Sri Lanka is a popular destination for travelers fascinated by history, culture, nature, sun, and sand.
SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVES
One of Asia’s most diverse travel destinations, sri Lanka tourism offers beautiful beaches, scenic hill country, historic cities, and amazing wildlife all within a few hours’ drive.
Sri Lanka offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a leisurely beach vacation, a cultural exploration, or a picturesque mountain getaway.
Popular travel destinations in Sri Lanka include the historic ancient city of Anuradhapura, the cultural hub of Kandy, the stunning rock fortress of Sigiriya, the scenic tea plantations around Nuwara Eliya, the vibrant city of Colombo, the colonial charm of Galle, and the wildlife-rich Yala National Park. Other popular options are the beaches of Bentota and Mirissa, the elephant encounters at Pinnawala, and the ancient ruins of Polonnaruwa and Anuradapura
Commence the process of organizing your vacation and you will be able to propose additional activities and sights to include in your itinerary for each destination in Sri Lanka. Additionally, we have emphasized certain locations that can be regarded as suitable for both leisure and business tourism, which are the two primary categories based on travelers’ motivations
Nuwara Eliya: Known as “Little England” for its charming colonial-era town, picturesque landscapes, and tea plantations
Sri Padaya: A sacred mountain that is a pilgrimage site for multiple religions, offering breathtaking views.
Ella: An area celebrated for its natural beauty, with stunning waterfalls, lush greenery, and scenic hiking trails.
NEGAMBO
Negombo is a city on the west coast of Sri Lanka, north of the capital, Colombo. Near the waterfront, the remains of the 17th-century Dutch Fort now house a prison. Negombo Lagoon, lined with fishermen’s huts, feeds into the Dutch-era Hamilton Canal. The canal leads south to Colombo. Neoclassical St. Mary’s Church, completed in the 1920s, features a ceiling decorated with vivid religious paintings
It’s a modest town of Buddhist temples, Portuguese churches and Dutch canals, which provides a gentle welcome for arriving visitors. The cluster of beach resorts are a worthy rest stop before flying home or just arrival to Sri Lanka .
An interesting introduction to coastal Sri Lankan life, with a lively fish market, a dash of olde-worlde colonial charm and hundreds of colourful wooden boats.
his beach is famous for its luscious golden sands, turquoise blue water and gorgeous palm trees. The beach is very close to the fishing village of Negombo and boasts of being the most popular seaside resort in Negombo.
it suitable for swimming and bathing. Negombo Beach are also top contenders and excellent for leisurely strolls and watching beautiful sunsets.
01-Angurukaramulla Temple ,
02-Abhayasekararama Temple ,
03- St. Mary’s Church ,
04- St. Sebastian’s Church ,
05-St. Anne’s Church,
06- Muthurajawela Marsh
07- Negombo Fish Market
08-Dutch Canal
09-Negombo Lagoon
BENTOTA
Bentota is a seaside town situated in the Galle District of the Southern Province of Sri Lanka. The distance from BIA – Katunayake Airport to the location is roughly 109 kilometers, and it is situated 56 kilometers north of Galle. Bentota is located on the southern bank of the Bentota River mouth, at an altitude of 3 meters above sea level.
As well as this coastal town located on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, known for its resort facilities. The extensive Bentota Beach extends in a northern direction, transforming into a sandy landmass referred to as Paradise Island, running parallel to Bentota Lagoon. Canoe Rock is a dive location known for its abundance of coral. The Galapota Temple, located on the Bentota River, houses a massive Buddha statue that dates back several centuries. In the southeastern region lies Lunuganga,
the magnificent estate and gardens designed by the renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa. The Northeast region is home to Bevis’s Brief Garden, a popular tourist destination. It features the Bentota River Airport and a few exceptional hotels. It serves as a hub for aquatic activities. Bentota also offers the practice of Ayurveda, an ancient form of healing. Bentota is renowned for its production of toddy, an alcoholic beverage derived from coconut nectar. Additionally, there is a turtle hatchery situated in Induruwa.
Things To Do in Bentota | 05-Dedduwa Lake, 06-Bentota Beach. 07- Lunuganga Garden 08- Bentota River 09-Sea Turtle Protection 10- Bentota Galapatha Rajamaha Viharaya 11-Madu River – Madu |
HIKADUWA
Hikkaduwa is a renowned tourist destination known for its exquisite beauty. Situated in the southern region of Sri Lanka, it is widely recognized as a world-class beach vacation spot. The region is renowned for its expansive sandy coastlines, as well as its diverse marine life, including underwater vegetation and coral reefs, which make it a popular destination for scuba diving. Various sorts of restaurants and bars are available, offering a vibrant evening scene with a multitude of dining and drinking establishments. Across from Hikkaduwa Beach is the Hikkaduwa National Park, a protected area with shallow seas that serve as a sanctuary for coral and a habitat for marine turtles and rare fish.
Gangarama Maha Vihara is an inland Buddhist shrine adorned with intricately painted paintings.
The center beach in Hikkaduwa, known as Naigama, is one of the most notable beaches in the area. It stretches throughout the southern half of the city and is home to numerous hotels. Although the sea in this area may not always be completely tranquil, it is still acceptable for swimming, although the waves may not be appealing to everyone.
01-Hikkaduwa Beach,
02-Turtle Hatchery Hikkaduwa,
03-Tsunami Honganji Vihara
04-Narigama Beach,
05-Coral Sanctuary,
06-Seenigama Muhudu Viharaya,
07-Hikkaduwa Harbour,
08-Naga Viharaya
UNAWATUNA
Unawatuna is a municipality located in the southern region of Sri Lanka. Renowned for its coral reef and palm-fringed beaches, such as Unawatuna Beach. The Japanese Peace Pagoda is situated in the adjacent jungle and features a stupa that offers scenic views of the ocean.
The fortified ancient town of Galle, established by the Portuguese and later expanded by the Dutch in the 17th century, is located to the north across the bay.
Unawatuna is a prominent tourist destination in Sri Lanka renowned for its exquisite beach and vibrant coral reefs. The presence of coral reefs and pristine waters renders this location highly suitable and secure for engaging in activities such as sea bathing, swimming, snorkeling, diving, and surfing. Unawatuna beach was once acclaimed as one of the top twelve beaches worldwide.
Unawatuna Beach in Sri Lanka is famous for its beautiful landscape, sandy beaches, and transparent blue waters. This location is highly sought after by both residents and visitors alike. If you are seeking the ideal location for sunbathing and unwinding, it is highly recommended that you spend a few days at Unawatuna. Unawatuna offers a sufficient range of attractions and activities to keep you engaged for several days.
Although this beach may be more densely populated than other coastal beaches, it is still worth visiting. The beach features small and regular waves, ideal for novice surfers. However, if you travel farther from the shore, you can challenge yourself with stronger waves.
01-Snorkeling in Unawatuna
02-Scuba Diving
03- Kanneliya Rain Forest Tour
04-Galle Fort and City Cycling Tour
05-Galle sightseeing tour
06- Surfing at Unawatuna Bay
07- Rumassala Sanctuary
08-Jungle Beach
09- Japanese Peace Pagoda
WELIGAMA
Weligama is a coastal town situated in the Matara District of the Southern Province of Sri Lanka. Located around 144 kilometers south of Colombo, this area is under the governance of an Urban Council. The name Weligama derives from its literal meaning of “sandy village,” which accurately describes the presence of a sandy sweep bay in the area.
Weligama offers numerous enjoyable activities and serves as an excellent location to explore some of Sri Lanka’s finest coastal areas in the south. If you have a strong affinity with water, it is imperative that you include Weligama in your travel plans. The bay offers a plethora of exceptional watersport activities that one should not overlook. Weligama is renowned globally for its coastline, which boasts sandy beaches that are ideal for engaging in sports such as surfing, snorkeling, and coral watching. Weligama is an excellent location for acquiring surfing skills, with a two-kilometer expanse of shallow sandy beach.
The winds in Weligama are predominantly side offshore, allowing for surfing opportunities at any time on most days. This is a significant advantage of the summer season. To maximize wave size, we suggest visiting during the shoulder seasons when wind conditions are more advantageous and the surf tends to be larger.
If you desire to avoid the excessive number of people at the beach, the beach of Weligama is an ideal location. You may relax, unwind, and simply savor the sunshine and sandy beach.
01-Kushta Raja Gala ,
02-Weligama Beach
03- Snake Farm Telijjawila
04-Surfing
05- Taprobane Island
MRISSA Mirissa is a small city situated on the southern coastline of Sri Lanka, namely in the Matara District of the Southern Province. It is situated around 150 kilometers to the south of Colombo. The combination of Mirissa’s beach and vibrant nightlife renders it a highly sought-after tourist attraction. Mirissa, located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, is a popular beach town known for its beautiful Mirissa Beach, vibrant nightlife, and opportunities for observing whales and dolphins. Mirissa Beach, known for its breathtaking beauty, is a highly sought-after destination for water sports enthusiasts, particularly those interested in surfing and snorkeling. The optimal period to visit Mirissa is from December to March, during which the climate is arid, including abundant sunshine and limited precipitation. This time frame is perfect for engaging in beach-related pursuits and observing whales. I highly recommend this exercise, particularly if you have a deep appreciation for nature. Observing whales in their natural habitat is an unparalleled encounter, particularly when encountering the awe-inspiring blue whale. Blue Whales can be observed from November to April.In our opinion, Mirissa is the optimal destination to visit for individuals traveling to Sri Lanka. |
01- Whale Watching Mirissa
02- Mirissa Beach
03- Turtle Point
04- Coconut Tree Hill
05- Parrot Rock
06- Secret Beach
07- Bandaramulla Temple
MATARA
Matara is a prominent urban center located in Sri Lanka, situated along the southern coast of the Southern Province. This city ranks as the second largest in the Southern Province. The distance from Colombo is 160 kilometers. It serves as a significant center for business activities and holds the governmental authority as the capital and largest city of Matara. District
Matara is rich in historical significance and is renowned for its numerous antique monuments and constructions. These structures were built during different periods when the Dutch, Portuguese, and British occupied Southern Sri Lanka. They consist of the Matara Fort, the Star Fort, and the Old Nupe Market.
The primary highlights of Matara include its fortifications, Dutch architectural style, a well maintained fortress, and its vibrant street culture. The Parey Dewa (Rock in Water) or Paravi Dupatha temple is a contemporary Buddhist temple located on Pigeon Island, a small island situated in front of the city.
1- Matara Paravi Duwa Temple
2- Matara Beach
3- Polhena Beach
4- Hiriketiya Beach
5- Weherahena Buddhist Temple
6- Star Fort
7- Wewurukannala Vihara
8-Hummanaya Blowhole
TANGALLA
Tangalle is a sizable municipality located in the Hambantota District of the Southern Province in Sri Lanka. It is administered by an Urban Council. It is a prominent municipality in the southern province, known for its size. It is situated 195 kilometers south of Colombo. The area experiences a temperate temperature, which is relatively milder compared to the surrounding region, and is characterized by the presence of sandy beaches.
The coastline is renowned for its exquisite and pristine beauty, making it a preferred choice for individuals in search of a romantic beach retreat or an idyllic honeymoon spot. With numerous pristine beaches in close proximity and a wide range of local activities, your stay here will be highly rewarding.
Throughout the season, the waves at this location are reliably steady and typically free from large crowds. This location is an ideal destination for individuals who are new to surfing or have some experience and are looking for a peaceful and secluded environment. The region is seldom frequented by surfers because to its challenging accessibility and limited awareness among the general public.
Despite the aesthetically pleasing deep blue color of the ocean, swimming at Tangalle Beach is not advisable due to the potentially hazardous and turbulent tides. The little cove, adorned with a protective coral reef, is unquestionably a destination worth exploring. The reef intercepts the larger waves and functions as a natural Jacuzzi.
REKAWA
Rekawa is situated in the Hambantota District of the Southern Province, Sri Lanka. It is roughly 200 kilometers to the south of Colombo. Rekawa Lagoon is a very tiny coastal lagoon with a water surface area around 2.4 square kilometers. The lagoon exhibits a diverse range of plant life, showcasing a great biodiversity.
The ocean waves often get turbulent, and certain aquatic organisms might pose a threat. Nevertheless, there are a limited number of bathing areas located at the opposite side of the town, where tourists can satisfy their need to swim.
The Rekawa golden beaches are renowned for their ability to attract numerous endangered species of sea turtles, such as loggerhead, hawksbill, olive ridley, green, and leatherback turtles. The period of highest turtle hatching activity occurs between February and July, which aligns with the best time to visit the southern beaches. Turtle Bay is dedicated to improving the chances of successful hatching. Fully matured female green sea turtles exhibit a behavior known as natal homing, when they instinctively return to the location of their birth to deposit their eggs during the nighttime hours. Visitors can witness this magnificent phenomenon on a beach at Turtle Bay, guided by the Turtle Conservation Project in Rekawa, which is about a 30-minute drive away.
1- Turtle Conservation Project
2- kayaking – Rekawa Lagoon
The best time to travel to the southern region is from December to April, as this is when the south and west coasts experience predominantly arid conditions. The tranquil ocean and excellent visibility during this period make it an optimal time for observing whales. Typically, May and June experience a significant amount of rainfall, while July and August are enjoyable, but the Indian Ocean tends to have turbulent waters.
ARUGAM BAY
The historic settlement of the ancient Batticaloa Territory may be found in Arugam Bay, which is located on the Indian Ocean in the arid zone of Sri Lanka’s southeast coast. The bay is situated 320 kilometres to the east of Colombo. Arugam Bay is a well-known surfing destination, and it is also the sole spot in Sri Lanka where international surf competitions are held. In addition to that, it is known to be among the top 10 surf locations in the entire world. Additionally, since 2004, it has been the location of the majority of the international surfing contests held in Sri Lanka.
The months of April through September are often considered to be the greatest time to visit Arugam Bay. This is because the waves are at their highest point during this period, which attracts surfers from all over the world. During this time of year, the amount of rainfall is typically low, despite the fact that it might be a little unexpected.
Elephant Rock point is one of the many prominent point breaks in Arugam Bay, and it might be the perfect place to ride a wave. A breathtaking location where one can take a leisurely stroll down the beach, take in breathtaking sunsets, and watch incredible surfers show off their skills.
1-Kudumbigala Monastery
2-Pottuvil Lagoon
3-Whisky Point, Sri Lanka
4-Muhudu Maha Vihara
5-Sangaman Kanda Lighthouse
PASIKUDA
Pasikuda, is a beach tourist town that can be found in the Batticaloa District of Sri Lanka, forty-five kilometers to the northwest of Batticaloa.
The bay is well-known for its golden color and its clean, shallow waters, which allow one to wade out to sea for a distance of fifty meters. The bay of Passikudah is a very picturesque location that is safeguarded by a reef that extends across the bay, making it one of the most secure and tranquil pieces of shoreline in the eastern region of Malaysia.
In addition to its breathtaking beaches, mesmerizing coral reefs that are ideal for snorkeling expeditions, and the famous Elephant Rock, which is a rock that is fashioned like an elephant resting by the beach, Pasikudah is recognized for its many other attractions.
Throughout the entire year, Pasikuda experiences weather that is quite stable, with bright skies and pleasant temperatures. The months of March through October are the greatest time to visit the town because the average rainfall is minimal during this time period, and the weather does not prevent you from having a wonderful time at the beach. Typically, the months of July and August are the busiest times for tourists.
1-Water Sports: its calm, shallow, and clear waters, making it perfect for swimming, especially for families with children.
2-Swim and Relax:
3-Snorkeling and Diving: Pasikudah and nearby Kalkudah
4-Water Sports: windsurfing, water skiing, kayaking
TRINCOMALEE – NILAVELI
A seaside resort town and suburb of the Trincomalee District in Sri Lanka, Nilaveli is situated 16 kilometres to the north-northwest of the city of Trincomalee within the district.
Situated on the East coast of Sri Lanka, 275 kilometres away from Colombo, along the pristine beach of Nilaveli, which is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful and unspoiled beaches in Asia, with white sands and pure blue waters. In the East Coast, the best time to visit is between the months of April and October.
The enormous Indian Ocean, which washes on to the shores of this coastal resort, is a treasure trove of dreams just waiting to be opened. This resort is located on the East Coast of Sri Lanka, which is known all over the globe for its gorgeous beaches with fine white sand that slope gently into clean shallow seas.
The beach at Nilaveli As you swim around the multicoloured reef that protects the island like so many layers of ribbon cake – turquoise, ochre, salmon pink, smoky grey, sandstone, and cobalt blue – you will be able to take pleasure in an underwater world of colourful translucence. You will be able to feast your eyes on schools of fish with a variety of colours darting among the coral and rocks that are all around you.
The region that overlooks Pigeon Island, which is now a breeding place for migrating birds, was initially utilised by the British during the Second World War for the purpose of target practice because of its location. Additionally, Pigeon Island is a fantastic spot for participating in game snorkeling. A well-known Hindu temple that is situated on top of Swami Rock, which is the dividing line between the emerald bays of Trincomalee. The other locations of importance include Fort Fredrick, which is a vestige of the colonial history of Trinco.
Nilaveli Beach, which is located on the East Coast of the island, is considered to be “the other side of the island.” An unspoiled, unadulterated, and extremely secluded beach, Nilaveli Beach is without a doubt the nicest beach in Sri Lanka and is considered to be among the most prestigious beaches in Asia.
1-Lanka PattunaKoneswaram Temple ,2-Ravana Abyss,
3-Marble Beach
4-Trincomalee War Cemetery
5- Sri Pathrakali Amman Temple
6-Fort Frederick
7-Arisimale Beach
8-Seruwila Mangala Raja Maha Vihara
9-Sri Lanka Navy Museum
10-Velgam Vehera
11-Hoods Tower Museum
12-Kanniya Hot Springs
13-Trincomalee Harbour
14-Orr’s Hill Army Museum
KALPITIYA KITE SURFING
The beach town of Kalpitiya is situated in the Puttalam District’s western section. There are fourteen islands that make up the Kalpitiya peninsula. It is growing in popularity as a travel destination.
Kitesurfing in Kalpitiya, Sri Lanka
Definitely, the northern coastal areas can be great to visit, especially with drier weather. Crystal-clear waters, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural experiences await. It’s a good season for exploring. Planning to do some exploring yourself?
Kalpitiya is renowned for its kite surfing; the winds there create perfect conditions for adrenaline-packed adventures. It’s a fantastic spot to experience the thrill, with stunning coastal scenery to boot. Have you tried it before? That’s the spirit! Trying kitesurfing in Kalpitiya will surely make your visit unforgettable. The sense of freedom and excitement on the water is incredible. Enjoy every moment!
Wildlife & Nature
Dolphin & Whale Watching: Take a boat tour to see large pods of spinner dolphins, which are present year-round, and during the whale watching season (November to April), you might spot whales.
Kalpitiya Lagoon: This vibrant lagoon is excellent for spotting diverse bird species, watching local fishermen, and enjoying water activities.
Wilpattu National Park: A short trip from Kalpitiya, this park is known for its unique natural lakes (willus) and is a great destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
Adventure & Water Sports
Kitesurfing & Windsurfing: Kalpitiya is a world-renowned destination for these sports, especially during the kitesurfing season (April to October), thanks to its consistent winds and shallow waters, making it ideal for beginners.
Snorkeling: The pristine waters are perfect for snorkeling between December and April.
History & Culture
Kalpitiya Dutch Fort: Explore this historic fort that offers a glimpse into the region’s past.
Dutch Church (St Peter’s Kerk): Visit this beautiful and historic Reformed Church, built in 1706, which is one of the oldest Protestant churches in Sri Lanka.
Beaches
Kudawa Beach: Enjoy the natural beauty of this unspoiled stretch of coastline.
1-Dolphin & Whale Watching
2-Kalpitiya Lagoon
3-Wilpattu National Park
4-Kitesurfing & Windsurfing
5-Snorkeling
6-Kalpitiya Dutch Fort
7-Kudawa Beach
Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura is a prominent city situated in the north-central plains of Sri Lanka. It serves as the capital of the North Central Province and the Anuradhapura District. The city is situated 205 kilometers north of Colombo, the present capital, in the North Central Province, along the banks of the old Malwathu. Oya
Anuradhapura served as the inaugural capital of Sri Lanka and a prominent Buddhist spiritual hub. It was established in the 4th century BCE. It was assaulted by the Tamils in the 2nd century BCE and plundered by the Pandyas in the 9th century CE. The monuments were later repaired, but the city was ultimately annihilated in 993 by the Chola ruler Rajaraja I, leading to the capital’s relocation to Polonnaruwa. In the subsequent centuries, it became enveloped by vegetation. Existing monuments include the Abhayagiri vihāra, the Ruwanwelisaya stupa, and the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, a tree propagated from a portion of the Bodhi Tree beneath which the Buddha is believed to have achieved enlightenment.
Anuradhapura is a renowned city in Sri Lanka, recognized as one of the oldest continuously inhabited towns globally and a sacred destination for Buddhists.
Noteworthiness
Ancient history: Anuradhapura served as the inaugural capital of Sri Lanka and the origin of Sinhalese culture.
Buddhism: It is regarded as the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka and serves as a revered location for Buddhists throughout.
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982.
Things worth seeing
Isurumuniya Temple: Renowned for its rock carvings and the sculpture of the Isurumuniya Lovers
Samadhi Statue: A 7-foot Buddha effigy located in Mahamevna Park
Ruwanwelisaya: An important edifice in Buddhist tradition that enshrines a jayasirimaha boo tree and a statue of the Buddha.
Dagoba of Thuparama: An antiquated location purported to have the Buddha’s collarbone
Abhayagiri Vihara: Established in 88 BC by King Vattagamini Abhaya Ritigala Woodland Monastery: A serene monastery featuring historical remains, alongside a variety of plants and fauna.
POLONNARUWA
Polonnaruwa is an ancient city and UNESCO World Heritage site in Sri Lanka, known for its well-preserved archaeological ruins. It was the country’s medieval capital from the 11th to 13th centuries, a period of both Chola and Sinhalese rule. The site is part of Sri Lanka’s “Cultural Triangle” and features grand palaces, intricate temples, and impressive statues.
The Quadrangle: A compact sacred area featuring some of the city’s most significant monuments. Highlights include:
Vatadage: A circular relic house with beautifully carved stone guardstones.
“Stone Book-A massive 8-meter-long stone slab inscribed with the achievements of King Nissanka Malla.
Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu: The ruins of a seven-story palace complex, where the remaining walls and foundations hint at its former splendor.
Gal Vihara: A rock temple famous for its four large, masterfully carved Buddha statues in different poses, including a reclining Buddha.
Parakrama Samudra A vast man-made reservoir constructed by King Parakramabahu I,
Lankatilaka Image House: The remains of a magnificent image house with tall, towering walls and a colossal headless Buddha statue.
Rankoth Vehera: The largest stupa in Polonnaruwa, built by King Nissanka Malla.
SIGIRIYA
Famous for its palace remains perched atop a 200-meter-tall granite column, Sigiriya (Lion Rock) is a historic rock fortification and UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sri Lanka. King Kasyapa constructed it in the latter part of the fifth century CE, and it has ponds, vast gardens, and the well-known Sigiriya Frescoes. The location offers breathtaking views from the top and features the Lion’s Paws entrance, a Mirror Wall, and the remains of a castle.
A massive, natural column of granite, a lava plug from an extinct volcano.
18 surviving frescoes depicting nude females, located on the western wall.
The rock is surrounded by a vast system of historic gardens, reservoirs, and other constructions.
PIDURANGALA
A few kilometers north of Sigiriya sits the massive rock known as Pidurangala. The history of the two rocks is connected: in the fifth century, King Kasyapa relocated monks from the vicinity of Sigiriya to a new monastery atop Pidurangala Rock while constructing Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
At the base of the cliff lies a Buddhist shrine where the climb starts. To get to the peak, the trail combines natural terrain, rough steps, and a last scramble over big boulders and cracks.
The Pidurangala Vihara’s grounds, which feature a reclining Buddha statue that was refurbished in 2002, are traversed along the route.
The main reward is the summit, which offers a 360-degree vista of the landscape, including an unobstructed, picturesque view of the Sigiriya rock fortress.
TEMPLE OF TOOH -KANDY
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, or Sri Dalada Maligawa, is a revered Buddhist temple in Kandy, Sri Lanka, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It houses the relic of the tooth of the Buddha, making it one of the most sacred places for Buddhists worldwide. The relic has historically been seen as a symbol of sovereignty, and whoever holds it is believed to hold the governance of the country
History and Significance
A political symbol: The tooth relic has represented sovereignty since antiquity. To protect it from invaders, the relic was moved from one city to another and housed in new temples built by succeeding kings throughout Sri Lankan history.
Traveling to Sri Lanka: In the fourth century, Princess Hemamali and Prince Dantha smuggled the relic from India to Sri Lanka.
Present temple: With later expansions, the current temple was constructed primarily in the 18th century. It is situated inside the former Kandyan Kingdom’s royal palace complex, which was the island’s last native kingdom.
Daily customs: In the temple’s inner chamber, monks from the Malwathu and Asgiri branches of Buddhism perform puja, or daily worship. Three times a day—dawn, noon, and evening—these rites are carried out.
Bathing ceremony: The relic is symbolically bathed with a fragrant herbal mixture on Wednesdays as part of a unique rite known as Nanumura Mangallaya. Devotees are then given this sacred water.
The festival of Esala Perahera
One of Asia’s oldest and most magnificent Buddhist celebrations, the Kandy Esala Perahera, takes place at the temple every year in July or August. Dancers, drummers, and other artists lead a magnificent procession through the streets during the festival, carrying a replica of the relic casket on the back of a temple elephant.
Going to the temple
Design: The temple’s main shrine is covered with a golden roof, showcasing the distinctive Kandyan architectural style. Along with museums and other smaller temples and shrines, the complex also has the Octagon (Paththirippuwa) and the Audience Hall (Magul Maduwa).
How to view the relic: During the daily puja services, you can see the golden casket in which the tooth is kept, even if the actual tooth is not displayed to the public.
All guests must wear modest clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. To enter the inner sanctums, one must take off their shoes and headgear. It is also seen as impolite to ignore the Buddha sculptures.
Ambuluwawa
Ambuluwawa is a popular sanctuary and wildlife complex situated on top of Ambuluwawa Mountain, close to the town of Gampola in central Sri Lanka. The famed Ambuluwawa Tower and expansive views are the site’s main draws.
Ambuluwawa is also a center for biodiversity, home to over 200 different plant species. An official biodiversity and recreational value assessment was launched in June 2025 to promote sustainable tourism.
