The most famous tourist attractions in Sri Lanka

01 Feb, 2023

Sri Lanka, also known as the "The Pearl of the Indian Ocean," is a country in South Asia. Sri Lanka, formerly a center of Buddhist culture and a Buddhist basis for Asian civilization, is notable for its thousand-year-old historical landmarks, beautiful tropical jungles, and spiritual temples in South Asia. If you enjoy traveling to discover more cultural heritage, Sri Lanka will not disappoint you.

Let's get started with a trip to visit nature, people, and the most famous tourist attractions in Sri Lanka in early 2023 with Travelner now!

Sri Lanka, the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean," is the birthplace of Asian Buddhism

Sri Lanka, the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean," is the birthplace of Asian Buddhism

The famous tourist destinations in Sri Lanka

1. Dambulla Royal Cave Temple & Golden Temple

It is said that there was a 2,700-year-old dwelling when Buddhism was spread here. This is a mountainous area with many caves at an elevation of 160m above the ground, including 5 caves with Buddha statues and murals. For first-time visitors, the domed columns, gabled entrances, and religious images painted along the temple's borders will be among the highlights. Also, tourists will be attracted by the tranquil trees surrounding the shrine.

Dambulla Cave Temple is Sri Lanka's oldest Buddhist site

Dambulla Cave Temple is Sri Lanka's oldest Buddhist site

2. Ancient City of Sigiriya

Sigiriya Lion Rock is located in the island's middle, about 370 meters above sea level. Previously, it is thought to be the citadel of Sri Lankan monarch Kasyapa. Then, the rocky peak was converted into a Buddhist monastery following his death until the 14th century. Two tables stand tall in front of the monument. Two lion's feet stand tall in front of the monument, on the side of the stairs leading to the mouth of the lion statue. The incredibly colorful and flexible graffiti designs of Kasyapa dynasty gods, goddesses, or palace maids carved on the stone wall are unique characteristics of the rocky mountain. In 1982, Sigiriya was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an annual tourist destination.

Sigiriya Lion Rock is one of Sri Lanka's most renowned tourist destinations

Sigiriya Lion Rock is one of Sri Lanka's most renowned tourist destinations

3. Kandy city

The well-known city is located in the heart of Sri Lanka and served as the last capital of the Sinhala royal dynasty as well as inherits many distinctive elements from Buddhism and Hinduism. The Dalada Maligawa Temple, in particular, is the location of the remnants of the Buddha's teeth, which are known and cherished by Buddhists all over the world. The cultural festival - the oldest Esala Perahera tooth procession in Sri Lanka - will take place in August, along with thousands of art troupes that parade on the backs of "elephants" all throughout Kandy's streets. It will be one of those occasions you will not want to miss.

Kandy is well-known for the long-running Esala Perahera Buddha tooth procession

Kandy is well-known for the long-running Esala Perahera Buddha tooth procession

4. Gangaramaya Temple

This temple, which dates back 120 years, is located in the thriving metropolis of Colombo. The temple includes an open space and several huge collections of Buddhism bringing Sri Lankan, Chinese, and Thai cultures as well as Burmese art styles. From outside the temple, two golden Buddha statues stand gravely in front of it. The statues with unique creative qualities and the sophistication in sculpture will thrill tourists as they enter the main hall. The old temple's courtyard is paved with black slate, Buddha sculptures, ceramic vases, and summoned monster carvings. Hence, it is appropriate and useful for travelers to visit Gangaramaya temple at any time of year.

Gangaramaya Temple is decorated in the traditional Burmese style

Gangaramaya Temple is decorated in the traditional Burmese style

5. Anuradhapura Sacred City

The ancient capital is located in the North Central province, more than 200 kilometers from Colombo. This was formerly one of South Asia's major powerhouses, serving as the capital of Sri Lanka. The historic capital contains a temple and pagoda system spread across 40 square kilometers. It is a Buddhist city, and it also has significant historical and religious significance in the country. Visitors strolling around the historic capital will come across the 2000-year-old Bodhi tree, the massive stupa Ruwanwelisaya, the ancient temple of Thuparama, and other preserved artifacts of Lankan culture. As a result, UNESCO designated this location as a World Heritage Site in 1982.

Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka's ancient capital, was formerly the seat of governmental power

Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka's ancient capital, was formerly the seat of governmental power

Conclusion

In addition to the above-mentioned attractive spots, the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean" has a plethora of other well-known sights just waiting for you to discover during your New Year's vacation. Plan a trip to Sri Lanka to earn our big travel deals right away!

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