Being the land of natural wonders with an abundance of views, picturesque beaches and historical buildings, there are countless places to visit in Sri Lanka. If you are looking for good photo-ops to boost your Instagram feed, we’ve got the 15 most beautiful spots in Sri Lanka lined up for you to do just that!
Galle Fort
A UNESCO world heritage site, the magnificent Galle Fort sits on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka overlooking the sea in all its glory. Built by the Portuguese back in 1588 before being modified by the Dutch in the mid-17th century, the fort is also commonly known as the Dutch fort. Today it stands as an archaeological and historical reflection of European colonisation in the country and the region of South Asia. Join the locals as they head out to catch the day’s sunset just along the waters. This is an iconic photo opportunity you cannot miss.
Unawatuna Beach
Shaped like a banana, Unawatuna is Sri Lanka’s most popular beach. Prop yourself against the clear turquoise waters and swaying palm trees whilst you’re out here for a tropical paradise backdrop against your classic tourist shot. We’d suggest planning early to reach the beach earlier in the day when it’s relatively empty as it is bound to get crowded by mid-day.
Nuwara Eliya Tea Estates
Whether or not you consider yourself a tea connoisseur of sorts, you’ve probably heard of the term ‘Ceylon tea’. If you didn’t know, ‘Ceylon’ was Sri Lanka’s former name as a British crown colony and Ceylon tea, by virtue, refers to tea produced in the highlands across Sri Lanka, including Nuwara Eliya. Tea is more than just a hot drink in Sri Lanka - it’s probably the country’s most prided, symbolic feature; an essential product that has helped boost its economy throughout the ages. Get lost amongst the luscious green plantations of the Nuwara Eliya tea estates, meet the local workers to learn more about the production process, and of course, sip on some of the world’s best teas you’ll ever get to taste.
Knuckles Mountain Range
One of Sri Lanka’s toughest trekking trails, the Knuckles Mountain Range is every hiker’s dream. If you’re wondering why it’s called ‘knuckles’, well the answer is a lot more literal than you’d imagine. From certain viewpoints in the Kandy district, the range’s series of folds and peaks actually bear resemblance to the knuckles of a clenched fist. Spanning a vast 18512 hectares of land, the breadth of the range is bordered by mystical waterfalls and covered in misty forests that can be traversed through 34 different trails. Whichever point or angle you’re at, this natural beauty will appear as spectacular as the next on your camera.
Arugam Bay Beach
With its clear blue waters and golden sands, Arugam Bay Beach is known to be one of the best surfing destinations in the world. If you happen to be here in the months of May or June, you might just be in luck. Lounge by the beach that would be bustling with activity as the regional surfing championships take place right then and there.
Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Derived from the word Sihagri, meaning ‘lion rock’, the Sigiriya was designed with the intention of being a massive lion, whose feet have persisted up till the present but upper body destroyed. Originally a Buddhist monastery, the fortress was transformed into a royal residence by King Kasyapa in the 5th century, but returned to its roots following his death. The walls of this ancient palace tell a story of the different historical eras that have left a mark here, from frescoes during Kasyapa’s reign that portray female beauty, to inscriptions left by visitors since the 8th century. For lovers of history and architecture, this is an unmissable spot when in Sri Lanka.
Minneriya National Park
With a whopping 88.9 square kilometres of land, the Minneriya National Park is a sanctuary for animals such as elephants, toque macaques, sambar deers, buffaloes, crocodiles, and leopards. It’s in fact been reported as the “largest known wild Asian elephant gathering at one place in the world.” If you’d like to follow the elephants around for some surreal wildlife photography, the dry season from April to October during the late afternoons is the prime time to visit the park.
Adam’s Peak
Beloved by locals and tourists alike, Adam’s Peak is a 2,243 metres tall conical mountain in central Sri Lanka. Also known as Sri Pada, meaning ‘sacred footprint’, this doubles as a place of worship for Buddhists across the country. The climb up this mountain can last from 2 to 4 hours and it takes around 5,000 - 6,000 steps to reach the summit. The best time to head here would be between January and May but out of respect for the locals, avoid the week of the Sinhalese New Year. If you’re up for the challenge, we recommend planning your hike in advance to reach the peak by sunrise, as the view you’d get would surpass anything you might imagine.
Pigeon Island
Pigeon Island was first recognised as a sanctuary back in the early 60s before being classified as a national park in 2003, making it the 17th of its kind in Sri Lanka. Located 1 kilometre off the coastal town of Nilaveli, the island is named after the countless pigeons that inhabit it. On the island itself, there are several picturesque locations that you’d want to stop by. Our favourites are the beach where you can capture the coral reef and life surrounding it, followed by the Koneswaram Temple at the top of a hill from where you’ll have a spectacular view of the Indian Ocean.
Parrot Rock
Covered in distinct, bright colours just like a parrot, this iconic rock along Mirrisa beach is an isolated viewpoint from which you can enjoy stunning views of the ocean. Escape the evening crowds and head down during the early hours instead. Climb up the rock if you will and you might just get the best shots of the sunrise set against glistening waters.
Kandy Central Market
For a glimpse into the hustle and bustle of quotidian local life, head down to Kandy Central Market. From fresh fish and spices to clothes and handicrafts, you’ll find everything at this market and that too at a reasonable price. With an explosion of colours, smells, and perhaps even tastes, this will probably be the most exciting experience for the street photographer.
Train Ride from Kandy to Ella
Now you might be wondering why we’ve included a train ride in this list, but rest assured, this will be the most sensational one you’ll ever get on in any of your travels, let alone in Sri Lanka. Taking you through the nation’s countryside, be ready with your camera as you cruise through towering mountains and luscious plantations - breathtaking views all around for 4 hours that’ll fill your feed for the next month. What’s better? The train stops at several iconic tourist spots so you’ll get to explore them all in one go!
Nine Arches Bridge
Hidden in the midst of a dense jungle just by the main street of Ella Town, the Nine Arches Bridge is a 24 m tall piece of beautiful architecture. Hop off the train from Kandy and explore the green masses on foot on the way to the bridge to capture the true beauty that is nature.
