Category Archives: Sri Lanka

Souvenirs to Take Back Home from Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka – the island nation is quite popular among tourists for shopping besides its endless beaches, adventurous water sports, timeless ruins and flavourful food. There are several street markets across the cities in Sri Lanka selling anything and everything at great prices. Check out below some of the amazing souvenirs you must take back home from Sri Lanka:

Sri Lanka Souvenirs Gems and Jewellery

If you did not know earlier, let us tell you that Sri Lanka is famous for its sapphires and moonstones. The island is known for designing wonderful jewellery out of gems and metal. While you can purchase gems from all over the country, Unawatuna and Kandy are home to some of the best big and small gem stores. Besides, watching the mining process through a film at various museums is an amazing experience here.

sareeSarees

The island’s local and traditional clothing for women is saree. Osaria or Kandyan and Indian are the popular styles of wearing a saree in Sri Lanka. The Osaria or Kandyan style is majorly popular in Kandy. There’s a popular saree shop in almost all markets across Sri Lanka. From the local street shops at Pettah market to the upscale shops in Kandy and Colombo, there is a shop for every budget, and you are certain to be in love with the quality, styles and prices.

Sri Lanka Souvenirs Buddha figurines

As you all know most of the Sri Lankan people believe in Buddhism, you are certain to find several classic souvenir shops all around the country selling beautiful Buddha figurines. These shops are called Laksala. You can get the figurines in different forms and sizes; and not just Buddha; these shops also sell wonderful figurines of elephants, peacocks, leopards, as well as various handcrafted items. Colombo is the best place to grab these figurines and you can also explore Paradise Road to buy some handmade figurines and statues of good quality at great prices.

Sri Lanka Souvenirs Ceylon Tea

It is a known fact that Sri Lanka owns a large number of tea plantations in its central area; and Ceylon tea is called to be the original tea of Sri Lanka. There are many tea gardens, tea factories and shops all over the country to try and buy different tea flavours. Black tea is the traditional tea of Sri Lanka but you are sure to be in love with various other varieties such as English Breakfast, Chocolate Mint, Peach & Mint, Orange Broken Peko and more. Dilmah, Teaeli and Macwoods are the most popular brands.

Sri Lanka Souvenirs Beauty products

There is no doubt that most of the tourists flock in the island to simply relax and rejuvenate with spa and beauty treatments. While you can get healing Ayurvedic treatments here, you can also buy various Ayurvedic beauty products such as hair care packs, body washes, shampoos, body oils, face packs & masks, and more. If you shop for these products, go for the popular brands like Spa Ceylon, Siddhalepa, and Iris Garden.

Top 5 National Parks to Discover in Sri Lanka

sri-lanka

Sri Lanka is not just about endless beaches, rolling surf and eternal sunshine, there’s a lot more to this Indian Ocean destination. Its sprawling national parks are among its major draws. The unique and diverse wildlife including Asian elephants and Sri Lankan leopards attract wildlife and nature lovers from far and wide. Here are some of the top national parks of Sri Lanka:

Pigeon Island National Park

A place where you can experience beach vibe as well as exciting wildlife, Pigeon Island National Park is one of the most famous marine national parks in the island country. It is the only place in Sri Lanka to discover a variety of blue rock pigeons. The park comprises two islands – the small pigeon island and the large pigeon island; and you can spot plenty of sea life including blacktip reef sharks and Hawksbill turtle. Besides, water sports enthusiasts can indulge in excellent snorkelling opportunities offered here.

Yala National Park

Yala-National-Park

Considered to be the second largest and the most popular eco-tourism destination in Sri Lanka, Yala National Park is a true wildlife delight in the country. It is famous for spotting elephants, birds, buffaloes as well as the big cats, the leopards. You can plan a visit to the park with your family and friends at any time of the year and can enjoy the beaches, safaris, bird watching and a host of other things to do amidst its diverse landscape.

Udawalawe National Park

Udawalawe-National-Park

Lying on the boundary of the dry and wet zones of Sri Lanka, Udawalawe National Park is the third-most visited national park in Sri Lanka. If you wish to witness elephants in the wild, this is the place to be. Apart from the Sri Lankan elephants, you will also get a chance to spot other habitants including sambar deer, mongooses, wild buffalo, water monitor lizard, jackals, leopards, sloth bears, snakes and turtles. Bird watchers can enjoy spotting endemic bird species here such as red-faced malkoha, brown-capped babbler, Sri Lanka spurfowl and Sri Lanka grey hornbill and more.

Bundala National Park

Bundala National Park is a UNESCO biosphere reserve and is home to nearly 200 species of birds making an excellent choice for birders. The park is open all year-round; and most of the people visit the park on jeep tours from Tissamaharama, a town in the Southern province of Sri Lanka. The Greater Flamingo, Painted Stork and Eurasian Spoonbill are the major bird species to spot here. Reach the park early morning to start your jungle exploration, and you will have a good chance to spot crocs, wild boar, monitor lizards, mongooses, monkeys and elephants.

Minneriya National Park

Minneriya-National-Park

One of the best places in Sri Lanka to see Asian elephants, Minneriya National Park is popular among tourists for its wonderful safaris and camping. It is situated in the dry zone of Sri Lanka; and May to October is the best time to visit here when you can spot the largest gathering of the wild elephants. Plenty of scrub, forest and wetlands within the park draw huge crowds of nature lovers from all around. You will also have an opportunity to witness toque macaques, sambar deer, buffalo, crocodiles and leopards.

Top 5 Trekking Destinations in Sri Lanka

Boasting of alluring wilderness, Sri Lanka is a popular tourist destination in South-east Asia inviting adventure seekers from far and wide. From easy walks to more intense treks, there are plenty of hiking trails ensuring all sorts of trekking experiences to the travellers.

Trekking Destinations

Take a look at top five trekking destinations of Sri Lanka avid hikers should not miss exploring:

Ella Rock

A lovely, intimate town with a stunning countryside, Ella is a nature lover’s delight. Ella Rock, the highest cliff in the village, offers breathtaking views of the lush green meadows and tea plantations and is one of the best hikes in Sri Lanka. It is a day hike from the town in the highlands about 1000 metres above sea level that begins and ends at the Ella Railway Station. Surely, this beautiful hiking trail presents an incredible adventure experience.

Adam’s Peak

Lying 2243 metre above sea level, Adam’s Peak is the most popular hiking trail in Sri Lanka, visited by millions of tourists every year. Also famed as Butterfly Mountain or Samanala Kanda, this place is not just a natural landmark but has been a sacred place for more than 1000 years now. The trek begins from the far end of Dalhousie Village and hikers have to climb 5,200 odd stone stairs to reach the peak of the mountain. The mesmerising views of the rolling hills and tea plantations are treats to the hikers! You can start the trek in the night so you reach the top by early morning and can enjoy the stunning sunrise.

Hortons Plain National Park

Covered by montane grassland and cloud forest, Hortons Plain National Park is an area situated around 2000 metres above sea level in the Sri Lankan Highlands. The major draw of the plateau is that it comes to an abrupt end at the World’s End, a steep 800 metre fall overlooking the countryside. Be it the short one hour trails or the longer ones spanning the entire plateau, there are a number of options for trekkers on Horton Plain. An ideal combination of misty lakes, breezy grasslands and fresh waterfalls fills your trek with many exciting experiences.

Pidurangala

Situated in the neighbourhood of Sigiriya, Pidurangala is a massive rock formation offering astounding hiking opportunities for travellers. The panoramic sight of the Sigiriya Fortress and a 360 degree view of the valley around are a treat for the sore eyes. It is advised to embark on your trekking journey at dawn and reach the top before the sunrise and start your day with a delicious breakfast at a perfect picnic spot on the top of the rock.

Knuckles Range

Situated in the Central Highlands between the regions of Matale and Kandy, Knuckles Range is an amazing adventure spot in Sri Lanka. Abundant with a variety of waterfalls, vegetation and villages, the range ensures a thrilling trekking experience for visitors. Be it a one-day trek to one of the lowest peaks or a three-day two-night expedition to Meemure, there are a number of hiking options for all sorts of trekkers here.

Top 5 Cultural and Religious Sites of Sri Lanka

One of the finest travel destinations in the Southeast Asia, Sri Lanka has a rich culture, traditions and heritage! The cultural depth of Sri Lanka is recognised by UNESCO and appeals to the senses of travellers from across the globe.

Take a look at some of the prominent sites to get an insight into the island’s rich heritage:

Adam’s Peak

Located in the south of the central highlands, Adam’s Peak is a 2243 metre high mountain capturing the attention of tourists from all over the world. It has been a holy place for over 1000 years now. The unique rock formation is believed to be the footprint of Shiva among Hindus, Adam among Christians and Muslims, and Buddha among Buddhists. Also known as Samanala Kanda or Butterfly Mountain, it is also an ideal trekking destination in Sri Lanka.

World Buddhist Museum

The world’s first international museum, World Buddhist Museum is a major attraction of the island country. Situated next to the popular Temple of the Tooth and National Museum in Kandy, it is where you can learn about the fundamentals of Buddhism and its global history. Established with contributions of 17 nations, the museum boasts of individual exhibits on each of those countries. A large number of tourists pay a visit to the museum every year.

Dambulla Cave Temple

Dambulla-Cave-Temple

Also known as the golden temple of Dambulla, Dambulla Cave Temple is one of the most famous religious sites in Sri Lanka. It is the largest cave temple in the country lying at an elevation of 1118 feet from the sea level. The temple houses five caves, three statues of the kings of Sri Lanka, four statues of gods and goddesses and 153 statues of the Lord Buddha.

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

Nestled on the edge of Lake Kandy, Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is a major draw among pilgrims as well as the tourists. It is the only temple in the world with a tooth relic of Lord Buddha. Also famed as Sri Dalada Maligawa, this temple is centuries old. Besides enjoying a tour of the temple, you must take some time to sightsee around the city and take in the beauty of the place.

Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Sigiriya

The ‘Eighth Wonder of the World’, Sigiriya Rock Fortress is one of the key historical monuments of Sri Lanka. Situated on a massive rocky plateau between the towns of Dambulla and Harbarane, the fortress is the single most dramatic site of the country. Comprising of remnants of a ruined palace surrounded by vast gardens, canals, fountains and alleys, it is an ideal spiritual as well as peaceful haven. Do remember to climb up through a stone-made stairway and witness the exclusive features of the complex that used to be the home of King Kasyapa.

5 of the Best Holiday Experiences for Families in Sri Lanka

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Sri Lanka surely has a lot to offer to the honeymooners but even the families can have many wonderful experiences here. Read on to know about some of them.

Go for White Water Rafting in Kitulgala

If adventure delights you and your family, you must make your way to the picturesque Kelani Ganga River and experience the thrill of white water rafting. You can take your kids, who are above the age of 10, along with you and have a memorable experience while enjoying the picturesque surroundings. The raft covers the distance of around 5kms; you are provided with modern rafts, safety gear and a comprehensive safety briefing by the instructors beforehand.

Take a scenic train ride

The island of Sri Lanka is well-renowned for its scenic train rides. One of the most exciting rail routes is between two hillside towns, from Nuwara Eliya to Ella that will leave you amazed. Take this beautiful ride with your family and create unforgettable memories as you enjoy the views of the rolling emerald hills and tea plantations. The train takes you through the countryside and 21 narrow tunnels.

Climb Little Adam’s Peak

A hiking hotspot in Sri Lanka, Little Adam’s Peak in Ella is the highest summit on the island, offering ideal trekking opportunities for tourists including children. This trek of 4kms takes you through the tea plantations and presents stunning views of the hill station of Ella. Besides, a spectacular 360-degree view from the top of the peak, including the beautiful Ruwana Falls, is a sight to behold.

Take a stroll along the beach

Sri Lankan beaches with their clear blue waters and sandy sunsets promise a delightful time to you and your loved ones. You can have an enjoyable family time while catching some sun rays at Passekudah Bay, become an adventure enthusiast doing water sports at Hikkaduwa or dance your night away at Unawatuna beach.

Discover an elephant orphanage

If you like picnicking with your family and your kids are elephant lovers, the Pinnawela Elephant Orphange is the perfect spot to be at! Your kids would love to watch the elephants being bathed, fed and well-nursed to good health here. They get a chance to get close to them and feed these gentle animals. The orphanage also organises many educational programmes where kids can learn more about caring for the elephants.

Upcoming Exciting Events of Sri Lanka

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Sri Lanka is one of the most exciting destinations to visit in the Indian Ocean. Though this pearl-shaped nation is renowned world-wide for its coastal charms, the country also boasts a long list of festivals and events for people to enjoy. Here are some of the exciting upcoming events where you can experience the luxury, glitz and cultural richness of the nation.

Kandy Esala Perahera 2018

Also known as the Festival of the Tooth, Kandy Esala Perahera is one of the oldest and grandest Buddhist festivals in Sri Lanka, celebrated annually at the palace of Kandy called Dalada Maligawa. The festival parade lasts for ten days and amazes with many traditional local dances such as Kandyan dances, fire dances, and various other cultural dances, a large number of caparisoned tuskers and interesting drum performances. This year, the festival is going to be held from 18th July to 28th July.

Designer Wedding Show Galle 2018

Taking place on 28th July at Amari Galle Resort in the city of Galle, the designer wedding show is an exclusive fashion bridal show calling fashion lovers from all corners of the world. Here you will get the chance to witness the stunning creations of the leading bridal designers from all over the country.

Havana Night with Chandani and C&C

If you are a party animal, don’t miss this special night in Sri Lanka! Scheduled to be held on 28th July at Pegasus Reef Hotel in Colombo from 8pm to 1am, it is a family-friendly party with an interesting Sri Lankan twist. Popular songstress Chandani and her band C&C are sure to enthral you.

Colombo Night Bazaar

Held in Colombo for two days during Hajji Festival Season, Colombo Night Bazaar is the largest night market in Sri Lanka. It is an event that serves as a platform to showcase businesses, artists, talents and local entrepreneurs, and is scheduled to be held on 18th and 19th August this year. Make your visit to Green Path after 5 in the evening and treat the food lover and shopaholic in you with over 100 food stalls and plenty of art and craft shops. Music and many other attractions add to the experience of the night.

The Facets Show (Facets Sri Lanka)

The country’s leading international gem and jewellery show, Facets is a big event being held in Colombo since 1991. It is scheduled to be held from 30th August to 2nd September this year; exhibitors, buyers and visitors can all be a part of the event. From fashionable costume jewellery to branded watches to precious gems, there is a lot you will find here. Visit the exhibition and check out the many interesting international stalls with merchandise from around the world.

A Look at the Famous Temples of Sri Lanka

Mostly build by the ruling dynasties and early settlers, Sri Lankan temples and monasteries are classic examples of artistic beauty and artisanal excellence. Each of these structures narrates a story of its own and offers an insight into the rich cultural legacy of the country. Take a look!

Temple of the Tooth, Kandy

Temple-of-the-Tooth-Kandy

Also known as Sri Dalada Maligawa, Temple of the Tooth is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka. Established in 1595, it is home to the relic of Buddha’s tooth and is famed for its magnificent architecture and beautiful carvings. Preserved in a gold casket-shaped stupa, the relic is a major attraction at the temple. Pictures and paintings here narrate the life story of Buddha.

Dambulla Cave Temple, Dambulla

Dambulla-Cave-Temple-Dambulla

Dambulla Cave Temple is a well preserved and the largest of all cave temples in Sri Lanka. Featuring around 153 statutes of Buddha alongside other beautiful paintings, sculptures and murals, this temple is a major attraction on the island. The Golden Buddha statue, located downhill, is one of the most beautiful statues here. There are over 1500 pictures depicting important events in the life of Buddha here, including his first sermon.

Gangaramaya Temple, Colombo

An eclectic mix of Indian, Chinese, Thai and Sri Lankan architecture, Gangaramaya Temple is a beautiful attraction. Home to a wide collection of Buddhist paintings, sculptures and antiques, the temple is a prominent religious and cultural site in the country. A statue of Lord Buddha made of jade is a major attraction here. Along with religious celebrations, annual pageants, exhibitions, and meditation and chanting sessions are held here regularly. For those willing to learn more about the life of Buddha, there’s an onsite museum and library as well.

Jaya Shri Maha Bodhi, Anuradhapura

A sacred fig tree in the beautiful Mahamewna Gardens, Jaya Shri Maha Bodhi is the oldest surviving tree in Sri Lanka. Believed to be a branch of the Bodh Gaya’s historic Maha Bodhi tree, it is a popular attraction in the country. It is visited by thousands of devotees from across the world especially on Poya (full moon). The surrounding fence, railing and other structures around the tree are beautifully decorated with flags and tiny statues.

Jetavanaramaya, Anuradhapura

Jetavanaramaya,-Anuradhapura

Standing at 122ft (400ft), Jetavanaramaya is the world’s tallest stupa and among the eight most sacred places in the country. Known for its magnificent design and beautiful architecture, the compound is a popular attraction and a prominent place of worship in Sri Lanka. The intricate carvings, sculptures, paintings and statues in the complex are all stunning! This complex is home to over 10,000 monks.

Thuparamaya, Anuradhapura

Thuparamaya,-Anuradhapura

Built during the reign of King Devamnampiyatissa (250BC – 210BC), Thuparamaya is believed to be the 1st dagaba in the country. Famed for its beautiful Vatadage (stupa-house), stone pillars, and magnificent architecture, this place is a must visit attraction in Sri Lanka. It is home to some of the ancient sculptures, statues, paintings and portraits inscribed during the inception of Buddhism in the region. Vesak is the most famous celebration at the temple.

Ruwanwelisaya, Anuradhapura

Preserving some of the ancient relics of Buddha, Ruwanwelisaya is the oldest stupa in Sri Lanka. Built in 140 B.C. by the then ruler King Dutugemunu, the temple is a well-known attraction on the island. Sculptures, paintings and images depicting important events in the life of Buddha are the highlights here. The beautiful white dagaba guarded by 344 elephants at the entrance is truly impressive. Exhibitions, festivals, yoga sessions and other events are organised regularly here.

Isurumuniya, Anuradhapura

Famed for its striking carvings, mural paintings and magnificent architecture, Isurumuniya is a fascinating rock cut temple in the country. Built by King Devanampiya Tissa (307 BC to 267 BC), the complex today is a prominent worship site in Sri Lanka. A beautiful 6th century Gupta style sculpture, the sculpture of Isurumuni Lovers (Pem-Yuwala-Dutugemunu’s son Saliya and the low caste (Sadol Kula) maiden Asokamala whom he loved) is the most popular highlight here.

Best Things to Do and See in Sri Lanka

Teeming with pristine beaches, lush forests and green tea gardens and flaunting a cultural flamboyance unlike any other, Sri Lanka is truly a traveller’s delight. Located right in the balmy waters of the Indian Ocean, this fascinating teardrop shaped island has impressed the travellers with its beauty and charm for long. Featuring everything, from natural beauty to architectural wonders, the island is one of the most sought after holiday destinations in the South Asia. Read on to learn more about the island.

Beaches

Beaches

Kissed by the tropical waters and famed for its long coastline along the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is definitely a beach-lover’s paradise. Unawatuna, Bentota, Mirissa, Dickwella, Weligama, Galle, Induruwa, Hikkaduwa, Koggala, Negombo, Uppuveli, Trincomalee and Polhena are some of the must visit beaches in the country. Coral reefs, hot springs, lagoons and shacks are popular attractions on the beaches. Moreover, music festivals and dance performances are quite common on the beaches. Most of beaches in the country are ideal for water sports such as diving, snorkelling, kayaking and wind surfing.

Attractions

Whether it is historical forts, ancient buildings, rock fortresses, cave temples, Buddhist sites, museums or national parks, there is a lot to explore in Sri Lanka. Sigiriya, Galle Fort, Kandy Lake, Adam’s Bridge, Devon Falls, St. Clairs Fall, Haldummulla Fort, Colombo Fort, Fort Hammenheil, Star Fort and Royal Palace of Kandy are some of the most well-known attractions in the country.

Tea Plantations

Introduced by the British, tea is the country’s most famous export item. Sri Lanka stands as the 4th largest producer of tea in the world. Ceylon Tea is the major speciality of Sri Lanka and is loved by people all over the world.

Tea-Plantations

Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Badulla, Bandarawela, Haputale, Galle, Matara, Mulkirigala, Ratnapura and Kegalle are among the key tea growing areas in Sri Lanka. Apart from the beach visits, sightseeing and different adventure sports, exploring the tea plantation sites and watching the process of tea manufacturing is the most popular activity among tourists visiting the island.

Shopping

Be it precious gems, handloom fabrics, batik, tea, handicrafts, ceramics, jewellery or leather products, Sri Lanka has a lot in store for shopping lovers. Traditional masks, Sri Lankan lace, metalwork and lacquerware are picked most by the travellers who look for souvenirs of their trip to the country. Though there are several large malls in the country, shopping from one of the traditional street side stalls, gift shops or beach shacks is a more cultural experience.

Festivals

With a diverse population belonging to different ethnical groups and sections, Sri Lanka’s calendar is packed with a long list of cultural celebrations and events. Most of the famous festivals celebrated here have a cultural or religious side to them. Sinhala-Tamil New Year, Vesak, Duruthu Perahera, Navam Maha Perahera, Maha Shivarathri, Poson Poya, Vel Festival, Pongal, Kataragama and Esala Poya some of the most popular festivals in Sri Lanka.

Food

Exploding with flavours, food in Sri Lanka is one of its most potent draws. Influenced by diverse culinary traditions, Sri Lankan cuisine flaunts a variety of gastronomic delights and delicacies prepared using authentic ingredients and organic herbs. Kottu (godhamba bread stuffed with vegetables, egg or meat), Kevum (deep-fried, sweet Sri Lankan pastry made from rice flour and kithul treacle), Kokis (deep-fried, crispy and sweet dish), Pol sambola (dish made from coconut), lunumiris (sambal paste served as a condiment), Falooda (rose syrup, vermicelli, sweet basil seeds, and pieces of jelly with milk) and Kalu dodol (kithul jaggery, rice flour and coconut milk) are few of the must try dishes on the island. Being an island country, seafood including fish, prawns and crabs, is the biggest hit here.

Temples

Temples

Hindu and Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka are a major tourist attraction. Preserving a major chunk of the religious history of the country are prominent temples like Temple of the Tooth, Dambulla Cave Temple, Thuparamaya, Vajiraramaya Temple, Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara, Isipathanaramaya temple, Sri Kailawasanathar Swami Dev Temple, Koneswaram Temple and Sri Maha Bodhi. Most of these temples host traditional festivals and events on special occasions.

Museums

Collecting and preserving valuables from different ancient eras, museums in Sri Lanka are quite popular and visited in large numbers. National Museum, National Museum of Natural History, The Dutch Period Museum, The Dutch Period Museum, Koggala Folk Museum, The National Maritime Museum, Ehelepola Museum, Archaeological Museum and Tea Museum are among the top ones.

Must Visit Attractions in Galle, Sri Lanka

From Dutch colonial buildings to historical temples and tea plantations to ancient churches, Galle has it all. Located on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, this former trading port is one of the most vibrant places to visit on the island. Read on and find out which are the top attractions of the city.

Galle Sri Lanka

Sinharaja Forest Reserve

‘Kingdom of the Lion’, Sinharaja Forest Reserve is a famous UNESCO World Heritage Site in Galle. Established in 1978 to preserve and protect endangered animals on the island, today it has been successful in providing home to several endemic species. Elephants, leopards, purple faced langur, greater racket-tailed drongo, orange-billed babbler, red-faced malkoha, green-billed coucal and Sri Lanka blue magpi are among the animals and birds spotted here.

Sinharaja-Forest-Reserve

National Museum of Galle

Located in the oldest building of the city, National Museum of Galle is one of the most prominent museums in the country.

It houses a wide collection of interesting artefacts, items and other valuables including jewellery, mask carvings, furniture, and weapons. Ancient wooden carvings and paintings dating back to the pre colonial era are on display here.

Unawatuna

Unawatuna is a beautiful coastal town in Galle. Loved for its stunning beaches, hidden corals and old world charm, the traditional town is a major tourist attraction for the ones looking to experience the best of sun, surf and sand. Kadolana (a famous mangrove), Rumassala Hillock (an area where several species of endemic birds and animals can be found) and Yatagala Raja Maha Viharaya Buddhist Temple are among the popular attractions here. Swimming, snorkelling and scuba diving are the most enjoyed activities here.

Dutch Reformed Church

Also known as ‘Groote Kerk’, Dutch Reformed Church is among the oldest Protestant churches on the island. Built in 1755 by the Dutch, this ancient structure is known for its Doric style architecture and traditional design. A pulpit made up of calamander (Malaysian wood) and the royal entrances are the two impressive features of this church. Shops and vendors selling gifts and souvenirs can be spotted around the church.

The Dutch Fort

First built in 1588 by the Portuguese, Dutch Fort is one of the most visited attractions in Galle. Later modified by the Dutch, the popular fort is a perfect blend of stunning architecture, history and design. The fort’s entrance gate, carved pillars and wall paintings all appeal to the travellers. You can enjoy traditional delicacies at the Galle Fort Hotel Restaurant and other eateries located around the fort.

Best Known Tourist Attractions in Kandy, Sri Lanka

Established by Vikramabahu III of Gampola during his reign, Kandy is an ancient Sri Lankan city. Located in the south central part of the island, the city features some of the ancient Buddhist temples and shrines dating back to 18th century.

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Designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1988, Kandy is an apt destination to explore Buddhist culture and tradition. Here are some of the most well-known tourist attractions of the city.

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

Located close to Udawattakele Sanctuary, The Temple of Sacred Tooth Relic is one of the most prominent shrines in Sri Lanka. Also known as Dalada Maligawa, the popular site houses the relic of the tooth of the Buddha. A popular tradition of the temple is the chanting of prayers and hymns by a dedicated group of priests and monks three times a day within the temple complex. Also, every Wednesday, a holy symbolic bath of the relic in scented water is done and the water is distributed among the crowd. It is believed that this water possesses healing powers.

World Buddhist Museum

Nestled inside the former High Court building, World Buddhist Museum is a famous attraction in Kandy. The museum is home to numerous pictures, photographs, models and illustrations depicting various stages of Buddhism in the country. It is the relics of Buddha, the beautifully crafted painted images which attracts visitors and tourists from across the world. Interestingly, the construction of the museum was a joint effort by 17 Asian countries including Bangladesh, Nepal, China, Korea, Malaysia, Bhutan, India and Afghanistan.

Aluvihara Rock Temple

Also known as Matale Alu Viharaya, Aluvihara Rock Temple is a popular temple located in the Matale district of Sri Lanka. Built during the reign of King Devanampiyatissa, the ancient temple houses some of the most beautiful paintings and depictions of Buddha. The temple was the location, where the Pali Canon was first written down completely in text on palm leaves. The reclining statue of Buddha, the arch of dragon, and a painting depicting the hell and the heaven are most popular among the visitors.

Muthiyangana Raja Maha Vihara

Situated in the heart of Badulla, Muthiyangana Raja Maha Vihara is another ancient Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka. Believed to have been built by King Devanampiya Tissa, the popular site is regarded as one of the Solosmasthana (the 16 sacred places) in the country. As per Hindu mythological texts, the war between Rama and Rawana (Ramayana) took place near the site. Popular attractions within the structure include thorana (pandol), Makara thorana, image house, The Stupa Bo Tees (bodhi trees).

Thuparamaya

Built after the introduction of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, Thuparamaya is one of the oldest stupas on the island. Built by King Devanapiyatissa, the popular site consists of relics, inscriptions and testimonies written and maintained by Buddha. At the time of its discovery, the site was used as a residential complex for Bhikkhus (monks).

Kadurugoda Viharaya

Located in a small hamlet called Kandaroda, Kadurugoda Viharaya is an ancient Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka. Constructed during the Anuradhapura era, the site was discovered by a famous historian P.E. Pieris in 1917. At the time of its discovery there were 56 stupas with remains and relics of Buddha.