Sri Lanka is a country that is well worth visiting.
You will find a wealth of culture, natural beauty, and experiences that will stay with you for a lifetime – provided, of course, that you pick the right parts of the country.
But exactly where might those be found?
Let’s consider four of Sri Lanka’s best stops.
Four Must-Visit Stops on Your Sri Lanka Trip
Sigiriya
This amazing rock fortress can be found in the northern part of the Matale District, near Dambulla.
It towers over the surrounding forests, and on a clear day, you can see for miles. In short, it is a must-visit stop on your Sri Lanka tours.
Galle
Galle Fort is an enduring legacy left by Portuguese colonialists in the 16th century.
However, for much of the 17th and 18th centuries, it was an important outpost for the Dutch East India Company. You can see evidence of this unique combination of influences in the architecture. But there’s also an amazing design scene in this part of the country, which reflects the more modern sensibilities of the region.
Visit local boutique shops and studios while you are in the area.
Sinharaja Forest Reserve
A major part of Sri Lanka’s appeal stems from its incredible rainforest.
Among the best of them is the Sinharaja reserve, which provides a home to some of the country’s most incredible animal species, as well as hidden temples and other man-made wonders. You can tour this part of the country on a riverboat and spot a number of beautiful waterfalls – which are at their most active during the wet season. Make sure that you are wearing pale colours so that you can easily spot leeches.
If you want to really see everything that the forest has to offer, then you will need a guide – but be aware that this is a wild environment, and thus you will need a little bit of luck if you want to see certain more reclusive creatures.
Mirissa
For those who would prefer a beach holiday, Mirissa is a town that is difficult to beat.
You can spend time relaxing on dry land, or you can venture out onto the water to indulge in an hour or so of whale watching. The beach itself is often packed with tourists, especially during the height of summer. There are sun loungers, bars, and restaurants, and you could easily mistake it for a prime tourist spot in the Canary Islands.
For those who would like something a little quieter, there is the Secret Beach, which lies to one end of the main strip. Then there’s Weligama Beach, which might appeal more strongly to those looking to go surfing.
Your experience here will depend on the time of year you are visiting.
If you want the best combination of sparse crowds and favourable weather, then the ‘shoulder seasons’ might be preferable to the peak season.