For the best glimpse of Sri Lanka’s illustrious past, no trip is complete without a visit to the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Wander around the remnants of an ancient palace formed from the magma of an extinct volcano.
Climb the rock and when you reach the summit, look down in awe at both the beauty of nature and the power of the human imagination. Described by locals as the Eighth Wonder of the World, you really have to see Sigiriya to believe it.
Anuradhapura was once home to a host of kings and queens, and is a former capital of Sri Lanka. As a result, many extravagant buildings adorn the city. Visit Anuradhapura to explore three of the largest Buddhist shrines in the world, the sheer scale of which will take your breath away.
Polonnaruwa is also rich in archaeological treasures. The Quadrangle is the place to find arguably the finest collection of ancient monuments on the island. This archaeological park includes hundreds of ancient temples, tombs, and shrines all within a small area. Explore Polonnaruwa for a real glimpse of how Sri Lanka looked in the 12th century.
End your time in the Cultural Triangle at the Dambulla Cave Temple, a World Heritage Site. Climb the stairs on the hillside and admire the stunning views. Reach the top and gaze at the beautiful statues, paintings and frescos within the five different caves.
As the fourth-largest tea producer in the world, Sri Lanka is famous for its plantations. About an hour’s drive from Horton Plains, the capital of the region is Nuwara Eliya. It lies 19000 ft. above sea level and is known for the sheer, rarefied quality of the tea it produces. A scenic train journey from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya is the best way to appreciate the beauty of Tea Country. Take a tour of the plantations and factory, see the beautiful antique machines and discover the secrets behind the finest tea in the world.
At night-time, climb Adam’s Peak and reach the summit in time for dawn. As the sky is free of clouds early in the morning, this gives you the best chance to see the Peak’s mystical triangular shadow.
Yet Yala National Park is most famous for having the world’s highest leopard population. Visit the park at dawn or dusk to witness the splendour of these powerful creatures as they prowl across the plains and through the rainforest.
Explore Kandy town centre and wander through a buzzing street market full of stalls selling curios and souvenirs. Play with the elephants at nearby Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, or take a relaxing stroll through the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens.
Visit Galle, a World Heritage Site, and a highlight of the south coast. Explore the 16th century fort and its beautiful architecture, browse through unusual little shops, and taste the delights of the local cafés and restaurants.
Embark on a whale watching cruise, during which you get to see humpback and killer whales. Then go snorkelling to discover the many colours and creatures that lie beneath the surface of the Indian Ocean.