Sri Lanka, known as one of the most exquisite islands worldwide, offers a plethora of captivating experiences. From the mesmerizing beaches, ancient ruins, and picturesque villages to the stunning wildlife and local temples, this charming island has it all. With Sri Lanka’s recent emergence on the traveler’s radar, it’s the perfect time to embark on a life-changing adventure. Check out our list of must-see Hidden Gems in Sri Lanka that will make your first visit an unforgettable journey.
1. Fortress Sigiriya Rock
Discover the natural phenomena and hidden gems in Sri Lanka by joining a day trip from Colombo to Sigiriya. Climb the Lion’s Rock fortress, an ancient wonder of the world, and explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don’t miss the chance to witness this stunning natural phenomenon.
Behind this elegance of the 5th century is also a fascinating story. After the murder of him, King Kashyapa, King Dhatusena’s illegitimate son, usurped his throne. For fear of the return of the legitimate owner of the throne, Moggallana, he constructed his fortress and palace on top of Sigiriya Rock. This is truly a place every traveler needs to visit, with its wonderful gardens and breathtaking architecture.
2. Tooth Temple and Kandy
Kandy is the country’s second-largest city and the final ancient capital of the Kingdom, situated in the very center of the island, hidden between stunning precipitous green hills. This wonderful town is home to the Temple of the Tooth, one of the holiest Buddhist temples in the world. Explore Kandy and its elegance in the best ways. Private tours, Colombo day trips, and much more!
The spectacular Festival of the Tooth (Kandy Perahera), a colorful religious procession of lovely ornate elephants, drummers, flaming fans, powerful dancers, and still walkers takes place from July to August. It needs to be seen! Kandy quickly enters Sri Lanka’s best places to visit.
3. Discovering the Hidden Gems in Sri Lanka: Scaling the Height of Adam for Stunning Panoramic Views
Sri Pada is a 2.243m high mountain in central Sri Lanka, the top of Adam, for the local people. For the last 2 thousand years, this magnificent summit has been a big pilgrimage spot.
It is a footprint of Lord Buddha according to the Buddhist tradition. Instead, it is the first step for Christians after Adam has been banished from the Garden of Eden. Hindus say that on the other hand, this is Lord Shiva’s footprint.
The alternative proposed is to start the hike in the night just before sunrise to get on top of the pit. You’re hardly going to miss anything! The trekking is very difficult. Most people go up for 2-4 hours and go down for 1-2 hours. But surely this place should be visited. This is one of Sri Lanka’s best places to visit. The crowds must be avoided: the new year of Sri Lanka (mid-April), full moon, and even the weekend are easier to avoid.
4. The National Park of Yala
Explore the hidden gems in Sri Lanka with a Colombo Safari in Yala, the most popular national park in the world. Witness the largest concentration of leopards in the country, as well as buffaloes, tigers, monkeys, and crocodiles in their natural habitats. For wildlife and nature enthusiasts, Yala is one of the most incredible destinations to visit in Sri Lanka. Don’t miss the chance to experience the beauty of Sri Lanka’s wildlife.
5. Bay of Arugam
Whether it’s epic waves to surf or just relax and enjoy the beach, life is the best spot for you. In the dry section of Sri Lanka, this beautiful bay is renowned for being one of the best surf spots in the world. But more is available: quiet ambiance, lovely beaches and calming atmosphere, which differs greatly from the more touristic and crowded south-western coast.
You may also visit the historical temples of the town or nearby Kumana National Park if you need to break from the sun and the sea air. Listen to the ocean, so close your eyes and breathe deeply. You’re in the correct location!
6. Netherlands Galle Fort
This unbelievable city, one of Sri Lanka’s most unmissable places to go, is full of charming villas and lovely sea views from the Netherlands. Galle is always pleased to explore on foot and his elegance and the interesting environment are still impressive to most tourists. In Galle, you will enjoy the best of Galle at several events.
The town is home to a new UNESCO World Heritage Site, Galle Dutch Fort, a walled, three sides of the ocean surrounding the enclave. This fort was designed by the Portuguese and was completed by the Dutch in the 17th century.
7. Unveiling the Hidden Gems in Sri Lanka: Discovering the Serenity of Mirissa’s Beaches
The best place to stay in the country without worries. The beach village of Mirissa is where it is very difficult to get boring. A lot of tourists here have found their paradise. Surely it is one of the country’s best beach cities!
You’ll love this place for several reasons. Here you will find lovely clean beaches, watersports, delicious food and a lovely life at night. But above all here you will have the chance to enjoy whale watching!
8. Nuwara Eliya and Tea Plantations
Discover the hidden gems in Sri Lanka’s Little England, Nuwara Eliya, with its unique climate, environment, and architecture. This important sector is renowned for its cooler climate and natural beauty, including cascades, hills, tea plantations, and the tallest mountain in Sri Lanka, Pidurutalagala. Don’t miss the chance to visit this must-see destination in Sri Lanka and indulge in a cup of tea while admiring the stunning views.
Between Kandy and Ella, Nuwara Eliya is situated. In the world-famous Sri Lanka, you can take the most beautiful train ride. Kandy ticket costs approximately $2.50. It takes four hours to drive to Kandy and is one of the world’s finest train routes.
9. Unveiling the Hidden Gems in Sri Lanka: Exploring the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa
Eight hundred years ago, when it was a vibrant commercial and religious center, the Kings ruled the Central Plains of Sri Lanka. The glories of this era can be found in the archaeological treasures that are still a simple idea of the city’s appearance in its heyday. You will visit the archaeological park with hundreds of old buildings in a compact center – grave and temple, statue and stupa. If you like history and you walk around a few incredible ruins, that’s one of Sri Lanka’s best places to visit.
Don’t miss the UNESCO World Heritage Site’s cultural riches. You can visit the Museum of Polonnaruwa, the Quadrant (in the heart of the old town), the stunning Lankatilakan walls, and the special Gal Vihara. Here lay four majestic Buddha statues snapped by unknown artists from a granite mountain. The most outstanding one is the majestic 14m Buddha!
10. Golden Cave Temple Dambulla
The temple of Dambulla was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991 and consists of five caves and 157 Lord Buddha statues, many ceilings, and wall paintings that emphasize ancient artistic talent. The Buddha pictures were first created here over 2000 years ago, and kings have added to and expanded the cave art over the centuries.
This lovely Royal Rock Temple complex is about 160 meters above the road in Dambulla’s southern portion. The views over the surrounding countryside from the cellars are magnificent; Sigiriya is visible some 20 km away.
