2024 Sri Lanka Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in November)
Popular Attractions
Sigiriya
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
Horton Plains National Park
Dambulla Cave Temple
Kandy Lake
Colombo Travel Guide
Who would believe that I have set foot in Colombo? If I hadn't said it myself, I'm afraid no one would believe it, right? 🌍 Sri Lanka, located on the Indian Ocean, is like a dazzling "gem". Its tourism resources are rich and colorful, and the tourism industry is the pillar of the country's economy, attracting countless tourists to come for vacation and leisure 🔥.
However, when it comes to Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, my experience seems to be limited to taking a plane there ✈️. I have never set foot in the streets and alleys of the city, so I am ashamed to say that I have visited Colombo 😔. I have never seen those iconic buildings and charming attractions, let alone have the confidence to say that I have truly appreciated the charm of Sri Lanka. Whether you want to learn more about Sri Lanka's humanities and history, want to take stunning photos, or want to experience the atmosphere of Sri Lanka, Colombo can meet your needs one by one! 💻
✨Humanities and History
🏛️Colombo National Museum: As the largest museum in Sri Lanka, it houses a large number of precious cultural relics and artworks, which are breathtaking.
🎉Independence Square: Known as the "Little Tiananmen", it symbolizes the historical moment when Sri Lanka moved towards independence from British colonial rule.
🛕Water Temple: The Buddhist temple on Beira Lake has excellent visual effects and a quiet environment, making it an excellent place for walking and meditation.
🏛️Bandaranaike Parliament Building: This magnificent building was built by our government in 1973, and it witnessed the deep friendship between China and Sri Lanka.
✨Holy Land of Photography
🕌Pink Mosque: The red and white architectural colors are dreamy, as if in a candy house, making people's hearts burst.
🏖️Galle Face Green and Beach: Located on the coastline of Colombo, facing the Indian Ocean, it is a popular beach for local residents to relax and walk.
🪷Lotus Tower: As a modern landmark of Colombo, it is known as the "Oriental Pearl" of Sri Lanka, and the lights are dazzling at night.
🚞Sea Train: Taking this romantic train, it seems to have traveled to Hayao Miyazaki's "Spirited Away", experiencing that unique romance.
✨Life Atmosphere
🛒Petta Market: This is a lively local market with a variety of fresh fruits 🍊, spices and handicrafts, everything.
🐟Peliyagoda Seafood Market: As one of the largest fish markets in Lanka, it gathers a variety of fresh seafood, which is mouth-watering.
🏞️Beira Lake: Surrounded by green trees and birds and flowers, there is also a water park, which is a favorite place for locals in Colombo.
🏬Marino Mall: This is a modern shopping center in Colombo, which is loved by local people in Lanka.
🚶♂️City Walk: Walking in the streets and alleys of Colombo, you will find that the streets are full of cafes, restaurants and boutiques, full of life.
StellaSpecter_789
Sri Lanka travel collection is the ceiling of cost-effectiveness
Sri Lanka🇱🇰 Seven days and five nights itinerary⬇️
Cost-effectiveness must-see collection👀
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1️⃣【Ceylon Time】 Departing from Chengdu🛫
Hotel🏨: 4-star throughout, two nights by the sea 5-star
Hunting🦁: Minneriya jeep chasing elephants🐘
Attractions🎈: Sigiriya Rock, Temple of the Tooth, Galle Fort, Spirited Away seaside train, Kandy Lake
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2️⃣【Romance in Lanka】 Departing from Chengdu🛫
Hotel🏨: 5-star throughout, two nights by the sea
Attractions🎈: Sigiriya Rock, Temple of the Tooth, Galle Fort
Culture👨🏻🌾: Negombo fish market, St. Mary's Church, stilt fishermen, Kandy Lake
Experience🌊: Whale watching at sea🐳
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3️⃣【Whale Splendor Lanka】 Local departure🚗
Hotel🏨: 5-star throughout, two nights by the sea
Attractions🎈: Temple of the Tooth, Royal Botanical Gardens, Galle Fort, boat tour in the mangroves
Depth✨: Sigiriya Rock (climbing to the top), Dambulla Cave Temple (inside)
Check-in🚞: Spirited Away sea train
Experience🌊: Minneriya jeep chasing elephants🐘 Mirissa sea whale watching🐳
Evelyn.Simmons^43
2023 Annual Summary| Those travel destinations worth revisiting
|Those travel destinations worth revisiting. Cover: A Masala restaurant·Negombo·Sri Lanka
Encountered a railway robber on the sea train, the entire travel bag was stolen, the photo is all I have left. Stay optimistic, healthy, calm, and meticulous.
【2023 Travel List】
January Guilin Jingdezhen Nanchang Anqing Tongcheng Tunxi
February Ningbo Temples Siming Mountain Dongqian Lake Tang'e Tip
March Shipyard Mountain Xianghu Mountains
April Xingmei Tip Yaotou Mountain Ruyi Tip
May Qingliang Peak Half Mountain Moxin Tip Baishi Tip Thousand Island Lake
June Hefei Shouxian Fengyang Xuzhou Huai'an Gaoyou Taizhou
August Wengjia Mountain-Longjing-Meijiawu Wengjin Line
September Wufeng Island-Linfeng Mountain-Anding Mountain Singapore
October Sri Lanka Pilgrimage Bangkok
November Thousand Island Lake Race Zhejiang West Sky Road Heqiao Ancient Town
December Zhoushan Circle Zhujiashan Circle Zhejiang Museum New Hall
【Discover destinations worth revisiting】
①Ningbo Temple Tour
Baoguo Temple, Qita Zen Temple, Ayuwang Temple, Tiantong Temple...
②Ningbo Dongqian Lake Song Tomb Tour
Southern Song tombs, corridors, archways, stone statue art
③Anqing and Tongcheng
The king of reverse City Walk in Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Shanghai
④Chunan Moxin Tip-Kaihua Baishi Tip 16km loop
Pure outdoor, the only remaining pure land, as if no man's land!
⑤Shouxian, Fengyang, Xuzhou, Huai'an, Gaoyou, Taizhou
Pot chicken and Han tombs, can also wander around eating and drinking.
The heavy town of Subei nurtured by the Grand Canal, with both food and scenery.
⑥Linfeng Mountain, Anding Mountain, Xiaoshan Sky Road
A good place for uphill training in the suburbs of Hangzhou, specializing in all kinds of hard mouths!
⑦Sri Lanka Theravada Ancient Capital Pilgrimage
Even if the luggage is stolen, the pilgrimage is still great!
⑧Zhejiang West Sky Road
Spectacular Zhejiang West Canyon and top slope
⑨Thousand Island Lake Road Bicycle Race
On the fully enclosed track, easily up to 35+km/h.
⑩Zhoushan Circle, Zhujiashan Circle
The most cost-effective island cycling tour in Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Shanghai.
auranthe_1124
Rails to Paradise: Sri Lanka's scenic beauty
Embark on a mesmerizing journey through two of Sri Lanka's most captivating cities, Colombo and Galle, where beauty and affordability merge seamlessly. Begin your adventure in Colombo, the bustling capital city, renowned for its vibrant markets, colonial architecture, and picturesque waterfront. Discover the allure of Galle, a charming coastal town famous for its well-preserved Dutch colonial fort and pristine beaches.
Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of these destinations, all while keeping your budget intact. Explore Colombo's array of affordable accommodations, indulge in delicious street food, and shop for unique souvenirs at pocket-friendly prices. In Galle, discover affordable guesthouses and enjoy the breathtaking coastal views without breaking the bank.
This enchanting Colombo-to-Galle journey promises an unforgettable experience packed with stunning sights, affordability, and the warmth of Sri Lankan hospitality. #beachlife #summervacation #srilanka
PrateekSingh
SRI LANKA 🇱🇰
Sandagiri Maha Seya is a Buddhist temple in Central Province SRI LANKA. Sandagiri Maha Seya is situated nearby to Sandagiri Maha Viharaya, and close to Church.
FERNANDO SUSHARA
A Breathtaking Scenic Train Ride
Not many will think of Colombo, Sri Lanka as a bucketlist for a tourist destination, many also will think that Sri Lanka is also part of India. Let's throw that all away!
Sri Lanka is a place popular with the many tea plantations thruout the entire country and to see that, hop onto one of the most scenic train ride that starts from Ella To Bandulla. The entire journey we paid was about $1 but of course don't expect 1st class treatment in the train, but you will be able to reserve a seat in one of the carriage to give you panoramic view of the surrounding where you will meet tea plantations, scenic Mountain backdrops and thru the many towns, its a relatively relaxing route.
Do take the train ride all the way to Badulla to have a view of the Demodara Loop where you can see the Arch Bridge(which was built in 19 century?) making this one of the worth while trip on the train.
#bucketlistreboot #srilanka #colombo #nature #teaplantations #scenic #trainride #mustvisit
Kinnie Kong
Walking around Colombo (Sril Lanka)
Colombo is the comercial capital and largest city of Sri Lanka. The best place to stay is the Kollupitiya neighborhood so you can see the colonial architecture at walking distance, also the largest market is there: Kollupitiya Market. Near downtown there are many landmarks worth to visit such as Colombo Lotus Tower and Gangaramaya temple. #travellater #colombo #srilanka
Rafael Osorio
Romantic place for lovers
We booked anantara for our get together. It was an amazing, lovely place. Staff was very helpful. Food was very delicious. The rooms were specious with nice architecture and we booked ocean view.There were many things to see and many activities to do. Highly recommend ! 5/5 Guys
. Hope to go there again.
#urbanexplorer #momentsmission
#thanksgiving#luxuryhotel#skiing#nationalpark#lakes#beaches#deserts#romanticrestaurant#bestislandtraveltowns#museumquest#beautifulsunsets#themeparks#café#historicculture#scubadiving#paragliding
Beachbabe
The best place in Sri lanka
My first recommend special point is CAPE'S Location. It's situated in Weligama point. I think this is the better hotel in Sri Lanka. because if you can see the fantastic unbelievable image. It's sea.I can't explain this seen.then another point is Health good friendly foods. perfect. Superb.
#urbanexplorer #momentsmission
#thanksgiving#luxuryhotel#islandtravel#themepark#nationalpark#beaches#infinitypool#camping#naturalwonders#bestislandtraveltowns#beautifulsunsets#themeparks#café
Beachbabe
The best place to visit in Sri Lanka
One of the best hotels I've visited so far. Very luxurious & calm environment to relax in the southern coast. Rooms were very spacious & food was great. All staff helped us a lot in many ways & the welcoming was very warm. Highly recommended & should visit place for every traveller who is seeking luxury hospitality. This resort is located in Pallikkudawa Rural, Sri Lanka.
#urbanexplorer #momentsmission
#thanksgiving#luxuryhotel#islandtravel#themepark#nationalpark#beaches#infinitypool#camping#naturalwonders#bestislandtraveltowns#beautifulsunsets#themeparks#café
Beachbabe
Million star hotel!
Came to Santani to participate in a trek through the Knuckles mountains. We were in a group. Service, food, ambience and spa all excellent. I will definitely come back.
The location is stunning,
The hotel is stunning,
The spa is surreal,
The food is exquisite,
The service is impeccable,
What more does one need
#urbanexplorer #momentsmission
#thanksgiving#luxuryhotel#skiing#nationalpark#lakes#beaches#deserts#romanticrestaurant#bestislandtraveltowns#museumquest#beautifulsunsets#themeparks#café#historicculture#scubadiving#paragliding
Beachbabe
Explore Asia!
Now is a good time to explore the magical country of Sri Lanka since it’s still affordable and uncrowded, something that will change in the future since it is predicted that more and more travelers will flock to the Indian Ocean’s largest island.
#urbanexplorer #momentsmission
#thanksgiving#luxuryhotel#skiing#nationalpark#lakes#beaches#deserts#romanticrestaurant#bestislandtraveltowns#museumquest#beautifulsunsets#themeparks#café#historicculture#scubadiving#paragliding
Beachbabe
Sri Lanka
it’s beautiful country and kindly people
#themepark#zoo#nationalpark#lakes#beaches
Mo.sharaf
Colombo – Respite From The Scorching Hea
If you’re looking for a cheap places to visit in summer in the world, Colombo is Sri Lanka is the best place to go. With weather and a landscape much like India, this place offers the perfect experience to enjoy a respite from heat and embrace it like a pro. There’s nothing in Colombo that you wouldn’t like and that’s what makes it so special. It is one of the best holiday destinations in the world.
Tourist Attractions: Visit the National Museum of Colombo
Best Time To Visit: April to May
How To Reach: Fly to Colombo International Airport
Places To Visit: Beira Lake, Paradise Road, Gangaramaya Temple, Independence Memorial Hall, and more
Things To Do: Visit the Galle Face Green, shopping, sightseeing, trying the different Sri Lankan cuisine, and more.
Places To Stay: Iconic, Marino Beach Colombo, Cinnamon Lakeside, and Grand Oriental Hotel
Places To Eat: Rare at Residence, The Lagoon, Curry Leaf, and Graze Kitchen
#bestislandtraveltowns#naturalwonders#themeparks#nationalpark#lakes#beaches
Nova Hiskia
Hello ,Again welcome to visit Sri Lanka#travel#photographyguide#enjoyinglife #travelinspiration#travelstories#travelhotels #holiday couplestrip#relax#holidayhotel#dasunlankatour#
#naturalwonders#hiking#loveflowers#roadtrip
Dasun
plane your next trip to Sri Lanka
#newphotographer#travelinspiration#unforgettableexperiences#newyearstrip
Dasun
It's very Wonderful place in Sri Lanka Airport
MD ABDUS SATTER HOWLADER
Sri Lanka is probably the most tranquil place I have ever been to. Take me back to sitting on the edge of this pool, enjoying the jungle view!
The Wondering Dreamer
Sir Lanka is such a beautiful country 😍 especially traveling with a local give you a chance to explorer an other side of the otherwise a bit crowded places. #historicallandmarks #travellikealocal #travelinspiration #instagramworthydestinations #unforgettableexperiences #merrychristmas
#merrychristmas
_TS***ah
Srilanka Natural place feature
Sri Lanka, historically known as Ceylon, and officially the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, is an island country in South Asia.
it's a very beautiful country and very nice places and natural foods feel the nature there
I really try my feature
Find travel ideas for planning your holiday to Sri Lanka. Discover things to see and do, places to stay and more.. of Sri Lanka ...#feature 💞Reasons to Recommend:
Sharu Travels
Adventure in Sri Lanka
#srilanka #tropical
Kerry92
Hidden Flavors: A Culinary Adventure in Sri Lanka!
During our trip to Sri Lanka, we stumbled upon a truly unforgettable dining experience that deserves a spotlight. Nestled in the middle of nowhere, this charming hut was a delightful find, and we couldn’t have asked for a more unique setting. We reached the hut after a picturesque walk through lush rice fields, surrounded by vibrant greenery and the sounds of nature. It felt like we were stepping into another world, far from the typical tourist traps. As the only non-locals in sight, we truly felt immersed in the local culture.
#deliciousfood
Once seated, we were served a delicious fried fish meal on a banana leaf, which added an authentic touch to the experience. The fish was perfectly cooked—crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Paired with fresh coconut water, it was a refreshing complement that enhanced the flavors of the meal.
Solo Traveler in Asia
5 things to choose Sri Lanka as your best destination
#100WaysOfTravel#couplestrip
DMST90
Classic Tour of Sri Lanka
The tour entails the best of Sri Lanka in its true essence. From Colombo, the commercial capital to the blue green beaches in the South West Coast and the lush green tea plantations in the Central Hills, you will definitely have the holiday of your life! Kandy – the hill capital, along with the ancient cities of Dambulla and Sigiriya, brings about the richness of culture and history in this small island. There is also a plenty of wildlife and nature included which makes this ‘Classic Tour’ a complete package, not to be missed.
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Classic Tour of Sri Lanka
Classic Tour of Sri Lanka
The tour entails the best of Sri Lanka in its true essence. From Colombo, the commercial capital to the blue green beaches in the South West Coast and the lush green tea plantations in the Central Hills, you will definitely have the holiday of your life! Kandy – the hill capital, along with the ancient cities of Dambulla and Sigiriya, brings about the richness of culture and history in this small island. There is also a plenty of wildlife and nature included which makes this ‘Classic Tour’ a complete package, not to be missed.
13 Nights 14 Days
inquire now
Where Sri Lankan Civilization Began
The Cultural Triangle – Dambulla & Sigiriya
The splendour of Ancient Sri Lanka can be imagined from the ruins and remains of Stupas, hidden monasteries, the vast palaces and fortresses, and the hundreds of man-made lakes that are scattered around.
You will climb the magnificent rock edifice of Sigiriya
Experience a wild elephant jeep safari at the Minneriya National Park
Kandy
Center of Buddhist Culture
The age old and picturesque city which was also the last capital of Sri Lanka’s Royal Kings beautifully set in a depression encompassed by towering forested hills. It is noted to be one of the most beautiful cities in Asia and is the epitome of Buddhist culture.
The extensive Peradeniya Botanical Garden and its amazing collection of orchids at the Orchid Houses
The delightful Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and the enigmatic Cultural Dance Show
A cooking demonstration at the Spice Gardens
The Hill Country
The very picturesque train Journey through misty and cloud covered Hill Country
Lush tea carpeted hills and picturesque views
Nuwara Eliya is a quaint old colonial town with Tudor housing from the fading era of the British.
Visit a tea factory to learn what makes Ceylon Tea world famous
Experience a stay at a Colonial Bungalow in a tea estate
Explore the eerie and silent Horton Plains National Park on foot
The South West Coast
Beautiful Beach Resorts, Lagoons and Tropical Beaches
Choose between beach Resorts in Wadduwa, Kalutara, Bentota, Beruwala, Hikkaduwa, Galle, Unawatuna, Mirissa or Weligama
Beautiful green and blue seas, sandy beaches, and the gently swaying coconut trees make the South Coast an ideal destination for those who wish to have an idyllic and relaxing holiday in a tropical atmosphere.
The Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery
Explore the Dutch period town within the ramparts of the Galle Fort
Choose between the amazing and happening beaches of Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna and Mirissa
Depart on whale watching expeditions at Mirissa or Galle
Explore the Madu Ganga on a Boat
Highlights
What’s included
Private tour in an air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking Chauffeur Guide
All entry fees for places of interest as described in itinerary.
Jeep hires at national parks.
Meal plan as stated.
Train tickets from Nanu Oya to Ella. (strictly subjected to availability).
_TI***03
Honeymoon Bliss
Embark on a new journey together by spending your honeymoon in this beautiful island of Sri Lanka. Spend your welcome night at a beach resort, prior to the commencement of the tour. Sightseeing is kept to the most essential and romantic excursions, thus allowing you to enjoy your stay at upgraded and superior accommodation in some of Sri Lanka’s most luxurious hotels. The tour includes stays in the Cultural Triangle, with visits to its fascinating temples, ancient cities and the impressive Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
After relaxing for a few days in Kandy, you will embark in a beautiful journey through magnificent scenery to reach the island’s famous tropical beaches. A beach stay is the final ingredient which will make your honeymoon in Sri Lanka, an unforgettable beginning to your new life.
_TI***03
Pinnawala: School Field Trip 🇱🇰
Sri Lanka is home to three main species of monkeys, each with its own unique behavior and habitat preferences. Monkeys are commonly seen in the wild, in national parks, near temples, and even in urban areas.
In Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, visitors can observe elephants being fed, bathed in the nearby river, and roaming freely. It houses a large number of elephants and is popular with tourists.
#100WaysOfTravel #travel #srilanka
Missionary Traveller
Trip to Srilanka with trip.com
_TI***m6
I was shocked when I came here, because...
Not only does it have a rich cultural heritage, but it also has charming natural scenery. The harmonious coexistence of man and nature here is refreshing. Get your camera ready and let's embark on this visual and spiritual feast together!
📅[Best Time to Visit]
🌸 December to March: The climate is pleasant, suitable for beach vacations and cultural tours.
🌧 April to November: The southwest coast and central regions have a rainy season, but the eastern and northern regions are suitable for travel.
📍[Must-visit Attractions]
1. 🏰 Galle Fort: Dutch-style buildings from the colonial period. Take a walk on the ancient city wall and feel the accumulation of history.
2. 🐘 Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage: Get close to elephants and learn about their habits.
3. 🌄 Horton Plains: Hike through the plateau and enjoy the magnificent scenery at the end of the world.
4. 🌿 Udawalawe National Park: A paradise for wildlife, where you have the chance to see groups of elephants and leopards.
5. 🚂 Tea Garden Train: Travel through lush tea gardens and experience Sri Lankan train culture.
🍽️[Recommended Food]
🍛 Sri Lankan Curry: Very spicy, served with rice or naan, it will definitely make you enjoy your meal.
🍹 King Coconut: Fresh and sweet, it quenches your thirst and replenishes electrolytes, making it the perfect drink for your journey.
🚌[Transportation Suggestions]
🚗 Charter: Flexible and free, suitable for families or small groups of friends.
🚌 Public Transportation: Economical and affordable, it allows you to experience local life more deeply.
📸[Photo Check-in]
🌅 Stilt Fishermen: Near Galle, capture the unique scene of fishermen fishing on stilts.
🌄 Lion Rock Sunrise: On top of Lion Rock, wait for the first ray of sunlight to illuminate the ancient palace ruins.
💡[Travel Tips]
🧥 Clothing: Prepare appropriate clothing according to the season, and remember to bring rain gear during the rainy season.
🌤️ Sun Protection: The sun in Sri Lanka is strong, remember to apply sunscreen, wear a hat and sunglasses.
📱 Communication: Purchase a local SIM card for easy internet access and contact.
🌟[Special Experience]
🧘♀️ Buddhist Culture: Visit the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy and experience Sri Lanka's profound Buddhist culture.
🏞️ Beach Vacation: Enjoy the sun and beach in the southern coastal area and experience water sports.
🌈 Sri Lanka, a country full of color and vitality, has surprises everywhere. Here, you can slow down and enjoy the leisure and beauty of life. Bring your curiosity and go on a trip on a whim! 🌍💖
Ruby Sugar Plum
Sri Lanka is more fun than you think!
🌊 Don't be scared off by the word "bankrupt"
Sri Lanka is much more fun than you think!
I can tell you from personal experience that it's beautiful and not crowded 🔥
It's quieter than Southeast Asia and friendlier than Europe and America!
🌞 Affected by the tropical monsoon
Sri Lanka is surrounded by the sea on all sides
But if you want to have fun, you need to avoid the rainy season~
Key point: April to October is the season to play in the east of Trincomalee!!
Please ignore the central and southern parts, it's not the right season, the experience is basically 0
Look at the locals and Europeans and Americans who love to go to Trincomalee for summer vacation
You know this trip is the right choice✅
⭐Snorkeling⭐Boating⭐Hiking⭐Safari chasing elephants
⭐Chasing dolphins⭐Sea train⭐Tropical river rafting
A country about the size of 2 Hainan, filled with all the fun in the universe!
📝Visa: The e-visa window is currently closed, all are on arrival🆓
Fill in the entry card on the plane, bring your passport and round-trip ticket itinerary🉑departure
👨👩👧👦 Reminder: The queue is very long during the summer vacation, if you are with your family, it is not recommended to queue, it is more time-saving and labor-saving to apply for an e-visa in advance
🤩 Rich gameplay that both adults and children love:
✅Snorkel on Pigeon Island and get close to marine life
✅Take a speedboat out to sea and chase the dolphins🐬
✅Take a small train through the green fields and experience the cool rafting in Kithulgala
✅Take a jeep safari and encounter a herd of wild elephants
✅Climb Lion Rock and explore the spectacular "Eighth Wonder of the World"
✅Hike Horton Plains and watch the cliff sunset at "World's End"
mystralyn_6982
Sri Lanka
My visit to Sri Lanka was filled with wonderful experiences. I started in Colombo, where I enjoyed a city tour and discovered local markets and delicacies. After that, I visited Sigiriya, where I saw the magnificent rock fortress dating back to the 5th century. I climbed to the top to enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
I also enjoyed visiting Yala National Park, where I saw a variety of wildlife including elephants and tigers. I cannot forget visiting Kogalla, famous for its white sandy beaches and blue sea. Sri Lanka was an ideal destination to enjoy nature and culture.