Top 5 Must-Visit Destinations in Sri Lanka

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Sri Lanka will implement visa-free travel for citizens of 35 countries starting October 1, 2024. The visa-free policy is intended to boost tourism in the island nation. 

Some of the countries that can enjoy visa-free travel to Sri Lanka for up to six months include India, the United States, the United Kingdom, China, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, Australia, Denmark, Poland, Kazakhstan, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Nepal, Thailand, Indonesia, Russia, Malaysia, Japan, France, Canada, the Czech Republic, Italy, Switzerland, Austria, Israel, Belarus, Iran, Sweden, South Korea, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, and New Zealand.

Sri Lanka is a well-rounded destination for every type of traveler, from history buffs, spiritual seekers, to nature lovers. This beautiful island nation is rich in cultural heritage, stunning scenery, and vibrant wildlife.

Taking sources from Travel and Leisure Asia and Times of India, here are five must-visit destinations in Sri Lanka:

1. Sigiriya

Sigiriya, deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an ancient rock fortress rising almost 200 meters above the surrounding plains and offers stunning views of the lush landscape below. The fortress is renowned for its well-preserved frescoes, the ‘Mirror Wall’, and the remains of an ancient palace at the summit. The climb to the summit is steep, but the views are well worth the effort. 

2. Kandy

Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, is a city rich in history and tradition. At its heart is the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of the world’s revered Buddhist sites. The temple houses a tooth relic of Buddha, which attracts pilgrims and tourists from all over the world. Kandy is also renowned for its scenic beauty, rolling hills, and lush tea plantations surrounding the city. 

3. Yala National Park

For wildlife enthusiasts, Yala National Park is a must-visit. Located in the southeastern region of Sri Lanka, Yala is the country’s most famous wildlife sanctuary, renowned for its dense leopard population. The landscape varies from coastal lagoons to dense jungles, offering a unique environment for wildlife viewing. A safari through Yala provides a fascinating opportunity to see Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity up close.

4. Galle Fort

Galle Fort is another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sri Lanka. Built by the Portuguese and later fortified by the Dutch, the 16th-century fortress is a blend of European architecture and South Asian traditions. Today, Galle Fort is a vibrant neighbourhood filled with boutique hotels, cafes, art galleries and shops. Travelers can wander through its narrow streets and get a glimpse of the island’s history, with beautifully preserved buildings and stunning views of the Indian Ocean.

5. Ella

Ella is a town known for its beautiful scenery and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for those seeking to bask in the natural splendors of Sri Lanka. Located in the central highlands, the area is famous for its Nine Bridge Arch, tea plantations, and stunning views of Ella Rock and Little Adam’s Peak. To reach Ella, travelers can take a train from Kandy for one of the most scenic trips in the world. The route winds through lush green hills, waterfalls, and terraced farms.

TRAVEL AND LEISURE ASIA | TIMES OF INDIA

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