⚠️ Timetables, opening hours, prices and access conditions may change without notice, for reasons beyond our control (season, weather, decisions by operators, venues or local authorities). Before every trip, check the information with the relevant authorities and service providers.
Rock fortress built in the 5th century by King Kassapa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982: stairways, gardens, frescoes and palace remains on the summit.
Former royal capitals listed by UNESCO in 1982: stupas, monasteries and reservoirs at Anuradhapura, palaces and rock-cut Buddhas at Polonnaruwa.
A group of cave temples with painted walls and many statues of the Buddha, listed by UNESCO in 1991.
Shrine housing the relic of the Buddha's tooth, beside Kandy Lake, in a sacred city listed by UNESCO in 1988. Clothing covering shoulders and knees is required.
Great night-time procession honouring the tooth relic, with decorated elephants, dancers and drummers. Dates follow the lunar calendar: check them and book early.
Fortified town founded by the Portuguese and developed by the Dutch, listed by UNESCO in 1988: ramparts, lighthouse, colonial streets and merchants' houses.
Rice and curry pairs rice with several vegetable, fish or meat curries; hoppers are bowl-shaped pancakes, and kottu is chopped, stir-fried roti. Cookery classes are available, for example in Ella.
Developed under British rule, tea has shaped the highlands. Several estates can be visited, with tastings, near Ella or Ahangama.