Sri Lanka Travel Guide: From Forests to Forts, 10 Must-Visit Places

Looking for a quick international getaway that’s budget-friendly, has easy visas, is close by, and offers some of the most breathtaking experiences one can ever dream of? Well, if your answer is yes, look no further than our neighbour down south: Sri Lanka! A land that’s defined by natural beauty, spiritual serenity, and a mix of diverse cultures that should be explored firsthand. In this article, we will be taking a look at the top 10 places to see in Sri Lanka, how to get there, some exclusive travel trips, and why Vi’s international roaming options for Sri Lanka should be your go-to choice when travelling there. So, let’s get started!

1. Yala National Park

Located somewhere around 300 km away from Colombo, Yala National Park is the first entry in our list of places to visit in Sri Lanka. Spanning a massive 979 Sq. Km., the Yala National Park is most famous for its elephants and leopards, but visitors can also witness a wide variety of other native flora and fauna as well. The park features some ancient Buddhist relics as well, ones that are a must-see when it comes to tourist attractions in Sri Lanka.

2. Sigiriya

Possessing immense archaeological and cultural significance, Sigiriya is one of the most fascinating Sri Lanka tourist places. Rising dramatically from the central plains, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers panoramic views, ancient architecture, and gardens that date back to the 5th century. Now, while the views from the top are mesmerising, one needs to climb a long flight of stairs to get there, so that is something you might want to watch out for.

3. Sri Dalada Maligawa

Located in Kandy, this sacred Buddhist temple houses a tooth relic of Lord Buddha, making it one of the most revered places to visit in Sri Lanka. Pilgrims and travellers alike are drawn here not just for its spiritual significance but also for its intricate architecture and peaceful surroundings. The temple is also classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

4. Bentota Beach

If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters and palm-fringed shores, Bentota Beach is where you should be. This coastal gem is one of the most relaxing places to go in Sri Lanka, ideal for water sports, boat rides, or simply soaking in the sun. The laid-back vibe here makes it a perfect stop for a rejuvenating break. Moreover, sea turtle conservation is something that you should witness while travelling to Bentota.

5. Galle Dutch Fort

A trip to Sri Lanka is incomplete without exploring Galle Dutch Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its cobbled streets, quaint cafés, and colonial architecture, it’s a top pick among places to see in Sri Lanka. Sunset views from the fort’s ramparts overlooking the ocean are truly spectacular. One interesting fact about this fort is that while it is named the “Dutch Fort”, the original construction was actually done by the Portuguese during the 1500s, albeit at a much smaller scale.

6. Royal Botanical Gardens

Located in Peradeniya, near Kandy, the Royal Botanical Gardens is home to more than 4,000 species of plants. It is among the most colourful tourist attractions in Sri Lanka, where you can stroll through orchid houses, giant bamboo groves, and majestic palm avenues. The garden can trace its “roots” all the way back to the 1300s, during the days of the Kingdom of Kandy.

7. Golden Temple of Dambulla

With its striking golden façade and cave temples filled with Buddha statues, the Golden Temple of Dambulla is a highlight among Sri Lanka tourist places. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a peaceful spot to reflect on the island’s rich spiritual traditions. The temple complex as a whole dates back to the first century BCE, and there are more than 80 documented caves present in the vicinity.

8. Minneriya National Park

Known for “The Gathering”, where hundreds of elephants congregate near the reservoir during the dry season, Minneriya National Park is one of the most unforgettable places to visit in Sri Lanka. The reservoir features historic significance and is fed by the waters of the Amban River and the Elahera Canal. Besides elephants, some of the other animals that inhabit the area are langurs, macaques, loris, leopards, and many more.

9. Galle Face Green

In the heart of Colombo, Galle Face Green is a bustling open urban park by the ocean where locals and travellers gather for evening strolls, street food, and kite flying. It’s a vibrant hub and one of the most relaxed places to go in Sri Lanka. The area is also a good spot if you want to try some local street food from the vendors who set up shop there.

10. Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue

Overlooking the city of Kandy, this massive white Buddha statue is one of the most serene places to see in Sri Lanka. The statue is 88.0 feet in length, something that makes it one of the tallest Buddha Statues in Sri Lanka. Climbing up to the statue rewards you with sweeping views of the surrounding hills and cityscape.

 

Tips for Visiting Sri Lanka

• Weather check: Sri Lanka’s climate varies by region. Pack light clothes, but don’t forget an umbrella for sudden showers.
• Local etiquette: Respect dress codes at temples, as the locals if unsure.
• Transport: Tuk-tuks (Rickshaws) are a fun way to explore cities but agree on the fare beforehand.
• Food & water: Try local delicacies but stick to bottled water.
  
  

How to Get There from India

Travelling to Sri Lanka from India is simple and convenient. You can find direct flights on carriers like SriLankan Airlines, Air India, IndiGo, etc., regularly from major cities like Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, etc, to Colombo, taking about 1.5 to 3 hours. In fact, there are regional flights from Thiruchirapalli and Chennai to Jaffna. As far as Visa rules are concerned, Indians do require a visa but do keep an eye out for regular changes and modifications.

Stay Connected with Vi International Roaming

As much as you’ll enjoy exploring these beautiful destinations, staying connected with your loved ones back in India matters just as much. With Vi’s international roaming packs, you get seamless connectivity at economic rates, making it easy to share your travel updates or navigate with online maps. Most importantly, our plans keep you safe from the risks of using insecure public Wi-Fi. So, while you’re discovering the best Sri Lanka tourist places, you can also travel worry-free. Here are some of our prepaid and postpaid International Roaming mobile plans for Sri Lanka:

Prepaid (Special Plan)

Price	Validity	Benefits
₹1899	5 days	1GB/Day Free (Post-Quota ₹10/MB), 250 mins Outgoing (Local + To India) & Incoming Calls (Post-Quota ₹10/Min), ₹15/Outgoing SMS.

Prepaid (Unlimited Plans)

Price	Validity	Benefits
₹3495	7 days	Unlimited Data, Unlimited Outgoing (Local + To India) & Incoming Calls, ₹15/Outgoing SMS. Available in 124 countries.
₹4695	10 days	Unlimited Data, Unlimited Outgoing (Local + To India) & Incoming Calls, ₹15/Outgoing SMS. Available in 124 countries.
₹5195	14 days	Unlimited Data, Unlimited Outgoing (Local + To India) & Incoming Calls, ₹15/Outgoing SMS. Available in 124 countries.

Prepaid (Budget Packs)   

Price	Validity	Benefits
₹995	10 days	1.25 GB data, 100 mins Outgoing (Local + To India) & Incoming (Post quota: Rs. 10/min), 1.25 GB (Post quota: Rs. 10/MB), Rs. 15/ Outgoing SMS, Available in 124 countries
₹2997	365 days	1.5 GB data, 125 mins Outgoing (Local + To India) & Incoming (Post quota: Rs. 10/min), 1.5 GB (Post quota: Rs. 10/MB), Rs. 15/ Outgoing SMS, Available in 124 countries
₹2998	30 days	5 GB data, 200 mins Outgoing (Local + To India) & Incoming (Post quota: Rs. 10/min), 5 GB (Post quota: Rs. 10/MB), Rs. 15/ Outgoing SMS, Available in 124 countries

 

Postpaid:    

Price	Validity	Benefits
₹749	24 hours	Unlimited Incoming & Outgoing Calls, Outgoing Calls (Local & to India), Rest of the World Calls ₹35/min, Free Unlimited Incoming and Outgoing SMS, Unlimited Data. Available in 146 countries.
₹3999	10 days	Unlimited Incoming & Outgoing Calls, Outgoing Calls (Local & to India), Rest of the World Calls ₹35/min, Free Unlimited Incoming and Outgoing SMS, Unlimited Data. Available in 146 countries.
₹4999	14 days	Unlimited Incoming & Outgoing Calls, Outgoing Calls (Local & to India), Rest of the World Calls ₹35/min, Free Unlimited Incoming and Outgoing SMS, Unlimited Data. Available in 146 countries.
₹5999	30 days	Unlimited Data | High Speed 30GB data, Speed throttled to 64Kbps thereafter, Unlimited Incoming (Local + To India) & 1500 mins Outgoing Calls, ₹3/min post quota, ₹35/min for rest of the world. Free Outgoing and Incoming SMS. Available in 146 countries.

 

Sri Lanka is a treasure trove of experiences, from national parks brimming with wildlife to forts echoing colonial history and beaches that redefine tranquillity. Whether it’s spirituality, adventure, or relaxation, there are countless places to visit in Sri Lanka that cater to every traveller’s dream. So, pack your bags, set your itinerary, and let us at Vi ensure you stay connected every step of the way. Your adventure through the stunning places to go in Sri Lanka awaits!