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Explore the diverse landscapes, ancient cities, and pristine beaches of this tropical paradise

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Explore Sri Lanka by Region

Discover the unique character and attractions of each region across this diverse island nation

Sigiriya
Cultural Triangle

Sigiriya

Ancient rock fortress with stunning frescoes, water gardens, and panoramic views from the summit.

UNESCO Site Historical Hiking
Central Province Explore
Nuwara Eliya
Central Highlands

Nuwara Eliya

Sri Lanka's "Little England" with colonial architecture, tea plantations, and cool mountain climate.

Tea Country Colonial Nature
Central Province Explore
Galle
Southern Coast

Galle

Historic fort city with Dutch colonial buildings, boutique shops, and coastal charm.

UNESCO Site Colonial Coastal
Southern Province Explore
Trincomalee
East Coast

Trincomalee

Natural harbor with pristine beaches, marine life, and the sacred Koneswaram Temple.

Beaches Diving Temple
Eastern Province Explore
Anuradhapura
Cultural Triangle

Anuradhapura

Ancient capital with sacred Buddhist sites, massive stupas, and the Sri Maha Bodhi tree.

UNESCO Site Historical Buddhist
North Central Province Explore
Ella
Central Highlands

Ella

Mountain village with iconic Nine Arch Bridge, hiking trails, and spectacular valley views.

Hiking Nature Scenic
Uva Province Explore
Kandy
Cultural Triangle

Kandy

Cultural capital with the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, scenic lake, and traditional arts.

UNESCO Site Buddhist Cultural
Central Province Explore
Yala National Park
Southern Coast

Yala National Park

Premier wildlife sanctuary with the highest leopard density in the world, elephants, and diverse ecosystems.

Wildlife Safari Nature
Southern Province Explore
Colombo
Western Province

Colombo

Vibrant capital city with colonial architecture, modern developments, shopping, and diverse cuisine.

Urban Shopping Dining
Western Province Explore
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Explore our interactive map to discover destinations across the island

Cultural Triangle

Ancient cities & heritage

Central Highlands

Tea country & mountains

Southern Coast

Beaches & colonial forts

Eastern Coast

Pristine beaches & diving

Western Province

Urban centers & beaches

Visitor Insights

Most Popular Destinations

Best Time to Visit

Featured Destination

Sigiriya: The Eighth Wonder of the World

Discover the ancient rock fortress that has captivated visitors for centuries

Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Sigiriya Frescoes
Lion's Paw Entrance

About Sigiriya

Built in the 5th century CE by King Kashyapa, Sigiriya (Lion Rock) is an ancient rock fortress and palace complex that rises dramatically 200 meters above the surrounding plains. This UNESCO World Heritage site features remarkable frescoes, the Mirror Wall, and the remains of an elaborate city planning.

Location

Central Province, Sri Lanka

Best Time to Visit

Early morning (7-9 AM)

Duration

3-4 hours

Difficulty

Moderate (1,200 steps)

UNESCO Site Historical Hiking Photography Cultural
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Key Attractions

  • Water Gardens

    Symmetrical water gardens with fountains that still function during rainy season after 1,500 years.

  • Frescoes

    Ancient paintings of celestial maidens (Sigiriya Damsels) preserved in a sheltered pocket of the rock.

  • Mirror Wall

    Highly polished wall with ancient graffiti dating back to the 8th century.

  • Lion's Paw

    Massive stone lion paws that once formed the entrance to the final ascent to the summit.

  • Summit & Palace Ruins

    Remains of the royal palace with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Visitor Information

  • Opening Hours: 7:00 AM - 5:30 PM
  • Entrance Fee: $30 USD for foreigners
  • Duration: 3-4 hours recommended
  • Guides: Available at entrance

Best Time to Visit

  • Time of Day: Early morning (7-9 AM)
  • Season: December to April (dry season)
  • Weather: Clear days for best views
  • Crowds: Weekdays less crowded

Tips for Visitors

  • Hydration: Bring plenty of water
  • Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes
  • Protection: Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
  • Photography: No flash at frescoes

Nearby Attractions

Dambulla Cave Temple

Dambulla Cave Temple

Ancient rock temple with 153 Buddha statues and stunning cave paintings dating back to the 1st century BCE.

15 km from Sigiriya View Details
Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa

Medieval capital with well-preserved ruins, massive stone Buddhas, and the impressive Gal Vihara rock temple.

45 km from Sigiriya View Details
Minneriya National Park

Minneriya National Park

Famous for "The Gathering" - one of Asia's greatest wildlife spectacles where hundreds of elephants congregate around the ancient tank.

25 km from Sigiriya View Details

Recommended Tours

Explore our carefully crafted tours featuring Sri Lanka's most captivating destinations

Cultural Triangle Explorer
5 Days

Cultural Triangle Explorer

Journey through Sri Lanka's ancient kingdoms, visiting Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura, and Dambulla.

Colombo → Dambulla → Sigiriya → Polonnaruwa → Anuradhapura → Colombo
From $795/person View Tour
Highland Tea Country
4 Days

Highland Tea Country

Experience the cool climate and scenic beauty of Sri Lanka's central highlands, tea plantations, and train journeys.

Colombo → Kandy → Nuwara Eliya → Ella → Colombo
From $650/person View Tour
Southern Coast Explorer
6 Days

Southern Coast Explorer

Discover the colonial charm of Galle, pristine beaches, wildlife safaris, and whale watching opportunities.

Colombo → Galle → Mirissa → Tangalle → Yala → Colombo
From $895/person View Tour
View All Tours

Travel Tips for Sri Lanka

Essential information to help you plan your perfect Sri Lankan adventure

Best Time to Visit

Sri Lanka has two monsoon seasons affecting different parts of the island, creating year-round opportunities for travel.

  • December to March: Best for south and west coasts
  • April to September: Best for east coast
  • January to March: Peak season, book in advance

Visa Requirements

Most visitors to Sri Lanka require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before arrival.

  • Apply online: eta.gov.lk (official site)
  • Tourist ETA fee: $35 USD (30-day stay)
  • Processing time: 24-48 hours typically

Getting Around

Sri Lanka offers various transportation options to explore the island efficiently.

  • Private driver: Most comfortable option
  • Trains: Scenic routes through highlands
  • Tuk-tuks: Good for short distances

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions when visiting cultural and religious sites.

  • Dress modestly: Cover shoulders and knees at temples
  • Remove shoes: When entering temples and homes
  • Photography: Ask permission before taking photos of people

Food & Drink

Sri Lankan cuisine is known for its complex flavors, abundant use of spices, and fresh ingredients.

  • Must-try dishes: Rice and curry, hoppers, kottu
  • Spice level: Can be very hot, ask for mild if needed
  • Drink safely: Stick to bottled or filtered water

Health & Safety

Take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and healthy trip to Sri Lanka.

  • Vaccinations: Check with your doctor before travel
  • Mosquito protection: Use repellent, especially at dawn/dusk
  • Travel insurance: Highly recommended
Local Travel Guide

Need More Travel Advice?

Our local travel experts are here to help you plan the perfect Sri Lankan journey tailored to your interests, timeframe, and budget. Get personalized recommendations and insider tips from people who know the island best.

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What Our Travelers Say

Real experiences from travelers who explored Sri Lanka with us

Emma Thompson

Emma Thompson

London, UK

"Sigiriya was absolutely breathtaking! Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable about the history and architecture. Climbing to the top was challenging but the views were worth every step. The water gardens and frescoes were fascinating."

Visited May 2025

James Chen

James Chen

Singapore

"The tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya were stunning! We took the scenic train from Kandy which was an experience in itself. The colonial architecture and cool climate made it feel like we were in a different country altogether."

Visited April 2025

Michael & Sarah Davis

Michael & Sarah Davis

Boston, USA

"Galle Fort exceeded our expectations! Walking along the ramparts at sunset was magical. The boutique shops, cafes, and colonial architecture created such a unique atmosphere. Don't miss the lighthouse and Maritime Museum!"

Visited June 2025

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