Discover Sri Lanka, the Pearl of the Indian Ocean
Welcome to a taste of Sri Lanka. An island nation rich in flavor, culture, and history. Nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is known for its breathtaking landscapes, ancient traditions, and vibrant culinary heritage.
SRI LANKA
A Land of Heritage
Timeless Wonders and Living History
Sri Lanka is not just a destination—it’s a journey through time. With a civilization that spans over 2,500 years, the island is steeped in heritage shaped by ancient kingdoms, global trade, spirituality, and colonial encounters. It’s where myth and history intertwine.
From the awe-inspiring rock fortress of Sigiriya, built by King Kashyapa in the 5th century, to the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy, believed to house a tooth of the Buddha himself, Sri Lanka offers a living tapestry of culture and belief. The ancient cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa tell stories of sophisticated urban planning, grand stupas, and resilient monarchies that once ruled this lush land.
Cultural influences from Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, and even colonial Portugal, the Netherlands, and Britain have all left their mark—visible in architecture, rituals, languages, and daily life. UNESCO World Heritage Sites dot the landscape, each whispering secrets of the past while remaining deeply woven into the rhythm of modern Sri Lankan life.
Explore Sri Lanka
Destinations That Tell a Story
From misty mountains to sun-kissed shores, ancient cities to vibrant urban life, Sri Lanka is a small island with an astonishing variety of destinations. Here are some of the must-visit places that capture the heart and soul of the island
Lotus Tower
Standing tall at 356 meters, the Lotus Tower is South Asia’s tallest structure and a modern symbol of Sri Lanka. Enjoy panoramic views of Colombo, dining experiences, and entertainment facilities here.
Temple of the Sacred Tooth
One of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the world, this temple houses a relic of Lord Buddha’s tooth. Located in the heart of Kandy, it is a spiritual and cultural hub.
Trincomalee
Located on the east coast, Trincomalee boasts pristine beaches, coral reefs, and the ancient Koneswaram Temple. It’s a haven for snorkeling, whale watching, and soaking up the sun in peace.
Rangiri Dambulla Cave Temple
A sacred pilgrimage site, this UNESCO-listed cave temple houses over 150 Buddha statues and stunning murals inside a series of ancient rock caves. A true spiritual and artistic treasure.
Yala National Park
Sri Lanka’s premier safari destination, Yala is home to the highest density of leopards in the world. Spot elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and exotic birds in their natural habitat.
Horton Plains National Park
A high-altitude plateau and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Horton Plains is famous for World’s End cliff, misty grasslands, and rare wildlife. Ideal for nature lovers and early-morning trekkers.
Unawatuna
A laid-back beach town on the south coast, Unawatuna is known for its golden sands, turquoise waters, and vibrant beach bars. Perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and unwinding by the sea.
Most Desirable Island in the World
Sri Lanka was crowned the Gold winner for “Most Desirable Island in the World” at the 23ᵗʰ Annual Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards, held in London on November 7, 2024. What’s impressive is that it climbed from 8ᵗʰ place in 2023 to take the top honor in 2024, based on over 200,000 traveler votes and more than 3 million votes cast overall.
Wanderlust continued to highlight the island’s verdant central highlands, saying, “its tea plantations and lush highlands of the centre have caught the eye, with the fresh addition of the Pekoe Trail offering an exciting new way to explore Sri Lanka’s green heart”.