Things to do

Ultimate

Things to do in Sri Lanka​

Check out must-see sights and activities

“Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” offers a diverse range of activities for travelers.

Sri-lanka-map-with-districts
Colombo

Kandy
Ella
Galle
Bentota
Nuwara Eliya
Yala
Arugam Bay
Sigiriya
Jaffna
Trincomalee
Anuradhapura
ActivityLocationDescription
Climb Sigiriya Rock FortressSigiriyaHike up the iconic rock fortress, admire frescoes, and enjoy panoramic views.
Explore Dambulla Cave TempleDambullaVisit ancient cave temples with stunning Buddhist murals and statues.
Go on a Wildlife SafariYala, Udawalawe, WilpattuSpot leopards, elephants, and exotic birds in Sri Lanka’s top national parks.
Visit Polonnaruwa’s RuinsPolonnaruwaExplore the ancient city with well-preserved stupas, statues, and palaces.
Train Ride to EllaKandy to EllaTake one of the world’s most scenic train rides through lush tea country.
Hike Adam’s PeakNuwara Eliya / HattonTrek to the sacred summit for breathtaking sunrise views.
Discover Galle FortGalleWalk through the charming Dutch colonial town and enjoy the coastal breeze.
Relax on Unawatuna BeachUnawatunaSoak up the sun, swim, and snorkel in this tropical paradise.
Surf at Arugam BayArugam BayRide the waves at Sri Lanka’s most famous surf spot.
Whale Watching in MirissaMirissaSpot blue whales and dolphins in the Indian Ocean.
Trek in Knuckles Mountain RangeKnuckles RangeHike through cloud forests, waterfalls, and remote villages.
Explore Jaffna’s CultureJaffnaDiscover Hindu temples, colonial history, and unique Tamil traditions.
Visit the Jaffna FortJaffnaExplore this 17th-century Dutch fort with stunning ocean views.
Discover Delft IslandJaffna PeninsulaTake a boat ride to an island with wild horses and Dutch ruins.
Kayak in Madu RiverBentotaPaddle through mangrove forests and see wildlife up close.
Dolphin Watching in KalpitiyaKalpitiyaWitness pods of playful dolphins in the crystal-clear waters.
Explore the Anuradhapura RuinsAnuradhapuraWalk through Sri Lanka’s first capital, home to sacred stupas and relics.
Climb Pidurangala RockSigiriyaA less crowded alternative to Sigiriya, offering stunning sunrise views.
Visit the Nine Arches BridgeEllaWitness a breathtaking railway bridge surrounded by lush greenery.
White Water Rafting in KitulgalaKitulgalaEnjoy thrilling rapids on the Kelani River.
Explore Ritigala MonasteryRitigalaDiscover an ancient monastery hidden in the jungle.
Visit the Temple of the ToothKandyPay homage at Sri Lanka’s most sacred Buddhist temple.
Experience the Esala PeraheraKandyWitness Sri Lanka’s grandest cultural festival featuring elephants and dancers.
Snorkel in Pigeon IslandTrincomaleeExplore vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
Relax at Nilaveli BeachTrincomaleeEnjoy pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Dive at Hikkaduwa Coral ReefHikkaduwaSnorkel or dive to see colorful corals and tropical fish.
Safari at Kumana National ParkKumanaA hidden gem for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Try Local Street FoodNationwideTaste authentic Sri Lankan flavors like kottu, hoppers, and samosas.
Explore the Batticaloa LagoonBatticaloaTake a boat ride and see the famous singing fish.
Hot Air Ballooning in DambullaDambullaFloat over cultural landmarks and stunning landscapes.
Visit the Royal Botanical GardensPeradeniyaWander through beautifully maintained gardens with exotic plants.
Stay in a TreehouseElla, SigiriyaExperience nature up close with a unique eco-friendly stay.
Explore Diyaluma FallsBadullaHike to the second tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka and swim in natural pools.
Caving at BelilenaKitulgalaExplore prehistoric caves with archaeological significance.
Experience Ayurveda HealingNationwideEnjoy traditional herbal spa treatments and massages.