Are you searching for places to visit in Sri Lanka? The destinations include temples and shrines. You can admire statues. Click here for the details. Read now.
Places to Visit in Sri Lanka for Family Trip Adventure: My Top 15 Picks
The places to visit in Sri Lanka offer a rich historical experience for travelers. Therefore, plan your vacation to the island. You will discover ancient ruins and sacred temples. Also, you can visit forts. Additionally, you will learn about culture and history. So, explore the remarkable places soon.
Sri Lanka earned more than US$ 3.17 billion in 2024 from tourism. Originally, tourists look forward to visiting shrines. Temples in addition to other ancient monuments are also popular. Here are our top picks.
Spiritual Places to Visit in Sri Lanka
1. Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Initially, you can start the journey at Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Also, it offers iconic landmarks and historical significance. Additionally, you learn about King Kashyapa’s reign here. Furthermore, Sigiriya combines ancient architecture with green pastures. In gist, the site is a must-visit. The fortress is one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka for tourists.
- Location: Sigiriya, Central Province, Sri Lanka
- Open hours: 9 AM – 11 PM
- Phone number: +94 11 242 1052
- Google Rating: 4.7 out of 5
- Transportation Mode: The tourist can use buses and private taxis from Dambulla
- Amenities for tourists: the fort has cafeterias. Secondly, the tourist can enjoy local guides, and parking.
2. Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
There are many things to see in Sri Lanka! Secondly, you can visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Presently, the sacred site holds Buddha’s tooth relic. Moreover, it is an active place of worship and cultural hub. Furthermore, you can witness daily rituals and spiritual ceremonies. It is an essential stop for cultural enthusiasts.
- Location: Kandy, Central Province, Sri Lanka
- Open hours: 5:30 AM – 8:00 PM
- Phone number: +94 812 234 226
- Google Rating: 4.6 out of 5
- Transportation Mode: Tourists hire Local buses and tuk-tuks from Kandy city
- Amenities for tourists: Initially, you enter through a cloakroom. Temple offers a cultural museum and, also, guides.
3. Anuradhapura Sacred City
One of the best things to do in Sri Lanka is to explore Anuradhapura Sacred City. You will take a step back in time immediately. In gist, the ancient city offers stupas, monasteries, and, also, ruins. Moreover, it was Sri Lanka’s first kingdom. Furthermore, you can see the historic Sri Maha Bodhi tree here.
- Location: Anuradhapura, North Central Province, Sri Lanka
- Open hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Phone number: +94 71 441
- Google Rating: 4.8 out of 5
- Transportation Mode: You can take a train or bus from Colombo
- Amenities for tourists: locals offer cafes and guides. In addition, tourists benefit from shaded walkways and parking.
4. Polonnaruwa Vatadage
Vatadage was initially built during the Kingdom of Polonnaruwa. However, recent discoveries suggest the monument leads back to the Parakramabahu reign. Primarily, the worshippers built the temple to protect two stones with delicate carvings. In other words, Vatadage is a small stupa with immense historical value.
- Location: Polonnaruwa, North Central Province, Sri Lanka
- Open hours: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Phone number: +94 112 692 840
- Google Rating: 4.7 out of 5
- Transportation Mode: You will need to hire a bus and private taxi from Habarana.
- Amenities for tourists: Tourists enjoy bicycle rentals, expert guides, and, also, shaded areas.
5. Dambulla Cave Temple
Subsequently, you visit the Dambulla Cave Temple. It features ancient cave paintings and statues. Moreover, it is a sacred Buddhist site in Sri Lanka. It is one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka because of its vibrant murals. Also, the visitors enjoy a serene atmosphere. Lastly, the temple is a glimpse into the country’s spiritual heritage.
- Location: Kandy, Jaffna Highway, Dambulla, Sri Lanka
- Open hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Phone number: +94 662 283 605
- Google Rating: 4.6 out of 5
- Transportation Mode: Visitors take Buses and tuk-tuks from Dambulla town
- Amenities for tourists: the temple is wheelchair accessible. Tourists enjoy the tours and knowledgeable guides.
6. Galle Fort
Subsequently, you can visit the Galle Fort. The Portuguese built the fort in 1588. However, the Dutch improved the defenses in 1649. Moreover, the Fort survived the Siege of Galle in 1640. The fort is made of granite stones primarily. Furthermore, the fort offers amazing Bay of Bengal views.
- Location: Galle 8000, Southern Province, Sri Lanka
- Open hours: Open 24 hours
- Phone number: +94 11 242 1052
- Google Rating: 4.7 out of 5
- Transportation Mode: Foot traffic prefers buses from Colombo. However, taking a train is also an option.
- Amenities for tourists: Foremost, you can relax at the Secret Garden. The fort has temples for worshipping.
7. Ruwanwelisaya Stupa
The list of the best historical places to visit in Sri Lanka continues. King Dutugemunu founded Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, a spiritual monument in Anuradhapura. Also, he was also the architect. However, the king did not open the stupa for the public until 140 BC. It offers a serene environment in addition to a relics collection.
- Location: Ruwanwelisaya Temple, Abhayawewa Rd, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
- Open hours: 5:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Phone number: +94 252 222 120
- Google Rating: 4.9 out of 5
- Transportation Mode: Tourists take tuk-tuks or buses within Anuradhapura
- Amenities for tourists: The stupa offers prayer areas, parking, and, also, shaded seating
8. Jethawanaramaya Monastery
Furthermore, you can visit Jethawanaramaya for a spiritual awakening. The monastery showcases ancient craftsmanship. In addition, it features stupas, ruins, and cultural insights.
- Location: Jethawanaramaya Buddhist Monastery, 356/3 Nugadanda,
Kalatuwawa, Ratnapura. - Open hours: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM. However, timings vary.
- Phone number: +94 777 770 129
- Google Rating: 4.8 out of 5
- Transportation Mode: You can reach the monastery using a local bus or tuk-tuk.
- Amenities for tourists: The management offers information boards, guides, and, also, spiritual consultations.
9. Nalanda Gedige
Nalanda Gedige is a fusion of Hindu and Buddhist architecture. The worshippers constructed the temple between 8th and 10th century. Therefore, the unique structure interests the visitors. Primarily, the stone temple was home to Buddhists. In short, the Sri Lankan artistry complements serene surroundings.
Link: https://www.pexels.com/photo/monk-holding-prayer-beads-across-mountain-2730217/
- Location: Gedige Rd, Nalanda, Matale District, Sri Lanka
- Open hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Phone number: +94 66 223 4567
- Google Rating: 4.6 out of 5
- Transportation Mode: Private taxis or buses are available from Matale
- Amenities for tourists: The temple offers a place for worshipping and resting in addition to meditating.
10. Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
A sacred tree is one of the most curious places to visit in Sri Lanka. Primarily, The Buddhists planted the bo tree in 236 BC. However, presently, Buddhists visit and pay respect to the tree every year. In addition, the tree welcomes pilgrims from remote regions. Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi represents devotion.
- Location: Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
- Open hours: 6:15 AM – 9:00 PM
- Phone number: +94 252 222 367
- Google Rating: 4.9 out of 5
- Transportation Mode: Unfortunately, only tuk-tuks are available from Anuradhapura
- Amenities for tourists: the visitors can tie wishes to the surrounding golden fence. Also, relax at the water canals.
11. Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara
Now, let’s learn about Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara. It is a famous Buddhist temple for its stunning murals. Moreover, the temple is a significant spiritual site. However, art lovers visit the temple to admire Solias Mendies’ paintings. Also, the art educates the tourists about Buddhism history.
- Location: Peliyagoda, Sri Lanka
- Open hours: Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- Phone number: +94 112 911 505
- Google Rating: 4.8 out of 5
- Transportation Mode: Visitors take buses or tuk-tuks from Colombo
- Amenities for tourists: Prayer areas are serene. Also, the guides are knowledgeable.
12. Kataragama Temple
The tour of places to visit in Sri Lanka continues! Kataragama Temple is a multi-religious pilgrimage site. In other words, it is sacred to Buddhists, Hindus, and devotees. Moreover, the temple hosts unique rituals and vibrant festivals. Also, the shrine celebrates Lord Murugan and Sinhalm deities. The temple was completed between 11th to 15th century.
- Location: Kataragama, Uva Province, 91400, Sri Lanka
- Open hours: 4: 30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Phone number: +94 472 235 122
- Google Rating: 4.8 out of 5
- Transportation Mode: Buses from Tissamaharama or private taxis for families
- Amenities for tourists: Prayer areas and local shops create a welcoming environment.
13. Dutch Fort, Jaffna
Subsequently, you can visit the Dutch Fort in Jaffna for colonial history. The fort reveals stories of European influence in Sri Lanka. Moreover, its location offers stunning coastal views. However, the government has partially restored the fortress that the colonizers built in the 1600s. As a result, they preserved the architecture perfectly.
- Location: Jaffna, Northern Province, Sri Lanka
- Open hours: 7 AM: 6 PM
- Phone number: +94 21 222 5678
- Google Rating: 4.4 out of 5
- Transportation Mode: You can take Buses or private vehicles from Jaffna city
- Amenities for tourists: the tourists enjoy water views in addition to the sunset skyline.
14. Isurumuniya Temple
The discussion of places to visit in Sri Lanka is incomplete without the Isurumuniya Temple. However, tourists are interested in the Isurumuniya Lovers, Elegant Pond, and The Royal Family carvings. In short, it is a peaceful site near Anuradhapura.
- Location: Anuradhapura, North Central Province, Sri Lanka
- Open hours: 7:30 AM – 6:30 PM
- Phone number: +94 71 777 7115
- Google Rating: 4.5 out of 5
- Transportation Mode: You can take tuk-tuks. However, locals prefer buses from Anuradhapura
- Amenities for tourists: The visitors appreciate the guides and shaded areas.
14. Ritigala Strict Natural Reserve
Finally, Ritigala Monastery is a hidden gem in Sri Lanka. The ancient site blends history with natural beauty. You can explore the library and pathways where monks once walked. In addition, the reserve is home to historic artifacts. Surprisingly, the toilets monks used are part of the tour. Does that pique your interest?
- Location: Palugaswewa, Sri Lanka
- Open hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. However, it is closed on Mondays.
- Phone number: +94 112 421 151
- Google Rating: 4.7 out of 5
- Transportation Mode: You can reach the entrance via private taxis or buses from Habarana
- Amenities for tourists: The destination offers private tours. In addition, you can hike and do yoga.
15. Gal Vihara
The tour of places to visit in Sri Lanka concludes! Gal Vihara is a stunning rock temple in Polonnaruwa. Furthermore, King Parakramabahu I supervised the project in the 12th century. Initially, upon entering the site, you can admire Budda statues standing and mediating. Additionally, it features exquisite Buddha statues carved from granite. The images are quite beautiful.
- Location: Nissankamallapura, Polonnaruwa, North Central Province, Sri Lanka
- Open hours: Open 24 hours a day
- Phone number: +94 272 222 235
- Google Rating: 4.8 out of 5
- Transportation Mode: Tourists take Buses. However, private vehicles from Polonnaruwa town are popular among families.
- Amenities for tourists: Gal Vihara is ideal for picture taking, meditation, and spiritual growth.
Contact Touring Diary for places to visit in Sri Lanka
Plan your trip to Sri Lanka for a cultural adventure. Foremost, you can explore the historical places to visit in Sri Lanka to learn about culture and religion. Also, each site offers unique experiences for travelers. Start your journey today at Touring Diary Adventure. Email info@touringdiaryadventure.com to learn more about the best things to do in Sri Lanka.