Sightseeing

Here are some unique sightseeing recommendations for Sri Lanka from Chilllanka.com

Kaudulla National Park

Neighboring Minneriya, Kaudulla National Park offers another fantastic option for elephant safaris. The park is home to large herds of elephants and other wildlife, providing an excellent alternative to the more popular Minneriya.

Hiriketiya Beach

For a less crowded and laid-back beach experience, visit Hiriketiya Beach in the south. This horseshoe-shaped bay is perfect for surfing, swimming, and relaxing. The area has a bohemian vibe with cozy cafes and boutique accommodations.

Hanthana Mountain Range

Near Kandy, the Hanthana Mountain Range offers excellent hiking opportunities with trails that lead through lush forests and open grasslands. The peaks provide stunning views of the surrounding countryside and are ideal for nature enthusiasts.

Jathika Namal Uyana

Explore the Jathika Namal Uyana, a unique forest sanctuary known for its pink quartz mountain and extensive ironwood forest. It's considered one of the oldest pink quartz sites in the world and offers a tranquil environment for nature walks.

Seetha Amman Temple

Located in Nuwara Eliya, this colorful temple is dedicated to Sita, the wife of Lord Rama. According to legend, it marks the place where Sita was held captive by Ravana. The temple is surrounded by picturesque landscapes and offers a unique cultural insight.

Veddha Villages

Visit the traditional Veddha villages in Dambana to learn about Sri Lanka’s indigenous people. Engage with the community, understand their ancient customs, and witness their traditional hunting and gathering techniques.

Trincomalee's Koneswaram Temple

Perched on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, the Koneswaram Temple in Trincomalee is a significant Hindu temple with stunning architecture and serene surroundings. Nearby, you can explore the Fort Frederick and the beautiful Nilaveli Beach.

Gal Oya National Park

Experience the unique boat safaris in Gal Oya National Park, where you can spot elephants swimming between islands in the Senanayake Samudraya reservoir. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife and offers serene landscapes.

Pidurangala Rock

Just a short distance from the famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Pidurangala Rock offers a less crowded and equally rewarding hike. Climb to the top for an incredible view of Sigiriya and the surrounding landscape, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Kalpitiya Peninsula

Explore the Kalpitiya Peninsula, known for its stunning lagoons, pristine beaches, and rich marine life. Visit the Dutch Fort and the St. Anne's Church, and take a boat ride to see dolphins and whales in the Indian Ocean.

Haputale's Lipton's Seat

Visit Lipton’s Seat in Haputale, where Sir Thomas Lipton used to oversee his vast tea plantations. The viewpoint offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding tea estates and distant mountain ranges. It's an ideal spot for an early morning hike.

Jaffna Peninsula

Explore the vibrant culture and history of Jaffna, located in the northern part of Sri Lanka. Visit the ancient Nallur Kandaswamy Temple, the iconic Jaffna Library, and the scenic Casuarina Beach. Don't miss the chance to taste local Tamil cuisine and experience the distinct heritage of this region.

Mannar Island

Discover the historic and serene Mannar Island, known for its baobab trees and the ancient Thiruketheeswaram Temple. Visit the Mannar Fort, built by the Portuguese, and enjoy birdwatching at the Vankalai Sanctuary, a haven for migratory birds.

Anuradhapura's Hidden Monasteries

While Anuradhapura is famous for its main historical sites, take a detour to explore lesser-known monasteries like Ritigala and Mihintale. These sites offer serene atmospheres, ancient ruins, and picturesque landscapes away from the usual tourist crowds.

Knuckles Mountain Range

Venture into the rugged beauty of the Knuckles Mountain Range for a unique sightseeing experience. Hike through lush forests, discover hidden waterfalls, and witness breathtaking vistas. The area is also rich in biodiversity, making it a paradise for nature lovers.

Delft Island

Take a boat trip to Delft Island, a remote and tranquil island off the coast of Jaffna. Explore its unique attractions, including wild horses, coral walls, and the ancient Portuguese fort. The island's untouched beauty offers a peaceful escape from the mainland.

Belilena Cave

Visit the prehistoric Belilena Cave near Kitulgala, where evidence of ancient human habitation has been found. The cave is set amidst a lush forest and offers a fascinating glimpse into Sri Lanka's distant past. It's also a great spot for adventure enthusiasts interested in hiking and caving.

Maduru Oya National Park

Discover the hidden gem of Maduru Oya National Park, known for its unspoiled wilderness and rich biodiversity. Explore the park on a safari to see elephants, leopards, and a variety of bird species. The park also features ancient archaeological sites and stunning landscapes.

Rakwana's Suriyakanda

Travel to the scenic Suriyakanda area in Rakwana, which offers stunning views and cool climates. Visit the Sinharaja Forest Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy trekking through dense rainforest teeming with endemic wildlife and plant species.

Jathika Namal Uyana

Explore the Jathika Namal Uyana, a unique forest sanctuary known for its pink quartz mountain and extensive ironwood forest. It's considered one of the oldest pink quartz sites in the world and offers a tranquil environment for nature walks.

Our Recommendations

Meemure Village

Travel to the remote village of Meemure, nestled in the Knuckles Mountain Range. This secluded village is surrounded by lush forests, mountains, and waterfalls. It’s a perfect spot for hiking, camping, and experiencing traditional Sri Lankan village life.

Ritigala Monastery

Visit the ancient Ritigala Monastery, located in the Ritigala Strict Nature Reserve. The monastery ruins date back to the 1st century BCE and are surrounded by dense jungle, offering a serene and mysterious atmosphere.

Wewurukannala Vihara

Head to Dikwella to see the Wewurukannala Vihara, home to the largest seated Buddha statue in Sri Lanka, standing at 50 meters high. The temple complex also features intriguing dioramas depicting scenes from Buddhist teachings.

Kumana National Park

Explore Kumana National Park, an important bird sanctuary on the southeastern coast of Sri Lanka. The park is home to a diverse range of bird species, including migratory birds, and offers a quieter alternative to the more famous Yala National Park.

Cave Temples of Dambulla

While the main cave temples are well-known, take time to explore some of the lesser-visited caves in the area. These hidden caves offer stunning ancient frescoes, Buddha statues, and a peaceful ambiance away from the crowds.

Gampola Ambuluwaawa Tower

Climb the spiraling Ambuluwaawa Tower near Gampola for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The tower is part of a biodiversity complex and offers a unique architectural experience with breathtaking vistas.

Hummanaya Blowhole

Visit the Hummanaya Blowhole near Dickwella, the second-largest blowhole in the world. Witness the powerful spouts of seawater that can reach heights of up to 30 meters, especially during the monsoon season.

Buduruwagala

See the ancient Buduruwagala rock carvings near Wellawaya, featuring seven statues carved into a rock face, with the tallest standing at 16 meters. The site is serene and less frequented by tourists, offering a peaceful exploration of Sri Lankan history.

Scroll to Top