Situated in Sri Lanka’s North Central Province, Anuradhapura is an ancient city and UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its extensive Buddhist heritage and archaeological remains. The city developed around Sri Maha Bodhi, a sacred fig tree believed to have grown from a sapling brought from India more than 2,000 years ago. The surrounding ancient city contains an impressive collection of dagobas, monasteries, palaces and other monuments set among landscaped gardens and woodland. Many sites remain active places of worship and pilgrimage. Highlights include the enormous Abhayagiri Dagoba, the intricately decorated Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba, surrounded by a frieze of elephants, and Jetavanarama Dagoba, one of the largest ancient brick structures in the world. Visitors can explore the ruins and discover the history of one of Sri Lanka’s most important ancient cities.
Sandwiched between the bustling capital of Colombo and the thriving city of Kandy in Sri Lanka's central highlands, the attractive town of Kegalle serves as the main commercial centre of the Kegalle District and the gateway to the naturally beautiful central hill-country. The town offers panoramic views of the lush rolling hills, which are dotted with an array of unusual temples - many of which have been built around natural caves. Other popular attractions in the area include the exquisite Algama Falls, which feature lovely natural swimming pools; the gorgeous Wewaladeniya Viharaya temple, located in the middle of town; a number of beautiful spice plantations; and the nearby village of Molagoda, which is renowned for its traditional clay-based handcrafts.
Galle sits on Sri Lanka’s south-west coast, around two hours from Colombo, where the Indian Ocean meets a city shaped by centuries of maritime trade. It is a historic coastal town best known for the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, a walled old town built by the Portuguese and later fortified by the Dutch. Travellers are drawn by cobbled streets lined with colonial buildings, boutique shops, galleries, and cafés, all overlooking the sea. Beyond the fort, palm-fringed beaches and coral reefs offer swimming, snorkelling, and sunset walks, while nearby tea plantations and wildlife reserves add depth to day trips. Galle appeals to visitors seeking a blend of history, culture, and relaxed coastal living, balanced by gentle exploration rather than fast-paced sightseeing.
