Ceylon is a wonderful place – the peaceful, contemplative rhythm of life on the island is perfect for those weary of the hustle and bustle of modern cities. Diving, long walks, exploring the architecture of dozens of cultures, as well as the heritage of ancient civilizations – these are reasons to choose Sri Lanka.
The best resorts in Sri Lanka are diverse: from secluded to bustling, from high-altitude to almost submerged in the ocean. There is no right answer – Ceylon is beautiful and multifaceted precisely in its contrasts.
Negombo
This popular and extremely colorful resort has a bright history and vibrant individuality. It is known as a major fishing center, “Little Rome,” and one of the strongholds of the spice world. Notably, it was the presence of wild cinnamon that brought Europeans to this corner of the world – dozens of foreign merchants decided to settle in the quiet harbor.
They brought Catholicism with them – the growing city filled with churches and cathedrals, the largest of which is still St. Mary’s Cathedral. In addition to religious heritage, Negombo also preserved historical heritage – the ruins of an ancient Dutch fort and a Dutch canal that appeared in the seventeenth century.
Old architectural structures, a huge fish market known throughout the country, cinnamon, ceramics, a mangrove park filled with birds in a bird sanctuary, and a wide beach area known for its comfort and cleanliness – Negombo is definitely worth a visit.
Recommended:
- Sentido Heritance Negombo 5* – First line, gentle sea entry. Breakfasts, lunches, and dinners (buffet). Rooftop spa center.
- Jetwing Blue 5* – Open kitchen in the restaurant. Breakfast in the room available. Spa and wellness center, fitness center. Indoor and outdoor pools.
- Suriya Resort 5* – Total area – 46,000 sq.m. Outdoor pool (350 sq.m.). Poolside restaurant and bar.
Hikkaduwa
This colorful resort has a reputation as one of the best diving centers in the country. The resort stretches along the southern coast and is close to Colombo. The local Coral Sanctuary is the place to start exploring Hikkaduwa. More than seventy varieties of corals in the entire color palette – a memorable sight. Don’t stray far from the water – the local turtles are quite friendly. They often swim to the shore and happily eat the seaweed brought by tourists.
Some particularly patient individuals may even allow you to ride on them. Hikkaduwa is also a center for body surfing – this type of surfing can be mastered in half an hour and is guaranteed to bring a lot of positive emotions. Not far from the center is a small fishing harbor, which is perfect for fishing enthusiasts – you can easily catch barracuda or tuna here.
Recommended:
- Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon 4* – 200 meters to the beach. Meals: breakfast, half-board, full board, all-inclusive. Outdoor seawater pool.
- Citrus Hikkaduwa 4* – Total area: 10,000 sq.m. Restaurant and bar in the open air. Meals: BB, HB, AI. Evening show.
- Coral Rock by Bansei 4* – First line, gentle entry. Outdoor pool (560 sq.m.). Buffet breakfast, lunch, and dinner à la carte.
Wadduwa
This small resort village in the southwestern part of the country captures the hearts of beach lovers from the very first day. It is well-known for its medicine, which gave the village its name. There are many Ayurvedic centers and spas here, where specialists improve the health of their clients without surgical interventions and pharmaceutical drugs.
Wadduwa has a very pleasant climate. There are no sharp temperature fluctuations here. Ocean water in the area warms up to +26°C all year round, and air temperature ranges from +25-30°C.
The choice of villas and apartments for rent in the village is excellent. The resort has both budget and premium hotels. The latter usually include restaurants, medical centers, and pools. Notably, despite the simplicity of living conditions, budget hotels have a very cozy, pleasant atmosphere.
Wadduwa is famous for its Buddhist temples, whose visits bring great tranquility. It is not surprising that travelers describe the village as a place where they receive medicine for the soul. From here, it is quite easy to get to another interesting resort: Kalutara, where there is a Buddhist temple in the form of a hollow stupa and Richmond Castle (its architecture combines Indian and English styles).
Visiting Kalutara often becomes a must for tourists vacationing in Wadduwa. Health-conscious travelers should note: both towns have a wide selection of Ayurvedic products at democratic prices.
Bentota
The resort and the river running through it are named after a demonic creature, but this fact does not scare locals and travelers. The city is located in the southwestern part of the country. Its main wealth: deserted beaches where nature itself has created an ideal atmosphere for a romantic getaway. It is for these that travelers come to the resort and enjoy the beauty of the city and its surroundings.
There are almost no budget hotels in Bentota, so budget travelers do not stay here. However, the city has many luxurious elite hotels on the first coastline with super-comfortable beaches. The resort’s infrastructure is exclusively oriented towards tourists vacationing on packages. Entertainment here is limited to visiting a few restaurants and shops.
The best time to visit is from October to April. During this period, the waves are not strong, and it rarely rains. The main attractions of the resort and its surroundings: Buddhist temples, old estates, parks, and turtle farms. The only museum in Bentota is dedicated to semi-precious stones and minerals. It operates at the popular jewelry store Aida, and visiting it is free.
Recommended:
- Taj Bentota Resort & Spa 5* – All-inclusive concept includes: breakfast, lunch, and dinner (restaurant The Palms), alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks at the bar in The Palms, Tease Bar. Water sports center and sports club.
- Heritance Ahungalla 5* – Total area 70,820 sq.m. Services for children (club and nanny on request). Breakfast in the room available. Dietary menu at the restaurant. BBQ, snack bar, bar.
- Centara Ceysands Resort & Spa Sri Lanka 5* – Total area – 50,000 sq.m. Meals: breakfast, half-board, all-inclusive. Family rooms available. The beach is 200 meters away.
Unawatuna
In essence, this resort is a fishing village in the broadest sense of the word. Most tourists come here for several weeks or even months to live “wild” style. The beach of Unawatuna is the reason to choose this resort. It is suitable for resting with young children.
According to the Discovery Channel, it ranks among the top ten beaches in the world and is an extremely atmospheric place: it is conveniently located amidst pristine jungles and almost shyly hides behind a coral reef wall. The beach itself is sandy with a gentle slope. This makes it an ideal place for snorkeling.
There are also several temples here, each of which is a true wonder. On a rocky cape stands the Unawatuna Temple, where only one monk has lived for several decades. The Niladari Temple carefully preserves the bright colors of wall paintings and a sacred tree. The Japanese Peace Pagoda is the youngest monument of Unawatuna.
Recommended:
- Villa Thawthisa The Boutique Hotel – 3 restaurants and 2 infinity swimming pools. 7.7 Good based on 366 reviews.
- Thaproban Beach House – 2 restaurants and rooms with ocean views. 8.4 Good based on 659 reviews.
- Araliya Beach Resort and Spa – Beachfront. 8.3 Good based on 387 reviews.
Trincomalee
Trincomalee adorns the northeastern coast. It is comfortably nestled in a cozy bay, which reliably protects the city from winds, helping to maintain a dry and warm climate. Notably, this bay is considered the deepest in the world. Its discovery is associated with Admiral Nelson, a prominent historical figure.
Tourists who come here do not seek discos – such entertainment is famous on the west coast, but for wide clean beaches and pristine nature. This city is amazing from a cultural point of view, as it combines Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu, and Christian worldviews, which is clearly visible in the city’s architectural appearance.
There are numerous hot springs here, with open-air baths today. Diving or snorkeling is available right in Trincomalee, but for more impressive views, it is better to go to the neighboring Pigeon Island, famous for its coral reefs.
Recommended:
- Anantamaa Hotel – 1-minute walk to the beach. 8.6 Good based on 567 reviews.
- Trinco Blu by Cinnamon – Freshwater pool and 3 restaurants. 8.7 Good based on 1040 reviews.
- Amaranthe Bay Resort & Spa – Outdoor pool, wellness, and spa center. 8.8 Good based on 548 reviews.
Colombo
Because of its size and population, Colombo is often called the unofficial capital of Sri Lanka. It has the largest port in South Asia. The districts of Colombo were built in different centuries, so its architecture is strikingly diverse. Eastern and European styles intersect here, and the atmosphere in the city is hard to call purely Asian.
Colombo is often chosen by lovers of intellectual rest. There are many museums, libraries, ancient Hindu and Buddhist temples, fort structures, and concert venues. The park areas of Colombo are super cozy. When visiting them, it feels like you are transported to another planet, not in the largest business and industrial center of the country.
The choice of hotels, guesthouses, and entertainment venues in the city is huge. The greatest influx of tourists in Colombo is from December to March. This is when rains are rare, and the weather is pleasant.
It is important to note: the city is extremely popular with gourmet travelers. Here you can try almost any dish of national Sri Lankan and Indian cuisine. Colombo makes the tastiest coconut fresh, which rejuvenates the body. This exotic healthy drink is sold everywhere.
Recommended:
- Marino Beach Colombo – Pool, restaurant, fitness center, and garden. 8.7 Good based on 2287 reviews.
- Taj Samudra – Outdoor pool, 7 restaurants, and tennis courts. 8.6 Good based on 437 reviews.
- Galle Face Hotel – Pool with sun loungers and views of the Indian Ocean. 8.5 Good based on 708 reviews.
Beruwala
This is one of the trendiest resort towns that attract travelers’ interest. Located in the western part of the country, it is convenient for trips to and from Colombo. It is important to know: sometimes Beruwala is mistakenly called a suburb of Bentota. This is a typical mistake, as they are completely different administrative units.
The first streets of the resort were built over 700 years ago by Arabs. Then there were trading shops here, and much later, under the influence of Europeans, the city was “reformatted” into a popular vacation spot. Public transport is considered one of the best in the country, so many travelers prefer to move around its streets by buses or hire tuk-tuks, which can accommodate 3-4 passengers.
The most comfortable months for rest here are the winter months when the average air and water temperatures are almost the same: +28-29°C. Beruwala is popular among package tourists. Prices for food and accommodation in the resort town are democratic, but the state of the beach areas may cause complaints.
The shoreline here is too narrow, and there are many fishing boats. That is why it is better to choose the area of the city where the mosque is located for beach rest. The water is very clean in this part of Beruwala, and there are almost no waves.
Recommended:
- Cinnamon Bey Beruwala – Outdoor pool, 6 restaurants, and bars. 8.1 Good based on 1485 reviews.
- Occidental Eden Beruwala – Freshwater pool, Ayurvedic center, and 3 restaurants. 8.2 Good based on 445 reviews.
Galle
The port city has evolved from a major trading settlement to a mega-popular tourist center in the country. It is famous for its fish dishes, which combine the traditions of Arab, Persian, Greek, Roman, Portuguese, and other national cuisines. Galle has well-preserved fort structures. Each district of the port city has ancient and new Hindu, Buddhist, Christian temples, and mosques.
Travelers usually choose Galle because they want to enjoy beach rest, exotic cuisine, and picturesque views. In terms of atmosphere and the level of development of the tourist infrastructure, the city is close to well-known European resorts. Tourism is the main source of income for its residents, so local authorities do everything possible to ensure that this economic sector develops dynamically.
The rainiest time here is from April to October. Most tourists prefer to vacation in the city from November to March. Well-equipped beaches are only in the suburbs of Galle. They are just a few minutes’ drive from the city center.
In such areas for swimming, the ocean is calm, and the sand is clean, making them ideal for family vacations. These coastal areas are literally surrounded by cafes and restaurants. Additionally, there are many places in the suburbs of Galle for diving, snorkeling, and surfing.
Recommended:
- Radisson Blu Resort Galle – Luxurious rooms and suites, outdoor pool, bar. 8.6 Good based on 937 reviews. Booked 2 times today.
- Jetwing Lighthouse – 4 restaurants, 2 outdoor pools, and spa. 8.7 Good based on 257 reviews. Booked 6 times today.
- Le Grand Galle By Asia Leisure – Luxurious interiors and suites with private pools. 9.3 Good based on 576 reviews. Booked 5 times today.
Ahangama
This cozy fishing village is located twenty minutes from Unawatuna Beach. If you go in the opposite direction, you will inevitably come across Weligama Bay, which long ago became a sort of Mecca for beginner surfers. The local surf arena has a safe sandy bottom for beginners and gentle waves. If you are more confident in your skills, head to Ahangama Beach and try to conquer the local waves.
You won’t have to struggle to find a spot on the beach, as this resort is more secluded, and despite the official season lasting from October to April, there are no real floods of eager tourists here. Small hotels, cozy cafes with ocean views, and the absence of nightlife – you can have a great rest here away from the noisy metropolis.
Kalpitiya
This term refers to a famous beach, a coastal area located near the Puttalam Lagoon, a district, and a city in the northwestern part of the country. Kalpitiya is very popular among eco-tourism enthusiasts. Here you can see various water bodies, seemingly gathered by Mother Nature in one place from all corners of the globe.
Kalpitiya is rich in historical monuments. It was in a strategically important place for different ancient states. That is why its streets with modern buildings are interspersed with Christian temples, Muslim mosques, and old estates. Here, the remains of defensive structures alternate with cozy small park areas, often creating the feeling that time has simply stopped in one of the past centuries.
Kalpitiya does not have many cozy beaches, but they are filled with vacationers all year round. The most famous among them are Alankuda and Kudawa. The first is interesting because it is convenient to watch dolphins and whales frolicking in the ocean from it. Kudawa is good for such observations and for windsurfing, sailing, and various water activities.
Sometimes huge sea turtles appear on its territory. Such events become real holidays for tourists. All lagoons of Kalpitiya have the status of marine reserves. Another important “highlight” of the region: salt fields. They look impressive and strongly resemble alien landscapes from sci-fi movies.
Mount Lavinia
This resort area is well-known, but reviews about it are quite contradictory because its tourist infrastructure includes establishments with different service levels. Mount Lavinia and the resort city of Colombo are only 15 kilometers apart, but the atmosphere in them is completely different.
The resort area has hotels that include restaurants, fitness centers, and wellness and cosmetic treatment rooms. In this part of the country, you can easily rent cheap accommodation, live with minimal amenities, and buy everyday groceries in supermarkets. Luxurious boutiques here coexist with markets, and not all shopping enthusiasts like such a mix.
The resort zone is most often chosen by travelers interested in snorkeling and diving. Fishing in this part of the country is excellent at any time. Mount Lavinia is also loved by fans of cycling and dancing until dawn in nightclubs.
For quiet rest, the place is also quite suitable. An important nuance: the prices for Ayurvedic massage sessions and natural component-based preparations in Mount Lavinia are among the lowest in the country.
Recommended:
- Mount Lavinia Hotel – Private beach, terrace with a view of the bay. 8.1 Good based on 1430 reviews. Booked 3 times today.
Mirissa
Mirissa is a tiny fishing village squeezed between Matara and Weligama. It was slowly dying, but at some point, thanks to surfers who considered this section of the Indian Ocean ideal, it began to revive again. People come here for two things – a superb beach and whales. Yes, you read that right!
Every morning, boats set off from the local pier, cruising the local waters with one goal in mind – to see the majestic whale firsthand. The chance to meet this giant mammal is indeed high from December to April. In the off-season, you risk spending a day at sea without achieving your goal.
The largest beach in Mirissa and the favorite beach of all tourists is Mirissa Beach. Despite being located in a small bay, the sea here is not calm. In the evening, after sunset, tables with small lanterns are set up along the coast. A dinner in such a romantic atmosphere will be remembered for a long time.
Recommended:
- Triple O Six – 500 meters from Mirissa Beach. 8.8 Good based on 435 reviews. Booked 2 times today.
- Ubuntu Beach Villas by Lantern – Outdoor pool, barbecue facilities. 8.9 Good based on 458 reviews. Booked 2 times today.
Weligama
Often called a village in travel guides, this place on the shore of a sandy bay is actually a town with a well-developed tourist infrastructure. Weligama is adored by avid surfers and those who prefer doing nothing, although it has not yet become a well-known resort.
It is most comfortable to vacation here from November to June when rains are extremely rare. The main attractions of the region are snake farms and coconut plantations.
The sandy beach of the same name is located in this place. It is very small compared to its “brothers” but cute and cozy. Another small downside of the recreation area: clayey sand. It’s hard to move on it if you’re not used to it. It literally sways. However, foreigners quickly get used to the fact that their feet sink and spread out in different directions while walking.
Experienced travelers advise Weligama to learn the basics of surfing. The prices for renting sports equipment and the services of professional instructors here are quite low. The same can be said about snorkeling. There are many safe places for diving in the bay, and professionals are responsive to beginners.
Recommended:
- Weligama Bay Marriott Resort & Spa – Children’s pool, relaxation pool, and outdoor pool with lanes. 9.2 Good based on 396 reviews. Booked 7 times today.
- Eraeliya Villas & Gardens – Complex with an outdoor pool and sea view. 8.8 Good based on 215 reviews. Booked 4 times today.
- Villa Tissa Beach Resort – 5 minutes walk from the famous Midigama Reef. 7.7 Good based on 196 reviews. Booked 3 times today.
Marawila
Tourists mainly come to the western part of the country for its luxurious beaches. The establishments for rest here are initially designed for travelers who can afford elite rest and prefer to relax and gain strength away from noisy parties and nightclubs.
Marawila is very popular among newlyweds, it is beautiful and romantic at any time of the year. Its main treasures are huge coconut plantations, the cleanest deserted beaches, and picturesque lagoons (as if straight out of fairy tales).
There are mainly premium hotels here, so there can be no talk of democratic prices for rest. However, in this part of the country, you can often see world-class sports stars in person. Large water sports centers operate here, where famous surfers and divers train.
The most pleasant time to rest in Marawila is from December to March when it is dry, sunny, and hot. Notably, there is quite a European atmosphere here due to the large number of old buildings built in colonial style.
Yes, Marawila, having gained the status of a village, essentially remained a typical fishing village. However, this did not prevent local authorities and entrepreneurs from exquisitely and comfortably arranging this corner of tropical paradise.
Recommended:
- Club Palm Bay – 9-hole golf course and outdoor pool. 7.8 Good based on 295 reviews. Booked 4 times today.
- Amagi Beach – Secluded Slice of Paradise – Private beach, outdoor pool. 7.4 Good based on 60 reviews. Booked 2 times today.
Dickwella
This cozy town on the ocean shore is sometimes called a local provincial standard in travel guides. There is quite a bit of truth in this, as Dickwella has combined all the advantages of rest in remote parts of the country.
It is 200 km from Colombo, but a convenient, not heavily loaded road leads to the resort. You can also fly here by plane. However, the trip will be very expensive! Plus, you will still need to hire a taxi to get from the landing site to Dickwella.
There are no crowds of tourists on its beaches, and the conditions for rest in the town are quite comfortable. There are no big waves on the shore, and the water entry is convenient. It is important to know: the place is quite suitable for family rest, but the bathing areas in Dickwella should be chosen with great caution. The reason is simple: there are almost no lifeguard towers on the beaches, and it is impossible to predict which way the underwater ocean currents will suddenly turn.
Food and accommodation prices are quite democratic. The main “sport” here for locals and tourists is delicious food. The dishes in cafes and restaurants are prepared exclusively from fresh seafood. Experienced travelers often note the high culture of behavior of the townspeople: the local Sri Lankans are very friendly and simultaneously unobtrusive in communication.
Recommended:
- Dickwella Resort and Spa – The windows of the hotel offer a view of the Indian Ocean. 8.0 Good based on 195 reviews. Booked 2 times today.
Tangalle
The southern part of the country is a very popular destination among tourists. The city and district of Tangalle are direct confirmations of this. Life in the largest fishing port of the country is bustling around the clock, charming numerous travelers from the first walk along its beautiful, cozy streets.
Its current popularity is owed to tea planters. They were the first to decide to start building hotel complexes and entertainment establishments here.
The beach areas are quite rocky, but the shores of closed bays are perfect for swimming. There is no problem finding cheap accommodation or renting a room in an elite hotel here. The local tourist infrastructure is oriented towards travelers with various financial capabilities, and this fact additionally attracts tourists from all over the world.
Tangalle is excellent for those who love combining rest with shopping. City stores and souvenir shops amaze even the most sophisticated tourists with their diverse assortment.
The district has places for observing the behavior of sea turtles and a freshwater lagoon with shrimp farms. However, in terms of the number of attractions, the port city is far from being a record holder. Most of the architectural monuments appeared here during the colonial period, and almost nothing remains of the ancient structures.
Recommended:
- Palm Paradise Cabanas & Villas Beach Resort – Located just 20 meters from the tropical beach. 8.5 Good based on 647 reviews. Booked 2 times today.
- Good Karma Ayurvedic Resort – Outdoor pool, free Wi-Fi, and parking. 9.6 Good based on 659 reviews. Booked 3 times today.
- Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort – Located on a cliff among a large coconut plantation. 9.3 Good based on 728 reviews. Booked 2 times today.
Induruwa
This name belongs to a resort city and district in the southwest of the country. Many tourists visit these places to see huge sea turtles and buy unique souvenirs made from natural materials. Induruwa is perfect for a secluded rest. The atmosphere of the place sets you up for doing nothing and contemplating the beauties of the surrounding world.
The choice of hotels and hotel complexes for accommodation here is excellent at any time of the year, and the prices are quite democratic. The city is divided into two districts: Induruwa and Maha Induruwa. The first part is considered the most comfortable for living, so experienced travelers usually advise choosing it. In Maha Induruwa, there are also places to stay, but these are mainly guesthouses. And the beaches in this district are small.
Rest in this place does not imply hours of shopping and entertainment shows in nightclubs. It is devoid of scale and scope. But many tourists consider the air to be healing. If you take air baths here for several days, fatigue disappears without a trace, and the body is filled with strength.
Koggala
The name of the city and lagoon says a lot to experienced travelers. Tourists often choose this place near Galle to enjoy coziness, taste national cuisine dishes, and simply forget about everyday problems and worries. Koggala is famous for its picturesque views. It is not surprising that paintings, booklets, and postcards with images of its landscapes can be seen in any corner of the world.
The tourist infrastructure here, to be honest, is still far from perfect. There are hotels of various categories, but the premium rest segment is still in its initial development stage. Koggala is well-suited for a budget quiet rest. Its cost is low because the tourist flow in this direction is still small, and the number of entertainment establishments in the district is purely symbolic.
It is better to come to Koggala for excursions and choose neighboring districts for accommodation if you cannot imagine a full-fledged rest without noisy parties. Travelers often describe the atmosphere of the city and district with just two words: cleanliness and order.
It is a very colorful place with a unique Asian exotic charm. It is adored by fans of stilt fishing and river walks. Some may find it too quiet, but that is its main charm.
Nuwara Eliya
For tea lovers, the city plays the role of a sort of Mecca. It is cool here all year round. Thanks to this climate feature, Nuwara Eliya can grow and produce various tea varieties in industrial quantities. The raw material for the drink, grown on plantations, has a special aroma.
Roses and strawberries are also cultivated here in large quantities. That is why the calling cards of the city are not limited to tea plantations but also include luxurious flowers and strawberry berries.
During the rest, almost all tourists get a strong feeling that they are in Europe, although Hindu temples are found everywhere. This is due to the dominant European architecture of the town and the cultural traditions of the Old World that have firmly taken root here.
The city is ideal for golf lovers and fans of walking. Almost all its hotel complexes are located in park areas, giving each quarter of the “tea capital” a special charm.
The list of local attractions includes both natural and man-made monuments. Among the latter is the famous Gregory Lake. Sports and picnic areas are arranged on its banks.
The city is also home to one of the most famous parks in the country: “Victoria.” It is home to many birds and is famous for its eucalyptus collection. Because of these trees, travelers walk along its paths for hours, treating respiratory diseases without medication. “Victoria” is not the only park area in the city. Nuwara Eliya is literally made of parks, and waterfalls and mountain ranges rise in its surroundings.
Recommended:
- Queenswood Cottage – Garden view rooms. 8.3 Good based on 711 reviews. Booked 2 times today.
- Villa Tea Fields – Located on the edge of the magnificent Gregory Lake. 8.4 Good based on 575 reviews. Booked 3 times today.
- Heritance Tea Factory – Located among tea plantations and misty mountains. 8.6 Good based on 808 reviews. Booked 2 times today.
Anuradhapura
The place is ideal for those who love combining rest with studying history. One of the oldest cities in the country is famous for its monuments worldwide. Locals usually add the word “sacred” when mentioning its name, symbolizing the deep respect and reverence Sri Lankans have for Anuradhapura, home to Buddhist shrines.
The city is divided into old and new parts. The second part has entertainment establishments, modern stores, fashionable restaurants, and small shopping centers. The old part almost entirely consists of monasteries, temples, temple buildings where pilgrims stay, palaces, ancient ponds, and statues.
The energy of such a place is hard to compare with anything, but it undoubtedly has a beneficial effect on travelers. Even tourists who do not practice Buddhism should consider staying in the city to feel better, take a break from the hustle and bustle, and make important decisions.
Mystics often call Anuradhapura one of the main places of power on Earth. Human civilization was preserved on this piece of land even when the world was shaken by major natural disasters, and what Christians call the Apocalypse occurred.
Recommended:
- Uga Ulagalla – Offers accommodation in villas with mini-pools. 9.6 Good based on 67 reviews. Booked 2 times today.
- Heritage Hotel, Golf, Spa & Conference Center – Located in the picturesque Litchfield Hills area. 7.2 Good based on 485 reviews. Booked 4 times today.
- Hotel 4 U Saliya Garden – Restaurant and room service available. 8.8 Good based on 287 reviews. Booked 2 times today.
Dambulla
Dambulla is located in the vicinity of Kandy. This small town has a not very developed infrastructure – it is more suitable for a secluded rest away from the noisy metropolis. Here you can find a quiet, family hotel, but it is almost impossible to choose a restaurant that will be open after sunset.
The main attraction of the city is the temple of the same name, located on the top of a mountain and consisting of five caves, although there is still no certainty whether these caves are natural formations. The Golden Cave Temple houses the largest collection of Buddha statues in the world. Unique, well-preserved frescoes depict scenes from the lives of Buddha and the gods. They are made of various materials: brick, granite, wood.
Recommended:
- Sundaras Resort & Spa – 5-minute walk from the Golden Cave Temple in Dambulla. 7.8 Good based on 1825 reviews. Booked 1 time today.
- Jetwing Lake – Bar and free private parking on site. 9.2 Good based on 585 reviews. Booked 5 times today.
- Sigiriana Resort by Thilanka – Free Wi-Fi, outdoor swimming pool. 8.0 Good based on 426 reviews. Booked 1 time today.
Sigiriya
A very interesting place on the map of the country, Sigiriya is not a full-fledged city. Once, a fortification functioned here. The eponymous fortress on a mountain plateau was impregnable. The technologies used to build it are still unknown. That is why Sigiriya is considered one of the most mysterious places in the country.
The ancient fortress is a complex of a palace, defensive towers, walls, and a monastery. Tourists come here specifically to see how ancient people could build such a wonder in the crater of a long-extinct volcano. The frescoes depicting kings, deities, and beauties are well-preserved here. The gardens on the plateau are luxurious, just as they were during the reign of ancient rulers.
No one can say for sure how long the city of Sigiriya existed on the map of the planet. There are burials here that are 5000 years old, and buildings constructed just five centuries ago. Sigiriya is one of the must-visit points for tourists who want to touch the mysteries of ancient ruling dynasties of Sri Lanka.
Recommended:
- Hotel Sigiriya – The windows offer an excellent view of the Lion Rock. 8.7 Good based on 1539 reviews. Booked 3 times today.
- Aliya Resort and Spa – Outdoor pool, fitness center, 4 restaurants. 9.1 Good based on 1049 reviews. Booked 2 times today.
- Heritance Kandalama – Panoramic view of the Sigiriya rocks. 8.8 Good based on 1905 reviews. Booked 2 times today.
Polonnaruwa
Another mysterious place on the map of the country, Polonnaruwa attracts travelers from all over the world. It is located in the district of the same name. Tourists come here specifically to see the buildings of the medieval city of Polonnaruwa. It is about 200 km from Colombo, but this does not deter pilgrims and history enthusiasts.
The medieval city is famous for its temples and statues. Locals assure that the air here is healing and capable of curing various ailments. They even attribute this property to the wall paintings of the ancient city. That is why you will always find photographs and paintings with views of Polonnaruwa in many Sri Lankan homes.
You can also see Hindu temples built many centuries ago. What connects them with Buddhist ones? Technologies that are still unknown to scientists. Medieval craftsmen knew how to keep secrets.
Imagine: a prayer whispered in many local temples can be heard in all corners of these same buildings. Polonnaruwa is a huge open-air museum. The history of the ancient district continues to this day through archaeological excavations, the opening of new museum complexes, and exhibitions.
Recommended:
- Tishan Holiday Resort – Outdoor pool, sun terrace, restaurant. 8.7 Good based on 655 reviews. Booked 1 time today.
- Hotel Sudu Araliya – Outdoor pool, sauna, fitness center. 7.7 Good based on 265 reviews. Booked 2 times today.
Batticaloa
A city in the eastern part of the country, Batticaloa can be considered one of the leaders in Sri Lankan hospitality. It has been greatly influenced by the Dutch and English. It is located in an area covering three lagoons and is famous for its numerous restaurants serving delicious dishes made from eco-friendly products.
The first settlements in this area were founded 2000 years ago. For various reasons, the city did not become a major tourist or trade center. The beach here is small, and the development of water sports is still in its infancy. However, the townspeople are very hospitable, always ready to organize boat trips for tourists and show local historical monuments.
The main attractions of Batticaloa: the fort, the lighthouse, and the park area. It is a very picturesque place, but there are few hotel establishments. The pleasant pluses are moderate prices, and the staff works at a European level.
The resort is ideal for lovers of quiet rest, gourmets, and those who enjoy walking along deserted beaches for hours.
Best Hotels in Unawatuna for Your Sri Lankan Getaway
