The best cities to visit in Sri Lanka

The South Asian jewel of Sri Lanka is often linked to elephant treks, delectable cuisine and the famous train ride from Colombo to Kandy, not to mention soft sand beaches to wile away the days on. However, the cities on this island nation are unique and multi-layered, with plenty of memorable sights and attractions – you’d be missing out not to include them on a customized tour of Sri Lanka.

The best cities of Sri Lanka

Our favorites of Sri Lanka’s cities span from the culturally rich Jaffna in the north to charming Galle in the south. Read on for our selection of the best cities to visit in Sri Lanka, as well as some suggestions of what to do and see while you’re there.

Colombo

Most trips to Sri Lanka begin in the country’s sprawling capital, Colombo. This urban riot of color and smells makes up a city that certainly never sits still, and this can be a bit of an assault on the senses at first. However, once you scratch the city’s surface there are plenty of scintillating historic treasures to be explored. Colombo has been a key port city for centuries, shaped by Arab, Portuguese, Dutch and British influences which left their mark in its intricate architecture and deeply flavorful cuisine.

For a glimpse of this storied past, visit the Old Dutch Hospital – a beautifully restored colonial building that now houses chic cafes, shops, and restaurants. Or stroll through Pettah Market, where vibrant stalls spill over with fresh produce, locally-made textiles and aromatic Sri Lankan spices.

Make your way down to the Galle Face Green at dusk, a 12-acre stretch of park running parallel to the beach, and watch the sunset over the glistening Indian Ocean, as children play on the grass and kite flyers jostle for space in the sky. Whilst you’re there be sure to sample the quintessential Sri Lankan snack from one of the many food vendors – juicy mango or pineapple sprinkled with salt and chili.

Kandy

Located in the island’s Central Province, glorious Kandy is one of Sri Lanka’s most sacred cities and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is cradled by misty hills and lush greenery, and has an undeniable spiritual atmosphere; as you wander Kandy’s bustling markets, quaint cafes and roadside stalls, you’ll feel a laid-back vibe among the daily hubbub. This is possibly because Kandy is home to one of the nation’s cultural highlights, the Buddhist Temple of the Tooth.

The Buddhist Temple of the Tooth is said to contain the sacred relic of one of the Buddha’s teeth. The entire site emanates proud Sri Lankan heritage, and the temple’s intricate carvings and gilded shrines, accompanied by the steady hum of chanting monks is something not to be missed.

Aside from this must-do, Kandy is often referred to as the country’s cultural capital, and for good reason – one can take part in traditional cookery and Kandyan painting classes, shop for locally-made artisanal products or observe traditional Sinhalese dances and ceremonies. Don’t miss a leisurely stroll around scenic Kandy Lake; a stunning stretch of water that mirrors the surrounding hills and temples.

Jaffna

Jaffna is the northernmost of Sri Lanka’s cities and is unlike no other in the country. This unique city was off-limits to tourists for years due to political unrest during the Sri Lanka civil war which lasted nearly three decades (1983–2009). Since it opened up, Jaffna and its surrounding regions have been slowly welcoming foreign visitors, but it’s still largely untouched, making it the perfect off-the-beaten-track destination.

This is the place to immerse yourself in traditional Tamil culture – which shares more similarities with southern India than the rest of Sri Lanka – and absorb the warmth, heritage and community spirit of the locality. Explore the colorful Hindu temples, such as Nallur Kandaswamy Temple with its towering golden gopuram and intricate carvings, one of Jaffna’s most iconic landmarks. Visit the busy street markets and savor the taste of Tamil-influenced cuisine (from fiery Jaffna crab curry to idiyappam (string hoppers) served with coconut sambal). Finally, discover the near-deserted islands in the surrounding Palk Strait – such as Delft Island, known for its wild ponies.

Galle

Another UNESCO-protected gem, coastal Galle was built by Portuguese and Dutch settlers throughout the 16th and 17th century, and is now a popular resting point between Colombo and the country’s picturesque beaches along its south coast. Galle is steeped in history and charm, and its colonial influence permeates the architecture. Galle Fort is a grand example, with its sturdy ramparts and bastions once used as defense, now circling a lovely hub of local life.

The quaint alleyways that crisscross the fort are punctuated with pastel-colored houses with red-tiled roofs and flowering bougainvillea, creating a picture-perfect setting; and there are cafes, art galleries, and boutique stores selling handmade jewelry and handicrafts. Stop by the iconic clock tower, perched on the fort’s walls, and take in the panoramic views of the glistening Indian Ocean stretching out to the horizon. Due to its popularity as a destination, Galle has a wider variety of boutique hotels than most of Sri Lanka’s cities, and a taste for luxury if that’s your cup of tea.

Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya is nestled in Sri Lanka’s ‘Hill Country’, and is the island’s central hub for tea production. Sitting at an altitude of around 1,868m (6,128ft), its one of the coolest areas in Sri Lanka, making it a refreshing escape from the tropical heat of the lowlands. Due to its misty mornings, cooler climate and greenery it’s often called ‘Little England’ – it even gets the occasional drizzle!

The city is best reached via the renowned and sensory train journey from Kandy, winding through the sloping tea plantations and rolling hills of the region. Founded by the British explorer Samuel Baker in 1846, the city provides a picturesque base from which to explore the surrounding areas.

Anuradhapura

Our final pick: Anuradhapura, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a sacred city located at the northern tip of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle. Known for its ancient ruins and spiritual significance, it is home to the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi; the oldest living tree in the world, said to have been grown from a cutting of the tree under which Buddha achieved enlightenment. With its tranquil atmosphere, Anuradhapura remains a center of Buddhist pilgrimage and a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts. It’s also within driving distance of highlights in Sri Lanka such as Sigiriya Rock and the Dambulla Cave Temple.

Make it happen

The many wonderful cities of Sri Lanka are just waiting to be discovered. Each with their own distinct atmosphere and vibe, there is a destination for everyone. Get in touch with our trusted local experts to start planning your bespoke Sri Lankan trip, planned according to your preferences.