7 best cities to visit in Sri Lanka

By / April 27, 2024

Great ideas “are born while walking,” as Friedrich Nietzsche put it. And he was likely correct. A walking tour is an excellent way to see a city while learning about its history, architecture, and other interesting elements. Sri Lanka offers a large number of cities that are suitable for enjoyable walking activities, including city tours, hiking tours, and trekking adventures. Walking tours have grown in popularity among tourists in recent years, and they continue to be among the top must-do activities for holidaymakers. In this blog post, we highlight the 7 best cities to visit in Sri Lanka and take a walking tour.

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7 Best cities to visit in Sri Lanka

Great ideas “are born while walking,” as Friedrich Nietzsche put it. And he was likely correct. A walking tour is an excellent way to see a city while learning about its history, architecture, and other interesting elements. Sri Lanka offers a large number of cities that are suitable for enjoyable walking activities, including city tours, hiking tours, and trekking adventures. Walking tours have grown in popularity among tourists in recent years, and they continue to be among the top must-do activities for holidaymakers. In this blog post, we highlight the 7 best cities to visit in Sri Lanka and take a walking tour.

When you book a walking tour, you can choose the specific destinations you want to visit on foot. Being free of a wind-powered vehicle helps you connect more with the environment. If you, like most tourists, enjoy strolling around cities, the seven Sri Lanka city excursions described below are excellent possibilities.

Walking through the streets of Sri Lanka will not only soothe you, but will also provide you with a peek of the subcontinent’s natural beauty. This book will take you on a tour of some of Sri Lanka’s most popular walking tour locations, which number in the tens of thousands.

What are the 7 best cities to visit in Sri Lanka?

  • Colobmo
  • Kandy
  • Galle City
  • Nuwara Eliya
  • Anuradhapura
  • Polonnaruwa
  • Trincomalee

Colombo

Colombo is one of the 7 Best cities to visit in Sri Lanka. Taking advantage of the Free Walking Tour of Colombo is a fantastic opportunity to experience the city without breaking the bank. Learn more about the history of Colombo, the city, and old temples like Gangarama. In recent times, the city has grown into one of Sri Lanka’s most vibrant and fascinating metropolises, bustling with people and a dizzying diversity of sights, sounds, and smells. The city tour of Colombo is a popular tourist activity and is included in most Sri Lanka vacation packages.

7 Best tourist attractions to visit in Colombo

  • Gangarama temple
  • Pettah
  • Viharamahadevi Park
  • Cinnamon garden
  • Galle Face green
  • Independent memorial square
  • BMICH
  • Hindu temple
  • National Museum
  • Beira lake

Colombo city tour in a nutshell

Following breakfast at your accommodation, take a city tour of Sri Lanka’s capital. Explore the city’s stunning parks, monuments, museums, historic temples, and superb shopping options.

The National Museum, Sri Lanka’s greatest museum, was established in 1877 and exhibits rare treasures from the island’s colonial and ancient times, such as carvings, swords, weapons, masks, and statues.

The Gangaramaya, one of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful and well-known Buddhist temples, should be visited. The main sanctorum features stunning artworks carved onto the corridors and entrances. The walls and ceilings are adorned with tiny murals illustrating Buddhist narratives.

Beira Lake is conveniently placed near the famed Gangaramaya temple, so you can take a duck paddle boat ride if you choose. Alternatively, you might take a little break and shop at the mall beside the lake. However, you must view the tranquil Seema Malaka Temple, which is located right in the middle of the lake.

Following that, you’ll take a picturesque drive to the Colombo Fort neighborhood, which boasts some exquisite colonial-era buildings. Lloyd’s building, St. Peter’s cathedral, the old parliament, the clock tower, and the Galle Buck lighthouse are among the area’s most well-known landmarks.

Enjoy a leisurely Sri Lankan buffet lunch.

Independence Square, one of the nicest places to relax in Colombo, is an iconic structure that you will visit after lunch. In addition to the memorial hall, there is a memorial museum and a huge, lush park outside that gives plenty of shade.

The next stop is Viharamahadevi Park, Colombo’s largest and nicest park; if you didn’t have time to relax at Independence Square Park, you may now do so under the shade of these magnificent trees. Families with young children can enjoy a variety of activities, including the aquarium, children’s play area, war monument, lake, and suspension bridge.

After that, we’ll take you to a well-known Colombo department shop, like Cotton Collection or Odel, for some classic retail therapy.

Later in the evening, head to the Galle Face Green, which is located in the heart of the bustling Galle Road, which runs parallel to the ocean. Enjoy some classic Colombo street cuisine, such as isso wade and kottu, while socializing with friendly locals and watching groups of kids play cricket and fly kites. Galle Face Green is a popular site in Colombo because of its spectacular sunsets, relaxing environment, and availability of fresh air.

You can return to your hotel after the day is done, full of stories and experiences to share.

Kandy

Kandy, the hill country capital, ranks among the 7 Best cities to visit in Sri Lanka. Kandy City Tour is one of the most popular city excursions in Sri Lanka. Because of its popularity, the Kandy city tour is included in most Sri Lanka vacation packages, alongside other city excursions in Sri Lanka. To begin your day excursion, you will visit the Kandy vantage point. From here, drive up a hill near Kandy Lake to get spectacular views of the lake and the town below.

  • Temple of the tooth relic
  • Peradeniya botanical garden
  • Kandy Lake
  • Upper Lake
  • Lakatilaka, Embekke, and Gadaladeniya temple
  • Udawattakele sanctuary
  • Tea gardens
  • Spice/Herbal gardens
  • Pinnawala Elephant orphanage
  • Tea Museum

The last monarch of Kandy

Sri Wickrama Rajasingha, the last monarch of Kandy, artificially constructed the lake known as Kandy Lake. Locals and visitors alike enjoy strolling about the lake and taking boat rides over it.
Take a stroll around Peradeniya’s botanical gardens, which are home to over 4,000 plant species, including numerous varieties of palm trees, medicinal plants, and orchids. There are numerous photo opportunities throughout the gardens, allowing you to catch the various types of flowers.

A magnificent view of Kandy Tea Factory.

Visit a Kandy tea factory to observe the leaves converted into the world-famous Ceylon tea. Tea is now a major export product, thanks to the British, who converted the majority of the country’s land into plantations.

Following lunch, you will be guided on a city tour of Kandy, which will include a visit to the gem museum and shopping. Kandy is constantly buzzing with people going about their daily business. This market sells a wide variety of items, including herbs, spices, and tea. There are several souvenirs available for purchase, including wooden carvings, batiks, and apparel.

Gem museum

Moving on to the next thing, jewels. Sri Lanka is known as the “Isle of Gems,” and Kandy is a prominent city in the country with a large range of jewels for sale. There is an amazing selection of perfectly cut and polished stones. Ruby, Star Ruby, Alexandrite, and Sapphire are just a few of the popular gems available.

Temple of Tooth Relic

As the sun sets, make your way to the Temple of Tooth, a popular and must-see location for Buddhists around the country. The priceless tooth relic of Lord Buddha resides here, in a golden coffin, making it the holiest location in Buddhism. It is housed within the Royal Palace Complex, which is itself a spectacular monument. Light oil lamps and set a tray of flowers on the altar while you pray with hundreds of devotees, taking in the temple’s calm, incense aroma, and chanting noises.
The cultural event will conclude with a performance of traditional Kandyan dancing, which reflects Sri Lanka’s rich history and culture. This is the country’s official dance, and it’s breathtaking.
You should return to your hotel after an unforgettable day.

Galle

Galle is the capital of southern Sri Lanka and it is one of the 7 Best cities to visit in Sri Lanka. Galle is one of the most popular destinations for city excursions in Sri Lanka. The Galle city tour provides access to a variety of activities and places. Your Galle city trip begins at 7:00 a.m. in Colombo and continues to the south coast of Sri Lanka. You will stop several times along the way.

Glle is a city on Sri Lanka’s southwestern coast with a rich cultural heritage, stunning surroundings, and a fascinating history. Galle is a wonderful spot to spend the day because of its fascinating museums, stunning beaches, and colonial-era architecture.

Best places to visit in Galle

  • Galle Fort
  • Sea turtle conservation project
  • Spice/Herbal garden
  • Japanese peace pagoda
  • Martin Wikramasinghe museum
  • Unawatuna beach
  • Stilt fishermen, Ahangama

Galle Fort

The Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases a wealth of history that began in the 16th century, making it an important tourist destination. The fort houses various colonial-era structures, including a lighthouse, museums, and stores. Another important monument is the Dutch Reformed Church, which has a unique blend of colonial and indigenous architectural elements.

Galle Maritime Museum

The marine museum, located within the fort, is a fascinating trip for anybody interested in marine history. Sri Lankan boat-building techniques and marine traditions can be discovered here. You should also visit the Galle Lighthouse if you want to see a beautiful view of the coastline.

Unawatuna Beach

Unawatuna Beach, located outside the fort, beckons with its soft white sand and crystal-clear seas. Enjoy water sports, swimming, and sunbathing for a stress-free afternoon. Furthermore, the lovely Koggala Lake is an excellent boating destination because it is home to crocodiles, monkeys, birds, and other wildlife.

Along with these must-sees, Galle offers a vibrant market scene, wonderful local cuisine, and stunning colonial-era architecture that are ideal for a promenade. Galle is an excellent vacation destination that will capture you with its rich history and stunning scenery.

Nuwara eliya

This picturesque hill country city lies 1800 meters above sea level and therefore, it has a very unique climate as well as a beautiful surrounding with vibrant, colorful trees and plants. Nuwara Eliya is one of the 7 best cities to visit in Sri Lanka and attracts a large number of tourists every day.

Best places to visit in Nuwara Eliya

  • Gregory Lake
  • Sita amman temple
  • Victoria park
  • Nuwara Eliya post office
  • Down town, Nuwara Eliya
  • Tea factory and garden
  • Strawberry farm

Nuwara Eliya city tour in brief

Following breakfast, your city tour will commence with a trip to Nuwara Eliya in the morning. Before entering town,

The Goldf Club in Nuwaraeliya and its surroundings.

You will have the opportunity to view the famed Nuwara Eliya Golf Club, one of Asia’s oldest golf clubs, from the outside. Once you get in town, you will see one of Sri Lanka’s oldest post offices. This is a classic Tudor-style colonial structure, with an especially beautiful red brick façade. Following that, you’ll see more traditional colonial architecture that highlight the British influence during their colonialism period. These structures include the HNB Bank, the Nuwara Eliya Police Station, St. Xavier’s Church, and the magnificent hotel, a well-known colonial masterpiece with wonderfully landscaped gardens.
The next stop is Victoria Park, a magnificent park devoted to Queen Victoria. Spend some time meandering through the park, taking in the sights, sounds, and fragrances of the lush grass and trees. Following that, we’ll visit the Nuwara Eliya Race Course, another British-era colonial beauty. This is Sri Lanka’s only horse racing track, and it is well-known for its annual festivities in April, which are similar to the Ascot Races.

Lake gregory

Next, you’ll explore Lake Gregory, a man-made wonder from the Colonial era. It was originally intended for power generation but has now become a popular tourist and local site. Magnificent mountains can be seen in the distance, framing this beautiful lake. You will have plenty of time to enjoy the on-site activities. Examples include paddle boats and other water sports.

Sita Aamman Temple and Haggala Botanical Garden

Following lunch, we plan to visit the Sita Amman Temple and the Hakgala Botanical Gardens. These two locations comprise the historic “Ashoka Vatika”. The Sita Amman Temple, dedicated to Sitadevi, Lord Rama’s wife, is located alongside the Hakgala Botanical Gardens, Sri Lanka’s second-largest. It consists of beautiful gardens with numerous flower beds, including roses and orchids.

Strawberry farm

On your journey back to the city, you’ll stop at a strawberry farm. Try some of our most popular desserts, including strawberry cheesecake, waffles, and strawberries with cream. When you return to the city in the evening, you will be brought to the Bale Bazaar, a popular local flea market noted for its affordable winter apparel.

Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is one of the best cities to visit in Sri Lanka because it showcases the rich historicla past of Sri Lanka. The majoirity of tourist atractions in Anuradhaoura are direcetly invlolve with Buddhism and Sri Lanak Kings. Visiting Anuradhapura is the best method to discover Sri Lanka’s most historical city. It is one of the most popular city tours in Sri Lanka since it allows visitors to view the surrounding temples in Anuradjaopura. A full-day excursion departing from your location will focus on Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s historic city. Upon your early morning arrival in Anuradhapura, your first stop will be the sacred bo tree.

Places to visit in Anuradhapura

  • Sri Maha Bodhi
  • Ruwanweli Stupa
  • Lovamahapaya
  • Thuparama Stupa
  • Museum
  • Jetawanarama Dagoba
  • Twin pond
  • Samadhi Buddha Statue
  • Tisa wewa
  • Abhayagiri monastery
  • Mirisawetiya stupa
  • Isurumuniya temple
  • Mihintale
  • Aukana Buddha

Sri Maha Bodhi/the Sacred Bo Tree

Sanghamitta, Emperor Ashoka’s daughter, brought a seedling from India known as the Sacred Bo Tree, also known as Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, from which Buddha attained enlightenment from the Bodhi Tree’s main stem. After receiving this seedling, King Devanampia Tissa placed it in a traditional manner.

The next visit is to King Dutugemunu’s Lovamahapaya, commonly known as the Brazen Palace. Stone pillars support this majestic nine-story structure. This edifice was nicknamed the “Brazen Palace” because of its copper or bronze roof. This palace was created to house 1,000 monks and their attendants, providing them with a place to stay as well as medical care for those injured.

Ruwanweli dagoba

After that, you’ll travel to Sri Lanka to witness the oldest stupa, Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba. The Ruwanwelisaya is a symbol of Sri Lanka’s great architectural heritage. In 140 BC, the triumphant King Dutugemunu built Ruwanwelisaya, commonly known as the Great Stupa. This stupa stands as a tribute to his audacious initiative and the exceptional service it served in revitalizing Buddhism in the nation.

The Tissa Wewa

Following that, you’ll visit Tissa Wewa, an artificial reservoir built in the third century BC by King Devanampiya Tissa to supplement Anuradhapura’s water supply and nourish the king’s palace gardens. A network of irrigation canals was then built and connected to this reservoir.

Mirisawetiya stupa

You will be brought to the first of King Dutugemunu’s monuments, Miriswatiya Dagoba. Following his sanctification, on the seventh day of the Tissa Wewa water festival, an elaborate sword bearing a sacred relic of Buddha was laid on the beach. They built this dagoba on top of the king’s sword because he couldn’t draw it after returning from his bath at the reservoir, despite their repeated attempts. They interpreted this as the sign of a miracle.

The Thuparama Temple

The Thuparama Temple is the next stop. It is the oldest stupa in Sri Lanka, having been built shortly after Buddhism arrived. King Devanampiya Tissa built it. The Thuparama is one of the island’s and possibly the world’s smallest stupas. Buddhists say it contains Lord Buddha’s right collarbone relic, which Mahinda, the son of King Ashoka of India, brought to Sri Lanka.

Abhayagiri monastery

Following that, you will be brought to the world-renowned Moonstone, which is housed at the Abayagiri Monastery and sits atop the main stairway in the main structure. In terms of 7th and 8th century antiques, this moonstone is one of the finest and best-preserved. The guardstone can then be seen. Before South Indian invaders destroyed the Abhayagiriyi monastery, the Rathna Prasada was on top of it. The numerous kings who have come before him have lovingly carved a guardstone showing a god king holding a vase of flowers as a symbol of wealth and protected by a Naga Gala, a five-headed serpent.

Vattagamini Abhaya, a Sinhalese king, built the Abhayagiri Monastery Complex, the largest monastery complex in the Anuradhapura Kingdom. After that, you’ll enter the complex. This complex includes Abhayagiri Stupa, the major stupa built over Lord Buddha’s imprint. There is also a branch of the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree. The stupa’s original height was 370 feet, making it the island’s second tallest structure. The new museum at Abhayagiri Monastery was dedicated to Fa-hsien with the goal of preserving and displaying artifacts discovered during excavations. These items featured gold jewelry studded with diamonds and crystals. The goal of this museum is to house all of the items and relics discovered during archaeological excavation.

Samadhi Buddha statue

Following a tour of the complex, the next visit is the Samadhi Buddha Statue, a masterwork of Sinhalese sculpture and art. The 2-meter-tall granite sculpture stands watch atop the Bodhi tree, facing the four cardinal directions. It is sculpted in the meditative pose known as Samadhi, which is associated with the Buddha’s early enlightenment.

Jetawanarama stupa

After that, you’ll come to the Jetavaranama Stupa and monastery. Constructed in the third century, this magnificent building was once the world’s largest brick structure and the third largest of its kind. This gigantic bulbous stupa, made of almost 90 million bricks, evokes feelings of tranquility and introspection, as well as a sense of historical significance. The building’s sheer size displays the period’s achievement and resolve, making it a must-see destination. The remains of a monastery that originally housed three thousand monks encircle it.

The Kuttam Pokuna

This insists that Kuttam Pokuna, commonly known as the “Twin Ponds,” will follow. It is an architectural environment that was originally built in the eighth century as a swimming pool with terraces for monks.
Your lunch will be provided about 12:30 p.m.

The Isurumuniya Temple

Following lunch, the day excursion will include a visit to Isurumuniya Viharaya. The Isurumuniya Viharaya is a stunning temple that is partially housed in a cave and capped with a rock. Detail carvings of elephants may be found near the base of the cliff, on a rock that appears to emerge from a gorgeous pond. The world-famous “Isurumuniya Lovers” sculpture, which was originally set on a granite slab but is now housed in the Archaeological Museum, is among the temple’s exquisite sculptures. Towards the end of the city tour, you will see Mihintale and the Aukana Buddha statue.

The Mihintale

Mihintale is a must-see pilgrimage site for Buddhists all around the world because it is where Buddhism originated. In addition to pilgrims, tourists flock to this location to climb the hill and visit the monastic community’s numerous holy sites. One of these shrines, a spectacular 40-foot stupa, was built in the first century BC, emphasizing the site’s importance.

Aukana Buddha Statue

The Aukana Buddha Statue is one of Sri Lanka’s tallest standing Buddha statues, and it commands respect in historical records. The magnificent sculpting of the Buddha statue, standing 42 feet tall, is a monument to the craftsmen’ artistry and talent. At the end of the tour in the evening, you will be returned to your hotel.

Polonnaruwa

The 2nd most ancient city of Polonnaruwa is another Best cities to visit in Sri Lanka, due to its hsitorical importnace. This mediveal city is listed as a UNESCO world geritage site and harbours many dozens of ancient temples, stupes, palaces, gardens and many other historical monuments. The Polonnaruwa city tour is one of the most popular in Sri Lanka. It permits tourists to visit historical temples, palaces, gardens, and other attractions in the historic city of Polonnaruwa. This city tour also covers the Historical Museum of Polonaruwa, which is another renowned tourist site in Sri Lanka.

The Archaeological Museum

PolonnaruwaWhen you arrive in Polonnaruwa, your first destination will be the Archaeological Museum, which includes a magnificent collection of bronze statues and scale models of historical buildings. The museum contains a variety of information on the art and history of the old mediaeval capital city.

King Parkramabahu’s Citadel

Following that, you will be taken to King Parakramabahu I’s citadel and royal residence. In its original shape, it was a seven-story structure that would have astounded its time. The Audience room, also known as the Council chamber, is a massive structure shaped like a pavilion with intricate carvings. The Royal Bathing Pool is situated in a quiet part of the palace grounds.

Shiva Devale

Following that, we will proceed to the Quadrangle, the historic city’s nerve center. Beginning with the Shiva Devale, the complex includes the ruins of numerous ancient buildings, including the Thuparamaya, a well-preserved image house, the Nissanka Latha Mandapaya, also known as the Floral Altar, the Hatadage, or House of Seven Relics, and the Polonnaruwa Vatadage, a creation that has been revered and significant in Sri Lankan history.

Satmahal Prasadaya

Following that, you will see the Satmahal Prasadaya, a weird and intricate edifice inspired by eastern design, as well as the Gal Potha, a massive rock-carved book. It stood six levels tall and resembled a stepped pyramid.

Pabalu Vehara and Rankoth Vehera

The Pabalu Vehera, a symbol of love, and the Rankoth Vehera, the fourth largest dagoba after the three giants of Anuradhapura, are both accessible by bus from this site.

The Alahana Monastery

The next destination is the Alahana Pirivena Monastery, a spectacular complex of monasteries founded in the eleventh century by King Parakramabahu I. Inside, you can see the Lankatilake image house and the Buddha Seema Prasada.

Kiri Vehera

The Kiri Vehera, Polonnaruwa’s best-preserved dagoba and shrine with a milky white facade, was the next site on the agenda.

The Galvehera

The next visit is to the north, where you may admire the Gal Vihara and its renowned sculpture collection. One of the most spectacular rock sculptures on the island is a group of four Buddha figures carved into a granite cliff.

Nelum Pokuna

The next destination is the Nelum Pokuna, then the Lotus Pond—a magnificently sculpted granite pool shaped like a lotus flower—and the Thivanka Image House, a large monastery outside Polonnaruwa.

Parakrama Samudraya

You will be taken to see the wonder of the Parakrama Samudraya, popularly known as the Parakrama Sea due to its massive magnitude. King Parakramabahu I’s architectural genius enabled the construction of this man-made lake, which fills up as rainwater drains through eleven channels that feed a system of irrigation canals and smaller tanks.

The next stop is the Royal Palace Complex of King Nissanka Malla. There is a raised platform with eight granite columns and a low wall around it. In the center of the platform is a little granite stupa. You will also have the opportunity to see the Nissanka Raja Sabha Mandapa, which is the royal audience hall or council chamber.

The next destination on your bus trip will be the spectacular Giant Statue of Parakramabahu I, a work of monumental art from the 12th century. Carved upon a rock wall, the tall but respectful figure wears a sarong and holds a religious scripture. The next destination is Pothgul Vihara. Among Sri Lanka’s historical attractions, this library and monastery complex stands out. At the end of the tour in the evening, you will be returned to your original location in Polonnaruwa.

City excursions in Sri Lanka: Exploring Trincomale

Trincomalee may not be one of the most popular city excursions in Sri Lanka. However, it is definitely worth devoting your time and resources to. The Trincoimlaee city tour differs significantly from other city tours in Sri Lanka. Trincomlaee City Tour is the only city tour mentioned in this article that allows you to learn about Hinduism’s cultural and religious traditions, therefore, we thinks it is one of the best cities to visit in Sri Lanka.

Places included in Trincomalee city tour

  • During this full-day Trincomalee trip,
  • You will see the harbor.
  • Pigeon island,
  • Fort Frederick

Some other important places and activities

  • You’ll go for a dolphin-watching excursion at 6 a.m.
  • Take a 30-minute boat ride out to sea off the coast of Trincomalee, and you will see dolphins appear frequently. We’ve only seen whales on the east coast in the spring (March-May), but you never know; you might be lucky enough to spot one during the off-season.
  • After the dolphin viewing excursion, the boat will carry you to Pigeon Island. Sri Lanka has two marine national parks, one of which is on Pigeon Island. It contains spectacular coral reefs that are home to a diverse range of magnificent tropical fish and other marine species, including turtles. A snorkeling adventure is provided as an extra for those who want to try it out.
  • View spectacular ocean views from atop the island’s granite formations.

Trincomalee city tour in brief

Following breakfast, you will return to the mainland and proceed to Fort Frederick. Discover the fort, which houses the world-famous Konaswaram Temple, perched perilously on Swami Rock with stunning views of the Bay of Bengal and India’s eastern coast. Various temples can be discovered within the fortress.

Have a bite to eat at a neighborhood establishment.
After lunch, the group will return to Trincomalee and make a stop at the city’s natural port, which covers many acres of land and sea. It is made up of three bays: back bay, Dutch bay, and inner harbor. Take in the sights and sounds of the port as you walk past the numerous restaurants and cafes that line its borders.

The next stop on your agenda is Marble Beach, one of Trincomalee’s most stunning and unspoiled beaches. Because the Sri Lanka Air Force is in charge of running it, you can be sure that it is a safe place to swim in shallow waters. Take a leisurely walk down the beach, looking for marble pebbles.

Best cities to visit in Sri Lanka, Bentota

Bentota is by far the most popular beach resort in Sri Lanka. Therefore, it is one of the best cities to visit in Sri Lanka. The city offers a fascinating blend of natural, historical and man-made tourist attractions.
The city tour of Bentota is one of the most popular in Sri Lanka, and many beach vacationers who anchor off the west coast enjoy this one-day journey. The Bentota city tour focuses on Bentota, but it also includes many interesting activities such as boat cruises, village tours, cooking classes, and walks along the Bentota river. Your adventure will begin at 8 a.m. in Bentota. After you are dropped off at your hotel, your chauffeur will transport you to the following destinations.

Trip to Lunuganga Garden

Geoffrey Bawa (23 July 1919–27 May 2003) was an architect whose idea became the Lunuganga estate. He discovered his first inspiration and carried out his experiments in this rural property, which he also frequented as a getaway when his star rose. The mansion is decorated with a variety of artworks and antiquities from all around the world, showing Bawa’s distinct flare and whimsical beauty.

Biodiversity Area of Madu Ganga

Enjoy a relaxing two-hour boat ride down the Madu River, traveling through a thriving ecosystem. Explore the hidden passages created by the mangroves. Come visit the villagers who cultivate cinnamon on one of the little islands. See aquatic birds in their natural habitats.

Lunu Ganga

Sir Lawrence Olivier, Vivien Leigh, Agatha Christie, and numerous others have visited the famed garden of Bevis Bawa. The Garden at Brief reflects his growing nature. Enter Bevis’ world by passing through the tall entryway with the statue cap, which is located in the thick bamboo hedge. Then we’ll walk through the Japanese garden, across the sprawling lawns, and eventually past the circular pond and water steps as we make our way around the lush perimeter path. You may find signs of its maker all over the garden.

Sea Turtle Hatchery in Kosgoda

The Chelonii order includes turtles as members. Researchers and conservationists also refer to them as chelonians. The characteristic bony coating, or carapace, that chelonians develop from their ribs acts as a protective shell. Turtles first appeared more than 220 million years ago, during the Triassic Period, making them a very ancient group of animals. The order Chelonii, sometimes known as the Testudines, consists of three reptile species: terrapins, tortoises, and turtles.

Best Small Cities to Visit in Sri Lanka

Aside from the seven major cities mentioned above, Sri Lanka has many other intriguing minor cities that offer a diverse range of tourist attractions. The following are some of the smaller cities that most tourists enjoy visiting:

Small Cities with Big Appeal

Lockdown restrictions are progressively receding in most parts of the world; nevertheless, some countries continue to impose travel restrictions, while others tighten them in fear of rapidly spreading the virus. Sri Lanka is one among the countries that managed the pandemic successfully. The Sri Lankan government has gradually lifted COVID-19 limitations in recent weeks, with the country now expected to have zero COVID-19 restrictions by July.

What are the top 10 best small cities to visit in Sri Lanka?

  • Balapitiya
  • Junglke beach
  • Mirissa, Matara
  • Kitulgala
  • Belihuloya
  • Peradeniya
  • Ella
  • Kataragama
  • Kurunegala
  • Tangalle

1. Balapitiya

Balapitiya, on Sri Lanka’s west coast, has a clean, uncrowded beach and is one of the most scenic sites on the country. It is also a top beach holiday destination for travelers who enjoy exploring a tranquil and remote beach. While the beaches are the main lure for tourists in Balapitiya, there are plenty of other activities to keep you busy, such as exploring the Madu River estuary, diving and snorkeling, and picturesque trails.

2. Jungle Beach

This one-mile-long quiet beach is located 2 kilometers from Galle city. This beach is further off the main road and surrounded by dense vegetation. Thin jungle retreat is quite unpopular, so you won’t find throngs of tourists here. A few locals visit the seashore to observe the neighboring peace pagoda.

3. Mirissa and Matara

Matara is the southern Sri Lankan capital and one of the country’s largest cities. Mirissa is a little city located between Galle and Matara. This oceanfront city boasts a significant variety of rest homes, guest houses, and other affordable lodging options.
Mirissa attracts a huge number of foreign visitors, the majority of whom enjoy beach holidays. The cuisine scene is enormous. Mirissa is also a famous destination for seafood and water sports. In fact, Mirissa is the most popular destination for tourists looking to see blue whales. A large group of tourists boarded a whale-watching boat in quest of giant blue whales in the whale-commissioned sea off southern Sri Lanka.

4. Kitulgala

Kitulgala, located at the foothills of Sri Lanka’s central mountain range, is an adventurer’s dream destination. It is known as Sri Lanka’s adventure playground and offers activities such as whitewater rafting, caving, trekking, hiking, rain forest excursions, waterfall abseiling, bird viewing, and many more.

5. Belihuloya

Belihuloya is a small city situated between Colombo and Bandarawela, a prominent mountain resort in Sri Lanka. Belihuloya is primarily a natural vacation location that caters to a wide range of activities such as rain forest exploration, bird watching, trekking, and hiking. The isolated yet accessible natural tourist destination is among the top spots in Sri Lanka for nature excursions and outdoor activities.

6. Peradeniya

Peradeniya University, one of Sri Lanka’s oldest universities, is set among green-capped mountains and valleys. Peradeniya is regarded as one of the smartest little towns in Sri Lanka.
Peradeniya University generates thousands of graduates each year and is one of the most prestigious higher education institutions on the island. However, the Peradeniya Botanical Garden is a far more prominent tourist destination in the city than the institution. Aside from campus, there are other things to do and see around the city, such as visiting tea gardens, taking picturesque hikes, and rock climbing.

7. Ella

Another prominent mountain resort located south of Nuwara Eliya. Nuwara Eliya is the mountain’s most popular tourist site, attracting a great number of locals. However, Ella is frequented by foreign tourists. They all come to Ella to enjoy the tranquil mountain resorts and the pristine mountains, waterfalls, and tea gardens. The most popular activities in Ella include trekking and hiking, with popular destinations being Mini-Adams Peak, Ella Rock, Nine-Arched Bridge, and Idalgashinna.

8. Kataragama

A remote tiny settlement located near Sri Lanka’s southern edge. Kataragama had been one of Sri Lanka’s least inhabited towns, surrounded by heavy forest. Yala National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s most prominent wildlife sanctuaries for safaris, shares portions of its borders with Katargama.
Kataragama is home to the southern province’s most important shrine, known as the Kataragama Murugan shrine. The temple conducts the annual Esala ritual in July, which is one of the island’s most prominent events, attended by both Buddhist and Hindu followers.

9. Kurunegala

Kurunegala is one of Sri Lanka’s oldest cities and served as the capital of Sri Lankan rulers throughout the 13th century. Its population surpasses 200,000. Kurunegala is home to several temples and other archaeological sites. This central province city ranks fourth in the culture subcategory, first in sights and landmarks, and third in shopping.

10. Tangalle

Tangalle dominates the parks and outdoors category, but it also ranks second, fifth, and ninth in restaurants, museums, watersports, and culture.

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