Sri Lanka, previously known as Ceylon, is a beautiful country with many great places to visit for pilgrimage or holiday. The country houses no less than eight UNESCO World Heritage sites, many of which contain holy and sacred objects of veneration such as the relics of Buddha Shakyamuni or ancient Buddha images that have inspired many towards the journey to enlightenment for centuries.

Although Sri Lanka is a well-known destination for sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites, there are many other equally attractive places scattered throughout this island nation including beaches, mountain ranges, ancient ruins and their colonial city towns. Sri Lanka is definitely one of the places to consider when planning your next trip.

Before your visit to Sri Lanka, it is important to learn about the country, the culture, food and various destinations to make the most of your journey there.

Tsem Rinpoche

Location

Sri Lanka is an island nation situated in the southwest of the Bay of Bengal, just off the southern tip of India. Sri Lanka shares a maritime border with India and the Maldives. And while India and Sri Lanka are geographically separated by the Gulf of Mannar and Palk Strait, as legend has it, they were connected by a strip of land until 1480 AD when a typhoon came and made the channel sunk deeper and the strip of land disappear into the water. The nation of Sri Lanka consists of 64,630 sq km (40,159.2 sq mi) of land and 980 sq km (608.94 sq mi) of sea.

Sri Lanka is situated in the southwest of the Bay of Bengal.

A more close up look on Sri Lanka map.

Population

Based on the United Nations’ estimate as of May 17, 2017, the current population of Sri Lanka is 20,893,495 which consists of several ethnicities: Sinhalese (74.9%), Sri Lanka Tamils (11.1%), Moors (9.3%), Indian Tamils (4.1%), and others (0.6%). The proportion of the population that lives in the cities is relatively small (19.4%) compared to the overall population.

General Information

The currency is Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR), and the people are referred to as Sri Lankans. The legislative and administrative capital of Sri Lanka is Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, which forms a suburb of Colombo, the country’s largest commercial city. Sri Lanka consists of nine administrative provinces, each with their own capitals:

• Northern Province (capital city: Jaffna)
• North Western Province (capital city: Kurunegala)
• Western Province (capital city: Colombo)
• North Central Province (capital city: Anuradhapura)
• Central Province (capital city: Kandy)
• Sabaragamuwa Province (capital city: Ratnapura)
• Eastern Province (capital city: Trincomalee)
• Uva Province (capital city: Badulla)
• Southern Province (capital city: Galle)

Sri Lanka’s Unique Weather Pattern and the Best Time to Visit

Just like other South Asian countries, the peak season for tourists in Sri Lanka is between December and April. However, Sri Lanka’s unique weather pattern enables visitors to enjoy the island all year round as long as they know which part of Sri Lanka to focus on during specific times of the year.

Sri Lanka’s weather is influenced by two weather patterns. The southwestern part of Sri Lanka experiences monsoon season between May and September and a dryer season between December and March. In the northern and eastern part of Sri Lanka, the rainy season occurs between October and January, and the dry season between May and September.

There is also an inter-monsoonal season that occurs between October and November. During this period, rain and thunderstorms take place across the island. However, the weather clears up in the second half of November. The following list contains information about the best time to visit Sri Lanka’s various provinces based on the weather patterns:

Local Culture and Customs

As the saying goes, when in Rome we should do as the Romans do. This famous idiom encourages visitors to adapt or be aware of the local culture and customs of the countries they are visiting. Not only will this help them avoid offending the locals, but it will also make the visit more enjoyable. Showing respect for the local culture and customs allows visitors to gain a more in-depth experience of the place. The following are some of the local Sri Lankan customs that will be good to be aware of during your visit:

Hand Usage

It is common for Sri Lankans to eat using the fingertips of their right hand.

Most people in Sri Lanka eat using the fingertips of their right hand, and do not use cutlery. This is because the left hand is associated with ‘dirty’ activities such as cleaning oneself after using the toilet. However, most places will offer cutlery for foreign visitors.

It is also considered more acceptable to use your right hand when shaking hands, giving or accepting an object or money. It is acceptable to use both hands to handle big or heavy items.

Buddhist Culture in Sri Lanka

Since the majority of Sri Lankans are Buddhists (70%), Buddhist culture is quite dominant throughout the country. Monks are very much respected, and therefore should be treated with utmost courtesy. Unless you are old or disabled, you will be expected to give up your seat for monks when using public transportation. When visiting a temple, you should wear respectable clothing that is not revealing. Cover your legs and shoulders, and remove your footwear or headwear before entering a temple. In Sri Lanka wearing clothes and attire that feature Buddha images is considered inappropriate, insensitive, disrespectful and illegal, and is an arrestable offence.

Photography Etiquette

Visitors should refrain from taking pictures of sensitive locations such as the inside of shopping malls and tea factories. It is permissible to take exterior pictures of these premises. If local soldiers are standing on guard, they should not be photographed. You are not allowed to take pictures near military base or government buildings.

If you are unsure, it is always best to ask for permission before taking a photo.

Other Things to Consider in Sri Lanka

Visitors should be wary of the local regulations. Public nudity and same-sex relationships are illegal, and public displays of affection such as hugging or kissing may not be appropriate in general public places. They may however be acceptable in public establishments for adults such as casinos or nightclubs.

Visitors are recommended to carry government-issued identification with them at all times, to show at security checkpoints which are common in Sri Lanka. Any form of government-issued identification featuring your latest photograph (e.g. passport) is acceptable.

Food

Spices that are frequently used in Sri Lanka.

Although Sri Lankan food shares some similarities with Indian cuisine, the taste is distinctly different. The food tends to be richer in spices, with a more liberal use of chilies, and generally very tasty. Since Sri Lanka is blessed with a tropical climate, coconut has become an important component of Sri Lankan cuisine. Curry, rice, bread and flatbreads are also common in the country. The followings are several examples of tasty Sri Lanka cuisine:

Sri Lankan Dhal Curry

Dhal curry, especially if made with red lentils, is a staple dish of Sri Lanka. It is cooked with a tasty combination of spices and a touch of coconut milk, and usually served with rice or bread.

Sri Lankan Dhal Curry

Young Jackfruit Curry (Polos)

Polos is a delicious Sri Lankan dish made from young, unripe jackfruit. The fruit is cut into bite-size pieces and simmered with a blend of rich spices, then cooked until tender. The taste of a well-made Polos is very juicy and delicious. If visitors are not aware of Polos, they may mistake it as a delicious tender beef dish as the texture is very similar.

Young Jackfruit Curry or also known as Polos

Gotukola Sambol (Pennywort Salad)

Gotukola Sambol is a Sri Lankan salad garnish. Gotukola is an Asiatic pennywort, a type of green vegetable that is common in Southeast Asia. To make Gotukola Sambol, the gotukola is mixed with red onions, grated coconut meat and other spices. The resulting dish is very crisp and refreshing.

Gotukola Sambol or Pennywort Salad

Beetroot Curry

Beetroot curry is a deliciously rich Sri Lankan dish. The beets are cut into cubes and cooked with curry leaves, cinnamon and other spices.

Beetroot Curry

Vegetarian Kottu

Kottu Roti is a popular street food delicacy in Sri Lanka. The dish resembles a flatbread that is stir-fried with spices and other ingredients. Kottu Roti is usually served with curry sauce to enrich the flavour of this already delicious flatbread.

Vegetarian Kottu

Egg Hoppers (Appa)

Hoppers, also known as appa, is a unique Sri Lankan food made from pancake batter, coconut milk and toddy (Sri Lankan palm wine). It is cooked in a small round pan. Appa is soft on the bottom and crunchy around the edges. If preferred, a fried egg can be added in the middle. Appa is usually served with curry.

Egg Hoppers or also known as Appa

Pol Sambola (Spicy Coconut Relish)

Pol Sambola is relatively easy to make, but its amazing taste can uplift even the dullest of dishes. The dish is made from shredded coconut meat, lime juice, salt, red onions, and dried chilies or chilli powder. This delicious dish can be eaten with rice, curry, roti or bread or even by itself.

Pol Sambola or Spicy Coconut Relish

20 Great Places to Visit in Sri Lanka

1. Sri Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic)

Sri Dalada Maligawa Temple Complex

Sri Dalada Maligawa is a temple in the city of Kandy that houses the sacred tooth relic of Buddha Shakyamuni. The temple is part of the royal palace complex of the former Kingdom of Kandy. Sri Dalada Maligawa is a popular tourist destination in Sri Lanka, and it is considered to be one of the holiest places of worship for Buddhist pilgrims around the world.

The present day temple was built by King Vira Narendra Sinha (r. 1707–1739 AD), the last Sinhalese king of the Kingdom of Kandy. In 1989, the temple suffered significant damage during the attacks by Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna, a Communist and Marxist-Leninist party in Sri Lanka and once again, in 1998 by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam. However, the temple has been fully restored since then and Kandy is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The stupa where the sacred tooth relic is currently enshrined.

Address:
Sri Dalada Maligawa
Sri Dalada Veediya, Kandy
Central 20000, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 812 234 226, +94 812 205 839
Website: http://www.sridaladamaligawa.lk
Entrance fee: USD 15
Opening hours:
Temple: 5:30AM – 8PM
Puja: 5:30 – 6:45AM, 9:30 – 11AM & 6:30 – 8PM

How To Get There

The nearest airport to Kandy is Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo. Visitors can opt for various methods of transportation from Colombo to Kandy such as air-conditioned buses or train. You can also choose to rent a car or book a taxi which is a more convenient method of transport, but relatively more expensive than bus or train.

Once in the city of Kandy, you can either explore the city by foot since the place is not large, travel with local buses, or opt to take one of the many three-wheelers (tuk-tuk) which is a hassle-free way of sight-seeing.

Accommodation

Being a popular tourist destination, there are many hotels and guesthouses catering for visitors who choose to spend a few nights in this historic city. Below are just some of the several places available. It is recommended that you do further research to find accommodation that is suitable for your needs.

1. Randholee Resort & Spa

The hotel offers a unique blend of comfort and cultural diversity. It is located at the heart of Kandy, near the sacred temple of tooth relic.

Address:
Heerassagala Road, Bowalawatta Road, Heerassagala Rd,
Kandy 20000, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 81 2 217741
Website: https://www.randholeeresorts.com

2. Kandy View Hotel

The hotel is located 1.5 kilometer (0.93 miles) from the center of the city and a-5-minute walk from Kandy Lake.

Address:
40/22 Ampitiya Rd,
Hilpankandura 20000,
Kandy, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 81 4 481300
Website: http://www.kandyviewhotel.com

2. Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi

Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, the sacred fig tree planted from right-wing branch of the historical Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya.

Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi is a sacred fig tree said to be the right-wing branch (southern branch) of the historical Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, under which Buddha Shakyamuni became enlightened.

The Mauryan Emperor Ashoka’s daughter, Sangamitta Maha Theri, brought a branch from the original Mahabodhi Tree in Bodh Gaya to the present-day Sri Lanka. She offered it to the reigning Monarch, King Devanampiya Tissa who, in 288 BC, planted it in Mahamevnawa Park in Anuradhapura and surrounded it with protective railings.

Today, Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi is considered as the world’s oldest living human-planted tree with a known planting date. In 2014, the government of Sri Lanka banned all construction within 500 metres of the tree, in an effort to preserve and protect it.

The Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi tree is located in the temple complex of Mahaviharaya, the oldest Buddhist monastery in Sri Lanka, which was established in 236 BC.

Address:
Mahaviharaya Bomaluwa Temple,
Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 2 522 22367
Website: http://www.srimahabodhi.lk
Entrance fee: USD 5
Opening hours: 7:00AM – 6:30PM

How To Get There

Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is approximately five hours from Colombo by bus, or four hours’ drive by private vehicle. The A9 highway will lead you in and out of the city. Visitors can also opt to travel to the city by train. Upon arrival in the ancient city of Anuradhapura, visitors can explore the city by foot, or travel by tuk-tuk or local buses. You can get from one end of town to the other within 30 minutes because the town is relatively small.

Accommodation

The ancient city of Anuradhapura is another popular tourist destination and despite its small size, has many hotels offering accommodation for visitors. Below are just some of the several places available. It is recommended that you do further research to find accommodation that is suitable for your needs.

1. Heritage Hotel

The hotel, which is located in the heart of Anuradhapura, offers 50 well-equipped guest rooms with modern touch and comfortable interior.

Address:
Galwala Road Pothanegama,
Anuradhapura 50000, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 25 2 237806
Website: http://www.heritagehotel.lk

2. Milano Tourist Rest

The hotel is located at the heart of Anuradhapura, and it offers 16 spacious and comfortable rooms with modern amenities.

Address:
596 /40 , Stage 01
Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 25 2 222364
Website: http://www.milanotouristrest.com

3. Dambulla Cave Temple

The interior of Dambulla Cave Temple

148km (91.97 miles) east of Colombo, and 72km (44.74 miles) north of Kandy lies the Dambulla Cave Temple, a well-preserved temple complex in the central part of the country. This functioning monastery is the largest cave temple complex in Sri Lanka, and consists of five caves under a vast overhanging rock which towers 160m (524.94ft) into the air.

The blessed attractions of this temple complex are spread over the five caves, which contain statues and mural paintings of Buddha Shakyamuni’s life story. There are a total of 153 Buddha statues, three statues of Sri Lankan kings and four statues of gods and goddesses. The temple’s other famous attractions, the murals, cover an area of 2,100 sq. metres (23,000 sq ft). They include a depiction of the demon Mara who attempted to seduce Buddha Shakyamuni just before he reached enlightenment, and the Buddha’s first teaching.

There is also evidence that pre-historic Sri Lankans lived in these caves before the arrival of Buddhism in the form of 2,700-year-old human skeletons that were found at Ibbankatuwa near the Dambulla cave complex.

Address:
Kandy – Jaffna Hwy
Dambulla, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 66 2 283605
Entrance fee: USD 10
Best time to visit: All year round
Opening hours: 6:00AM – 6:00PM

How To Get There

Visitors can take buses from Colombo, Kandy, Sigiriya and other major cities in Sri Lanka. Get off at the Dambulla bus station on Kandy road, just outside the town. From the bus station, you can take a tuk-tuk to the Dambulla Cave Temple.

Accommodation

Visitors to the famous city of Dambulla have available to them many options for accommodation. Below are just some of the several places available. It is recommended that you do further research to find accommodation that is suitable for your needs.

1. Amaya Lake

The hotel offers “luxury villas and suites that embody the unique personality of Dambulla.”

Address:
Kap Ela, Kandalama
Dambulla 21100, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 11 4 767888
Website: https://www.amayaresorts.com/amayalake/en/

2. Sundaras Resort & Spa

Sundaras is located in the middle of the Cultural Triangle. The spa provides the visitors with “relaxing stay and tours to many destinations in Sri Lanka.”

Address:
189 Kandy Road
Dambulla 7777, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 66 2 283317 and +94 72 708 6000
Website: https://www.sundaras.com

4. Nagadeepa Purana Viharaya

Nagadeepa Purana Viharaya

Nagadeepa Purana Viharaya is considered to be one of the holiest ancient Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka. The temple is located in Jaffna district in the Northern Province, Sri Lanka. According to the legend, Buddha Shakyamuni visited this place five years after he became enlightened. The purpose of his visit was to appease Chulodara and Mahodara, the two naga kings who fought over the ownership of a gem-studded throne.

Address:
Nagadeepa Rajamaha Viharaya
Nainativu Island, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 21 3 213356
Entrance fee: LKR 500
Opening hours: 6:00AM – 6:00PM

How To Get There

From Jaffna town, it is an hour’s drive to the nearby port, Kurikadduvan Jetty, where visitors can take a 15-minute boat ride to Nainativu Island where Nagadeepa Purana Vihara is located.

Accommodation

Visitors to the temple are recommended to stay in the larger nearby city, Jaffna where there is a greater choice of accommodation available. Below are just some of the several places available. It is recommended that you do further research to find accommodation that is suitable for your needs.

1. Green Grass Hotel

The hotel offers affordable comfort and modern facilities such as outdoor swimming pool and a garden restaurant.

Address:
33 Aseervatham Lane, Hospital Rd.
Jaffna 40000, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 21 2 224385
Website: http://jaffnagreengrass.com

2. Jaffna Heritage Hotel

The hotel is located at the heart of the city and provides “a subtle hint of Colonial splendour.”

Address:
Temple Road, Nallur
Jaffna 40000, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 21 2 222424
Website: http://www.jaffnaheritage.com

5. Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada)

Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada)

Sri Pada, also known as Adam’s Peak, is a mountain summit located 2,243m (7,359ft) above sea level. Another one of Sri Lanka’s sacred pilgrimage sites, the mountain’s historical significance stems from a 4th Century Pali legend and 5th Century Mahavamsa written account. The chronicles refer Buddha Shakyamuni’s visit to Sri Pada Mountain Peak.

The mountain is considered sacred because it is believed that Buddha Shakyamuni left a footprint on the mountain peak. The site is also sacred to people of other faiths, including Hindus who believe the footprint was made by Lord Shiva, Christians who claim it to be the footprint of St Thomas as well as Muslims who believe the footprint belongs to Adam. Regardless of belief, what is known for certain is that Sri Pada has been a pilgrimage site for over 1,000 years.

Being one of the less accessible pilgrimage sites in Sri Lanka, visitors usually start the steep climb to the peak in the early hours of the morning. They leave from the village of Dalhousie at 2:00 or 3:00 AM so that they can enjoy the sunrise at the summit.

Address:
Central Highlands in the Ratnapura District and Nuwara Eliya District of Sabaragamuwa and Central Province.
Website: http://sripada.org/palihapitiya.htm
Entrance fee: USD 20 per adult and USD 5 per child

How To Get There

Visitors can take direct buses from Kandy, Nuwara Eliya or Colombo during the pilgrimage season. Otherwise local buses, tuk-tuks or taxis are available from Hatton, the nearest train station and they can take you to Dalhousie.

Accommodation

Visitors have a wide selection of accommodation available to them at the base of the mountain, and not on the peak. Below are just some of the several places available. It is recommended that you do further research to find accommodation that is suitable for your needs.

1. Grand Adams Peak Hotel

The hotel offers free WIFI access for guests, a restaurant and free bike rentals. It is located 100 meters (328 feet) from Adam’s Peak.

Address:
main street, Nallatanniya
22070, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 71 605 8485

2. Slightly Chilled Guest House and Restaurant (previously Yellow House)

The hotel offers “a 5 star hotel service at a semi budget/ backpack price”

Address:
Adams Peak Road, Main street,
Nallathnniya 22070, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 52 2 055502
Website: http://www.slightlychilledhotel.com

6. Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara

Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara

Also known as Kelaniya Temple, this monastery is located 11.3km (7 miles) from Colombo. Many Buddhists believe that Buddha Shakyamuni visited this temple during his final journey to Sri Lanka, eight years after he gained enlightenment. The history of this sacred place can be traced back to as far back as 550 BC; the Mahavamansa Chronicle records that the stupa at Kelaniya contains the gem-studded throne on which the Buddha sat and preached.

The temple is famous for the reclining image of Buddha Shakyamuni and paintings depicting various events throughout the life of Buddha Shakyamuni. These paintings were done by a local artist, Solias Mendis. The temple is also famous for an 18ft stone statue of the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara.

Avalokiteshvara statues at Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara Temple. Avalokiteshvara is identified as a Sri Lankan deity, Natha.

Address: Colombo, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 112 911 505
Website: http://www.kelaniyatemple.org
Opening hours: 9:00AM – 4:30PM
Entrance fee: N/ A

How To Get There

Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara Temple can be reached by the A1 road that stretches from Colombo to Kandy.

Accommodation

Located just 7 miles from Colombo means that a visit to Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara can be a day trip from the capital city where there are innumerable options for accommodation. Below are just some of the several places available. It is recommended that you do further research to find accommodation that is suitable for your needs.

1. Casa Colombo Collection

A-200-year old colonial mansion that offers boutique suites with designer furnishing. It is located 1 km from Bambalapitiya Railway Station and 45-minute drive from Bandaranaike International airport.

Address:
231 Galle Road, Bambalapitiya
Colombo, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 11 4 520130
Website: http://www.casacolombocollection.com

2. Cinnamon Red Colombo

The hotel offers comfort and elegance for mid-range budget.

Address:
59 Ananda Coomaraswamy Mawatha,
Colombo 00300, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 11 2 145145
Website: http://www.cinnamonhotels.com/en/cinnamonredcolombo/

7. The Gal Vihara

The reclining Buddha of the Gal Vihara

The Gal Vihara is the most visited monument in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, in North Central Province of Sri Lanka. The main features of the temple are the four statues of Buddha Shakyamuni carved from one large piece of granite, in a style and manner that celebrates the best of ancient Sinhalese rock-carving techniques. The most magnificent standing Buddha statue in the complex is 7 metres (22.9 feet) tall with a unique, melancholic facial expression and with crossed arms.

A-14m (45.9ft) long reclining Buddha statue depicts Buddha’s passing, known as his parinirvana. The other two carvings depict Buddha in a seated posture. One of the seated images is 4.636m (15ft) tall and it depicts the Buddha in meditation posture, with his legs crossed and hands resting in his lap. This dhyana mudra indicates a Mahayana influence. The fourth statue, which is smaller in size (1.4m or 4.6ft tall), depicts Buddha in a similar posture as the larger seated image.

Address:
North of Galvihara Road,
Polonnaruwa
Phone: +94 27 2 222235

The sitting Buddha image at the Gal Vihara

The standing Buddha image at the Gal Vihara

How To Get There

Visitors can get to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa either by train or bus, or by chartering a car from Colombo. Upon arrival, you can either traverse the ancient city by foot or by renting a bicycle from one of the many guesthouses in the new part of the city. Just make sure that the bicycle is in good working condition before you agree to rent it.

Accommodation

The ancient city of Polonnaruwa is one of Sri Lanka’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Since it features heavily in the nation’s history, the large number of visitors arrive every year to explore the site and bring with them great demand for accommodation. The new part of the city has responded accordingly, providing a wide selection of places. Below are just some of the several places available. It is recommended that you do further research to find accommodation that is suitable for your needs.

1. Hotel Ancient Village

The hotel offers great view and comfortable rooms.

Address:
Sri Sudharshana Road, Thopawewa
Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 27 2 224050
Website: http://www.hotelancientvillage.com/home

2. Hotel Sudu Araliya

The hotel offers 104 guest rooms with modern amenities.

Address:
New Town Road
Polonnaruwa 51000, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 27 2 224849
Website: http://www.hotelsuduaraliya.com

8. Avukana Buddha

Avukana Buddha is currently the tallest Buddha statue in Sri Lanka

The Avukana Buddha statue is the tallest Buddha statue in Sri Lanka. It was built by King Dhathusena (r. 455 – 473) and was formerly enshrined within a large image house or shrine, of which part of the walls stills remain.

This unique Buddha statue stands on a lotus flower, which was carved separately and placed under the statue. The total height of the statue and pedestal combined is 13m (42ft). The Avukana Buddha statue has a peaceful expression. His left hand touches his robe, and the right hand is raised to his shoulder with his palm facing left to bless all sentient beings. This pose is known as the Asisa mudra.

Avukana means ‘sun-eating’. Since the statue faces in an easterly direction, it would be best to see it in the morning when the sunlight falls on it directly, lighting up the huge statue’s finely carved features.

A more close-up look at Avukana Buddha’s peaceful expression and his hand gesture.

Address:
Avukana Village
Kekirawa, Sri Lanka
Phone Number: +94-77-646-4890
Opening hours: 24 hours
Entrance fee: USD 10

How To Get There

Visitors can take buses from Colombo (6 hours), Kandy (3 hours), Anuradhapura (3 hours) or Dambulla (1 hour). Other alternative methods of transport include train and chartered taxi. From the train station to the statue is a-20-minute journey.

Accommodation

There is not much accommodation available around the Avukana Buddha statue. Visitors are recommended to make their visit to the statue a day trip, and to stay in other nearby towns or cities.

1. Amaya Lake

The hotel offers “luxury villas and suites that embody the unique personality of Dambulla.”
Address:
PO Box 12 Kandalama Dambulla
Cultural Triangle, Dambulla 21100, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 11 4 767888
Website: https://www.amayaresorts.com/amayalake/en/

2. Sundaras Resort & Spa

Sundaras is located in the middle of the Cultural Triangle. The spa provides the visitors with “relaxing stay and tours to many destinations in Sri Lanka.”

Address:
189 Kandy Road
Dambulla 7777, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 66 2 283317 and +94 72 708 6000
Website: https://www.sundaras.com

9. Kiri Vehera

Kiri Vehera, an ancient stupa that is believed to contain a lock of Lord Buddha’s hair, the sword that he used to cut off his hair, and his golden throne.

Considered part of the Solosmasthana, or the 16 most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites of ancient Sri Lanka, Kiri Vehera is an ancient stupa dating back to the 6th Century. Located in Kataragama, Sri Lanka the stupa is believed to have been built by King Mahasena (r. 277 – 304 AD), the sovereign of Kataragama.

Measuring 29m (95ft) tall and with a 85.3m (280ft) circumference, the stupa was built on what is believed to be one of 16 places that the Buddha visited during his three trips to Sri Lanka, on the very spot where the Buddha meditated. Other accounts claim that the stupa contains a lock of Lord Buddha’s hair, the sword he used to cut off his hair at the step of renunciation and his golden throne.

Kiri Vehera, meaning ‘the stupa in white’, is currently located within the temple complex of Kiri Vehera Rajamaha Viharaya.

Kiri Vehera stupa illuminated with light during Vesak day festival.

Every year, many people come to visit Kiri Vehera to pay their homage to the holy stupa.

Address:
Kataragama
91400 Kataragama, Uva Province
Phone: +94 47 2 235237
Entrance fee: Free
Opening hours: 24 hours

How To Get there

Visitors can travel by bus or alternatively by chartered car. Kataragama can be reached from Tissamahara (1 hour by bus) or Ella (3 hours).

Accommodation

The town of Kataragama is a popular pilgrimage spot for Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims and the indigenous Vedda people of Sri Lanka. Many places have sprung up to cater for these pilgrims but if you visit Kataragama during July and August, when the Kataragama Festival is held, it can be difficult to find a place to sleep. Below are just some of the several places available. It is recommended that you do further research to find accommodation that is suitable for your needs.

1. Mandara Rosen

The hotel is located in the midst of lush mountain, and it offers 58 tastefully designed rooms with modern amenities.

Address:
No 57 Detagamuwa
Kataragama 91400, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 47 2 236030
Website: http://www.mandararosen.com

2. Gregory’s Safari Bungalow Yala

The Bungalow offers four air-conditioned bedrooms and cabana equipped with modern amenities.

Address:
No.101/18, Manikpuragama
Wallimathagama,
Katharagama, Sri Lanka.
Phone: +94 71 944 5566
Website: http://www.gregorybungalow.com/katharagama/index.php

10. Jetavanaramaya Stupa

Jetavanaramaya Stupa

Jetavanaramaya Stupa is located among the ruins of Jetavanaramaya Monastery Complex in the ancient city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. At its height, the destroyed Mahavihara surrounding the stupa housed 10,000 monks.

The stupa’s construction was initiated by King Mahasena of Anuradhapura (273-301). After the king passed away, his son, Maghavanna I continued and eventually completed the construction of this grand stupa. At the height of 122m (400ft), this stupa was the tallest stupa in the ancient world. It has been deemed an engineering marvel. Approximately 93.3 million baked bricks were used in constructing what was the second tallest non-pyramidal structure after the Pharos Lighthouse of Alexandria.

It is said that a part of the sash or belt of Buddha Shakyamuni is enshrined inside this grand stupa.

There is a big terrace surrounding the stupa that can accommodate up to 30,000 devotees.

The Jetavanaramaya Stupa is good example of ancient Sri Lanka impressive construction technique.

Address:
Indiya, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Opening hours: 6:00AM – 6:00PM
Entrance fee: Free

How To Get There

Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is approximately five hours from Colombo by bus, or four hours’ drive by private vehicle. The A9 highway will lead you in and out of the city. Visitors can also opt to travel to the city by train. Upon arrival in the ancient city of Anuradhapura, visitors can explore the city by foot, or travel by tuk-tuk or local buses. You can get from one end of town to the other within 30 minutes because the town is relatively small.

Accommodation

The ancient city of Anuradhapura is another popular tourist destination and despite its small size, has many hotels offering accommodation for visitors. Below are just some of the several places available. It is recommended that you do further research to find accommodation that is suitable for your needs.

1. Heritage Hotel

The hotel, which is located in the heart of Anuradhapura, offers 50 well-equipped guest rooms with modern touch and comfortable interior.

Address:
Galwala Road | Pothanegama,
Anuradhapura 50000, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 25 2 237806
Website: http://www.heritagehotel.lk

2. Milano Tourist Rest

The hotel is located at the heart of Anuradhapura, and it offers 16 spacious and comfortable rooms with modern amenities.

Address:
596 /40, Stage 01
Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 25 2 222364
Website: http://www.milanotouristrest.com

11. Ella Rock

Ella Rock

If you are a beginner hiker and enjoy beautiful scenery, Ella Rock is the perfect destination for you. Ella Rock is a famous cliff located roughly 8km (or two hours’ strenuous trek) from the centre of Ella Village. The rock offers stunning views across the hill country, and the plains below.

Starting from Ella town, walk following the train track as your guide. You will come across a bridge; pass over it and walk past Kithaella train station. After Kithaella train station, there is a left turning with a bench next to it, which you should ignore.

Take the second left turning after Kithaella train station (just before kilometer marker 166 1/4), and cross the bridge over the river. Follow the path going upwards but do not turn left or right yet. As you proceed, you will begin to see faint blue arrows indicating the correct direction.

This path will eventually start veering left towards Ella Rock. When you encounter a thicket of very large and tall bushy plants, walk through these until you reach the main ascent up to Ella Rock through the forest of rubber trees. At this juncture, any path will lead you to the top. The walk will be steeper about 20 minutes before you reach the top.

Throughout the journey to Ella Rock, there is a lot of beautiful scenery of fields and plantations to enjoy. Do watch out for oncoming trains though, as part of the trail is along the railway track. They move pretty slowly so there is plenty of time to get out of the way.

Address:
Wellawaya-Ella-Kumbalwela Highway,
Ella, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 77 738 5802
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours

How To Get There

You can pay for a local guide to show you the way (around 1,500 LKR/ USD 12 per person), or you can trek it yourself quite easily.

Ella is served by a quaint railway station a few stops from Badulla. Trains go to and from Colombo and Kandy, and the views are spectacular. Going towards Colombo and Kandy, it is usually easy to get a seat on the train but going towards Ella, the journey can be quite crowded.

Another option for reaching Ella is by bus. There is a direct bus service to Galle which stops at various locations along the south coast including Mirissa and Unawatuna.

Accommodation

An established backpackers’ hub, Ella has a reasonably well-established tourist-oriented economy with bars, restaurants and guesthouses catering to visitors using Ella as a base to explore the surrounding countryside. Below are just some of the several places available. It is recommended that you do further research to find accommodation that is suitable for your needs.

1. Ella Rock House

The hotel is located at the heart of Ella Village, surrounded by beautiful nature.

Address:
Passara Road
Ella 0094, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 77 129 9210
Website: http://ellarockhouse.com

2. Misty Hills Ella

The hotel offers a stunning panoramic view of the southern east plain.

Address:
Wellawaya Road
Ella 90090, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 572226200
Website: http://mistyhillsella.com

12. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is an orphanage, nursery and breeding ground for wild Asian elephants in Pinnawala Village in Sabaragamuwa Province, Sri Lanka. The orphanage is just 13 km (8.1 miles) northeast of Kegalle town.

The 25-acre orphanage was established by the Sri Lanka Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC) in 1975 to care for and protected the many orphaned and unweaned wild elephants wandering in and around the forests of Sri Lanka. The orphanage began with five orphaned elephants but today, it is considered to have the largest population of captive elephants in the world. As of 2017, it is home to 93 elephants.

48 mahouts care for these pachyderms. Visitors can expect to see milk feeding, watch the elephants bathing at the river and participate in fruit feeding session.

Address:
B199, Rambukkana 71100, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 35 2 265284
Website: http://nationalzoo.gov.lk/elephantorphanage/
Opening hours: 8:30AM – 5:30PM
Entrance fee:
Local adult / child: LKR 100 / LKR 30
Foreign adult / child: LKR 2,500 / LKR 1,250

How To Get There

Visitors can either travel by bus or rental car from Colombo or Kandy. From Kandy, it takes about an hour by car; from Colombo, the drive is between 2 to 2.5 hours.

If you are arriving by bus, stop at the junction just before Kegalle and then take a three-wheeler from there.

Accommodation

A visit to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage can be a day trip, as a stopover on the way from Colombo to Kandy (or vice versa). Alternatively, visitors who wish to spend more time in the area can stay in one of the many hotels available in nearby Kegalle district. Below are just some of the several places available. It is recommended that you do further research to find accommodation that is suitable for your needs.

1. Villa Pinnawala & Restaurant

The hotel is located 200 meter (656.2 feet) from Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, and it offers comfortable room with modern amenities.

Address:
Pinnalanda Watta,Pinnawala,Rambukkana
70130 Pinnawala, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 76 822 0825

2. Inn Suwani Pinnawala

The hotel is located 50m (164ft) from Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, and it offers free wifi access and comfortable accommodation.

Address:
pinna landa watta, bathaburaya
Rambukkana, Sri Lanka 71100
Phone: +94 71 727 2709

13. Arcade Independent Square

Arcade Independent Square

If you like to shop, Arcade Independent Square is a good place to visit. This colonial style-building complex, formerly the site of the Jawatta Lunatic Asylum, was renovated into a 90,000 sq ft shopping complex consisting of local and international brands for clothing, electronics and various eateries. It is the latest prominent landmark in Colombo with flowerbeds, fountains, promenade, and outdoor sitting areas, and Sri Lanka’s first ever boutique cinema (a 3D Cineplex).

Address:
30 Bauddhaloka Mawatha
Colombo 00700, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 78 556 1315
Opening hours: 7AM–11PM

How To Get There

Visitors in Colombo can reach Arcade Independence Square by bus or taxi.

Accommodation

The capital city of Colombo has innumerable options for accommodation, catering to every budget ranging from backpacker to 6-star opulence. Below are just some of the several places available. It is recommended that you do further research to find accommodation that is suitable for your needs.

1. Casa Colombo Collection

A-200-year old colonial mansion that offers boutique suites with designer furnishing. It is located 1 km from Bambalapitiya Railway Station and 45-minute drive from Bandaranaike International airport.

Address:
231 Galle Road, Bambalapitiya
Colombo, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 11 4 520130
Website: http://www.casacolombocollection.com

2. Cinnamon Red Colombo

The hotel provides comforts and elegance for mid-range budget.

Address:
59 Ananda Coomaraswamy Mawatha,
Colombo 00300, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 11 2 145145
Website: http://www.cinnamonhotels.com/en/cinnamonredcolombo/

14. Polonnaruwa Quadrangle (Dalada Maluva)

Polonnaruwa Quadrangle

The Polonnaruwa Quadrangle is a complex of fascinating royal palace ruins in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. The city served as the nation’s capital from the 11th to the 13th Century. The complex is surrounded by a wall and built on a raised terrace. The monarchs of the past may have come to this place to listen to Buddhist scriptures.

The site is dominated by the Polonnaruwa Vatadage, which is said to have been built to house either the Buddha’s Tooth Relic or the Buddha’s alms bowl. The vatadage is the best preserved example of a vatadage in Sri Lanka and the structure is elaborately carved and decorated. It can be accessed by four doorways facing the four cardinal directions and at each doorway, there is a Buddha statue facing the entrance. Abandoned for centuries, excavation works began on the vatadage in 1903.

How To Get There

Visitors can get to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa either by train or bus, or by chartering a car from Colombo. Upon arrival, you can either traverse the ancient city by foot or by renting a bicycle from one of the many guesthouses in the new part of the city. Just make sure that the bicycle is in good working condition before you agree to rent it.

Accommodation

The ancient city of Polonnaruwa is one of Sri Lanka’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Since it features heavily in the nation’s history, the large number of visitors arrive every year to explore the site and bring with them great demand for accommodation. The new part of the city has responded accordingly, providing a wide selection of places. Below are just some of the several places available. It is recommended that you do further research to find accommodation that is suitable for your needs.

1. Hotel Ancient Village

The hotel offers great view and comfortable rooms.

Address:
Sri Sudharshana Road, Thopawewa
Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 27 2 224050
Website: http://www.hotelancientvillage.com/home

2. Hotel Sudu Araliya

The hotel offers 104 guest rooms with modern amenities.

Address:
New Town Road,
Polonnaruwa 51000, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 27 2 224849
Website: http://www.hotelsuduaraliya.com

15. Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya or also known as Little England.

Nuwara Eliya, also known as Little England, is located in the Hill Country of Sri Lanka and is considered to be the most attractive town in the Sri Lankan hill region. Its beautiful scenery of tea plantation and cooling climate made Nuwara Eliya a popular destination for the British tea growers who originally built it to escape the oppressive heat of the lower-lying plains of Sri Lanka. The climate here, in fact, is the coolest in all of Sri Lanka and considering the people who historically inhabited this town, it has become the most important location for tea production in Sri Lanka.

Visitors can enjoy the impressive Hakgala Botanical Gardens, the second largest garden in Sri Lanka where over 10,000 species of plants are cultivated. With its colonial style structures, Nuwara Eliya has the feel of English village. Visitors will be transported back in time as they come across red telephone boxes, colonial-style bungalows and Victorian-style post office buildings throughout the community.

How To Get There

Visitors can get into Nuwara Eliya by train from Colombo or Kandy. There are also frequent buses from Colombo and Kandy to the centre of Nuwara Eliya. Road transport to Nuwara Eliya is slow due to the old and winding track. Normally, it can take up to or more than six hours to cover the 180km distance from Colombo.

Accommodation

Unsurprisingly, having been built as a tourist destination, the town has plenty of accommodation for visitors. During the Sinhalese and Tamil New Year starting on April 1 however, it can be difficult to find accommodation as Sri Lankans holiday in the region during this period. Prices at this time have a tendency to escalate wildly. Below are just some of the several places available. It is recommended that you do further research to find accommodation that is suitable for your needs.

1. Heritance Tea Factory

The hotel was previously a tea factory converted into boutique hotel. The hotel offers comfortable rooms in the middle of tea organic plantation.

Address:
Kandapola
Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 52 5 555000
Website: http://www.heritancehotels.com/teafactory/

2. Stafford Bungalow

The hotel offers “the experience of living in this exclusive planter’s bungalow within a-50-acre tea plantation.”

Address:
Hemas (Estates) Limited
Halgranoya, Ragala,
Nuwara Eliya, Nuwara Eliya 001, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 11 4 731731
Website: http://www.staffordbungalow.com

16. Yala National Park

Yala National Park

Yala National Park is the second largest national park in Sri Lanka, and the most visited. This attractive wildlife destination, also known as Ruhunu National Park, is a heaven for wildlife photographers. The beautiful park stretches between Southern Province and Uva Province, covering 979 sq kilometres (608.32mi).

The park was designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1900 and became one of the first two national parks in Sri Lanka. Today, it is the home of many exotic animals such as leopard, elephants, monkeys, wild boars, sloth bears and many other animal species that roam the park freely. In fact, the western part of Yala has been recognised as having the highest leopard concentration in the world. However, with only 35 leopards in the entire park, the chances of actually seeing one are still relatively slim. The park is also home to over 130 species of birds.

Many of the animals at Yala are accustomed to seeing humans and have no problems getting close with visitors. Visitors can participate in various outdoor activities such as camping, bird watching, beach walks, safari rides and site seeing.

Address:
No 81, Kataragama 91400, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 71 261 9387
Website: http://yalasrilanka.lk
Entrance fee:

Opening hours: Open 24 hours. The best time to visit the park is between February to July, when water tables are low and animals have to compete for the same drinking supply. Be aware Yala is usually closed in September.

How To Get There

Located about 300km from Colombo, visitors from the north can take a bus that is headed towards Tangalle, Matara, Galle and so forth and asked to be dropped off at Tissa-Punnegamuwa Junction Stop. From there, you have to take a tuk-tuk (150-300LKR) for the remaining 4km to Tissa.

From Tissa, there are many buses leaving to Matara.

Visitors staying in Tissa can book a tour with any of the guesthouses or hotels in the town or charter a car.

Accommodation

There is limited accommodation at Yala National Park, but more options are available at nearby Tissa. Good places can be found through services such as Airbnb. Visitors can also choose to camp in Yala National Park. Below are just some of the several places available. It is recommended that you do further research to find accommodation that is suitable for your needs.

1. Big Game Camp

The coordinator of the Big Game Camp offers semi permanent accommodation “on the borders of the most popular national parks” including Yala National Park.

Address:
Katagamuwa
Yala National Park, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 70 222 8 222
Website: http://www.srilankabiggamesafaris.com

2. Eco Island Sri Lanka

Eco Island Sri Lanka offers an experience to live in nature inside a tent.

Address:
1005 Yala National Park
Yala National Park 1005, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 72 745 6416

17. Galle

Galle, a historical city in Sri Lanka’s south coast

Galle is a historical city in Sri Lanka’s south coast, 11Galle 6km from Colombo with its mixture of modern and antique architectural styles. The colonial influence can really be felt throughout the city, thanks to the Portuguese who captured the city in 1587, followed by the Dutch in 1640, and later the British.

Attractions include the Dutch Church, the Dutch Commandeur’s residence or Government House, the British Style Queen’s House, and many British-style mansions such as Closenburg, Eddystone, Barthfield, and Armitage Hill. If you enjoy snorkeling, Unawatuna Bay is a good place to visit.

Visitors might like to visit the Kalutara Temple, home to one of 32 saplings taken from the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. They may also wish to make a donation and say a prayer at Seenigama Temple for good luck.

How To Get There

From Colombo or Kandy, you can travel by train or bus to Galle. Both follow the coastline and offer spectacular views. Depending on traffic, or how many stops the train makes, traveling from Colombo can take anywhere from 2.5 to 4 hours.

Another more comfortable, but relatively more expensive method of travel would be by chartering a taxi. Once in Galle, you can explore the city by foot or tuk-tuk.

Accommodation

The historic city of Galle has a wide range of accommodation catering to budget, ranging from backpackers to those with greater means. Below are just some of the several places available. It is recommended that you do further research to find accommodation that is suitable for your needs.

1. Tamarind Hill by Asia Leisure

The hotel offers a luxurious colonial style living experience for the guests.

Address:
No. 288 Galle Road
Dadella, Galle 80000, Sri Lanka
Phone: + 94 11 576 9500 2
Website: http://www.tamarindhill.lk

2. Jetwing Lighthouse

The hotel offers a relaxing retreat surrounded by sands, sun and sea in the southern coast of Sri Lanka.

Address:
Dadella
Galle 80000, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 11 2 345720
Website: http://www.jetwinghotels.com/jetwinglighthouse/

18. Mirissa

The Beautiful beach of Mirissa

Mirissa is a small, beautiful little fishing village located in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka, 150km south of Colombo. The village is a popular tourist destination because of its beach and nightlife. Mirissa beach offers a sense of calm, colourful sunsets, beautiful stones and opportunities for surfing for intermediate and advanced surfers.

How To Get There

To reach Mirissa, visitors can take a bus from the Fort in Colombo heading towards Matara or Tangalle. The trip will take 3.5 to 5 hours and passengers can ask to stop in Mirissa.

Train is another option for reaching Mirissa. Take the train from Colombo Fort to Weligama (approximately 7km (4.35mi) from Mirissa) then take the bus or tuk-tuk to Mirissa.

Another more comfortable but relatively more expensive option is to rent a car.

Since Mirissa is a small village, visitors can get around on foot, bicycle, motorcycle or tuk-tuk.

Accommodation

Potential travellers to Mirissa will be happy to know that there is accommodation to cater to every budget, from 700 LKR to 1500 LKR per night during the tourist season. Below are just some of the several places available. It is recommended that you do further research to find accommodation that is suitable for your needs.

1. Morning Star

The colonial architecture style hotel is situated in the Southern part of Mirissa, and 100 meters from Mirissa beach.

Address:
Bandaramulla
Mirissa 81740, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 41 2 254445
Website: http://www.morningstarmirissa.com

2. Palm Villa

The hotel is situated in Mirissa Bay and offers beautiful view of the blue Indian ocean.

Address:
Matara Road | Banbaramulla
Mirissa 81740, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 41 2 250022
Website: https://www.palmvillamirissa.com

19. Bentota

The beach of Bentota

Bentota is a coastal town in Galle district, in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka. The beach in Bentota is considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka and makes it a popular destination for water sports. Other attractions in Bentota include:

Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery

A turtle hatchery established by Turtle Conservation Project (TCP) and the Wildlife Department of Sri Lanka

Address:
No. 13/A, Galle Road, Mahapalena
Kosgoda 80570, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 91 2 264567
Opening hours: 8:30AM – 6:30PM

Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery

Brief Garden

The house and garden of the well-known Sri Lankan Landscape architect, Bevis Bawa.

Address:
Kalawila Village
Beruwala 12070, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 77 350 9290
Opening hours: 8AM – 5PM
Entrance fee: LKR 1,000

Brief Garden

How To Get There

Visitors can reach Bentota by air-conditioned bus (bus no. 2) from Colombo Forth to Gale with a stop at Bentota or by train. Most trains stop at Aluthgama (2 km (1.3mi) from Bentota) where you can hire a tuk-tuk to complete the rest of your journey. Another option for travelling to Bentota is by chartered car.

Accommodation

Be aware that many hotels in Bentota lie just a few metres from the railway track. Visitors may find the frequency of the trains disruptive to sleep. Check the hotel’s proximity to the railway track before booking. Below are just some of the several places available. It is recommended that you do further research to find accommodation that is suitable for your needs.

1. Chami Villa Bentota

The hotel offers seven furnished bedroom and one apartment.

Address:
23 Pitaramba
Bentota 80500, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 779744265
Website: http://www.chamivillabentota.com

2. Village Headman’s Bungalow

Address:
Gonagala Pura, Bentota, Bentota 80500, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 34 2 274466
Website: http://www.vhbbentota.com

20. National Museum of Colombo

National Museum of Colombo

The National Museum of Colombo was originally established on January 1, 1877 by William Henry Gregory who served as the British Governor of Ceylon from 1872 to 1877. The museum, spanning two floors, is the largest in Sri Lanka and houses many artefacts that represent Sri Lanka’s ancient heritage.

The ground or lower floor contains artefacts from the ancient period such as Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Kandy and Transitional periods. The upper floor contains paintings, textiles, ceramics, pottery, crafts, arms and weapons, agricultural methods, and many other objects visitors may find noteworthy and interesting.

Be aware that the museum does not have air-conditioning which visitors may find uncomfortable during warmer weather.

The interior of National Museum of Colombo

Address:
Albert Cres
Colombo, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 11 2 695366
Opening hours: 9AM – 6PM (last entry 5pm)

Entrance fee:
Local adult / child: LKR 20 / LKR 35
Foreign adult / child: LKR 300 / LKR 500
School children / Teachers: LKR 10 / LKR 20

How To Get There

Visitors in Colombo can reach the museum by bus, taxi or tuk-tuk.

Accommodation

The capital city of Colombo has innumerable options for accommodation, catering to every budget ranging from backpacker to 6-star opulence. Below are just some of the several places available. It is recommended that you do further research to find accommodation that is suitable for your needs.

1. Casa Colombo Collection

A-200-year old colonial mansion that offers boutique suites with designer furnishing. It is located 1 km from Bambalapitiya Railway Station and 45-minute drive from Bandaranaike International airport.

Address:
231 Galle Road, Bambalapitiya
Colombo, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 11 4 520130
Website: http://www.casacolombocollection.com

2. Cinnamon Red Colombo

The hotel provides comforts and elegance for mid-range budget.

Address:
59 Ananda Coomaraswamy Mawatha
Colombo 00300, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 11 2 145145
Website: http://www.cinnamonhotels.com/en/cinnamonredcolombo/

Travel books on Sri Lanka

Get the most out of your visit to Sri Lanka. Before you arrive, read up on some travel books to help plan your trip and make your journey more enjoyable. Two of the most popular travel books on Sri Lanka include:

Lonely Planet Sri Lanka (Travel Guide)
Authors: Ryan Ver Berkmoes, Stuart Butler, Iain Steward

“Lonely Planet Sri Lanka is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. Follow in the footsteps of Buddha and modern-day pilgrims to the summit of Adam’s Peak, wander the crumbling ruins and lost cities of the cultural triangle in the heart of the island or explore undiscovered beaches on the recently reopened east coast; all with your trusted travel companion. Get to the heart of Sri Lanka and begin your journey now!”

Click on image to enlarge.

DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Sri Lanka

“Sri Lanka is your in-depth guide to the very best of this beautiful and diverse country. Explore Sri Lanka region-by-region, from Colombo and the beaches on its idyllic west coast to Kandy and the Hill Country to Jaffna and the north. Visit Yala National Park to see wildlife, play a game of cricket, and take a pilgrimage to Adam’s Peak.”

Click on image to enlarge.

 
Sources:

• https://www.leisuretours.biz/entrance-tickets/
• http://countrystudies.us/sri-lanka/38.htm
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sri_Lanka
• http://www.selectiveasia.com/sri-lanka-holidays/weather
• https://www.worldnomads.com/explore/southern-asia/sri-lanka/sri-lanka-customs-and-culture
• https://migrationology.com/sri-lankan-food-40-of-the-islands-best-dishes/
• https://www.srilankatravelandtourism.com/places-sri-lanka/kandy/kandy.php
• https://lanka.com/about/attractions/kelaniya-temple/
• https://www.lonelyplanet.com/sri-lanka/tangalla-around/attractions/mulkirigala-rock-temples/a/poi-sig/1194697/357442
• HTTPS://WWW.TRIPADVISOR.COM.MY/SHOWUSERREVIEWS-G304135-D551306-R422703645-NAGADIPA_PURANA_VIHARA-JAFFNA_NORTHERN_PROVINCE.HTML
• https://www.srilankatravelandtourism.com/places-sri-lanka/sigiriya/sigiriya.php
• http://www.worldlifejourney.com/top-3-things-to-do-in-ella-sri-lanka/
• https://www.srilankatravelandtourism.com/places-sri-lanka/ella/ella.php
• https://www.timeout.com/sri-lanka/shopping/arcade-independence-square
• http://www.mysrilankantrip.com/best-places-to-visit/polonnaruwa/quadrangle/
• https://www.onthegotours.com/Sri-Lanka/tailormade-holidays/Nuwara-Eliya
• https://www.onthegotours.com/Sri-Lanka/tailormade-holidays/Yala-National-Park
• http://www.dwc.gov.lk/index.php/en/park-fees
• https://www.onthegotours.com/Sri-Lanka/tailormade-holidays/Gallelanka.com/about/destinations/galle/
• https://www.back-packer.org/beautiful-beaches-sri-lanka/
• https://www.amazon.com/Lonely-Planet-Lanka-Travel-Guide/dp/1742208029/ref=zg_bs_16837_2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=KMXQ9TC6KVH9AZMDR2SG
• https://www.amazon.com/DK-Eyewitness-Travel-Guide-Lanka/dp/1465441166/ref=zg_bs_16837_5?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=KMXQ9TC6KVH9AZMDR2SG
• https://www.srilankatours.info/index.php/classifieds/things-to-see-in-sri-lanka/ad/sri-lanka-ancient-cities,26/jaya-sri-maha-bodhi,125#.WR2SRVKB3rI

 
For more interesting links:

• Exquisite Nagadeepa Vihara in Sri Lanka
• Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara-A sacred place to visit
• Giritale, Sri Lanka (site of the replica Avukana Buddha)
• The Bo saplings from the original Bo tree…
• Tooth Relic of our Gauthama Buddha
• Emperor Ashoka the Great
• Dambulla cave temple
• Seven Wonders of the Buddhist World
• 85 Grand Statues of the World
• Gal Vihara: The Stone Temple of Sri Lanka
• Brief Garden: A Hidden Paradise in Sri Lanka
• The Beautiful & Sacred Kiri Vehera in Kataragama-Sri Lanka
• The Magnificent Jetavanaramaya Stupa & the Power of Repentance – Sri Lanka

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