Sri Lanka — an ideal place for walks along picturesque beaches and beautiful tea plantations. The country is moving forward quickly as more and more people are discovering its countless delights. Located between India and Southeast Asia, the history, culture and natural beauty of the island of Ceylon are undoubtedly attractive and a must-see destination.
In our review, we will take a tour of the most beautiful cities and beaches of the island, so you know where to visit in Sri Lanka.
Ella
A sleepy little town nestled in a picturesque valley on rolling hills, Ella is a place of peace and tranquility in a world of big, bustling cities. Explore the nearby Uva Halpewatte tea factory and the ubiquitous tea plantations to learn about and taste Sri Lanka's most famous export. Be sure to explore the surrounding hills and valleys and see the world famous Nine Arches Bridge. Climb to the top of Ella Rock or Little Adam's Peak for stunning panoramic views. And just 15 minutes by local bus to the south will take you to a beautiful waterfall — Ravana-Ella.
Kandy
The sacred city of Kandy, located in the hills that hug the picturesque shores of Lake Bogambara 100 km northeast of the capital Colombo, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a haven of traditional culture. The focal point of the city is the Temple of the Tooth Relic, a beautiful pagoda dating back to the 16th century and one of the most sacred sites in the Buddhist faith. Every August, the city's streets come alive with the Kandy Esala Perahera, one of Sri Lanka's most famous religious festivals. The ten-day event is one of the most grandiose and luxurious Buddhist festivals.
Nuwara Eliya
Nuwara Eliya, located in the center of the highlands of Sri Lanka, is an important tea production center in the country and, due to its scenic views, is one of the favorite places for walking. Although its name translates to "City of Light", Nuwara Eliya is often referred to as "Little England". A link to the city's colonial past is still evident in 19th-century buildings such as the Queen's country house and the Grand Hotel. One of the most popular ways to come to Nuwara Eliya — it's a scenic train ride from nearby Kandy, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding waterfalls, mountains and tea plantations.
Hikkaduwa
A large number of beach accommodations and a reputation as the second best surfing spot in Sri Lanka is the reason why Hikkaduwa is so popular among tourists. The resort area has already covered two or three villages to the south of it, and now it is a 5-kilometer strip of hotels, shops, bars, restaurants and guest houses along the ocean. The beaches are beautiful and wide, and swimming is safe, although from May to October, the currents on the larger Narigama Beach become much stronger. The impressive coral reef continues to be inhabited by exotic fish and sea turtles. Glass bottom boats are available for visitors who want to admire the wonders of the underwater world while keeping their feet dry. A short distance south from the center of the reef, it decreases and a wider sandy bottom begins, with good waves, ideal for surfing.
Galle
Located on the southwest coast, Galle is best known for its historic, beautiful Old Town "Galle Fort", originally built by Portuguese settlers in the late 16th century, before it was strengthened by Dutch colonialists in the 17th century. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site andone of the best preserved sea forts in South Asia. Head to the top of the 18th-century clock tower for panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and other local landmarks, such as the stunning Galle Lighthouse, built in 1939.
Tangalle
With four kilometers of picturesque sandy coastline, it's no surprise that Tangalle's beaches are often cited as the best on Sri Lanka's south-eastern shores. While Tangalle's gorgeous coastline is undoubtedly ideal for a holiday, the more adventurous visitor can explore the local waters by snorkeling or see the sea turtles nesting on Rekawa Beach. For history and archeology buffs, we recommend a trip to Mulkirigala Raja Maha Vihara, an ancient Buddhist temple located on a cliff north of Tangalle.
Mirissa
About an hour's drive east along the coast from Galle, Mirissa — a small town with a picturesque sandy stretch of beach fringed by palm trees, with a string of quaint guesthouses and modest hotels. The bustling nightlife has given rise to the city's vibrant tourism industry, with many bars and restaurants located right on the water's edge, offering magnificent sunset views. For visitors who prefer nature, Mirissa is most interesting for whale and dolphin watching.
Anuradhapura
More than 2,500 years later, Anuradhapura, the former capital of the country since its founding in the 4th century BC, is the oldest city in Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle region. Today it is one of the eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Sri Lanka. The rich history of Anuradhapura can be seen along the border of the ancient city, with its many bell-shaped dagobas, including the 3rd century BC Jonathanaramayaya Stupa and Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, the Sacred Fig Tree, planted in 249 BC (is the oldest documented tree on the planet and is said to have grown from the cut of the tree under which the Buddha achieved enlightenment).
Trincomalee
Located on the northern edges of the vast natural harbor of the same name, Trincomalee is a bustling port city home to both historical and natural beauty. Head to Swami Rock (famous not only for its 17th-century Fort Frederick house, Sri Lanka's largest Dutch fort, and the beautiful Koneswaram temple, but also considered one of the best best whale watching spots in the world) before relaxing on one of Trincomalee's many picturesque sandy beaches.
Haputale
An ideal place for growing tea, Haputale is home to the Dambatenne Tea complex, one of the longest tea plantations in the country. It is also home to the Lipton Estate, a picturesque location with magnificent views of the surrounding mountains and hills, which was the favorite haunt of its founder, Scottish tea baron Sir Thomas Lipton. Other interesting sights include the beautiful 19th century Adisham Bungalow, built in Tudor style and located within the Thangamale Bird Sanctuary, while about an hour's drive west of the town is the stunning Bambarakanda Falls, Sri Lanka's tallest waterfall.
Jaffna
A bastion of Hindu tradition, art and creative culture, Jaffna warmly welcomes visitors. It's intriguing, a little off the beaten path and probably the best place to explore the Tamil culture of Sri Lanka.
Undoubtedly, decades of war, emigration, and many lost lives and properties have deeply affected this historic city. But the city is surprisingly green and well-kept, with attractive colonial-era suburbs and beautiful temples and churches. New construction projects and improved transport links, with increasing interest among tourists, show that the days of Jaffna's isolation are long gone.
Kataragama
Considered among the holiest sites in Sri Lanka, Kataragama is home to the Maha Devala Temple, a multi-faith sacred site visited by Buddhists, Hindus and Muslims. And also the annual Kataragama Perahera festival, which attracts thousands of pilgrims every year, from as far away as Jaffna in the northern part of the country. For nature lovers, the holy city is an excellent base from which to explore the nearby Yala National Park, a wildlife haven home to elephants, leopards and hundreds of bird species.
