19 best things to do in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is about the size of West Virginia, but there’s a lot going on for such a small country. You’ve got ancient ruins, colonial towns, surf beaches, and cool mountain air—all within a few hours of each other. It’s easy to move between landscapes without spending too much time in transit. Here are the best things to do in Sri Lanka.
 

1. Cricket

Cricket is a big part of life in Sri Lanka. You’ll see it everywhere—from schoolyards and village greens to beachfront games and packed stadiums. Watching a game is a great addition to any Sri Lanka itinerary.

If you're in Colombo, the R. Premadasa Stadium is where most of the big games take place. In Kandy, locals head to Pallekele Stadium.

These matches aren’t quiet affairs—the crowd’s loud, the drummers keep a steady beat, and it’s easy to get swept up in it even if you’re new to the sport.

Where to see cricket

If you're staying in Colombo or Kandy, it’s easy to get to matches by tuk-tuk or taxi. Hotels can usually help with arranging tickets too (see our guide to Sri Lanka accommodation). For international matches—especially games against teams like India or England—it’s best to book early, since they often fill up fast. 

When to visit for cricket

The domestic season runs from November to April, which lines up with the dry season on the west and south coasts. International matches happen throughout the year, but most of the bigger games fall between December and March. 

2. Adam’s Peak

Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada) is a 7,359-foot (2,243-meter) mountain with religious significance across several faiths. 

At the summit, there's a rock formation that Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims, and some Christians each view differently. Pilgrims have been climbing to the top for centuries, mostly to catch the sunrise. 

The hike starts in the middle of the night—around 2:00 AM—to make it in time for dawn. It's a steady climb up more than 5,000 steps, but the early morning views and the shared focus among climbers give it a quiet kind of energy. On clear days, you’ll see the mountain’s shadow stretching across the valley. This is by far one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka.

How to get to Adam’s Peak

The easiest access is through Dalhousie (Nallathanniya). You can take the train from Colombo to Hatton—usually around 4 to 5 hours—then grab a bus or taxi for the last stretch.

Dalhousie has plenty of guesthouses where people spend the night before starting the climb. There are also longer routes from Ratnapura or Kuruwita, which are less crowded but more remote and a bit tougher.

When to visit Adam’s Peak

Most people go between December and May, which is considered pilgrimage season. That’s when the weather is typically dry and the path is lit up at night. January and February tend to draw the biggest crowds, especially around full moon days (Poya). Learn more about Poya in our guide to how to plan a trip to Sri Lanka.

3. Galle

Galle Fort, on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, is an easy place to spend a slow afternoon and one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka. It’s a walled town built by the Portuguese and later reinforced by the Dutch in the 1600s. 

Today, Galle is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and still very much lived in. Inside the walls, you’ll find narrow streets lined with Dutch-era buildings, restored mansions, small museums, cafés, and shops selling handmade goods and textiles. There’s a mix of European and South Asian architecture here that gives the place a distinctive character.

How to get to Galle

The train from Colombo takes around 2.5 hours and follows the coast, with sea views for much of the ride. Express trains are more comfortable, but they can fill up quickly, so it’s worth booking ahead. Driving via the Southern Expressway is quicker—about 2 hours by car or taxi. Once you’re in Galle, the fort is easy to explore on foot. Everything inside the walls is within walking distance.

When to visit Galle

The dry season runs from December to April, which makes it a good time to walk around without worrying about rain. January through March tends to have the most comfortable weather. For more about the weather, see our guide to the best time to go to Sri Lanka. The Galle Literary Festival usually happens in January—it draws a mix of international and local writers and readers. 

4. Yala National Park

Yala, on the southeast coast, is the best-known national park in Sri Lanka. It’s especially popular with people hoping to see wildlife in a natural setting. The park is known for having a high concentration of leopards, but you’ll also likely see elephants, buffalo, crocodiles, and a wide variety of birds—over 200 species have been recorded here. 

The terrain shifts a lot throughout the park, from dry forest to open plains and wetlands. There are also a few ancient Buddhist ruins hidden within the park’s boundaries, which you can sometimes pass on a Sri Lanka safari drive.

How to get to Yala National Park

From Colombo, it’s about a 5–6 hour drive along the Southern Expressway. If you’re already in Galle or Mirissa, the journey is shorter—around 3 hours. 

Most people arrange a private driver or book a tour, since public transport doesn’t go directly to the park entrance. The nearest towns are Tissamaharama and Kataragama, both of which have places to stay and jeep safari operators. 

When to visit Yala National Park

The best time for seeing animals is during the dry season, roughly February through July, when Sri Lanka wildlife tends to gather around water. The park usually closes in September and October for maintenance. Safari drives happen twice a day—early morning (6:00–9:00 AM) and late afternoon (3:00–6:00 PM)—when the animals are most active. 

5. Rice and curry

In Sri Lanka, rice and curry is a daily staple and a big part of life. It usually starts with a big mound of rice, surrounded by anywhere from three to twelve different curries. 

You might get lentils, jackfruit, pumpkin, chicken, fish, or egg, depending on what’s in season and who’s cooking. Each one is cooked separately with a mix of spices like cinnamon, turmeric, pandan leaves, curry leaves, and coconut milk.

The flavors are spicy and balanced. Some curries are creamy, others are sour or slightly bitter, and when you mix everything together on your plate, it’s one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka. You’ll usually get sambols on the side too, like pol sambol (made from coconut) or something crunchy or fried.

How to experience rice and curry

For a real local experience, head to a kadé—a small, no-frills eatery where food is made fresh in the morning and served until it runs out. This is where you'll likely to find some of the best food in Sri Lanka. You’ll also find good home-style meals at guesthouses if you ask in advance. 

If you see rice and curry served on a banana leaf or in a clay pot, it usually means the place sticks to more traditional methods. Eating with your fingers is common and totally fine—it’s actually how most people do it. 

When to enjoy rice and curry

You’ll find rice and curry all over the island, all year. Lunch, usually between 12 and 2pm, is when the full spreads are served. During Sinhala and Tamil New Year in April, you’ll see special versions made with traditional ingredients. 

6. Birdwatching

Birdwatching is one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka. The country has around 433 recorded bird species, including 33 that don’t exist anywhere else. You don’t have to be deep in the jungle to see them, either. Even in more built-up areas, you’re likely to spot birds you’ve never seen before. The island’s mix of rainforest, wetlands, grassland, and coastal zones means you’ll get a wide variety of sightings in a short amount of time.

If you’re lucky, you might spot the colorful Sri Lanka Blue Magpie or hear the rare Serendib Scops Owl, which wasn’t officially identified until 2001. Even if you’re not trying, early mornings tend to be full of bird calls and activity.

How to go birdwatching

Hiring a local guide makes a big difference—they know what to look for and where. The main places for birdwatching include Sinharaja Rainforest, Bundala National Park, and Kumana Bird Sanctuary. Many eco-lodges near these areas are used to catering to birdwatchers and have early morning walks built in.

When to visit for birdwatching

A good Sri Lanka travel tip is that November through April is generally the best time, when migratory birds arrive from northern regions. December and January are especially active, with both migratory and endemic birds visible. 

Bundala’s wetlands are especially active during the northern winter, when large flocks of flamingos and wading birds show up. 

7. Kataragama

Kataragama is one of the most important religious sites in Sri Lanka, drawing pilgrims from multiple faiths—Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims, and the island’s indigenous Vedda community all come here to worship. At the heart of it is a lively temple complex dedicated to the Kataragama deity, surrounded by forest and set against a backdrop of jungle hills.

Kataragama has a different feel from the coastal towns—it’s more devotional and less touristy. While it’s not geared toward foreign visitors, that’s part of what makes it interesting. Dress modestly, be respectful, and you’ll find it a meaningful stop.

How to get to Kataragama

Kataragama is in the southeast of Sri Lanka, about 140 miles (228 km) from Colombo. By car or taxi, it takes around 6–7 hours, depending on traffic. If you're coming from the southern coast, you can take the train to Matara or Beliatta, then continue by bus or taxi. Many people include it as a stop when visiting Yala National Park or heading inland from the coast.

When to visit Kataragama

The best time to visit is during the Esala Perahera festival, held in July or August. It’s an intense experience: thousands of devotees walk for days to reach the site, and nightly processions include traditional dancers, fire-walkers, and drummers. 

Even outside festival season, there’s a steady rhythm of worship. Morning and evening pujas (prayer ceremonies) are open to all and give you a chance to witness daily rituals.

8. Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura was Sri Lanka’s first capital and remains one of its most culturally significant places. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s known for its vast ruins, sacred temples, and ancient irrigation systems. The city was at its height over 1,000 years ago, when it was home to tens of thousands of monks and a center for Buddhist learning.

Today, one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka is to walk past massive brick stupas (called dagobas), explore royal gardens and ancient bathing pools, and visit the Sri Maha Bodhi—said to be the oldest living tree documented in history, grown from a cutting of the original Bodhi tree in India. Pilgrims still gather under its branches every day.

How to get to Anuradhapura

The city is about 125 miles (200 km) northeast of Colombo. The train from Colombo Fort takes around 4–5 hours and goes through a lot of rural countryside. You can also take a direct bus from Colombo or hire a car with a driver if you want more flexibility. 

The scale of the site is impressive, and distances between the main points of interest can be long, so it’s a good idea to hire a bike or a tuk-tuk. Many locals still treat it as an active place of worship, so it’s worth dressing appropriately and observing local customs as you explore.

When to visit Anuradhapura

The dry season (May to September) is generally the best time to explore, especially if you're planning to cover a lot of ground. December to March is also pleasant, though it's usually busier with tourists. Avoid October and November if you can, as heavy rains can make it harder to get around.

9. Sigiriya rock fortress

Sigiriya is an ancient rock fortress rising about 660 feet (200 meters) above the flat landscape around it, and you can climb all the way to the top. It was built in the 5th century CE (around 477-495 AD) by King Kashyapa I, who chose this dramatic rock formation as the site for his royal citadel. 

The route takes you past landscaped gardens, enormous lion’s paws carved into stone, and frescoes tucked into the rock face. Once you're at the summit, you’ll find the foundations of a royal palace and wide views over the surrounding jungle and villages. It’s steep, and there are a lot of stairs, so be sure to pace yourself.

How to get to Sigiriya

Sigiriya is in the central part of the island and can be reached from Dambulla (about 30 minutes away by tuk-tuk or taxi). Dambulla itself is about 2.5–3 hours by car from Kandy or 4–5 hours from Colombo.

Buses also run regularly to Dambulla from both cities, but expect the journey to take a bit longer. If you're planning to stay overnight, there are guesthouses and small hotels in both Sigiriya village and nearby Habarana.

When to visit Sigiriya

The site is open year-round. The dry season from December to April brings clearer skies and slightly cooler mornings. Try to avoid weekends and public holidays if you want a quieter climb.

10. The Pettah

The Pettah is Colombo’s open-air market district, known for its narrow lanes and non-stop energy. Each street specializes in different goods—from textiles on Main Street to jewelry on Sea Street and spices on Keyzer Street. It’s the kind of place where you can buy just about anything—spices, sarongs, cheap electronics, plastic buckets, jewelry, and dried fish.

The sensory overload of colors, sounds, and aromas makes it an authentic Sri Lankan experience. This area has been a commercial center for centuries, and it still feels like the heartbeat of the city. It’s not polished or touristy, but it’s full of character. 

How to get to Pettah

Pettah is right next to Colombo Fort Railway Station, so it’s easy to reach by train. If you’re already in Colombo, you can get there by tuk-tuk or ride-hailing app. Walking from the Fort area is doable, but it’s best to avoid the hottest part of the day.

When to visit Pettah

Morning is the best time—try to get there between 7 and 9 AM, before it gets too hot and crowded. Most shops open by 9 AM and close around 7 PM. Sundays are quieter, and many shops close. Just before local festivals, the market gets especially lively. 

11. Whale and dolphin watching

Sri Lanka is one of the few places where you can see blue whales close to the coastline. Because the island sits along major migratory routes, it’s common to see more than 25 species of whales and dolphins here—including sperm whales, fin whales, and spinner dolphins that often leap alongside boats.

The two main places people go for whale watching are Mirissa (on the south coast) and Trincomalee (on the northeast coast). Boat tours usually leave early—around 6 or 7 AM—when the sea is calmer and visibility is better. Most tours last a few hours. You’ll want to go with a guide who follows responsible practices, as it’s better for the animals.

How to get to whale watching areas

To get to Mirissa from Colombo, it’s about 105 miles (170 km). The fastest way is by taxi on the Southern Expressway—takes around 2.5 hours. If you’re on a budget, there are air-conditioned buses from Maharagama. 

Trincomalee is farther—around 145 miles (233 km) from Colombo—but you can take an overnight train from Colombo Fort Station, which is a scenic ride. Once you arrive in either town, you’ll find tour operators around the harbors. 

When to visit for whale watching

In Mirissa, the best time for sightings is from November to April, with December through March being the most reliable stretch. In Trincomalee, the season runs from May to October, which lines up with the southwest monsoon. This can be a great activity if your going to Sri Lanka with kids.

12. Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa was once Sri Lanka’s capital during the medieval period, and today it’s home to one of the island’s most well-preserved ancient cities. The site is compact enough to see in a day, but there’s plenty to take in—from temple ruins and old palace walls to bathing pools and carved statues. The Gal Vihara statues are a highlight: four Buddhas cut directly into a granite cliff, still intact after more than 800 years.

The whole area has a relaxed pace, especially compared to other big historical sites. Forest and wildlife are part of the landscape too—you’ll probably see monkeys darting across the ruins and maybe even a few monitor lizards.

How to get to Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa is around 135 miles (220 km) northeast of Colombo. Most people include it in a Cultural Triangle trip with a private driver, but you can also get there by public bus from Colombo, Kandy, or Anuradhapura. Just be aware buses can be crowded and not always punctual. 

When to visit Polonnaruwa

The dry season from May to September is the most comfortable time to walk or cycle around, though December to March also sees good weather. Mornings (6–8 AM) or late afternoons (3–5 PM) are cooler and better for taking photos. The site usually closes around 6 PM, and you’ll want a full day to see everything properly. 

13. Bentota Beach

Going to Bentota Beach is one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka. It’s located where the river meets the sea, so you get both lagoon-like calm and open ocean in one place. The long, sandy beach is easygoing and usually safe for swimming. You’ll also find a few low-key activities here, like jet skiing, windsurfing, or heading out on a banana boat.

If you’re curious about wildlife, there are sea turtle hatcheries nearby where you can learn a bit about local conservation work. And if it’s too hot for the beach, the inland Brief Garden is worth a wander. It’s a garden estate designed by Bevis Bawa, full of winding paths and tropical plants—good for a shady afternoon.

How to get to Bentota

Bentota is about 38 miles (62 km) south of Colombo. The train from Colombo Fort takes around 2 hours and runs right along the coast, which makes for a scenic ride. If you're coming from the airport, expect a drive of about 2.5 hours. Air-conditioned buses leave from Colombo’s central terminal, or you can hire a driver if you want a direct ride. 

When to visit Bentota

December through April is the dry season, with more sunshine and calm seas—ideal if you’re planning to swim or try water activities. From May to November, the southwest monsoon brings more rain and the sea can get rough. January to March tends to be best if you’re hoping for reliable weather on the water.

14. Kandyan dancing and drumming

Kandyan dancing is one of the most recognizable traditions in Sri Lanka. It started in the ancient Kingdom of Kandy and has carried on through generations. The shows are made up of fast-paced drumming, strong, rhythmic movement, and highly detailed costumes with metalwork that catches the light. The dances tell stories—some rooted in folklore, others based on religious rituals or everyday village life.

At the end of many shows, there’s fire-walking, where dancers walk barefoot across burning embers. It’s not just for show—it’s part of a long-standing ritual that ties performance to devotion. 

How to see Kandyan dancing performances

Most performances take place in Kandy in the early evening. The Kandy Lake Cultural Centre is a reliable option, and you’ll also find shows at the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and other cultural venues around town. If you’re staying nearby, your hotel can probably arrange a tuk-tuk or shuttle (see our guide to Sri Lanka boutique hotels). Otherwise, just flag down a tuk-tuk—drivers in Kandy are used to taking visitors to shows.

If you’re curious to see how it all comes together behind the scenes, you can check out the Kandyan Dance Academy. They sometimes hold workshops and demos during the day.

When to visit for Kandyan dancing performances

You can see performances year-round. Most start between 5 and 6pm. Arriving 20 to 30 minutes early is a good idea—especially in the busy season—so you don’t end up stuck in the back row.

If you happen to be in Kandy during the Esala Perahera festival (usually July or August), the dancing spills out into the streets. Hundreds of performers take part in long processions with drummers, musicians, and elephants decorated in lights. Outside of festival time, weekday shows are usually quieter than weekends.
 

15. Ayurveda

Ayurveda is still part of everyday life in Sri Lanka. This traditional system of healing has been around for over 3,000 years and combines Indian Ayurvedic practices with local herbal knowledge that’s been passed down through generations. You’ll find everything from quick head massages to full programs that last a week or more.

It usually starts with a consultation to figure out your “dosha,” or body type. From there, treatments are tailored to your needs and might include warm herbal oil massages, steam baths, special diets, or plant-based tonics. Most ingredients—like gotukola, neem, or turmeric—are grown locally. Many places also include yoga or meditation sessions, especially if you’re staying for a longer program.

You can go just for a day or two if you’re curious, but for longer-term results, people usually stay for around 7–14 days.

How to get to Ayurvedic centers

There are Ayurvedic centers all over the country, but the biggest clusters are along the southwest coast and in the central highlands. Bentota, Beruwala, and Kandy are good starting points.

Some hotels have in-house therapists, but you’ll also find independent clinics—both modern and more traditional. If you're looking for certified places, check out ones like Siddhalepa, or ask around for well-known practitioners in the area. Pick your hotel well as you'll likely use it as a base for a week-long Sri Lanka itinerary.

When to visit Ayurvedic centers

Dry season runs from December to March, and that’s usually the best time to go, especially on the coast. Practitioners say the stable weather helps your body respond better to treatment. Some also recommend the monsoon season from May to September (in the southwest), since the humidity is thought to support detox treatments.
 

16. Arugam Bay

Arugam Bay, on Sri Lanka’s east coast, is best known as being one of the best places in Sri Lanka for surfing—but it’s not just for pros. The main surf break, called “Main Point,” draws experienced surfers from around the world, but there are also smaller breaks nearby that work well for beginners. Even if you’re not here to surf, the long, crescent-shaped beach and warm, clear water make it an easy place to relax.

The town still feels like a fishing village at heart, with boats pulled up on the sand and fresh seafood served in beachside cafés. You’ll also find yoga classes, casual bars, and trips out to nearby Kumana National Park, where you might see elephants and birds. 

How to get to Arugam Bay

It takes about 7–8 hours to get here from Colombo by car. Most people go via the southern highway to Hambantota, then continue east through Tissamaharama and Pottuvil. You can hire a private driver or break it up with public buses and a tuk-tuk for the final stretch. There are also domestic flights from Colombo to Batticaloa, followed by a 2-hour drive to the coast.

When to visit Arugam Bay

Surf season runs from April to October, with July and August usually seeing the most consistent waves and best wind conditions. These months can get a bit busier, but it’s still pretty relaxed compared to other parts of the country. 

17. Dambulla

Dambulla is known for its cave temple complex carved into the side of a huge rock. It’s been a place of worship for more than 2,000 years. Inside the five main caves, you’ll find over 150 Buddha statues, detailed murals covering the ceilings, and centuries of artwork layered one on top of the other. Some sections feel grand, while others are quiet and simple.

The view from the temple entrance is worth the short hike—you can see green plains stretching out below and Sigiriya in the distance on a clear day. At the bottom of the hill, there’s a market selling fruit, vegetables, and spices. It’s worth a quick stop if you’re interested in local food.

How to get to Dambulla

Dambulla is in the middle of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, about 45 miles (72 km) from Kandy and 92 miles (148 km) from Colombo. Buses run regularly from both cities, or you can hire a car and driver for more flexibility. Tuk-tuks are available for shorter distances.

A lot of people visit Dambulla on the same day as Sigiriya or Polonnaruwa or use it as a base to explore the area more slowly.

When to visit Dambulla

The site is open all year, but it’s easier to do the climb during the dry season, between December and April. If you can, go early—between 7 and 9am—before it gets hot and crowded. On weekends and Buddhist holidays, it gets busy with local pilgrims, so weekdays are usually better.

18. Mirissa

Mirissa is a relaxed Sri Lanka beach town on the south coast where it’s easy to spend a few days doing as much or as little as you like. The beach curves along a sheltered bay lined with palm trees and beachfront cafés. If you're around between November and April, it's a good time for whale watching—blue whales and dolphins are often seen not far from the shore.

You’ll find a mix of quiet and lively here. The western end of the beach is calmer and less developed, while the main section has casual restaurants where you can sit right on the sand and eat grilled fish as the sun goes down. It’s a simple, easygoing place—good for swimming, lounging, or heading out on the water for a few hours.

How to get to Mirissa

From Colombo, the quickest way is to drive the Southern Expressway to Matara, which takes about 2.5 hours (roughly 100 miles / 160 km), then continue another 15 minutes west to Mirissa. If you're taking the train, get off at Weligama and grab a tuk-tuk for the last few miles. There are also regular buses to Matara from cities like Galle and Colombo—once there, it’s easy to hop on a local bus or tuk-tuk. 

When to visit Mirissa

Whale watching is at its best from January to March. Surf conditions tend to suit beginners during this season too. From May to October, expect more rain and rougher seas due to the southwest monsoon. 

19. Kandy

Kandy is a hill-country city with a slightly slower pace and strong cultural roots. It’s known for the Temple of the Sacred Tooth, which holds a relic believed to be one of the Buddha’s teeth. 

The temple complex is always active with ceremonies, especially during full moons. You don’t need to be religious to find it interesting—there’s a calm rhythm to the place, and the surrounding gardens and lakeside paths are good for wandering.

Beyond the temple, Kandy is home to botanical gardens, local markets, and cultural shows with traditional dance and drumming. It’s also a jumping-off point for train travel through the tea-growing region—one of the most scenic routes in the country. Explore Sri Lankan tea tradition with our guide to tea tourism in Sri Lanka.

How to get to Kandy

Kandy is about 2.5–3 hours by train or car from Colombo. The train ride is slower than driving but more scenic, especially if you can get a seat on the right side of the carriage heading in. Trains tend to fill up fast, so book early if you can.

When to visit Kandy

Weather is fairly mild year-round thanks to the elevation, but December to April is generally drier. If you’re in town in July or August, the Esala Perahera festival is a big deal, with processions, drummers, and dancers, though it does bring crowds. If you're just passing through, a couple of days is usually enough to take in the main sights and get a feel for the place.