Top 18 Must-See Attractions in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a compact yet fascinating destination, featuring lush, forested mountains, pristine sandy beaches, rich wildlife in natural settings, and diverse culinary traditions. This island nation guarantees that visitors remain engaged and captivated.

From scenic train journeys and exquisite dining in Colombo to premier surfing spots and stylish beachfront cafes in the southern region, here are 18 notable activities to experience in Sri Lanka.

1. Watch sunrise over Little Adam’s Peak

Distinct from Adam’s Peak, the revered mountain located near Hatton that necessitates a challenging 5000-step ascent, Little Adam’s Peak offers a popular, simple hike for those frequenting the tourist hotspot of Ella. Begin your one-hour trek early in the morning when darkness prevails, ensuring you do not miss the stunning sunrise from the summit. Adventurous hikers may opt to continue onto Ella Rock and follow the path leading to the iconic Nine Arch Bridge.

Ella itself is a tranquil destination. While many choose to lodge outside the town, visitors are encouraged to indulge in the vibrant cafe culture at Cafe Chill. Adventure enthusiasts may also enjoy ziplining in the area. Though Ella garners significant attention, numerous other charming mountain towns merit exploration, including Ohiya, Idalgashinna, Haputale, and Wellawaya.

2. Taste the world’s best cinnamon on Ganduwa Island

Located in southern Sri Lanka, Ganduwa Island, positioned on Koggala Lake just south of Galle, showcases some of the world’s finest cinnamon, which is lighter and sweeter than varieties found in Indonesia and Vietnam. Visitors can familiarize themselves with the esteemed Ceylon cinnamon through boat tours around the island.

Generational peelers diligently shave slim layers of the tree’s inner bark, producing quills of cinnamon. These goods, along with small packets of cinnamon powder and cinnamon oil, are available for purchase. Subsequently, the boat tour continues to other islands, where visitors can enjoy a refreshing glass of kirala (mangrove apple) juice from a local vendor at the jetty.

3. Bird-watch in Bundala National Park

Bundala National Park, a Ramsar-recognized wetland in southern Sri Lanka, hosts nearly 200 species of native and migratory birds. Birdwatching tours initiate at 6am and extend for 3 to 4 hours as the park awakens with the sounds of brahminy kites, storks, whistling wild ducks, Asian green bee-eaters, dancing peacocks, and resting crocodiles. By afternoon, wild Asian elephants, spotted deer, and wild boars roam among the Weera, Neem, and Palu trees.

Planning tip: To maximize wildlife sightings, arrange a 4WD safari with a reputable tour operator, usually found in Bundala Junction just outside the park.

4. Climb Pidurangala to see the sunrise over the jungle

A visit to Sri Lanka is incomplete without experiencing the historical significance of Sigiriya, a towering rock fortress housing remnants of an ancient palace, water gardens, and frescoes near the monumental rock Pidurangala. For those inclined to catch the sunrise, an early ascent at 5am is recommended, but if the early morning hours do not suit you, visit for sunset before the ticket office closes at 6pm.

Planning tip: The entrance fee for this 45-minute climb is US$36. The summit offers breathtaking views of Sigiriya rock, which resembles a lion, surrounded by dense tropical jungles and artificial lakes. The route to the top includes a Buddhist temple, so it is advisable to carry a shawl or sarong for modesty.

5. Go kitesurfing on the remote Kalpitiya Peninsula

Renowned for its flatwater lagoons and consistent winds, Sri Lanka’s northwestern coast is considered one of the premier kitesurfing destinations globally. A 3.5-hour journey north of Colombo will lead you to the less-traveled Kalpitiya Peninsula, which remains largely unexplored by international tourists. The area features sandy beaches and quaint fishing villages where wild donkeys roam freely across expansive grasslands.

Stop in Kappalady along the Indian Ocean for kitesurfing lessons with local instructors at Kite Center Sri Lanka. The kite school can also arrange kitesurfing safaris to nearby locations, including Donkey Point, Dutch Bay, and Vella Island, for seasoned kiteboarders.

Other activities in Kappalady involve kayaking through the lagoons and ethical dolphin-watching tours where large pods of spinner dolphins can be observed swimming gracefully. Note that reputable tour operators will only use small boats, maintain a respectful distance from the dolphins, and refrain from feeding the wildlife.

Planning tip: Accommodations by the beachfront are available in Kappalady.

6. Camp in the Haputale mountains

Approximately one hour by bus from Ella, the misty landscape of Haputale is adorned with tea plantations and cool streams. Opt to stay at a locally-owned family campsite, such as the Eco Lodge Haputale run by the Dias family. After enjoying a few cups of sweet milk tea at their residence, they will guide you through a tea garden to their campsite, equipped with several tents, a small kitchen, and a dining area that opens to the breathtaking views of the Haputale mountains. Awaken to the sounds of nature and experience the spectacular sunrise – it is the highlight of your stay.

7. Take a train ride from Colombo

Among the myriad of experiences in Sri Lanka, embarking on a train journey is essential. For a combination of mountain vistas, tea gardens, historic railway stations from the British colonial era, and flowing water bodies, the train trip from Colombo to Ella is particularly noteworthy, also passing by the famous Nine Arch Bridge. Several trains traverse this route; due to its popularity among travelers, it is imperative to reserve tickets in advance.

Furthermore, do not limit yourself to this route alone. Opt for a coastal train journey south towards Galle from Colombo to appreciate the views of the Indian Ocean and swaying palm trees. Following this, another train ride north to Jaffna showcases the transformation of the landscape, as you transition from lush rice fields and coconut trees to palmyra palms and arid terrain.

Planning tip: In addition to local families, travelers, and everyday commuters, passengers will encounter numerous vendors on the trains selling cups of tea, instant coffee, chili-sprinkled fresh fruits, roasted peanuts, yogurt, and mobile top-up cards.

8. Feast on Sri Lankan crabs

Sri Lankan crabs are highly sought after in fine-dining establishments in Singapore, yet they are seldom featured on home menus. However, this trend is gradually shifting: for an upscale culinary experience in Colombo, visit the Ministry of Crab situated within the Dutch Hospital Complex. For a more local experience, try the Mayura Hotel in Pettah Market.

Planning tip: If you happen to be in the northern region of the nation, make it a point to try the Jaffna crab curry at Cosy Restaurant near the Jaffna Railway Station, which boasts a bold, spicy flavor.

9. Look for the elusive Sri Lankan leopard at Wilpattu National Park

Many visitors to Yala National Park aspire to view the endangered Sri Lankan leopard. However, overcrowding is frequent, and safari vehicles have been known to disturb these magnificent creatures.

For a more responsible safari experience, consider visiting Wilpattu National Park in the northwest of the island and book with a responsible operator such as Leopard Trails. Their guides maintain a thoughtful approach by avoiding the chasing of potential sightings and turning off vehicle engines near animals to minimize disturbance. Aside from leopards, the park is home to Asian elephants, sloth bears, and barking deer amid their natural habitats.

Alternatively, Kumana National Park, situated in the eastern segment of Yala, is an excellent choice for birdwatchers. With a stroke of luck, you may even spot a leopard dozing on a rugged boulder.

10. Witness the largest wild Asian elephant gathering in the world

With an estimated 4000 wild Asian elephants inhabiting the country, Sri Lanka is best known for showcasing these magnificent creatures in their natural environments, specifically within its national parks. During the dry season from July to September, the sizable reservoirs in Kaudulla and Minneriya National Parks attract herds of wild Asian elephants as they graze, bathe, and socialize. On hot days, elephants often seek shelter in the nearby jungles, but in the afternoon around 4pm, they emerge, providing an excellent opportunity for visitors to observe one of the largest gatherings of wild elephants in the world.

Planning tip: It is advisable to avoid establishments where elephants are kept in captivity, with the exception of the Elephant Transit Home located in Uda Walawe. Managed by the government wildlife department and supported by the Born Free Foundation, this sanctuary focuses on rehabilitating abandoned and injured elephant calves, ultimately returning them to the wild upon recovery.

11. Eat traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry in Unawatuna

Rice and curry is a staple of Sri Lankan meals, often enjoyed for at least one meal each day. While numerous venues offer exceptional renditions of this national dish, Mettha’s Home Cooked Meals, nestled among the cafes and souvenir shops in Unawatuna, stands out as one of the finest. Dishes are prepared fresh on-site by Aunty Mettha and her family, with the creamy Sri Lankan dal in coconut milk being a must-try.

Planning tip: For those interested in cooking, the family-run Sea Waves Restaurant in Unawatuna offers cooking classes, but do not miss the opportunity to experience the whole butterfish cooked in a rich, umami-filled homemade sauce.

12. Learn the life of Sri Lanka’s indigenous people

The Vedda, indigenous to Sri Lanka, originally inhabited forested areas. However, their population has diminished over time due to migration, habitat loss, and integration into the predominant Sinhala-Buddhist culture. Today, some Vedda families maintain their native language, culinary traditions, and rituals, particularly in Dambana, an indigenous village and museum situated in the southern section of Maduru Oya National Park.

Planning tip: For a more enriching experience, journey eastward to Gal Oya, where tours with the Vedda community provide insight into their ancient caves and traditional hunting grounds. Wild Glamping Gal Oya collaborates with the Vedda community to facilitate ethical interactions.

13. Try kottu roti street food

No meal epitomizes Sri Lanka like kottu roti. This beloved street food is a carbohydrate-rich blend of fresh vegetables, leftover roti (flatbread), and eggs, with optional additions of meat or seafood. Prepared on a metal griddle and chopped into small pieces using two metal blades, the distinct clinking sound is often audible from meters away. While kottu roti can be found throughout the island, sampling it in Colombo at Hotel de Pilawoos or Hotel de Plaza (notably, in Sri Lanka, restaurants are often referred to as “hotels”) is highly recommended.

Planning tip: Exercise caution when selecting any establishment with the name Pilawoos or Hotel de Plaza, as numerous small eateries share these names; ensure you visit the originals located on Galle Road in Colombo 03. Pair your order with a refreshing glass of iced Milo (a popular chocolate malt drink), which complements the sizzling hot kottu wonderfully.

14. Explore the quirky lanes of Galle Fort

Galle Fort presents an eclectic blend of Portuguese, Dutch, and British architectural influences, all amidst an array of spas, luxury accommodations, boutique shops, ice cream parlors, and gem boutiques. To fully appreciate the character of the Fort, visit in the early morning hours when the lanes gradually come alive. Begin your day with a hearty Sri Lankan breakfast at National Tea Rooms, the oldest existing café in Galle Fort, operated by a welcoming Sri Lankan family since 1932.

Consider browsing for postcards and wall art adorned with unique Sri Lankan graphics at Stick No Bills. For lunch, be sure to savor the piquant black pork curry at Church Street Social. A visit to the ramparts, especially at sunset, is an absolute necessity.

15. Chase the waves with Sri Lanka’s first local female-run surf club

Surfers of all levels gravitate to Arugam Bay on the east coast. During the peak season from April to August, this stretch of soft, ocher sand buzzes with life during the evenings, featuring parties, beverages, and live music. The laid-back surf atmosphere includes the Arugam Bay Girls Surf Club, the first all-female surfing club in Sri Lanka, which offers swimming, surfing, and yoga classes for the local community.

Planning tip: The beach shacks lining the shoreline serve delectable Sri Lankan roti stuffed with chocolate, banana, chicken, cheese, and vegetables, making for a perfect post-surf snack.

16. Cycle through the ancient kingdom of Polonnaruwa

Following the decline of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa served as the second capital of Sri Lanka from 1070 to 1232, and the remnants of this ancient city have attained UNESCO World Heritage status. Don’t overlook the Vatadage, a circular relic house featuring a prominent Buddha statue. Additionally, traverse the ancient city by bicycle, visiting the storied Royal Palace.

Among other remarkable archaeological treasures are the standing Buddha at Lankatilaka Vihara and an array of Buddha statues intricately carved from granite at Gal Vihara. Evidence of South Indian influence is observable in some remains due to the kingdom’s historical encounters with several invasions.

Planning tip: Arriving early in the morning allows you to evade the heat and thoroughly enjoy this splendid archaeological site. The Polonnaruwa ruins tend to become crowded during weekends, school holidays, and full moon days.

17. Get close to nature with a stay in a treehouse

For nature enthusiasts, spending the night in a treehouse is a unique experience. Elevated on a wooden platform amidst the jungle, these accommodations provide an unparalleled connection to nature. If you do not mind the presence of lizards and monkeys, consider booking a treehouse at Back of Beyond in Sigiriya.

Travelers in the far southern part of Sri Lanka should visit Tangalle, which offers a blend of untamed beaches, lagoons, and shrubland. Here, Jaywa Lanka features a treehouse adjacent to mangroves, where you will be accompanied only by the soft sounds of waves and birds. Lazy peacocks occasionally wander by, adding to the charm of your stay.

18. Snack on hoppers

A quintessential dish to savor before departing Sri Lanka is hoppers (aappa in Sinhala; appam in Tamil), a bowl-shaped pancake created from a rice flour batter. Characterized by its crispy edges and soft center, plain hoppers are paired with curries or a spicy sambal known as lunu miris, made from onions and dried red chili.

In the evenings, street vendors often serve plain hoppers topped with an egg. In Colombo, the Palmyrah Restaurant located within Renuka Hotel is a fine dining option, featuring hoppers in both savory and sweet variations, complemented by milk or jaggery. Alternatively, for those willing to queue, Aunty Radhika’s popular hopper stall in the Wellawatta neighborhood offers a must-try experience. To locate it, walk past the bank on WA Silva Mawatha.

This article was first published Feb 6, 2022 and updated Jul 29, 2024.