Colombo, Sri Lankan capital, is the international
gateway to Sri Lanka. The metropolis has number of historically important
places. Colombo is rich when it comes to scenic beauty and with the modern
times new means of entertainment have come in Colombo.
Galle is situated in southern coastline of Sri Lanka,
116km far from the capital Colombo. Most famous among the attractions of
Galle is UNESCO declared World Heritage Site the Dutch Fort. Several
colonial buildings would give you a feeling as if you are in Dutchland.
Kandy is famous as the cultural capital of Sri Lanka.
The town hosts tourist attractions like Temple of Tooth and Old Royal
Palace. City which came into existence in 15th century was the last royal
capital where 2500 years of royal rule came to an end.
Kurunegala is the capital of yesteryears, overlooked
by colossal rocky outcrops named on the animals they resemble: elephant
rock, tortoise rock etc. Etagala, a black rock, is the most famous among
these rocks. Kurunegala was capital only for half a century.
Mount Lavinia, a famous beach resort of Sri Lanka, is
a suburb of Colombo. The town hosts Sri Lanka's National Zoological Gardens,
one of the largest zoos in Asia. The town is known for 'Golden Mile' of
beaches. The town has become a hotspot for tourism and laidback nightlife.
Nuwara Eliya is the most renowned hill resort in Sri
Lanka. Producing famous Ceylon tea, the waving mountains of Nuwara Eliya are
carpeted by green tea plantations, punctuated with bubling streams. The town
is overlooked by Pidurutalagala, highest hill in Sri Lanka.
Perched at the foot of Sri Pada or Adam's Peak
Ratnapura is famous or gem mining and natural beauty. If you like natural
beauty, Ratnapura would offer a string of waterfalls and lush forests. Sri
Pada, Uda Walawe National Park and Sinharaja Forest have nature in full
glory.
Trincomalee is one of the largest deep water harbours
in the world. Its important monuments are Dutch Fort, the museum and hot
springs. On the Swami Rock stands one of the oldest Hindu temples in Sri
Lanka. In Second World War, Trinco was military headquarters.
Anuradhapura which served as the capital of Sri Lanka
from 5th century BC to AD 1017 is the birthplace
of Sinhala civilisation. Anuradhapura had become an advanced civilisation in
early times. Traders of Anuradhapura traded all round the world.
Famous ancient cave temple complex has
highlighted Dambulla on the world tourist map. The rock inside which the
temples are carved out towers 160m over the neighborhood plains. The complex
has more than 80 documented caves all appreciated by tourists.
Hikkaduwa is one of the most popular beach resorts in
Sri Lanka. Specially popular among western travellers, Hikkaduwa offers
wonderful waves for both the uninitiated and experienced surfers. The place
offers good facilities for sea adventures.
Kitulgala is a picturesque town on the banks of
Kelani River, particularly famous for White Water Rafting. The town derives
its name from strangely prehistoric-looking kitul tree, which abounds the
region. Many of the resorts here have colonial aire.
Matara, comfortably perched 160km from Colombo in its
southern part, attracts the tourists for its natural scenic beauty. In
Matara, one can stroll through lush paddy fields, aromatic tea estates and
and fragrant spice plantations. Matara is centreplace in the southern
province.
Negombo is a popular beach resort. Its proximity to
the airport announces that Negobo is an ideal place to either commence or
end your tour of Sri Lanka. Sea food of Negombo is famous for
its freshness. One can relax on idyllic beaches and soak in lovely sunsets.
Polonnaruwa was once the most important town of Sri
Lanka for it served as the capital of the country. The town has ancient
dagobas, nice parks, moonstones, colossal structures and elegant statues.
Today UNESCO has declared Polonnaruwa a World Heritage Site.
Architectural tradition of Sri Lanka is lively in Sri
Lanka. History of Sigiriya harks back to more than 7000 years. Rock, Gardens
and Sanctuary make Sigiriya famous. Sigiriya gardens are the fusion of
symmetrical and asymmetrical elements, appreciated by the visitors.