Places to Visit-Sri Lanka – Cresta Holidays

Places to visit in Sri Lanka

Popular places to visit in Sri Lanka

Featuring heavily on our itinerary ideas for visiting Sri Lanka, these places are destinations that we know prove consistently popular with our travellers. How you choose to include them in your trip can be tailored into a route that best suits your preferences.

Jethawanaramay pagoda in Sri Lanka- Anuradapura

Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s ancient capital, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its well-preserved ruins, sacred Buddhist temples, and majestic stupas, including the revered Sri Maha Bodhi tree must-visit for history lovers.

Buttala

Buttala, Sri Lanka, offers serene nature, ancient sites like Buduruwagala, thrilling safaris in Yala, eco-tourism adventures, and authentic cultural experiences in a tranquil rural setting.

Chillaw

Chillaw, Sri Lanka, offers serene beaches, historic Munneswaram Temple, vibrant fishing culture, bird-rich Anawilundawa Wetlands, and tranquil escapes, blending natural beauty with rich cultural heritage.

Colombo

Colombo, Sri Lanka’s vibrant capital, blends modern skyscrapers with colonial charm. Discover bustling markets, historic landmarks, and cultural hotspots, including the iconic Galle Face Green and the National Museum. It is a city of contrasts.

Dambulla

Dambulla, home to Sri Lanka’s famous cave temples, offers ancient Buddhist art and stunning rock formations. Visitors can explore sacred sites and enjoy panoramic views from the iconic Dambulla Rock Temple.

Delft - sland

Delft Island, Sri Lanka, offers wild ponies, coral forts, ancient baobabs, pristine beaches, colonial ruins, and Tamil culture, perfect for history, nature, and adventure seekers.

Ella

Ella, a picturesque hill town in Sri Lanka, is known for its breathtaking landscapes, tea plantations, and hiking trails. Popular attractions include Ella Rock, Nine Arches Bridge, and the stunning Ravana Falls.

Galle

Galle, a historic coastal city in Sri Lanka, is famed for its UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, charming colonial architecture, and beautiful beaches. It’s a perfect blend of culture, history, and seaside beauty.

Habarana

Habarana, Sri Lanka, offers wildlife safaris, cultural sites, eco-tourism, village experiences, luxury resorts, and adventure activities, making it the perfect gateway to nature and history.

Hikkaduwa

Hikkaduwa, a vibrant beach town in Sri Lanka, is renowned for its stunning coral reefs, lively nightlife, and water sports. It’s the perfect destination for sun-seekers and adventure enthusiasts alike.

Kandy

Kandy, nestled in the lush hills of Sri Lanka, is famed for its sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic. Explore vibrant markets, beautiful gardens, and breathtaking views of the serene Kandy Lake.

Mandaramnuwara

Mandaramnuwara, Sri Lanka, offers misty landscapes, waterfalls, hiking, a cool climate, authentic village charm, and eco-tourism, making it a serene retreat for nature and adventure lovers.

Mannar

Mannar, Sri Lanka, offers Adam’s Bridge, historic forts, ancient temples, birdwatching at Vankalai Sanctuary, pristine beaches, vibrant fishing culture, and rich mythology, ideal for tranquil exploration.

Mathale

Matale, Sri Lanka, offers rich history, UNESCO sites, lush landscapes, spice gardens, and adventure, blending cultural heritage, eco-tourism, and culinary delights for unforgettable experiences

Mirissa

Mirissa, a picturesque coastal town in Sri Lanka, is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and thrilling whale watching. Relax on golden sands and savor fresh seafood at beachside restaurants.

Mihinthale

Mihintale, the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, features ancient stupas, sacred sites, scenic landscapes, and rich history, offering spiritual serenity and cultural exploration.

Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya, known as "Little England," is a stunning hill city in Sri Lanka, famous for its cool climate, lush tea plantations, and charming colonial architecture. Enjoy breathtaking landscapes and vibrant gardens.

Passikudah

Passikudah, a serene coastal gem in Sri Lanka, is known for its stunning shallow beaches and crystal-clear waters. Perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxation, it offers a tranquil escape for beach lovers.

Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Sri Lanka, boasts remarkable ancient ruins, including temples and stupas. Explore its rich history, vibrant archaeological sites, and lush landscapes that reflect the grandeur of the past.

Rathnapura

Ratnapura, known as the "City of Gems," is famous for its rich gem mining heritage. Explore stunning waterfalls, lush tea plantations, and vibrant local markets while discovering the beauty of Sri Lanka's nature.

Sigiriya

Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Sri Lanka, is renowned for its ancient rock fortress and stunning frescoes. Climb to the summit for breathtaking views and explore the surrounding lush gardens.

Thalpe

Thalpe, a tranquil coastal village in Sri Lanka, is known for its beautiful beaches, luxurious villas, and vibrant coral reefs. In this idyllic paradise, you can enjoy relaxation, water sports, and stunning sunsets.

Trincomalee

Trincomalee, a historic coastal city in Sri Lanka, boasts stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant marine life. Explore the famous Koneswaram Temple and enjoy water sports in its beautiful natural harbor.

Thangalla beach - Tourism - Sri Lanka - beautiful beach

Tangalle

Tangalle, a serene coastal town in Sri Lanka, is renowned for its stunning beaches, lush palm trees, and vibrant marine life. Enjoy water sports, fresh seafood, and breathtaking sunsets in this tranquil paradise.

Unawatuna

Unawatuna, a picturesque beach town in Sri Lanka, is famous for its golden sands, clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs. Enjoy water sports, relaxing beach days, and lively seaside restaurants.

Yala

Yala, home to Sri Lanka's famous national park, offers breathtaking wildlife experiences, including leopard sightings and diverse flora. Explore this captivating destination's stunning beaches, ancient temples, and vibrant culture.