Most itineraries begin in the Cultural Triangle, the region that holds Sri Lanka’s ancient capitals. Sigiriya’s rock fortress rises above forest and farmland, while nearby Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura reveal centuries of Buddhist history. Guided visits bring the temples, sculptures and reservoirs into context.
From here, visitors often continue to Kandy, set around a lake and known for the Temple of the Tooth, one of the country’s most significant religious sites. The train journey from Kandy into the Hill Country is a highlight. It winds through tea plantations, cloud forest and villages that still feel tied to plantation culture.
The Hill Country itself is cooler and slower. Towns like Hatton, Nuwara Eliya and Ella offer colonial-era bungalows, hiking trails and sweeping views. Luxury tea estate hotels provide some of Sri Lanka’s best service and scenery.
If you want wildlife, head to the national parks. Yala is famous for leopard sightings, while Udawalawe is known for large elephant herds. Wilpattu, in the north, offers quieter safaris with dense forest and lakes. Whale watching off Mirissa and Kalpitiya is possible at certain times of year.
The southern and western coastlines are ideal for the final days of a trip. Galle Fort remains a standout, with Dutch-era architecture, boutique hotels and strong dining. Further along the coast, beaches like Talalla, Hiriketiya and Bentota offer a range of stays from small luxury villas to contemporary resorts. Surfing, snorkeling and private boat trips are common additions.
