Sri Lanka, as it is usually known as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, is a tropical utopia packed with golden beaches, green tea gardens, ancient ruins and abundant wildlife. It is the best place to be in case you are adventure-seeking, you need some peace and cultural exploration. These are the 6 most iconic places to see in Sri Lanka and have been listed on the list of must-see destinations when making your first visit to this country.
- Colombo – The Contemporary Port to Sri Lanka
The majority of the Sri Lanka holiday packages start in the busy capital of the country, Colombo. This is a lively city that is a mixture of modernity and coloniality. Exploration of the historic Galle Face Green, the Gangaramaya Temple, as well as enjoying the variety of cuisines available in the city. Do not leave Pettah Market without a walk in the market area, where one can find some local handicrafts and souvenirs.
Colombo is the best place to start with first-time travelers as it is a blend of culture, history, and cosmopolitan life. Colombo is a starting point for a smooth Sri Lanka itinerary for many tour operators in Dubai.
- Kandy – The Cultural Hub of Sri Lanka
Kandy is the cultural capital, situated in the mid-highlands of the island, and it is the home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, which is among the most spiritual places of the Buddhists. This UNESCO World Heritage city is surrounded by foggy hills and has a stunning view with a serene spiritual environment.
The picturesque Kandy Lake, the Royal Botanical Gardens and the traditional dance show, combined with its beauty, make up for the engagements. When you come in July or in August, you should not miss the Esala Perahera, a great cultural procession which is organised with elephants, drummers, and dancers.
- Sigiriya – The Spectacular Rock Fortress
The visit to Sri Lanka would be incomplete without a visit to the Lion Rock, Sigiriya. The old fortification is well raised in the jungle, and the panoramic views complement the surrounding land. Visit the top and see the old frescoes and remains of a royal palace constructed in the 5th century.
Sigiriya is one of the best-known sites that all the high-budget Sri Lanka holiday packages offer. It is just an essential place to indulge in photography for lovers of history.
- Nuwara Eliya – The Little England in Sri Lanka
Take a break and change your direction towards the cooler Nuwara Eliya or the little England, as it is sometimes known, because of its colonial buildings and temperate weather. It is bounded by tea plantations in Sri Lanka with waterfalls and foggy mountains.
Have a breathtaking train ride in the Kandy-Nuwara Eliya line, which is ranked among the most unforgettable train rides in the world. Tour a tea factory, stroll around Gregory Lake and unwind in the serene sceneries that make this place a dream destination for nature enthusiasts.
- Galle – History connects the Ocean
Galle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is located on the southwest coast and is characterized by its perfectly maintained Dutch Fort. Walk along cobblestone pavement in front of cafes, galleries and shops. See the sunset on the fort walls and the Indian Ocean – an experience of a lifetime.
Galle is a mixture of history and sea, so it is a preferred destination for any traveler who admires culture and leisure on the beach. Galle is featured in the itinerary of many tour operator in Dubai to have a good combination of exploration and leisure.
- Bentota – The Beach Paradise
Bentota is where one should go in case he or she is dreaming of white sand beaches and turquoise waters. It has been ranked as one of the finest beach resorts in Sri Lanka that can be utilized for water sports, dolphin watching, or even taking a rest by the sea. Another cool activity is to witness the exotic birds and mangroves during the Bentota River Safari.
It is a sightseeing destination that is included in a Sri Lanka holiday package to relax and have fun.
Final Thoughts
From ancient fortresses to the green tea gardens and golden beaches, the diversity of Sri Lanka makes it a place to visit for every traveler. To explore the whole island, these six locations will provide a real flavor of the magic of the island to first-time visitors.
So as to enjoy your trip fully, you may want to book the trip with an established tour operator in Dubai that provides bespoke Sri Lanka holiday packages. They will assist you in creating a hassle-free itinerary, and your initial visit to this tropical paradise will always stay memorable.