconic lighthouse that illuminates the ramparts at night to the eerie halls of the Groote Kerk, visit Galle’s historic attractions.
A beachside town, Arugam Bay is found on the east coast of Sri Lanka. The town was once a historic settlement of the Batticaloa Territory, and today it has gained popularity as a surfer’s paradise. Grab a surfboard and come discover Arugam Bay. Head over to this east coast city and take advantage of the myriad of things to do here. Wander around this beachside paradise and delve into its rich wildlife and ancient history.
Located on the Eastern shores of Sri Lanka, Pasikudah is a coastal town that boasts of sandy white-gold beaches, gentle waves and azure blue waters that will mesmerise you. The area boasts of one of the longest shallow reef coastlines in the world that lets you walk into the ocean without fear. Grab a big sun hat, lather on some sunscreen and enjoy all the fun of a tropical beach side. From kitesurfing to snorkelling, Pasikudah offers explorers a plethora of experiences to enjoy.
The commercial capital of Sri Lanka; Colombo is a bustling city with a rich history, packed with a plethora of things to do and mesmerizing attractions from city temples to skyrise buildings, verdant parks and national monuments. The city is a potpourri of cultures, religions and races making it the most diverse on the island. Amidst the hustle and bustle, there are a plethora of things to do in Colombo for the avid traveller; from admiring the beauty of the Lotus Tower to visiting the Gangaramaya Temple.