It's not possible to see everything that Sri Lanka has to offer in a single trip and we don't suggest you try. We follow it as a selective taste of the island's highlights: outstanding religious and cultural sites, memorable scenery and wildlife, and spectacular festivals. They're arranged in five color-coded categories with a page reference to take you straight into the guide, where you can find out more.
01. Cricket
Take part in a knock-around on the beach, or join the crowds of cricket-crazy spectators for a test match in Colombo or Kandy.
02. Big Buddhas
The Buddha's superhuman attributes are captured in a sequence of massive statues which dot the island, from the majestic ancient figures of the Gal vihara, Aukana, and Sasseruwa to the contemporary colossi at Dambulla and Wehurukannala.
03. Sigiriya
Climb the towering rock outcrop of Sigiriya, home to the fascinating remains of one of the island's former capitals, complete with ancient graffiti elaborate water gardens, a giant lion statue, and perfectly preserved frescoes of voluptuous heavenly nymphs.
03. Rice and curry
Eat your way through this classic Sri Lankan feast with a mouthwatering selection of contrasting dishes and flavors.
04. Galle
Most perfectly preserved colonial townscape, with sedate streets of personable Dutch-era villas enclosed by a chain of imposing ramparts.
With their memorable blend of modern chic and superb natural setting, the hotels of architect Bawa exemplify contemporary Sri Lankan style at its most seductive.
05. Bentota
the pleasantly unspoiled southern end of Bentota beach is home to the island's finest selection of luxury beachside hotels.
06. Ayurveda
The ancient system of healthcare uses herbal medicines and a range of traditional techniques to rejuvenate the body and promote holistic well-being.
09. World's end
Marking the point at which the hill country's southern escarpment plunges sheer for almost a kilometer to the plains below, these dramatic cliffs offer one of the finest of the hill country's many unforgettable views.
10. Yala national park
Sri Lanka's most popular and rewarding national park, home to birds monkeys, crocodiles, and elephants, as well the island's largest population of leopards.
11. Adam's peak
One of Sri Lanka's leading pilgrimages sites, this soaring summit bears the revered impression of what is said to be the Buddha's own footprint and offers the island's most magical - and enigmatic - views.
12. Kandy Esala Perahera
One of Asia's most spectacular festivals, with huge processions of magnificently caparisoned elephants accompanied by ear-splitting troupes Kandyan drummers, plus assorts dancers and acrobats.
13. Anuradhapura
From immense dagobas to my mysterious forest monasteries, this vast ruined city bears witness to the great Sinhalese civilization which flourished here for almost two thousand years.
14. Birds
Sri Lanka is one of Asia's classic birdwatching destinations, with species ranging from delicate bee-eaters and colorful kingfishers to majestic hornbills.
15. Kataragama
Join the crowd's throughs to the colorful nightly temple ceremonies at this remote pilgrimage town, held sacred by Buddhists, Hindus, and Muslims alike.
16. Kandyan dancing and drumming
Traditional Sinhalese culture is at its most exuberant, with brilliantly costumed dancers performing carefully stylized dances to an accompaniment of explosively energetic drumming.
17. Pettah
Colombo's colorful and chaotic bazaar district offers n exhilarating slice of Asian life, crammed with shoppers, traders Tuktuks, and a bewildering assortment of merchandise.
18. Pinnewala Elephants Orphanage
One of the island's most popular attractions, Pinnewala is home to the world's largest troupe of captive elephants, best during their two daily river-bathing sessions.
Beautifully situated amidst the central highlands, the historic city remains the island's most important repository of traditional Sinhalese culture, exemplified by the great Esala Perahera festival and the Temple of the tooth.
20. Jaffna
The vibrant town of Jaffna offers a fascinating microcosm of Sri Lanka's unique Tamil culture and heritage - though you'll need to check the latest security carefully before visiting.
21. Polonnaruwa
Home to the island's finest collection of ancient Sinhalese art and architecture, from the giant Buddha statues of the Gal Vihara and lankatilake to the remarkable religious building of the Quadrangle.
22. Dambulla
These five magical cave temples are a treasure box of Sri Lankan Buddhist art, sumptuously decorated with a fascinating array of statues, shrines, and the country's finest collection of murals.
Sri Lanka's most beautiful village, offering verdant walks among the surrounding tea plantation and a marvelous view through Ella Gap to the plains below.
24. Unawatuna
Sri Lanks's most popular backpacker beach boasts a sheltered swathe of sand tucked into a picturesque bay, and a lively cluster of beachfront cafes and guest houses.
Developed by kkdevelopments.....
