BONUS: TOP10 things to do in Sri Lanka (East Coast not included)

After spending 1 month in Sri Lanka, here are my 10 favorite sites on this island full of treasures.

1. Sigiryia (Center)

There is a rock that looks like it fell from the sky and it's called Sigiryia. Climbing up there is a bit tricky for someone that is as scared of heights as I am. But the view up there is worth it. There used to be a temple at the top but it's only ruins today.

2. Adam's Peak (Center)

Reaching the highest mount in Sri Lanka is an achievement in itself. Adam's Peak is the biggest challenge I had in Sri Lanta. A giant never ending staircase, 5.500 steps, and muscle pain that lasted more than 6 days. Plus the place is sacred for every religion which makes it the most famous spot for pilgrimage.

3. Nuwara Elyia, tea plantations (Center)

The tea industry is a really big thing since gthe British discovered the potential of the Sri Lankan lands. Sri Lanka is the 3rd producer in the world! And they still harvest the leaves by hand, allowing them to have a very good quality. A must here!

4. Polonnaruwa (North)

Polonnaruwa is one of the former capitals of Sri Lanka (from the 11th to the 13th century). A lot of religious buildings have been more or less preserved - some of them are ruins - and you can visit it riding a bicycle quite easyly. The most famous site is Gal Vihariya, a rock temple that consists of three buddhas directly sculpted into the rocks (in the style of Mount Rushmore): one is seated, the second is standing and the last is reclining.

5. Galle (South)

Galle is the typical colonial city. Most of the buildings and churches date back to the Dutch era but the fort was built by the Portuguese. The scenery towards the sea is particularly stunning. And there is also a beach with waves that are perfect for surfing!

6. Mirissa (South)

Mirissa is for me the nicest beach spot in the South for me. Very lively but still chill.

7. Horton Plains (Center/South)

If you want to see the World's End, this is where you have to go. An easy walk in this natural landscape is very inspiring. You might be able to see deers there.

8. Temple of the tooth of the Buddha - Kandy (Center)

This temple is the main reason why Kandy, the last capital of the Sri Lankan kings, has become a World Heritage Site. There is a daily worship there, rituals are performed three times each day. But if you are lucky to go during the full moon celebration, it feels like the whole city is attracted to the temple. Very impressive!

9. Hikkaduwa (South)

Hikkaduwa is a very nice snorkeling spot. Never saw that many fishes so close to the beach.

10. Ella (Center/South)

Ella is a small city, I don't even know if we can call it a city as it's mainly a road with all the restaurants and hotels. It is still preserved from ugly hotel constructions which is nice. Two interesting trails here: Ella's Rock and Adam's Peak - not nearly as hard as the real one!

Comments

[Chinthi]

Enjoyed reading this article

[Philippe LAMI]

Thank you very much