Uncover Sri lanka’s Hidden landmarks and archaeological sites 29 Must-Visit Places
Unveil the top 29 must-visit landmarks and archaeological sites in Sri lanka with our expertly curated list. Immerse yourself in 29 best landmarks and archaeological sites to visit or discover the hidden treasures with our list of 29 must-visit landmarks and archaeological sites. Don’t miss out on Sri lanka’s best with 29 top-rated landmarks and archaeological sites to experience.
Information about Sri lanka
Sri Lanka is a country with an ancient cultural heritage that extends over three thousand years, due to its strategic location at the junction of the main sea routes, which in turn led to the passage of many great civilizations and empires from it, and Sri Lanka was one of the countries that previous travelers passed through in the Silk Line, and therefore you will find through Touring its cities and reviving many of the monuments and evidence left by those ancient successive civilizations. Sri Lanka is an island country, located in the northern Indian Ocean, specifically south of India. Sri Lanka was one of the first strongholds of Buddhism, and it was the first known texts of this religion. And now it has become a country of many religions, races and languages, as 70% of the country’s population profess Buddhism, and the rest profess Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, and others. The country is also distinguished by the diversity of its natural features, as there are many waterfalls, forests, and many rare tree and plant species. Sri Lanka is one of the largest exporters of tea in the world.
A list of the best Landmarks and archaeological sites in Sri lanka
Discover the top landmarks and archaeological sites destinations in Sri lanka with our hand-picked list, chosen with care by our expert team based on the feedback and ratings from previous visitors. Let us help you plan the perfect trip.
1- Gal Palama (Stone Bridge)
Gal Palama (Stone Bridge) – This bridge is considered one of the beautiful historical places that must be visited, and the foundations of this bridge in ancient times, and the stone bridge made of rock blocks emanating from the rocks of the ancient city of Anuradhapura is a classic example of the engineering marvels that the ancestors of the Sri Lankans were able to achieve, as it shows the understanding of the ancient Sri Lankans of how Achieving balance when building bridges, so it is an unparalleled architectural masterpiece, and the age of this bridge is not less than 2000 years. This apparent bridge is surrounded by stunning and dazzling natural landscapes that provide the place with a special charm and beauty.
Place address: Gal Palama (Stone Bridge) – ගල් පාලම, B509, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Click here to go to the coordinates of the place on Google Map
Looking for more : The best Tourist bridges in Sri lanka
2- Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque
Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque – This historic mosque, which was built in 1908 AD, is distinguished by its majestic Islamic architectural character, and it also enjoys a red color with beautiful white lines, which earned it another name; It is the Red Mosque. Al-Far Mosque is considered one of the distinctive monuments in the country, in addition to being the oldest mosque in the capital. It has been classified by the local heritage authority as one of the most important monuments of Colombo. Visit it when you come to the city, and enjoy getting to know one of the most beautiful mosques in the world.
Place address: Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, 2nd Cross Street, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Click here to go to the coordinates of the place on Google Map
Looking for more : The best Things to do in Sri lanka
3- Galle Fort Clock Tower
Galle Fort Clock Tower – The Galle Fort Clock Tower is one of the most prominent landmarks in the fort area due to its high and high construction, as it consists of four floors. The tower is also called the Anthony Memorial Clock Tower. The tower overlooks the center of Moon Bastion on the site of the former guard room. It is a memorial to Peter Daniel Anthony, a surgeon from Galle who helped many residents. In addition, many bronze statues have been added to the side of the clock tower, and many tourists and locals visit this historical site daily to enjoy the beauty of the tower and the beauty of the surrounding area.
Place address: Galle Fort Clock Tower, Galle 80000, Sri Lanka
Click here to go to the coordinates of the place on Google Map
Looking for more : The best Tourist towers and beacons in Sri lanka
4- St Joseph’s Chapel
St Joseph’s Chapel – In the midst of the crowding and vitality of the historic Galle Fort area, this small and quiet Roman Catholic church is located, which was built in 1893 AD by the Dutch. It is famous for its beautiful antique and historical design from the beautiful external walls of a classic nature. As for the interior, it is characterized by its small area and antique wooden seats. Its design is simple and stunning, and the church and the surrounding area are clean and well-maintained. It may be a religious church, but given its history and age, it is worth visiting as a tourist site.
Place address: St Joseph’s Chapel, 48 Lighthouse St, Galle 80000, Sri Lanka
Click here to go to the coordinates of the place on Google Map
Looking for more : The best Tourist churches and monasteries in Sri lanka
5- Bellanwila Raja Maha Viharaya
Bellanwila Raja Maha Viharaya – The city of Colombo is famous for its Buddhist temples, and the Bellanwila Raja Maha Viharaya Temple is one of the most important of these temples, as hundreds of worshipers from residents and tourists come to it on a daily basis, and it gains its fame due to the Isala Perehera Festival, which is organized annually during the month of August or September, and there is also the sacred Bo tree in it Which is one of the most important tourist attractions in it.
Place address: Dehiwala Rd, Boralesgamuwa 10290, Sri Lanka
Click here to go to the coordinates of the place on Google Map
Looking for more : The best Things to do in Sri lanka
6- Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara
Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara – This temple is considered one of the most important temples in the city of Colombo, and the reason for its fame and importance is due to the belief that Buddha visited it. Although it was destroyed twice by the Indian and Portuguese invaders, it still retains its original shape and was restored by the Germans during the eighteenth century AD. This Buddhist temple is famous for its stone monument, which is about 5 meters long, and for its distinctive decorations and majestic architectural character. It is one of the most beautiful and charming sights in the city, so do not miss the opportunity to visit it.
Place address: Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya, Peliyagoda, Sri Lanka
Click here to go to the coordinates of the place on Google Map
Looking for more : The best Things to do in Sri lanka
7- Pidurangala Royal Cave Temple
Pidurangala Royal Cave Temple – The Royal Pidurangala Cave Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple located in the town of Dambulla. It was built on the famous huge rock called Pidurangala and is located a few kilometers north of the historical Sigiriya Fort. It is believed that the history of this temple dates back to after the first and second centuries BC, when it was used The rock was used at the time as a Buddhist monastery, and the temple inside contains stunning designs that reflect Buddhist, Hindu and Western influences.
Place address: Sigiriya, Sri Lanka
Click here to go to the coordinates of the place on Google Map
Looking for more : The best Tourist temples in Sri lanka
8- Sri Lankathilake Rajamaha Viharaya
Sri Lankathilake Rajamaha Viharaya – The Sri Lankathilek Rajamah Viharaya Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple located in the Odunwara district of Kandy, Sri Lanka. It is located on the Dolagala Road about 4 km (2.5 mi) away from Pelimatalawa junction and a few kilometers from the ancient Buddhist temple, Gadaladinya Vihara. The magnificent architectural edifices that were created during the Gampola era. Thousands of followers of the Buddhist sect visit this temple as one of their most important religious symbols, as it contains a golden statue of Buddha.
Place address: 6HM7+JX7, Daulagala, Sri Lanka
Click here to go to the coordinates of the place on Google Map
Looking for more : The best Archaeological sites in Sri lanka
9- Nelligala International Buddhist Center
Nelligala International Buddhist Center – Niligala is a famous Buddhist center and temple located near the city of Kandy. It was built in 2015 at the top of Mount Niligala. The temple is characterized by large golden Buddha statues that can be seen clearly from a distance. Tourists come to the temple to learn more about Buddhism, as it is intended Many for the purpose of pilgrimage or to relax and spend time away from the noise and crowds.
Place address: Nelligala Rd, Sri Lanka
Click here to go to the coordinates of the place on Google Map
Looking for more : The best Things to do in Sri lanka
10- Ranawana Purana Rajamaha Viharaya
Ranawana Purana Rajamaha Viharaya – Ranawana Purana Rajamaha Viharaya is one of the largest and most beautiful temples in Sri Lanka. Dhamma school is one of the important community services offered by the temple. Daily Jilanpasa puja and monthly Atassil program are some of the many religious activities conducted in the temple. Also, in this vast garden there are many It includes statues of people who follow the Buddhist sect, and painters and sculptors were hired to prepare this collection, which is known as the life of devout Buddhists.
Place address: Ranawana Temple Rd, Pilimathalawa, Sri Lanka
Click here to go to the coordinates of the place on Google Map
Looking for more : The best Statues and memorials in Sri lanka
11- Ibbankatuwa Megalithic Tombs
Ibbankatuwa Megalithic Tombs – The Ebankatwa Megalithic Tombs is an ancient burial site located near the Ebankatwa Wewa River at Galliwala in the Central Province of Sri Lanka about 5 km from the town of Dambulla, believed to belong to the megalithic prehistory of Sri Lanka, and is one of several ancient burial sites that have been found On the island, it has been declared a protected archaeological site.
Place address: Ibbankatuwa, Dambulla, Sri Lanka
Click here to go to the coordinates of the place on Google Map
Looking for more : The best Archaeological sites in Sri lanka
12- Sigiriya Fortress
Sigiriya Fortress – Sigiriya Fortress is one of the most important historical monuments in Sri Lanka, and has great archaeological significance that attracts thousands of tourists every year. It is referred to by locals as the eighth wonder of the world. It is located in the heart of the island between the cities of Dambulla and Habaran on a huge rocky plateau made of magma. Volcanic, 370 meters above sea level and 200 meters above the surrounding jungles, offering a breathtaking panoramic view. It includes the remains of a ruined palace surrounded by an extensive network of fortifications, dense gardens, ponds, canals, alleys and stunning fountains.
Place address: Rock Front, Sigiriya 21120, Sri Lanka
Click here to go to the coordinates of the place on Google Map
Looking for more : The best Tourist castles in Sri lanka
13- Kande Viharaya Temple
Kande Viharaya Temple – The Kandy Viharaya Temple is one of the most famous monuments in Sri Lanka and one of the largest Buddhist temples in the Kalutara region. Its unique feature is the majestic cross-legged Buddha seated atop it. It is one of the tallest Buddha statues in the world. The temple is an important site for followers of Buddhism, historians, architecture enthusiasts and archaeological explorers. The Sri Lankan government has recognized it as one of the country’s protected archaeological sites.
Place address: Kandavihara Yati Rd, Beruwala, Sri Lanka
Click here to go to the coordinates of the place on Google Map
Looking for more : The best Tourist temples in Sri lanka
14- Sacred City of Kandy
Sacred City of Kandy – The sacred city of Kandy is a famous tourist site in the city of Kandy, and it was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2008 AD. It includes the area where the Temple of the Relic of the Sacred Tooth is located, which is believed to have brought Buddha’s teeth to it, and many temples are located near it in addition to Kandy Lake. The site is considered one of the most important Buddhist places in the city to which Buddha’s followers come on pilgrimage.
Place address: 7JVR+G7V, Kandy, Sri Lanka
Click here to go to the coordinates of the place on Google Map
Looking for more : The best Things to do in Sri lanka
15- Galapatha Rajamaha Viharaya
Galapatha Rajamaha Viharaya – Located near the famous Pentara River, Galapata Raja Maha Viharaya is an ancient Buddhist temple famous for its stone walkway decorated with ‘Nari Latha’ motifs from the Kandyan period and rocky outcrop bearing inscriptions dating back to the 12th century. It is also believed that the temple housed the sacred tooth relic of Sri Anubuda Maha Kassyapa Araha (Sri Anubuddha Maha Kassyapa Araha) within its premises.
Place address: Unnamed Rd, Sri Lanka
Click here to go to the coordinates of the place on Google Map
Looking for more : The best Tourist temples in Sri lanka
16- Galle Dutch Fort
Galle Dutch Fort – Perhaps this fort is the most important landmark of the tourist city of Galle due to its historical importance, as the fort was built in the Gulf of Galle on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka for the first time in 1588 AD by the Portuguese, then the Dutch fortified them on a large scale during the seventeenth century from 1649 , which is a historical, archaeological and architectural site even after more than 423 years as it still maintains its polished appearance due to the extensive reconstruction work carried out by the Department of Antiquities of Sri Lanka. Galle Fort includes a network of museums, shops and cafes that are popular with locals and tourists from all over the world.
Place address: Church St, Galle 80000, Sri Lanka
Click here to go to the coordinates of the place on Google Map
Looking for more : The best Fortresses in Sri lanka
17- Ederagala Wana Senasuna
Ederagala Wana Senasuna – Idrigala Wana Sinasuna is a Buddhist cave temple located on the highway in the town of Dambulla, dating back to the 2nd and 1st centuries BC. On a clear day, visitors can view the royal cave temple of Dambulla and the rock-cut fortress of Sigiriya from this site.
Place address: A6, Dambulla, Sri Lanka
Click here to go to the coordinates of the place on Google Map
Looking for more : The best Tourist temples in Sri lanka
18- Mulkirigala Rock Temples
Mulkirigala Rock Temples – The Mulkirigala rock temples are an ancient group of Buddhist temples located near the town of Tangalle in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka, which were built on a natural rock with a height of 205 meters amid lush green coconut plantations. These temples have been officially recognized as an archaeological site in Sri Lanka by UNESCO, and from The climb of 533 steps to reach the temples is sure to be worth the effort, as visitors will enjoy the spiritual and serene atmosphere and the view of the walls filled with murals and carvings dating back to the Kandyan era.
Place address: Mulgirigala, Sri Lanka
Click here to go to the coordinates of the place on Google Map
Looking for more : The best Tourist temples in Sri lanka
19- Gangaramaya Temple
Gangaramaya Temple – The Gangaramaya Temple is located near Lake Pyar in the city of Colombo. It was built in the late nineteenth century. It is considered one of the most important temples in the city, as it houses the famous Buddhist shrine of Simamalaka. The temple also includes a museum, library, and educational halls that are used to hold many activities and events. Tourists come Come here to witness the amazing architectural style of the temple which consists of a mixture of Sri Lankan, Indian and Chinese architecture.
Place address: 61 Sri Jinarathana Rd, Colombo 00200, Sri Lanka
Click here to go to the coordinates of the place on Google Map
Looking for more : The best Things to do in Sri lanka
20- Japanese Peace Pagoda
Japanese Peace Pagoda – The Japanese Peace Temple was built by the Japanese government in the city of Galle in the style of Japanese temples, and it is one of the 80 peace temples that were built around the world. Meditation and spending a quiet time in the bosom of nature with a charming view of the beach.
Place address: Jungle Beach Rd, Unawatuna, Sri Lanka
Click here to go to the coordinates of the place on Google Map
Looking for more : The best Things to do in Sri lanka
21- Seetha Amman Kovil
Seetha Amman Kovil – The Sita Aman Temple is located in the village of Sita Eliya near the Hakgala Botanical Garden. It is a Hindu temple with a stunning Indian architectural design with many decorations and statues. It is famous for being the place where the Hindu gods Sita mentioned in the famous epic “Ramayana” were kept. Do not forget to take the most beautiful memorial photos when you visit this historical temple.
Place address: WRM6+76R, Seetha Eliya, Sri Lanka
Click here to go to the coordinates of the place on Google Map
Looking for more : The best Tourist temples in Sri lanka
22- Dambulla Royal Cave Temple
Dambulla Royal Cave Temple – The Royal Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple, is the largest temple complex in Sri Lanka, dating back to the first century BC when King Valagamba took refuge in a giant rocky outcrop in central Sri Lanka, and ordered the carving of a group of temples inside the caves at a height About 150 meters above the surrounding plains, today, the caves are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and many interesting Buddhist statues can be seen, including reclining Buddhas and arches decorated with dragons.
Place address: Kandy – Jaffna Hwy, Dambulla, Sri Lanka
Click here to go to the coordinates of the place on Google Map
Looking for more : The best Tourist temples in Sri lanka
23- Kataragama Devalaya
Kataragama Devalaya – The Kataragama Devalaya Temple is located in the center of Kandy, and it is considered one of the most important Hindu temples in it, as it contains a statue of one of the most famous deities in Sri Lanka, Deity Kataragama, and it is one of the 4 main temples in the city, where tourists come to see the Hindu statues and architectural style Featured.
Place address: Sri Skanda Kumara Devala Ln, Kandy 20000, Sri Lanka
Click here to go to the coordinates of the place on Google Map
Looking for more : The best Things to do in Sri lanka
24- Kaluwamodara Sri Kalyanarama Purana Viharaya
Kaluwamodara Sri Kalyanarama Purana Viharaya – Kalwamodara Sri Kalyanarama Purana Viharaya is located about 1 km from Bentota town towards Colombo. It is an ancient Buddhist temple dating back to 1825. Today it is home to the largest marble Buddha statue in the country. According to the information associated with the temple, this white marble statue of 5’9″ tall, circa 1877 from Burma (now Myanmar).
Place address: A2, Aluthgama, Sri Lanka
Click here to go to the coordinates of the place on Google Map
Looking for more : The best Tourist temples in Sri lanka
25- Royal Palace
Royal Palace – It is the main residence of the successive kings of Sri Lanka on the throne. This palace includes many sections dedicated to the king, his family and servants. Its construction dates back to the year 1357, and it witnessed many developments and improvements over the years. This palace also witnessed the great events that took place with the occupation of Portugal to Sri Lanka and then Britain, Inside the palace is the Temple of the Tooth, a temple built within the palace complex that contains only the remaining relics of Buddha.
Place address: Sri Dalada Veediya, Kandy 20000, Sri Lanka
Click here to go to the coordinates of the place on Google Map
Looking for more : The best Statues and memorials in Sri lanka
26- Gane Purana Raja Maha Viharaya
Gane Purana Raja Maha Viharaya – Ghani Purana Raja Maha Viharaya is an ancient Buddhist temple located in the coastal town of Bentota with a history dating back to the Polonnaruwa period between 1056 and 1236 AD. It forms one of five temples said to have been part of a larger temple complex covering an area of over 1,000 acres on the south bank of the river. Pintara, and is said to have been originally built by a king in the twelfth century as part of his palace, and the ruins that we see today in the temple, including the carved stone columns at its entrance, are part of the remains of that palace, and the columns and carved stones surrounding the temple buildings are considered A protected monument.
Place address: B55, Bentota, Sri Lanka
Click here to go to the coordinates of the place on Google Map
Looking for more : The best Tourist temples in Sri lanka
27- Menikdena Archeological Reserve and Arboretum
Menikdena Archeological Reserve and Arboretum – Menekdina Archaeological Reserve is an archaeological site located on the Dambulla-Kandy road, just a few kilometers from the town of Dambulla, and covers an area of about 5 acres, and its arboretum covers about 35 acres of forest lands rich in biodiversity, and the history of the place dates back to the third and fourth centuries AD, and is known to have served as a reclusive home for the Arhat Buddhists.
Place address: Dambulla, Sri Lanka
Click here to go to the coordinates of the place on Google Map
Looking for more : The best Gardens and parks in Sri lanka
28- Galle Fort – Moon Bastion
Galle Fort – Moon Bastion – Part of the historical Galle forts, it is one of the most important forts as it contains a large clock tower and provides an exceptional view of the Indian Ocean. The Portuguese called this stronghold the name (Conceicao), which means “pure concept”. The Dutch originally defined it as the middle point for horses, and in 1667 AD, it was officially named the Moon Fort, and the Moon Fort is the ideal place for you if you want to sit quietly and enjoy the view of the sunset, and the fort extends over the picturesque green spaces where you can sit and enjoy the natural scenery.
Place address: Galle Fort – Moon Bastion, Galle 80000, Sri Lanka
Click here to go to the coordinates of the place on Google Map
Looking for more : The best Fortresses in Sri lanka
29- Asokaramaya Buddhist Temple
Asokaramaya Buddhist Temple – The Asukaramaya Buddhist Temple is one of the most important tourist places in Colombo that attracts visitors to watch the art of building this temple and watching Buddhists practice their religion. The history of this temple dates back to 1873 when a Buddhist monk came to this village and worked to gain many acquaintances and friendships, as the residents admired him. Itanamadala village, and they always listened to his Buddhist speeches, and as a result, this place was built in memory of him.
Place address: Ven. Muruththettuwe Ananda Himi Mawatha, Colombo 00500, Sri Lanka
Click here to go to the coordinates of the place on Google Map
Looking for more : The best Things to do in Sri lanka
Conclusion
Exploring Sri lanka is a journey that will take you through diverse landscapes, vibrant cultures, and captivating histories. Our guide has given you a taste of the must-see destinations and hidden treasures that await, but there’s always more to discover. Take the time to connect with the locals, try the local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the traditions and customs that make Sri lanka so special. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or enlightenment, Sri lanka has something to offer everyone. As you journey through this remarkable region, we invite you to let go of your worries and embrace the present moment. Take time to appreciate the beauty that surrounds you, and allow yourself to be swept away by the magic of Sri lanka. We hope our guide has been a valuable resource in planning your trip, and we look forward to hearing about your travels. Until then, happy exploring!