Sri Lanka’s Top Spots

Is Sri Lanka on your bucket list but you’ve just never got round to visiting? Having been named the best country to visit in 2019 by Lonely Planet, now is your chance. So, what are you waiting for?

We have listed below the top sights to see when exploring, to make sure you get the most out of your trip.

Polonnaruwa

Over 800 years ago, this site was used by kings as a ruling place and a commercial, religious centre, which is why to this day there’s plenty of different ancient ruins to see. The Quadrangle, a definite highlight,holds a large collection of ancient buildings that include the Vatadage, a collection of ruins on a raised platform, enclosed by a circular wall.

One of the other top sites is Gal Vihara, a Buddhist temple filled with four different carvings of the Buddha. All of the statues were made out of one slab of granite, but they’re all in different positions – one’s stood, one’s lying down and the other two are sat down.

World’s End

World’s End is located in the Horton Plains National Parkand represents the viewpoint, along the 9-kilometre-long track, of the plains below. The majority of the hike to World’s End is through thick forests,meaning you get to see plenty of wildlife, including endless species of birds and charming samba deers. It’s recommended you start your trek in the morning when the weather’s the coolest, increasing your chances of seeing these beautiful creatures.

Along your walk you’ll pass Baker Falls, a stunning waterfall where you can sit and rest your feet while watching the water crash on the rocks. You’ll know when you reach World’s End as you’ll have a draw-dropping view over the plains in the near distance.

Sigiriya Rock

This ginormous rock has risen up from the central plains and created a dramatic backdrop that makes for amazing photographs, whether you’re stood on-top or far away. With almost-vertical sides and a flat top, this rock is like no other you’ve ever seen before. Ancient ruins carved into the surface can also be found at the top, making it even more unique.

Climb up various steep staircases to reach the top and along the way you may find a few intricate carvings, whether it be the giant lion’s paws at the start or breathtaking frescoes halfway up. Once you’ve reached the top, you’ll be rewarded with historical relics and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is one of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka and widely famous for its well-preserved ruins, showcasing the ancient civilisation of the Sinhalese. The ruins found here are some of the most wonderful archaeological finds with beautifully intricate architecture – so you won’t want to miss them out.

One of the most-visited monuments is the Thuparamaya Dagoba,the first Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka. It was built in 247 BC with the shape of a bell and reconstructed in 1842 AD, due to previous damage. Another sighty ou shouldn’t miss is the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, a sacred fig tree that’s one of the oldest in the world. It’s considered the southern branch from Sri Maha Bodhi, where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. 

Udawalawe National Park

If you’ve travelled to Sri Lanka to see the vast amounts of incredible wildlife, the Udawalawe National Park is the place for you. During your safari tour, you’ll have the chance to see buffalo, elephants, deer,crocodiles and so much more. Bring your camera along to capture the magical moments of seeing elephants with their young and buffalo for the first time.

A guide who knows the park like the back of their hand will come along with you during your tour, and will take you to all of the wildlife-rich areas. It’s recommended to visit during the early hours of the morning, when the majority of animals are out in the cooler temperature.

If you wish to book a trip to Sri Lanka to visit one of these awe-inspiring sights, contact us via our website or call us on 0800 021 3237. Alternatively, you can visit either our Ipswich or Woodbridge travel agents and speak to a member of the team.