Wilpattu National Park, Sri Lanka’s oldest and largest national park, is renowned for its unique landscapes of lakes, dense forests, and open plains. Located in the northwest, it’s a prime destination for leopard sightings, though its elusive population makes encounters rare. The park is also home to elephants, sloth bears, spotted deer, and wild boars. Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting over 200 species of birds, including eagles and painted storks. The best time to visit is during the dry season (May–September), when wildlife gathers around water sources, making sightings easier.

Arugam Bay is one of Sri Lanka’s most famous and sought-after destinations, especially for surfers. Located on the southeastern coast, in the Ampara District, Arugam Bay is a laid-back town that offers both natural beauty and vibrant local culture. Known for its long sandy beaches and consistent waves, it attracts surfers from around the globe, making it one of the best surf spots in the world. But even if you’re not into surfing, Arugam Bay offers a range of activities, scenic views, and a peaceful atmosphere ideal for relaxation.

Bopath Falls is one of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful and easily accessible waterfalls, located in the Wewalwita area of the Beliatta region, in the southern part of the country. The waterfall is known for its distinct palm-leaf shape (hence the name “Bopath”), where the water cascades down in a fan-like formation. It drops about 30 meters and is surrounded by lush tropical greenery, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and photographers.

Coconut Point in Mirissa, is a breathtaking palm-covered hilltop offering panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. It’s a must-visit for travelers seeking a serene escape with picturesque scenery.

Location & Accessibility

• Nearest Beach: Coconut Point is just a 5-minute walk from Mirissa Beach, one of Sri Lanka’s most famous beaches for surfing and whale watching.
• Secret Beach: About a 10-minute tuk-tuk ride away, this hidden gem offers a more secluded experience with clear blue waters.
• Weligama Beach: Around 15 minutes by tuk-tuk, known for beginner-friendly surfing and lively beach vibes.

Insta-Worthy Photo Spots

The Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, is one of Sri Lanka’s most revered Buddhist sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the Central Province, it has been a center of worship for over 2,000 years and is the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka.

History

Dating back to the 1st century BCE, the temple was established by King Valagamba (Vattagamini Abhaya), who took refuge in the caves for 12 years after losing his throne. Upon reclaiming power, he converted the caves into a magnificent Buddhist monastery. Over centuries, successive kings and devotees enhanced the temple with more statues and murals, making it an extraordinary artistic and spiritual site.

Nilaveli Beach is a stunning and serene coastal gem located near Trincomalee on Sri Lanka’s east coast. Known for its calm, turquoise waters, powdery white sands, and beautiful, untouched surroundings, Nilaveli is the perfect destination for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat away from the bustling tourist crowds. This idyllic beach offers a relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for families, couples, solo travelers, and anyone looking to connect with nature.

Pasikudah Beach, located on the east coast of Sri Lanka, near the town of Kalkudah, is one of the most beautiful and serene beaches in the country. Known for its calm, shallow waters and stunning coastline, Pasikudah offers a tranquil escape for those looking to enjoy unspoiled natural beauty, away from the crowds. The beach is a perfect spot for relaxation, water sports, and exploring Sri Lanka’s vibrant marine life.

Aberdeen Falls, located in the Ginigathena area of Sri Lanka’s Nuwara Eliya District, is a hidden gem known for its beauty and tranquility. Standing at 98 meters, the waterfall is formed by the Kothmale Oya, cascading over rocky cliffs in multiple stages. The hike to the falls takes visitors through lush tropical forests, offering a scenic experience with vibrant flora and the soothing sound of nature.

Named after a Scottish city, the falls offer a peaceful atmosphere, with a refreshing mist rising from the base. It’s a perfect spot for photography, relaxation, and swimming in the cool waters. The falls are located 20 km from Ginigathena, 35 kmfrom Kandy, and 130km from Colombo. The best time to visit is during the dry season (December to April), although the falls are most impressive during the rainy season when the flow is stronger. Surrounding the falls are scenic views of tea plantations and the Kothmale Reservoir.

Ambuluwawa is a unique and stunning mountain peak located in the Gampola region of central Sri Lanka. Standing at 3,544 feet (1,082 meters) above sea level, it is known for its beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including lush forests, distant mountains, and nearby towns. Ambuluwawa is particularly famous for the Ambuluwawa Tower, a spiraling, narrow tower that stands at the summit, offering a breathtaking 360-degree view of the central highlands, including views of Kandy and Nuwara Eliya.

Dunhinda Falls is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic waterfalls, located near the town of Badulla in the island’s eastern region. Known for its stunning beauty, Dunhinda Falls is approximately 64 meters high and features a misty spray that gives it the name “Dunhinda,“meaning “mist smoke” in Sinhalese. The mist is created by the powerful force of the water as it cascades down the rocks, offering visitors a spectacular view.