![Novice monks feeding monkeys outside temple. Sri Lanka.](https://lp-cms-production.imgix.net/2021-10/Novice%20monks%20feeding%20monkeys%20outside%20temple.%20By%20Hugh%20Sitton%20Stocksy_txp95a12c14B4D300_Medium_569766.jpg?w=1920&h=640&fit=crop&crop=faces%2Cedges&auto=format&q=75)
Hugh Sitton / Stocksy United
Sri Lanka
Endless beaches, timeless ruins, welcoming people, oodles of elephants, rolling surf, cheap prices, fun trains, famous tea and flavorful food make Sri Lanka irresistible.
Attractions
Must-see attractions
Polonnaruwa
Part of Parakramabahu I’s northern monastery, Gal Vihara is a group of beautiful Buddha images that probably marks the high point of Sinhalese rock…
Uda Walawe National Park
With herds of elephants, wild buffalos, sambars and spotted deer, and giant squirrels, this Sri Lankan national park is one of the nation's finest. In…
The East
This 357-sq-km park, once known as Yala East, is much less frequently visited than its busy neighbour, Yala National Park. Consequently, it's a far less…
Jaffna
Long the gatehouse of the city, the vast Jaffna fort, overlooking the Jaffna lagoon, has been fought over for centuries. Today you can wander its walls,…
Colombo
This terracotta-tiled, Dutch-era structure dates back to the early 1600s. Beautifully restored, it's now home to trendy shops, cafes and restaurants. In…
Colombo
Offering a captivating walk through Sri Lankan history, this delightful Colombo museum sprawls across a gleaming white, neo-Baroque building constructed…
Arugam Bay
This long crescent of sand, partially shaded by coconut palms, is as good a reason as any to visit Arugam Bay. In season, its appeal to surfers is obvious…
Mirissa
A vision of tropical bliss, Mirissa Beach boasts powdery pale sand, while its azure water is framed by an arc of coconut palms. The west side is the…
Planning Tools
Expert guidance to help you plan your trip
Best Things to Do
From finding the best surf to trying the ultimate local dishes, here are the top things to do in Sri Lanka.
Read articleThings to Know
Here's what you need to know about health, safety and etiquette for a trouble-free trip to Sri Lanka.
Read articleTransportation
Our guide to transportation can help you plan the best way for your travels around Sri Lanka.
Read articleVisa Requirements
Here’s our guide to navigating the entry requirements for visiting Sri Lanka as a tourist, with information on visa types, costs and how to apply for one.
Read articleMoney and Costs
With travel experiences that don't break the bank and incredible hospitality, Sri Lanka is a great place to visit for those on a budget.
Read articleTraveling with Kids
Whether you're traveling with toddlers or teenagers, we give you tips on where to stay and what to do for an unforgettable family adventure in Sri Lanka.
Read articleBest Road Trips
Hire a car and driver or rent a motorcycle and explore the best of Sri Lanka with these road trip routes.
Read articlePlan with a local
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Articles
Latest stories from Sri Lanka
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![Traditional Sri Lankan kottu roti, hoppers cake, chicken spicy tikka boti in wooden background, License Type: media, Download Time: 2024-07-04T06:34:23.000Z, User: mvm_lonelyplanet, Editorial: false, purchase_order: 56530, job: Global Publishing-WIP, client: The World 3, other: Virginia Moreno](https://lp-cms-production.imgix.net/2024-08/shutterstock1050911312.jpg?w=780&h=425&fit=crop&auto=format&q=75)
- BeachesSri Lanka or the Philippines: which bucket-list Asian country should you pick?
Feb 14, 2024 • 8 min read
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