# Top 10 Historical Places to Visit in Sri Lanka in 2025
Posted on 1/19/2025 by Sri Lanka Official eVisa Immigration Assistance Service
Top 10 Historical Places to Visit in Sri Lanka in 2025
Sri Lanka, often called the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, holds some of Asia’s most fascinating historical treasures. From ancient Buddhist temples to colonial forts, the island offers a journey through centuries of history and culture. As you prepare your Sri Lanka eVisa, don’t miss these ten iconic heritage destinations.
Table of Contents
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress
- Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
- Anuradhapura Ancient City
- Polonnaruwa Archaeological Park
- Dambulla Cave Temple
- Galle Fort
- Yapahuwa Rock Fortress
- Mihintale Sacred Mountain
- Jaffna Fort
- Kandy Royal Palace
Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Location: Central Province
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon
UNESCO World Heritage Site: Yes
Known as the Eighth Wonder of the World, Sigiriya is Sri Lanka’s most famous landmark. Rising nearly 200 meters above the plains, this ancient royal citadel offers panoramic views and stunning archaeological features.
Highlights
- Lion’s Paw Gateway: The monumental entrance carved into the rock
- Mirror Wall: Ancient graffiti and poetry
- Frescoes: Elegant paintings of celestial maidens
- Water Gardens: Ingenious ancient irrigation
- Palace Ruins: Remnants of King Kasyapa’s fortress palace
Travel Tip:
Climb early to avoid heat and crowds. The ascent takes 1–2 hours, and the view is unforgettable.
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
Location: Kandy, Central Province
Best Time to Visit: Evening during puja
UNESCO World Heritage Site: Yes
One of the most revered Buddhist temples in the world, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic houses a relic of Lord Buddha. The architecture and atmosphere make it a must-see in Kandy.
Highlights
- Golden Temple: Shrine containing the sacred relic
- Royal Palace Complex: Classic Kandyan architecture
- Cultural Performances: Evening traditional dance shows
- Lake View: Peaceful scenery by Kandy Lake
- Evening Puja: Daily prayer rituals
Travel Tip:
Attend the evening puja (around 6:30 PM) for the most spiritual experience.
Anuradhapura Ancient City
Location: North Central Province
Best Time to Visit: Early morning
UNESCO World Heritage Site: Yes
Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s first capital, is an immense archaeological marvel and an important Buddhist pilgrimage center spanning over 40 square kilometers.
Highlights
- Sri Maha Bodhi: The world’s oldest documented tree
- Ruwanwelisaya Stupa: Massive white dagoba
- Jetavanaramaya: Ancient monastery complex
- Abhayagiri Monastery: Center of Buddhist scholarship
- Isurumuniya Temple: Known for its intricate carvings
Travel Tip:
Rent a bicycle to explore comfortably. Two to three days are ideal to appreciate the entire site.
Polonnaruwa Archaeological Park
Location: North Central Province
Best Time to Visit: Morning
UNESCO World Heritage Site: Yes
Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s medieval capital, displays the island’s golden age of architecture and art through remarkably preserved ruins.
Highlights
- Gal Vihara: Four colossal granite Buddha statues
- Royal Palace: Remains of King Parakramabahu’s palace
- Quadrangle: Cluster of ancient shrines
- Parakrama Samudra: Impressive man-made reservoir
- Archaeological Museum: Artifacts and context
Travel Tip:
Hire a guide for deeper insight. The site is extensive—set aside a full day to explore.
Dambulla Cave Temple
Location: Central Province
Best Time to Visit: Morning
UNESCO World Heritage Site: Yes
Also known as the Golden Temple, Dambulla’s cave complex features five sanctuaries filled with over 150 Buddha statues and ancient murals dating back more than 2,000 years.
Highlights
- Five Caves: Each adorned with unique statues and paintings
- Golden Buddha: 30-meter golden figure at the entrance
- Cave Murals: Covering 2,100 square meters of walls and ceilings
- Scenic Views: Overlooking lush countryside
- Museum: Displays historical artifacts
Travel Tip:
Dress modestly and remove shoes before entry. The climb takes about 20 minutes.
Galle Fort
Location: Southern Province
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon
UNESCO World Heritage Site: Yes
Built in the 16th century, Galle Fort is a stunning colonial masterpiece blending Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences, perfectly preserved on Sri Lanka’s southern coast.
Highlights
- Ramparts: Scenic ocean-view walks
- Dutch Reformed Church: Historic colonial site
- Galle Lighthouse: Iconic coastal landmark
- Maritime Museum: Nautical history of Galle
- Boutique Hotels: Colonial-era buildings repurposed for luxury stays
Travel Tip:
Come for sunset—ideal for photography and leisurely exploration.
Yapahuwa Rock Fortress
Location: North Western Province
Best Time to Visit: Morning
UNESCO World Heritage Site: No
Once a short-lived capital in the 13th century, Yapahuwa is famed for its dramatic staircase and fortress ruins perched atop a rocky hill.
Highlights
- Ornate Staircase: Flanked by striking lion carvings
- Rock Fortress: Defensive ruins and ramparts
- Cave Temple: With Buddha statues and paintings
- Vistas: Breathtaking panoramic views
- Ancient Palace Ruins: Scattered archaeological remains
Travel Tip:
A quieter alternative to Sigiriya with an equally rewarding climb and view.
Mihintale Sacred Mountain
Location: North Central Province
Best Time to Visit: Early morning
UNESCO World Heritage Site: No
Regarded as the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, Mihintale is where Mahinda Thera introduced the faith in 247 BC. The sacred mountain is a significant pilgrimage destination.
Highlights
- Ambasthala Dagoba: Marks the meeting site
- Aradhana Gala: Rock where Mahinda preached
- Kantaka Chetiya: Decorated stupa with detailed carvings
- Ancient Hospital: Among the world’s earliest medical sites
- Hilltop Views: Sweeping scenery of the plains
Travel Tip:
Visit during the Poson Poya festival in June 2025 for a deeply spiritual experience. The climb includes many steps—take breaks as needed.
Jaffna Fort
Location: Northern Province
Best Time to Visit: Morning or evening
UNESCO World Heritage Site: No
Jaffna Fort, built by the Portuguese and later expanded by the Dutch, is one of Sri Lanka’s best-preserved colonial strongholds, recently restored for visitors.
Highlights
- Fort Walls: Towering defenses and bastions
- Colonial Buildings: Dutch-era architecture
- Queen’s House: Historic governor’s residence
- Local Museum: Exhibits on regional history
- Lagoon Views: Beautiful outlook over the Jaffna lagoon
Travel Tip:
Combine your visit with exploring Jaffna’s unique Tamil heritage and cuisine. The fort glows beautifully at sunset.
Kandy Royal Palace
Location: Kandy, Central Province
Best Time to Visit: Morning
UNESCO World Heritage Site: Part of Kandy Cultural Triangle
The Royal Palace of Kandy, once home to Sri Lanka’s final monarchs, now houses the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and several historical museums.
Highlights
- Palace Complex: Preserved Kandyan architecture
- Audience Hall: Ancient royal court chamber
- Queen’s Bathing Pavilion: Lakeside structure
- Museum: Exhibits royal artifacts and relics
- Wood Carvings: Detailed traditional craftsmanship
Travel Tip:
Arrive early for a calm experience. Stay for evening cultural dance shows nearby.
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Explore
- Dec 2024 – Apr 2025: Ideal dry season for sightseeing
- May – Sep 2025: Monsoon period with fewer visitors
- June 2025: Poson Poya at Mihintale
- August 2025: Esala Perahera festival in Kandy
Travel Essentials
- Dress Modestly: Cover shoulders and knees at temples
- Remove Shoes: Required before entering Buddhist sites
- Hire Local Guides: For better historical understanding
- Stay Hydrated: Carry plenty of water
- Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of traditions
Get Your Sri Lanka eVisa
Before setting out to explore these wonders, make sure your Sri Lanka eVisa is ready. The Sri Lanka Official eVisa Immigration Assistance Service offers an easy and reliable application process.
Contact
- Email: Visa@srilankaemigration.com
- Phone: +1 323 286 4541 (US)
- 24/7 Support: Always available for visa assistance
Sri Lanka’s heritage sites reveal a captivating story of civilization, faith, and art. Plan your 2025 journey carefully, and these timeless landmarks will leave you inspired for years to come.
