Many often overlook this small island surrounded by the warm Indian Ocean waters as a potential travel destination. Though, this natural paradise of Sri Lanka has so much to offer. It consists of lush mountains, rainforest, paddy fields, tumbling waterfalls, vast valleys, ancient Buddhist temples, intriguing towns of Kandy, beautiful south coast beaches, and rounding it off with its hospitable people and laidback atmosphere.

#1 Colombo

One of Sri Lanka’s most iconic travel destinations, this county’s capital mixes old world charm with modern and vibrant nightlife. The historic Fort district is famous for its detailed colonial architecture dating from the Dutch, Portuguese and British periods. Pettah district is the shopping area filled with goods ranging from fruits to precious stones while down South along the seafront, you’ll find locals playing cricket and enjoying the sunset strolls on the Galle Face Green. A comfortable modern city equipped with relaxed accommodation and entertainment and artsy facilities such as theatres, art galleries, museums, and pubs. Your day and light life is pretty much covered when you visit Colombo.

#2 Negombo

Here’s a famous fishing village located north of Colombo, not far from the Bandaranaike International Airport. You’ll find ample fresh seafood sold daily in the fish auctions by the beach as well as in the fish market. Though, the real excitement lies at the seafront with the impressive gateway of the ruins of the Old Dutch fort as well as the monumental churches scattered around the town. Additionally, if you are interested in water birds, Negombo is a great place to gaze on King Fisher, Herons, Gulls, and Cormorants.

#3 Pasikuda

Known as the virgin beach, Pasikuda have one of the longest stretches of shallow coastlines in the world. Try walking kilometres into the sea, you’ll find yourself only sunk few inches deep due to its relatively weak current as compared to the rest of Sri Lanka’s Coast. Along with its unique crescent bay, protected by a reef, which is home to beautiful coral formations, reef fish, tranquil palmyrah trees, and a golden sandy shore, you’ll also be able to find a lagoon that’s perfect for divers.

(Image source: Wiki)

#4 Dambulla Cave Temple

A must visit when in Sri Lanka is the Golden Temple of Dambulla. It’s a sacred place since the first century that earns itself the title of Golden Temple due to its gilded interior. The temple consist of five separate caves which was designed by King Vattagamini after using the caves to hide from his enemies which was later on embellished by several other kings. Inside, the caves are furnished with religious and secular paintings from the 15^th and 16^th century but the most unique sight in this place would be the 157 Buddhist statues distributed within the area.

#5 Spice Garden

Located in the hill of Kandy, these spice gardens allow visitors to have an insight into Spice Production in Sri Lanka. It’s a way for them to promote and uplift spice growing in the country. The few famous spices such as clove, cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg, mace, and pepper, were exported since the ancient times. Here, at the spice garden, you’ll get the complete tour, information as well as the privilege to participate in the herbal tea tasting ceremony.

(Image source: Wiki)

#6 Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

Also known as Sri Dalada Maligawa, this legendary temple is located in Kandy with a folk tale of having Buddha’s tooth planted within the walls of the temple. The relic symbolises an important role in local politics as it’s believed whoever possesses the relic is entitled to the governance of the country. Also, check out the Kandy Lake that was once home to the royal harem and the kings palace. 

#7 Odel Shopping Mall

For a more modern shopping trip, Odel is the place to be where upmarket stores and designer labels can be found. Not a place for cheap goods but it’s a mall filled with everything for everyone so you and your family can shop with ease, away from the outdoor heat.

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Kuala Lumpur to Colombo at MYR 1250 per person 
*Round trip all-inclusive fare by SriLanka Airlines 
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