Top Things to See
Buddhism is a major force with regards to Sri Lanka’s top cultural attractions, with some of Asia’s most stunning and ancient temples and cities located here. From the magnificent ruins of Anuradhapura to the modern mosaic of Colombo, this island offers a lot more than just amazing beaches and lush hill country. If there’s one place not to miss, however, it’s the spiritual hub of Kandy, located high in the hills. In this traditional Sinhalese stronghold, traditional culture, crafts and spiritual rituals are still practiced daily.
 Anuradhapura
Sri Lanka’s first capital is truly ancient, having ruled the island for more than 1,000 years beginning in 380 BC. The majestic remains are a major highlight of Sri Lanka, with beautiful stupas, temples, and palaces that demonstrate just how advanced the early Sinhalese were. Visitors can sit under the Bo tree where the Buddha gained enlightenment and wander the vast Jetavanarama Dagoba building which once housed more than 1,000 monks. Within this complex are a dozen equally amazing sites. Visitors can easily spend a day or more exploring the area.
 Colombo
Sri Lanka’s capital is the largest city in the nation. It’s frenetic, noisy and chaotic at times, but there are plenty of things to see and do. Pettah Bazaar is an amazing flurry of local life, while Vihara Maha Devi Park is a quiet oasis of calm. Arguably the best restaurants in Sri Lanka are here, as well as the National Museum, National Art Gallery and lots of great temples and mosques. To experience the unique blend of Dutch, Portuguese, British and Sinhalese influences on Sri Lanka, take your time exploring the streets of Colombo.
 Kandy
This picturesque town nestled in the country’s lush, verdant highlands is considered the cultural and spiritual capital of Sri Lanka. As the last stronghold of the mighty Kandyan kings, there is plenty of history here and many ancient customs, arts, crafts and daily rituals are still actively practiced here. While the town itself is the main attraction, don’t miss the UNESCO protected Temple of the Tooth, where one of Buddha’s teeth is enshrined. A wealth of accommodation makes Kandy an ideal place to base yourself for a few days.
 Polonnaruwa
Another of Sri Lanka’s lovely ancient cities can be seen at the lakeside ruins of Polonnaruwa. This site is much more compact than neighbouring Anuradhapura, making it easier to explore if you are short on time. The remains of temples and palaces from the 11th century Indian Chola dynasty are in excellent condition and well worth a visit. Polonnaruwa is located 46 miles southeast of Anuradhapura.
Ridi Vihara
The Silver Temple, as it’s known, has been around since 200 BC and is one of Sri Lanka’s more interesting Buddhist temples. One unique feature is the use of Dutch tiles in the central cave, while the frescoes that adorn the walls are among the finest in the country. The main cave with its gold-plated Buddha and other relics is the main highlight, but you should also check out the Upper Temple, which has its own special character.
 Sigiriya Rock Fortress
This UNESCO World Heritage site is perhaps Sri Lanka’s most famous attraction, and should not be missed. Perched at the very edge of a towering rock formation is this truly magnificent palace and fortress dating from the 5th century. Water gardens lie at the base of the palace, where steps lead upwards past dozens of beautiful murals to the lofty site of the fort. From the fort, the views are simply astounding.
Top Things to Do
 Check out the feline Sri Lankan natives at Yala National Park, one of the island’s most popular sites for viewing wildlife. Located on the southeastern coast, this expansive nature park is home to hundreds of different creatures including a huge number of birds. Yala is also home to the world’s highest density of leopards, as well as large herds of wild elephants. A safari in Yala offers the best chance to glimpse one of these amazing creatures up close and in their natural environment.
 Don’t just drink Ceylon tea, visit the highlands where it’s grown. Sri Lanka’s native tea is considered one of the finest in the world, so why not pay a visit to the lush tea plantation region where wonderful aromas fill the cool clean air. Hill stations such as Nuwara Eliya offer a fascinating glimpse at the traditional cultivation, and are also ideal places for long walks. As an added bonus, you are guaranteed one of best cups of tea you’ll ever have.
Do your shopping at the remarkable Dutch fort of Galle, one of the best spots in Sri Lanka for picking up local handicrafts. This colonial fort in itself is well worth thorough exploration. Its quaint narrow streets, ramparts overlooking the sea and colonial houses make it one of Sri Lanka’s most picturesque colonial towns. It’s easy to see why Galle has been named a UNESCO World Heritage site, but it also happens to be a major centre for crafts made from ebony, lace and gemstones.
Experience the unique Tamil culture by journeying to the northern capital of Jaffa. Jaffa, the cultural hub of the Tamil people, is one of the oldest settlements in all of South Asia, offering a different look at Sri Lanka’s predominantly Sinhalese population. The best time for a visit is during one of the Tamil festivals such as Nallur Kovil Thiruvizha, when the mood is more upbeat.
Follow in the footsteps of Buddhist hermits at Dimbulagala, a striking cave and temple complex in the heart of Sri Lanka. Also known as Gunners Quoin, this amazing natural site has hundreds of caves cut into the rock cliff that have been used as hermitages continuously since 300 BC. From the temple at the base of the cliff, visitors can climb past 15 other cave temples on their way to the lovely dagoba at the top, nearly 2,000 feet above the ground.
 Go underground and wander the rock-hewn passageways of the Dambulla Cave Temples. Right in the centre of the island is this unique Buddhist haven where dozens of temples have been built beneath a truly huge rock overhang. Within the temples are some of Sri Lanka’s finest religious murals and icons dating back centuries. The unique combination of nature and religion come together here in unparalleled splendour.
Ride your bike around Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s most ancient city. The first capital of Sri Lanka ruled the island for more than 1,000 years and remains one of the most impressive sites in Asia. Anuradhapura is now a preserved area of ruins, and the best way to explore this stunning city is by renting a bike to help you get around the huge site. Be sure and check out such historical marvels such as the Bo tree where the Buddha gained enlightenment, Thuparama Dagoba, Jetavanarama Dagoba and the traditional ponds where monks take ritual baths.
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