8
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Cultural and natural places recognised for their outstanding universal value.
Explore Sri Lanka Differently
One island. Endless discoveries.
From misty mountains and ancient kingdoms to wild national parks and golden coastlines, explore the places that make Sri Lanka so wonderfully diverse.
The Island
A small island with extraordinary depth.
Sri Lanka is an island of remarkable contrasts. Ancient kingdoms, sacred cities, tropical forests, mist-covered mountains and long golden coastlines all exist within a remarkably compact landscape.
Formerly known as Ceylon, the island has a history stretching back more than 2,500 years. Today, Sri Lanka offers an extraordinary meeting of culture, nature, wildlife, food and warm hospitality.
From the cultural heartlands of the north-central plains to the tea-covered mountains and the beaches of the south and east, every region has its own rhythm, traditions and character.
Sri Lanka at a Glance
The island in numbers.
A few figures that reveal just how much diversity exists within Sri Lanka's compact landscape.
15
National Parks
Protected landscapes offering encounters with elephants, leopards, sloth bears and endemic birds.
350
Waterfalls
From dramatic mountain cascades to hidden rainforest falls across the island.
1,340
Kilometres of Coastline
Tropical beaches, fishing villages, surf breaks, lagoons and oceanfront towns.
2,524
Metres at the Highest Peak
Pidurutalagala rises above Sri Lanka's central highlands.
263m
Highest Waterfall
Bambarakanda Falls is the island's highest waterfall.
25,000+
Water Bodies
Ancient tanks, reservoirs, lakes and other water bodies shape the island's landscape.
2,500+
Years of History
A living cultural landscape shaped by ancient kingdoms, religions and traditions.
National Identity
Symbols of the island.
✦
National Bird
Sri Lanka Junglefowl
Endemic to Sri Lanka, the colourful Sri Lanka Junglefowl is officially recognised as the country's national bird.
✦
National Flower
Blue Water Lily
Known locally as Nil Mahanel, the blue water lily was declared Sri Lanka's national flower in 1986.
✦
National Animal
The Sri Lankan Elephant
Sri Lanka does not officially designate a national animal. The Sri Lankan elephant, however, is one of the island's most recognised natural and cultural symbols.
✦
National Tree
Na Tree
The Na tree, or Mesua ferrea, is recognised as Sri Lanka's national tree and is closely associated with the island's natural heritage.
UNESCO World Heritage
Eight places of universal value.
Sri Lanka has eight properties inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List — six cultural sites and two natural sites.
01
Ancient City of Anuradhapura
Cultural
02
Ancient City of Polonnaruwa
Cultural
03
Ancient City of Sigiriya
Cultural
04
Sacred City of Kandy
Cultural
05
Old Town of Galle & Fortifications
Cultural
06
Rangiri Dambulla Cave Temple
Cultural
07
Sinharaja Forest Reserve
Natural
08
Central Highlands of Sri Lanka
Natural
Before You Travel
A few things worth knowing before you arrive.
Travel Time
Sri Lanka is compact, but mountain roads, coastal routes and rural journeys can take longer than the distance on a map suggests.
Weather
Weather varies by region and season. The south and west, east coast and central highlands can experience different conditions at the same time.
Temple Etiquette
Dress respectfully at religious sites. Shoulders and knees should generally be covered, and shoes and hats are usually removed before entering sacred areas.
Wildlife
Always follow your guide and park regulations. Keep a respectful distance from animals and never feed wildlife.
Money
The local currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Cards are widely accepted in established hotels and businesses, while cash remains useful elsewhere.
Sun & Insects
Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable walking shoes and light clothing suitable for tropical conditions.
Connectivity
Mobile coverage is generally good around towns and major routes, although coverage can become limited in remote mountain and wildlife areas.
Visas & Entry
Visa and entry requirements can change. Always check the current official Sri Lankan immigration and tourism guidance before travelling.
Important Information
Help when you need it.
Keep these numbers accessible during your stay. Emergency access numbers can generally be reached through Sri Lankan telephone and mobile networks.
Consular Assistance
Your embassy is your first point of contact.
If your passport is lost, you need emergency documentation or you require consular assistance, contact your country's embassy or high commission in Sri Lanka.
Embassy and consular details can change, so we recommend using official government directories rather than relying on an old contact list.
Discover the Island
Explore Sri Lanka your way.
From ancient kingdoms and mist-covered mountains to golden beaches and vibrant coastal towns, explore the places that give Sri Lanka its extraordinary character.
Select a destination on the map to discover more about each place.
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