Things To Do
Ahangama Beach
Ahangama is 2 hours outside of Colombo and is best known for it's stunning beaches, cafes and restaurants
Nuwara Eliya
If you prefer mountains and waterfalls, drive up to the stunning hillside city of Nuwara Eliya. Stay at the Grand Hotel Nuwara Eliya (https://www.thegrandhotelnuwaraeliya.com) and visit the Pedro Tea Factory.
Sigiriya
No trip to Sri Lanka is complete without visiting the Sigiriya, a massive rock fortress with ruins of an ancient palace, water gardens, and frescos near the giant rock Pidurangala. Early birds should buckle up their hiking shoes and climb up Pidurangala at 5am for sunrise, but if you are not a morning person, head here for sunset before the ticket office closes at 6pm. Planning tip: The entrance fee is US$30 for this 45-minute climb. The summit overlooks the majestic lion-shaped Sigiriya rock surrounded by tropical jungles and artificial lakes. To reach the top you’ll pass through a Buddhist temple, so carry a shawl or a sarong to cover up.
Dambulla Royal Cave Temple and Golden Temple
Dambulla Cave Temple (also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla) is located in the central part of in Sri Lanka. The site is located 148 kilometers (92 mi) east of Colombo and 72 kilometers (45 mi) north of Kandy. The largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka, the rock from which the caves were carved towers 160 meters (520 ft) over the surrounding plains. UNESCO designated the Golden Temple of Dambulla a World Heritage Site in 1991.
Yala National Park
Yala National Park is a huge area of forest, grassland and lagoons bordering the Indian Ocean, in southeast Sri Lanka. It’s home to wildlife such as leopards, elephants and crocodiles, as well as hundreds of bird species.