Sri LankaCities

Sri Lanka may be a small island, but every inch of it is packed with stunning landscapes, sandy beaches, clear blue waters, ancient ruins, heritage sites, wildlife reserves and natural rainforests. The compact size of the island means that you could be snorkelling on the west coast one day, tracking leopards in the southeast the next day, and hiking in the cold misty mountains the following day. The country’s easily accessible and varied landscape lets you experience more during your holiday here. Furthermore, Sri Lanka has generally great weather all year-round, so you can visit the country at any time of year. However, take note that due to the monsoon rains, the west and south of the country is more suitable from November to April, while the east and north east are more suitable for travel from May to October.

The main cities in Sri Lanka offer a primary attraction or experience that is heavily marketed to local and foreign tourists. However, many of these cities have now developed secondary experiences and places of interest which are as captivating as the big-ticket attractions. Tales of Ceylon helps you to identify these other attractions and experiences so that you can make the most of your time in each city. All locations are accessible by road, unless specified. Some cities are even accessible by seaplane or helicopter.

The country has developed in recent years to cater to the needs of foreign visitors. Although certain areas may still be rather rural, a large majority of the island is equipped with basic facilities such as electricity, running water, hospitals, telephone reception and most importantly wi-fi! It is advisable to carry cash when you travel outside of the main cities, as electronic payment methods are still a very urban phenomenon in the country.

Sri Lanka is a warm and friendly place that is welcoming of visitors. The people are generally eager to help and have a generous spirit. You will see small differences in how people behave and interact in different parts of the island, with some areas being more comfortable with outsiders than others. However, always be cautious of your surroundings and use your discretion when interacting with people, as there are those who do take advantage of people and situations. Sri Lanka has many great places to visit, all of which might not fit into one holiday, but you can always come back! Here’s our top pick of cities you should visit.

Key Destinations In Srilanka

Key Destinations In Srilanka
Key Destinations In Srilanka Visit

Top Cities In Srilanka

Colombo
Cosmopolitan City of

Colombo

Historically a simple trading port, today the city of Colombo is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city that serves as the commercial capital of the island.

Kandy
Religious City of

Kandy

Nestled in the central hill country of Sri Lanka, the city of Kandy has a long and fascinating past. It has played an important role in the politics, culture and history of the country...

Bentota
Adventure in

Bentota

The resort town of Bentota is located in the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka, 65km south of Colombo. Long stretches of golden sandy beaches, winding rivers, ancient history...

Galle
Heritage City of

Galle

The city of Galle, nestled in the southern coast of Sri Lanka, is a charming and delightful place to visit. Popular amongt local as well as foreign tourists, Galle can be reached...

Negombo
Sunny Beaches of

Negombo

Negombo is a delightful seaside town located on the west coast of Sri Lanka, about 38km north of Colombo. Apart from being a popular beach destination...

Yala
Natural Splendour of Wildlife Safari in

Yala

The region of Yala is home to the country’s most popular wildlife park and bird sanctuary. It is a great place to enjoy the rustic outdoors, to embark on...

Pasikudah
Seaside City of

Pasikudah

Pasikudah is a coastal resort town located in the east of the country. It is famed for having one of the longest stretches of shallow coastline in the world, allowing you to walk for miles...

Jaffna
Historical City of

Jaffna

Located on the northernmost end of the Sri Lanka, Jaffna is a city shrouded in folklore dating back to ancient times. The city was also a significant location for the European nations...

Sigiriya
The Lion Rock in

Sigiriya

The ancient rock fortress and citadel of Sigiriya, dating back to the 5 th century BC, is probably the country’s most iconic and recognizable landmark...

Nuwara Eliya
Misty Mountains of

Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya, perched at an elevation of 1,868 metres in the central highlands of the country, is well known for its temperate climate, strawberry farms...

Anuradhapura
Ancient City of Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura

Located in the north central province of Sri Lanka, the ancient city of Anuradhapura dates back to at least the 5th century BC. The city functioned as the capital of the Sinhala Kingdom from the 4th century BC to the 11th century AD.