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Explore Sri Lanka

Explore the iconic Sigiriya Lion Rock surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant blue skies in Sri Lanka.
Harsha Samaranayake, Pexels
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Currency Icon Currency LKR
Beer Icon Beer $2.75
Cheap Meal Icon Cheap Meal $0.85
Bus Ticket Icon Bus Ticket $1.00
Budget Hotel Icon Budget Hotel $30

Year-Round Travel Seasons

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Top 10 Destinations to Visit in Sri Lanka

1. Ella

Nestled in Sri Lanka's cool highlands, Ella is a captivating town known for its dramatic landscapes, including lush tea plantations, towering mountains, and stunning waterfalls. It serves as a prime location for outdoor activities and offers a serene escape with beautiful vistas.

2. Mirissa

Mirissa, a captivating coastal town on Sri Lanka's southern tip, is renowned for its expansive sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, and exceptional opportunities for whale and dolphin watching. Visitors can enjoy surfing on its clear waters, particularly at the main beach's reef break which suits intermediate surfers. It is a destination that seamlessly blends natural beauty with an energetic atmosphere.

3. Galle

Galle, located on Sri Lanka's southern coast, is a city primarily known for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Galle Fort. This destination offers a unique blend of centuries-old colonial history, a vibrant local culture, and convenient access to picturesque beaches.

4. Kandy

Kandy, nestled amidst Sri Lanka's central highlands, is a culturally significant and picturesque city. It offers a rich blend of history, spiritual sites, and natural beauty, making it a key destination for those exploring the island's heritage and landscapes.

5. Sigiriya

Sigiriya, often called the 'Lion Rock,' is a prominent UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sri Lanka, renowned for its ancient rock fortress and palace complex built by King Kashyapa in the 5th century. Visitors are drawn to explore the remarkably preserved ruins atop a massive granite column, including intricate frescoes, the Mirror Wall, and extensive water gardens. The site offers a blend of historical exploration and active adventure, culminating in panoramic views from its summit after a climb of approximately 1,200 steps.

6. Unawatuna

Unawatuna is a popular coastal destination in Sri Lanka, offering pristine beaches, calm waters ideal for swimming, and a range of activities. It attracts a diverse group of international travelers seeking both relaxation and lively experiences.

7. Hiriketiya

Hiriketiya, Sri Lanka, is a compact, horseshoe-shaped bay on the southern coast that offers a relaxed atmosphere for those seeking surfing, yoga, and a vibrant cafe scene.

8. Trincomalee

Trincomalee, located on Sri Lanka's northeastern coast, is an emerging destination offering pristine white-sand beaches like Uppuveli, Nilaveli, and Marble Beach. It blends historical and cultural richness, highlighted by ancient Hindu temples such as the Koneswaram Temple and colonial Fort Frederick. The destination also provides opportunities for marine wildlife encounters, including whale and dolphin watching, alongside water activities like snorkeling and diving.

9. Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya, often called "Little England," is a highland destination offering a refreshing escape with its cool climate and lush tea plantations. Visitors explore tea estates, enjoy scenic waterfalls, and experience the remnants of British colonial charm through its architecture and gardens.

10. Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura offers a profound journey into Sri Lanka's rich history and spiritual heritage, serving as the country's first ancient capital and a significant center for Buddhism. Visitors can explore sprawling archaeological sites featuring majestic stupas, ancient temples, and the revered Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi tree, set amidst a serene, park-like landscape.

Check out our other pages on Sri Lanka

Meet Our Sri Lanka Experts

Photo of Finn Weber Photo of Karen Price Photo of Chamara Perera

Our Mission

At TFA Travel we believe in travel for all. Our mission is to enable people to explore the world as easily as possible without having to pay a travel agent a huge commission.

Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.