Very nice beach, but not adjacent to any hotel. Clay underwater allows us to go far into the waves. It is lacking serious touristic backed, but still worth it

Kalutara Beach, located on the western coast of Sri Lanka, is a serene destination known for its beautiful coastline, calm waters, and rich cultural heritage. Situated near the town of Kalutara, about 40 kilometers south of Colombo, it offers a mix of relaxation and local attractions. Key Features of Kalutara Beach: Scenic Beauty: Kalutara Beach features soft golden sands and palm-fringed shores, making it a picturesque spot for sunbathing and relaxation. The views of the Indian Ocean are stunning, especially during sunrise and sunset. Calm Waters: The beach is sheltered by a lagoon and is known for its relatively calm waters, making it suitable for swimming and water sports. This makes it a family-friendly destination, ideal for children and less experienced swimmers. Cultural Heritage: Kalutara is home to several significant cultural sites, including the Kalutara Bodhiya, a sacred fig tree, and the beautiful Kalutara Temple (also known as the Kalutara Vihara), which features a striking stupa and intricate murals. Activities: Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including beach volleyball, fishing, and boat rides in the nearby lagoon. The beach is also a great spot for leisurely walks and exploring local shops and markets. Proximity to Attractions: Kalutara Beach is conveniently located near other attractions, such as the historic town of Bentota, the lively fishing village of Beruwala, and the picturesque town of Galle. Accommodation Options: The area offers a range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses, providing options for all types of travelers. Kalutara Beach is an excellent choice for those seeking a relaxing beach experience with the added benefit of cultural exploration, making it a hidden gem on Sri Lanka's western coast.

Very beautiful but not allow to swimming!

It's just you and the see but can't swim beach it's too Deep and there is trash on the beach

A clean beach ..a good place to relax

I went there in september. It was rough. Better go in december. Anyway the beach was clean.

Beautiful Beach In Sri Lanka

Richmond Castle, Kalutara – Review Richmond Castle is one of the most beautiful and historically fascinating places to visit in Sri Lanka. Located in Kalutara, this elegant mansion showcases a mix of British and Indian architectural styles, surrounded by lush greenery and calm gardens. The castle’s design, with its tall pillars, detailed carvings, and wide verandas, gives a glimpse into the luxury lifestyle of the early 1900s. The environment is peaceful and well-maintained, making it a perfect spot for photography, family visits, or anyone interested in history and architecture. The staff is friendly and provides interesting background stories about the castle and its owner, Mudaliyar Don Arthur de Silva Wijesinghe Siriwardena. Inside, visitors can explore the grand staircase, wooden floors, and antique furniture that reflect the colonial era’s charm. The surrounding garden and the scenic view of the Kalu River add extra beauty to the visit. Overall, Richmond Castle is a must-visit heritage site in Kalutara — a place filled with history, beauty, and a calm atmosphere. 🌿

Richmond Castle is one of the most beautiful and historically rich places I’ve visited in Sri Lanka. The architecture, inspired by an Indian mansion, is stunning with its intricate woodwork, large windows, and elegant design. The entire property feels peaceful, surrounded by lush greenery and a calm atmosphere. The tour inside the mansion is well-organized, and the guides are friendly and knowledgeable. They share fascinating stories about the history of the castle and its original owner, Don Arthur de Silva Wijesinghe Siriwardena. It truly feels like stepping back in time. The gardens are well maintained, making it a perfect spot for photography and a relaxing walk. The entrance fee is reasonable, and the experience is absolutely worth it. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Kalutara—whether you love history, architecture, or simply want a quiet, scenic place to explore.

It is a historically significant place with some of Europe's best architecture. It has a unique natural air cooling system, old Sri Lankan architectural technology, and more. You must visit this location to observe more.

A peaceful spot with historical charm Richmond Castle in Kalutara is a colonial-era mansion with a unique backstory. It takes about an hour to explore, though the upper floor is currently closed for repairs. Tickets are Rs. 100 for locals. The surrounding garden is quiet and breezy, with a nice view of the Kalu Ganga river nearby. Built around 1900 by Mudaliyar Don Arthur de Silva, the mansion features British and Indian architectural styles, inspired by a palace he saw in India. If you’re visiting Kalutara, it’s definitely worth a quick stop to enjoy a bit of history and nature.

13.09.2025 For an entrance ticket of 100 Rs for adults and 50 Rs for kids, this place is definitely worth visiting. The magnitude of this castle amazes the visitors and the staff is very welcoming with their informative guidance throughout the Palace. If you are around Kalutara this is a must visit place. It seemed to be not of good condition at present thus hoping they will make arrangements to repair some places that seemed to be breaking down inside the castle. The architecture and how natural resources have been utilised maximally is unbelievable. There is the Kalu river by the side and there is a playing area for the kids too.

Richmond Castle is a truly serene and beautiful place with a fascinating and poignant history.This Edwardian mansion, completed in 1910, was built by Mudalivar Don Arthur de Silva Wiiesinghe Siriwardena. He was inspired by a palace in India,and after being told he couldn't replicate such a grand structure in Sri Lanka, he had local architects secretly draw up the plans. The result is a breathtaking blend of British and Indian styles, featuring imported teak wood from Burma, stained glass from Scotland, and a unique natural ventilation system in the ballroom. With 99 doors and 34 windows, the interior architecture is absolutely awesome. It's said that the marble statues of infants in the garden were placed there as a tribute to the Mudaliyar and his wife 's unfulfilled dream of having a child. The peaceful atmosphere and beautifully maintained garden make it a truly tranquil ana visually stunning experience. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a place rich with history and architectural grandeur

That was a superb place in kalutara district. You can learn mant things including history of that place, beauty, view, technologies which used for make it. Good for visit with ur families and friends even for school trips

Mount Lavinia Beach is truly a jewel in Colombo's crown, a breathtaking destination that beckons travellers with its expansive beauty and serene atmosphere. This idyllic shoreline is a haven of safety and tranquillity, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its natural splendour. Imagine strolling along the golden sands, the gentle caress of the sea breeze on your skin, and the rhythmic symphony of the waves providing a soothing soundtrack. The scenery is simply stunning, a panoramic vista of endless blue where the sky meets the ocean. Here, you can indulge in the simple pleasures of life: sip the refreshing water of a freshly opened coconut, feel the soft sand between your toes, and witness the artistry of nature unfold before your eyes. Mount Lavinia Beach is more than just a destination; it's an experience that rejuvenates the soul and leaves an indelible mark on your heart.

A beautiful and relaxing beach is just a short drive from Colombo. Mount Lavinia Beach offers stunning sunsets, golden sand, and a calm atmosphere that’s perfect for evening walks or weekend getaways. There are plenty of beachside restaurants and cafes nearby where you can enjoy delicious seafood. It’s clean, safe, and a favorite spot for both locals and tourists. I highly recommend it for a peaceful beach experience!

Mount Lavinia Beach is one of the most beautiful and relaxing coastal destinations in Sri Lanka. Just a short drive from Colombo, it offers the perfect blend of golden sands, turquoise waters, and a laid-back atmosphere. The beach is ideal for both locals and travelers looking to unwind, enjoy a swim, or watch the mesmerizing sunset over the Indian Ocean. The sight of fishermen pulling in their nets and the sound of waves gently crashing on the shore create a truly peaceful setting. One of the best things about Mount Lavinia Beach is its lively yet calm ambiance — beachside cafés and restaurants serve delicious seafood, while nearby hotels offer stunning ocean views. It’s also a great spot for photography, with the colonial-style Mount Lavinia Hotel adding a touch of historical charm to the backdrop. In the evening, the beach transforms into a romantic escape with soft lights, music, and the salty sea breeze. Whether you’re here for a quiet stroll, a family picnic, or simply to soak up the sun, Mount Lavinia Beach never disappoints. It’s a must-visit destination that captures the essence of Sri Lankan coastal beauty — warm, vibrant, and unforgettable.

A beautiful place to visit in the evening with a great vibe! The sunset, sea breeze, and colorful sky create a relaxing atmosphere to enjoy with friends or family. It’s a lovely spot to unwind after a busy day. However, the water can be a bit dirty at times , hope it’s maintained better. Still, a nice place overall for evening walks and relaxation.

One of the best beaches to relax in the evening! 🌅 The sunset views are absolutely stunning, and the peaceful atmosphere makes it perfect for a walk or just sitting and enjoying the waves. Clean surroundings, gentle breeze, and a great place to unwind after a long day. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a calm and scenic beach experience!

It's okay. I went down to the beach on daytime and waiting for the sunset. People come for photo shoot and jogging as well. Can see tall building forest from Colombo. But the rubbish is all around the beach, that was pity.

Mount Lavinia Beach is about a 30-minute drive from Colombo. It’s a simple spot with a deep shore, so be careful when going into the water. Not many seating or food options, and some areas could be cleaner. You’ll need to cross a railway track to get there. Nice for a short visit if you don’t have time to go all the way to Galle.

The National Museum of Colombo is one of Sri Lanka’s most remarkable cultural treasures. Located in the heart of Colombo, this grand white colonial-era building, established in 1877 by Sir William Henry Gregory, offers visitors a deep insight into the island’s rich history and heritage. From the moment you step inside, you’re surrounded by centuries of fascinating artifacts — from ancient royal regalia and stone inscriptions to exquisite carvings and traditional art. One of the highlights is the regal throne and crown of the last King of Kandy, symbolizing Sri Lanka’s royal past. The museum also showcases prehistoric fossils, ancient coins, weapons, and an impressive collection of Buddhist statues, which reflect the island’s deep spiritual and artistic traditions. The exhibits are thoughtfully arranged, with clear explanations in both English and Sinhala, making it easy to follow Sri Lanka’s story through the ages. The museum’s surrounding gardens and peaceful atmosphere provide a perfect escape from the city’s bustle, adding to the overall experience. Whether you’re a local visitor or an international tourist, the National Museum of Colombo is a must-visit destination to truly understand Sri Lanka’s diverse cultural identity and its journey through time. It’s educational, inspiring, and beautifully preserved.

The Colombo National Museum is the largest and most important museum in Sri Lanka. It’s a great place to learn about the country’s history, culture, kings, and ancient kingdoms. The building itself is beautiful, with a classic white colonial design and peaceful garden outside. What You Can See Inside ; • Royal treasures from the Kandyan Kingdom, including the crown and throne of the last king. • Ancient statues of Buddha and Hindu gods from Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura, and other old cities. • Old weapons, masks, coins, and traditional tools that show how people lived long ago. • Paintings and carvings that tell stories from Sri Lanka’s past. Experience ; The museum is very calm and quiet. It takes about 1–2 hours to walk through slowly. The displays are well-organized, and most items have English descriptions. Good for ; Anyone who wants to understand Sri Lanka’s culture and history, including students, tourists, and locals. Tips ; • Go in the morning to avoid crowds. • Photography is allowed in some areas but not everywhere. • There is a separate ticket for the Natural History Museum next door.

The Colombo National Museum offers a deep dive into Sri Lanka’s cultural and historical roots. The collection includes ancient art, statues, royal regalia, and traditional artifacts. The architecture of the museum is impressive and adds to the experience. Some areas could use better maintenance and air conditioning, but overall it’s a fascinating and educational visit for locals and tourists alike.

The National Museum of Sri Lanka is an absolute treasure trove of history and culture. From ancient royal artifacts to beautifully preserved traditional crafts, every exhibit tells a story about the island’s rich past. The building itself is stunning colonial architecture surrounded by peaceful gardens, perfect for a slow walk after exploring. The galleries are well organized and informative, and the staff are friendly and knowledgeable. It’s a great place to spend a couple of hours if you’re interested in art, history, or just want to understand Sri Lanka’s heritage.

The Colombo National Museum is an absolute gem for anyone eager to dive deep into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural and historical heritage. From the moment you step through its grand colonial-style entrance, you can feel the sense of history and pride that this place holds. Established in 1877, the museum beautifully preserves the island’s story through its impressive collection of ancient artifacts, royal regalia, traditional art, and centuries-old manuscripts. One of the most captivating sections is the display of the Kandyan throne and crown, which gives a glimpse into the grandeur of Sri Lanka’s last kingdom. The museum’s galleries are well-organized, taking visitors on a chronological journey through prehistoric times, ancient kingdoms, colonial influences, and the evolution of Sri Lankan art and culture. The life-sized statues of Buddha and the intricate carvings are simply mesmerizing, reflecting the country’s deep spiritual traditions. The building itself is a masterpiece — its white façade, lush garden surroundings, and tranquil atmosphere make it a delightful place to explore at your own pace. The staff are friendly and helpful, always ready to share insights that make the experience even more enriching. Whether you’re a history lover, an art enthusiast, or just a curious traveler, the Colombo National Museum offers something unforgettable. It’s not just a museum visit; it’s a journey through time that deepens your appreciation for Sri Lanka’s cultural soul. A must-visit destination in Colombo that leaves you inspired and enlightened!

They have a good zoological and botanical section which they'll exhibit for Universitites and Schools only on request. They have a small, well equipped auditorium for events as well. The director is a very polite and understanding officer. The museum doesn't display all the cultures and traditions celebrated in Srilanka as most of the treasures have been stolen during the colonial period.

Colombo National Museum is one of the iconic places to visit. The premises was donated by Sir William Henry Gregory, British Governor of Sri Lanka. One of the main attractions is the Throne of Sri Wikrama Raasingha, the last King of Ceylon which is displayed. Main building showcases the Sri Lankan heritage, culture, and history. The other building showcases about the Agriculture, Pre historic facts about Sri Lanka, Mammals and Bio diversity facts. Main attraction is the area of Mineral resources (Gems, Graphite, Phosphate, Silica)which are found in the island.

One of Colombo’s most famous temples, combining traditional and modern architecture. A peaceful and culturally rich spot in the heart of the city. Pros: Stunning architecture blending Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian, and Chinese styles. Museum inside the temple complex showcasing interesting artifacts. Well-maintained grounds and friendly staff. Cons: Can get crowded during weekends or festivals. Entry fee is 500 LKR for temple plus museum. Tip: Visit in the morning to avoid crowds. Dress modestly and respect temple rules. Great place for photography and cultural exploration."

A beautiful and peaceful temple in the middle of Colombo. The golden Buddha statues, calm lake surroundings, and city lights create a stunning and serene atmosphere. It’s well maintained, quiet, and perfect for evening visits or moments of reflection. A must-visit spot to experience both spirituality and the beauty of the city.

Visiting the Temple was an absolutely amazing experience. It's so much more than just a temple; it's a vibrant center of knowledge and culture. The collection of sculptures is incredible, with so much history and detail to see. Watching the people quietly praying added to the powerful and peaceful atmosphere. It's a truly fascinating place to visit and learn.

Gangaramaya Temple is a beautiful and peaceful place in the heart of Colombo. Its mix of traditional and modern architecture, along with fascinating statues and artifacts, makes it a great spot to explore. The nearby Seema Malaka on the lake is especially calming and perfect for photos. A must-visit for anyone in the city.

In the heart of Colombo, Gangaramaya Temple stands not merely as a structure of stone and wood, but as a testament to devotion, history, and the quiet persistence of the human spirit. One does not simply visit this temple; one enters a space where time slows, where incense and ancient chants weave through the air, and where the mind is gently invited to pause, reflect, and awaken. The statues, the relics, the serene stupa—they are more than artifacts; they are whispers of countless souls who have walked this path before, each leaving behind a trace of reverence. Here, one feels the subtle yet undeniable pulse of something greater—a harmony that transcends the ordinary and beckons the seeker to look inward as much as outward. Gangaramaya is not just a temple. It is an experience, a reminder that the sacred can touch us in the most ordinary of moments, if only we are willing to see.

A very interesting venue with the most number of Buddha statues I’ve ever seen- including the tiniest one as well. Staff are friendly. Remember to wear appropriate clothing and shoes go in a basket at the entrance.

500 Lkr for entry. Make sure to cover knees and shoulders. Need to open shoes and leave it in open lockers to enter inside. Nice artifacts but could be managed better. Some dusty pieces are very beautiful, couldve looked even better if properly taken care of.

Looks lovely at night because of the lights of the high rises facing it. Late evening or at night are the bests times to visit because, it is hot during the day time and there is no place to take shelter from the scorching sun. There is no sandy beach below to dip your feet to cool off either. The cool breeze blowing across the Indian Ocean is refreshing at night time however.

🏙️ Colombo's Best Skyline View: WTC Observation Deck If you want the absolute best panoramic view of Colombo, the Observation Deck at the World Trade Centre (WTC) is the place to be! Located high up in the iconic twin towers, this deck offers a spectacular, 360-degree perspective of the entire city. You can clearly see the bustling Colombo Harbour, the emerging Port City, the historical Galle Face Green, and the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean stretching to the horizon. It's especially stunning just before sunset, when the city lights begin to twinkle—a perfect photo opportunity! While it's slightly less busy than other attractions, it provides a unique, high-altitude experience that gives great context to the city's geography. Check the official operating hours before you go!

Galle Face Green is one of the most iconic and vibrant spots in Colombo, offering a perfect blend of history, leisure, and natural beauty. Stretching along the Indian Ocean, this vast open promenade is where locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy the cool sea breeze, the sound of crashing waves, and breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky in brilliant hues of orange and pink. The place truly comes alive in the evenings, with families, couples, and friends strolling, flying kites, and tasting local street food like isso wade and fresh coconuts. The atmosphere at Galle Face Green feels both peaceful and energetic—a rare balance that makes it so special. Watching children play, vendors calling out cheerfully, and waves rolling against the stone barriers creates a charming, timeless rhythm of Sri Lankan life. It’s also an excellent spot for photography, morning walks, and simply unwinding after a busy day. The nearby landmarks, such as the Galle Face Hotel, add to the area’s historical charm. Overall, Galle Face Green captures the heart of Colombo—a place where nature, culture, and community meet. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, it’s a must-visit destination that leaves lasting memories.

It can be a nice place for a walk by the sea. But there isn’t much shade. It’s very open to the sun which typically shines right in front throughout the day. There are just patches of grass. It could be improved greatly. Also, be aware of people trying to sell you something or asking you for money. It seems to be quite common in this area.

🌅 Galle Face Green – Colombo’s Iconic Seaside Promenade ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A vibrant and timeless public space where locals and tourists gather to enjoy the ocean breeze, street food, and golden sunsets — Galle Face Green is the cultural heart of Colombo’s evenings and weekends. 🚶 Arrival & Atmosphere Arriving in the late afternoon, you instantly feel the energy. Families, couples, joggers, and street vendors bring life to the seafront. Many bring mats to sit on the grass, relax, and enjoy the fresh breeze. The open space and sea air offer a refreshing break from the city. Originally laid out in the 19th century during colonial times, this stretch has transformed into Colombo’s most iconic gathering ground. 🪁 Family Fun & Activities Kite Flying – Vendors sell kites starting around LKR 300, with larger and artistic designs available at higher prices. Watching the colorful sky filled with kites is magical. Kids’ Entertainment – Remote-control car rides, play zones, and ice cream stalls keep children happily engaged. Evening Events – On weekends, the promenade often hosts cultural shows, street musicians, and seasonal food festivals. 🍢 Street Food & Local Flavors From crispy isso wade (prawn fritters) and spicy kottu to fresh fruits and ice cream, the food stalls are a true highlight. Affordable, authentic, and full of flavor — perfect for a casual bite while enjoying the sea view. 📸 Views & Photography The sunset over the Indian Ocean paints the sky in gold, orange, and pink. With ships on the horizon and flags fluttering along the promenade, it’s one of Colombo’s most photogenic spots. Locals often come dressed for photoshoots, adding even more color and character to the scene. 🏙️ Nearby Highlights Galle Face Green is surrounded by some of Colombo’s top hotels, malls, and landmarks: One Galle Face Mall – Luxury shopping, dining, and cinema Port City Colombo – Modern urban development with walkways and cycling paths ITC Ratnadeepa – A rising luxury hotel complex Galle Face Hotel – Historic colonial-era icon, ideal for high tea or sunset cocktails Shangri-La Colombo – Modern luxury with excellent dining and views The Kingsbury Hotel – Known for buffets, rooftop bars, and elegant dining This makes Galle Face Green not only a cultural landmark but also a gateway to Colombo’s luxury, shopping, and lifestyle hub. 🅿️ Practical Tips Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon until sunset for cooler weather and vibrant atmosphere. Parking: Limited, but available near the Galle Face Hotel and One Galle Face Mall. Accessibility: Open, flat spaces with wheelchair and stroller access. Security patrols ensure it’s safe for families. ♻️ Respect Nature & Cleanliness ⚠️ Please avoid littering and dispose of garbage responsibly. Protect our environment — never throw rubbish into the sea. Keeping Galle Face Green clean ensures everyone can enjoy its beauty for generations to come. ✅ Final Thoughts More than a park, Galle Face Green is a cultural and historical landmark that blends everyday Sri Lankan life with coastal charm. Whether you’re here for a walk, a snack, a kite, or simply to relax by the waves, it offers a memorable and authentic experience. 🌟 Highly recommended for anyone seeking a lively, scenic, and flavorful evening by the sea.

Galle Face Green is one of those rare places where the vibrant rhythm of a city gently blends with the calm whisper of the ocean. Stretching for nearly half a kilometer along the Indian Ocean, this open promenade is Colombo’s largest seafront space — a true breathing spot for the city. By day, it’s a canvas of contrasts: the modern skyline on one side, the boundless sea on the other, and between them, families picnicking, children laughing, and colorful kites soaring high. Street vendors line the walkway with tempting local snacks — from spicy isso vade (prawn fritters) to fresh mango slices dusted with chili and salt, each bite carrying the authentic flavor of Sri Lanka. As evening falls, the place transforms. A cool breeze drifts in, the sky glows in shades of gold and crimson, and the sound of waves blends with laughter and chatter. It’s not a beach for swimming, but rather for simply being — sitting by the water, watching life go by, and feeling connected to everything around you. If you ever visit Colombo, Galle Face Green is a must-see. It’s more than just an oceanfront — it’s where the soul of the city gathers, where simple joys meet breathtaking views, and where everyone, local or traveler, feels at home.

Galle Face Green is truly one of the most iconic and refreshing places in Colombo. Whether you visit in the morning for a peaceful stroll or in the evening to enjoy the sea breeze and sunset, the atmosphere is unmatched. The open space, the sound of the waves, and the stunning ocean view make it perfect for relaxing, meeting friends, or just taking in the beauty of the city. There’s always something happening – kites flying, families spending time together, street food vendors serving favorites like isso wade and achcharu, and children playing by the lawn. The blend of history, culture, and everyday life gives the place a charm that never fades. Well-maintained, spacious, and full of life, Galle Face Green is a must-visit for both locals and travelers. A timeless landmark that captures the essence of Colombo perfectly!

Once a hospital built by the Dutch (believed to be the oldest building in the Colombo fort area) it's a gorgeous, old building complex with restaurants, souvenir stores and other shops. The building feels like a time capsule stuck amidst high rises and modern buildings, and is well maintained so that people can enjoy this bit of history even today.

We visited the Dutch Hospital Precinct with my wife and our 10-year-old child, and it was one of the most charming spots in Colombo! The colonial architecture is beautifully preserved, and the evening atmosphere was lively yet relaxing. We had a wonderful meal at Ministry of Crab, which truly lived up to its reputation, and did some souvenir shopping at I ❤️ Sri Lanka. The area is compact but full of character — perfect for a leisurely walk, dining, and browsing local shops. It was conveniently located right beside our hotel, and we loved watching the pigeons at the front entrance — a small but lovely touch that made the place feel alive. Overall, a must-visit spot in Colombo for great food, shopping, and heritage charm, all in one place.

If you’re someone who appreciates the charm of old-world architecture, this spot in Colombo is a must-visit. The atmosphere here is captivating, with a perfect blend of warm lighting and an inviting vibe that makes the entire experience delightful. Even though I didn’t try any of the numerous restaurants—being already full during my visit—they seemed promising, with a variety of options to explore.

The Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct in Colombo is a stunning blend of history and modernity. Originally built in 1681 as a hospital for Dutch East India Company officers, it has seen many transformations over the centuries (including the LTTE attack that followed the Central Bank bombing in 1996). Meticulously restored in 2011, the precinct now houses boutiques, cafes, and restaurants while preserving its colonial architecture. The colonnaded structure with its central courtyard provides a cool, relaxing spot amid the city's bustle. Whether you’re exploring history, enjoying a meal, or shopping, this vibrant precinct perfectly captures Colombo’s heritage and contemporary spirit.

A historical place in Colombo city. Established in 1681 by the Dutch East India Company when almost all European colonial powers had formed companies to establish 'from trading to occupying' concept on the Indian subcontinent. Previously it served as a hospital in for dutch officcers and soldiers. Now this area turned into a visiting place with shopping market, cafes and restaurants. Now this place is a must visit tourist attraction with attractive colonial European architectural designs.

Good place for drinks and dine, Mutiple options available, @Ministry of Crab was a culinary delight.

It's a perfect blend of history and modernity. The beautifully maintained heritage building offers a variety of excellent restaurants and shops. The common area in the middle provides a relaxing space, creating a lively and enjoyable atmosphere. It's an ideal spot for shopping, dining, and casual hangouts, attracting families with its good brands and diverse eateries.

It was lots of fun , we got the supreme package . Some dry area rides were unavailable unfortunately but there plenty of rides to go on. We had fun with water rides too. My only complain is there were not enough tubes available. We had to wait for a long time to get a tube and we couldn't find a double tube either. We both got individual tubes and went separately. You have to snatch the tubes from people who came down the ride. It was quite unpleasant. We gave up going on one ride because we didn't want to wait for the tubes again. We spent lot of time chilling in the new kiddy pool. It felt refreshing. We had lunch from the food court. It wasn't expensive and food was pretty good. Other than that , it was a overall fun experience

The place was super clean.but they doesn't allow outside lunch pack.entrance security is very friendly.the people near the playing things is not supporting or not engaging us to play.Milo price is sold + Rs 20 with the normal price.

Leisure World is a large park with plenty of fun activities, especially in the dry area. It’s great for families, but the maintenance of rides and equipment needs serious attention—some parts felt unsafe for kids. Staff experience was mixed; some were helpful, but others seemed lazy, and overall customer service could be better. With proper upkeep and more friendly, active staff, this place could be one of the best amusement parks in the country.

The Tickets are reasonable price for the games that we played. It's a best experience and most happiest place that we visit. Some games are more adventurous.

We have visited here on Saturday and there were over 500 people. But we didn’t feel any pressure or discomfort here because of the capacity of this facility is too high. We booked Rs. 1900/- package and we entered by 1.00pm. They start by 9.00am and close by 4.30pm. We highly recommend this place to anyone with or without kids. Family friendly. Bring silk material shorts or you can buy it’s Rs.500/- They don’t allow pets, alcohol or food from out side. Value for the money you pay. 👍

There is huge parking space for vehicles. All the package details are included in the main entrance. The receptionist’s behaviour was unpleasant and she doesn’t explain things well to the customers and she tries to buy tickets without asking our final decision. That was the only bad experience we had. We got the amusement area only package for just Rs.950/=. If you buy packages there is no need to pay for entrance ticket. Otherwise entrance only ticket price is Rs.250. 7 games were included for that package and all the package instructions can be find on their website also. Besides the package included games, if you want to play other amusement games you have to pay for them separately, approximately Rs.200 for each. Although you got a package, you can play one game for one time. You can’t bring food from the outside. There are few shops in the park. The prices are little bit higher than the outside prices but not that much bad. Toilet facilities are there. If you forgot to bring swimsuits, there is a shop inside. Also, you can buy swimsuits from the outside of the park also (from other sellers). Overall, the place is fun and you can enjoy and since it is well maintained the environment also nice and clean.

Wonderful place to enjoy with family …. Worth for the cost …. Water games are unlimited into the package ….note : please bring nylon dress with you .( cotton dresses not allowed)

Good and calm place to relax with your loved ones. Ultimate nature beauty. Also it has a canteen here. So many varities of food and lunch packs also available. No need to go outside for seeking foods. Lot of parking slots availble

visited Seethawaka Wet Zone Botanical Garden with my family, and it was an absolutely refreshing experience. The moment you enter, you’re greeted by lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and serene water features that create a truly calming atmosphere. Walking through the garden feels like stepping into a peaceful natural retreat away from the city’s hustle. 🌿 Nature at Its Best – The variety of plants and trees is impressive, and every corner of the garden offers a tranquil spot to relax, meditate, or simply breathe in the fresh air. 📷 Picture-Perfect Spots – From winding paths to scenic ponds, there are endless opportunities for photography, whether you’re capturing the beauty of nature or family memories. ✨ Well-Kept and Comfortable – The garden is meticulously maintained, and the staff are friendly and attentive. The facilities, including rest areas and restrooms, are clean and convenient. Overall, it’s an ideal destination for anyone wanting to unwind, connect with nature, and spend quality time with loved ones. I left feeling refreshed and inspired 🍃

What a fantastic experience! I visited the Seethawaka Botanical Gardens early in the morning, and it was the perfect time to go. The entire place was incredibly quiet and tranquil, allowing for a truly peaceful walk among the lush greenery. The gardens are beautifully maintained and vast. It was a wonderful escape from the hustle and bustle. The practical aspects were great too – free parking available, and getting tickets at the counter was quick and easy. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a relaxing and beautiful day out!

Yesterday I visited Seethawaka Botanical Garden with my family, and it was a wonderful experience. The garden is beautifully landscaped with a variety of flowers, green lawns, and peaceful ponds. It’s a great place to relax, enjoy nature, and spend quality time with family. The environment is clean, calm, and well maintained perfect for a day trip or picnic. Highly recommended for nature lovers! 🌸🌳

Seethawaka Wet Zone Botanical Garden is a lovely botanical garden just outside Avissawella. It’s well cared for, with lots of interesting wet-zone and endemic plants, labeled paths, and scenic water features like streams and ponds. The staff are helpful, and overall it offers a serene escape from city life. One thing to note: on weekends it’s much more crowded, especially with couples and families. If you want peace, weekdays are better. Also, some areas are quieter than others, so you can often find spots that feel quite private even during busy times. Traveler Tip Visit early in the morning on a weekday if you want the most peaceful experience. Bring water/snacks (there’s a shop near the main gate, but options inside are limited). Also wear comfortable shoes, because there’s quite a bit of walking, including some elevation if you want to reach the viewpoint. Be sure to carry a hat or umbrella depending on the weather.it can get sunny in parts.

I recently visited a botanical garden a few kilometers from Colombo, and while it was a vast paradise filled with a variety of trees and beautiful birds, there were several areas that need improvement. Firstly, the cafeteria needs to be on par with customer requests for lunch, as we experienced delays in service, which detracted from our overall enjoyment. As a dog lover, I was saddened to see that some dogs in the garden were not being cared for properly, with visible wounds. This is a significant concern that should be addressed to ensure the well-being of the animals. Additionally, I was disappointed with the boat ride; most of the boats were broken, leaving only one operational. Unfortunately, there were many people in line to use it, which created a frustrating experience. While the garden itself is stunning, I hope that attention is given to both the animals and the boat facilities, as well as improving the cafeteria service in the future.

Visited on holiday. This place is good for relax from your daliy urban life. You can visit with family. Good for pick nick type visit not for adventure type. Well maintained.

We visited St. Mary’s Church in Negombo for the first time in May 2025, and it was such a peaceful and memorable experience. The church is absolutely beautiful, with stunning architecture, detailed paintings, and a calming atmosphere that invites quiet reflection. Even as first-time visitors, we felt truly welcome. It’s not only a place of worship but also a wonderful spot to appreciate Negombo’s history and culture. If you’re visiting the area, we definitely recommend stopping by,whether for prayer, reflection, or simply to admire the beauty of this spiritual and historical landmark.

The 151st yearly church feast of St. Mary's Church in Negombo was a truly magnificent and memorable event, a testament to the enduring faith and rich cultural heritage of the community. As one of Sri Lanka's oldest and most revered churches, the venue itself is a masterpiece, with its awe-inspiring interior. The detailed, intricate paintings adorning the roof and the beautifully crafted statues create a serene and majestic atmosphere, adding a profound sense of history to the celebrations. The feast day was a vibrant display of devotion and communal spirit. A highlight was the grand parade, where the faithful gathered in a beautiful procession. It was a colorful and moving spectacle that showcased the deep reverence held for St. Mary, bringing together generations in a shared expression of faith. Beyond its religious significance, the event served as a powerful reminder of the church's role as a cornerstone of the Negombo community. The feast was a perfect blend of tradition, artistry, and communal joy, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.

St. Mary’s Church in Negombo is one of the city’s most iconic and easily accessible landmarks. Located right in the heart of town, it’s very easy to reach by foot, car, or tuk-tuk, with plenty of parking and small shops around. The church itself is truly majestic, with a grand façade, high ceilings, and beautifully painted interiors that immediately catch the eye. Its artwork, stained glass, and statues create a serene and uplifting atmosphere perfect for reflection or prayer. Facilities for visitors are well maintained. The grounds are clean and orderly, and there’s enough space to sit, rest, or take photos respectfully. Washrooms and small refreshment spots nearby make it convenient for those traveling with families. Despite being a popular stop for tourists, the church retains its religious significance, and services are held regularly. Whether you’re visiting for spiritual reasons or simply to appreciate its architecture, St. Mary’s Church offers a peaceful escape in the middle of bustling Negombo. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in Sri Lanka’s Catholic heritage, and it stands out as one of the cleanest and most impressive places of worship in the area.

More than a year after my first visit, I went to St Mary's this morning. A fresh paint job has managed to give the church a very different look. The colors are brighter and the church looks wonderful on the outside. The inside is little changed. It's worth going back to this church, even if you've seen it before. See the new pictures and the new colors to appreciate the difference. St Mary's church was built in the 19th century. Keeping in mind that this church was built in a country where Christianity is a small minority, the church is an impressive structure. Visit it with an open mind and don't compare it to the churches in Europe or Latin America. If you do, you will fail to enjoy your visit.

The church is in good shape and frequented by foreigners. Interior is impressive and well Maintained. Entrance is free. In front the church there is a nice parking lot. It is an active church so observe all the requirements.

Negombo has been influenced greatly by the Christian faith since the Portuguese occupation, earning it the nickname "Little Rome" due to the numerous churches in the city.[4] Construction of St. Mary's Church, the fifth on this site, began in 1874 and was completed in 1922. The first church was established in 1544, marking over 480 years of Christian presence in the area. The art and architecture of this church exemplify the cultural amalgamation of European practices with Sri Lankan art during the early 20th century. One of the largest catholic Church in Sri Lanka Courtesy Wikipedia

Whether you are Catholics or not, you'll no doubt be fascinated by tur beauty and historical charm of this church. The art on the ceiling is a focal point. Make as part of your visit in Negombo!

We just finished our 10-day trip to Sri Lanka. Nirmal was our driver, and he was incredibly kind and friendly. He helped us a lot, gave us great recommendations, and was always willing to help. Without a doubt, a great choice. I will always recommend him to all my friends who come to this wonderful country in the future. Thank you very much, Nirmal!

My wife and I just completed a 14 day tour of Sri Lanka. Hasantha recommended an itinerary and gladly modified it according to our interests. He always responded to emails within 24 hours. Our driver, Kalum, was terrific. He was always on time, drove cautiously, kept the car shaded and cool when waiting for us, and skillfully guided us at sites where it was needed. He knew the best places to stop for a photo or change money and was always happy to modify the itinerary on the fly to suit our needs. We’d highly recommend SL Driver tours and Kalum to anyone visiting Sri Lanka.

We have had an amazing time in Sri Lanka with SL Driver Tours. Hasantha helped organise our transport and we had regular communication before we arrived. Thilak was our driver and he was FANTASTIC! He was warm and welcoming right from the start and helped up explore his beautiful country. He shared lots of information about wildlife, culture and vegetation. He was always on time to pick us up and his driving skills were exceptional. We felt safe and very well looked after all the time. Thank you Thilak for looking after us so well, we hope to return to beautiful Sri Lanka again and will certainly be in touch when we do! Thank you.

I recently visited Sri Lanka for 14 days and booked with Sri Lankan Driver Tours it was the best decision I made! From the moment I arrived, everything was perfectly organized. My driver was not only professional and knowledgeable but also incredibly friendly, making the whole trip smooth and enjoyable. They showed me the real beauty of Sri Lanka from stunning beaches and tea plantations to cultural sites and hidden gems I wouldn’t have found on my own. The car was clean, comfortable, and air-conditioned, which made long drives very pleasant. What impressed me most was the personalized service they always made sure I was comfortable and adjusted plans to suit my preferences. I felt safe, well taken care of and truly experienced the warm hospitality of Sri Lanka. I can’t recommend Sri Lankan Driver Tours enough if you want a hassle free, unforgettable journey across this beautiful country!

We organized a 9-day tour in Sri Lanka with our 4-year-old son. Communication with Hasantha was excellent — always quick to reply, very helpful, and flexible in creating an itinerary tailored to our family’s needs. Our driver Saman was simply amazing: professional, kind, and very knowledgeable. He shared lots of interesting facts about the island and local traditions, suggested great alternative stops, and perfectly adjusted the schedule to our pace — always with discretion and patience. With our son he was incredibly sweet, just like a grandpa: only two examples among the many kind gestures — stopping for an ice cream and gifting him a local cricket team shirt. A wonderful experience, great organization, and fair prices. Highly recommended for anyone wishing to explore Sri Lanka with peace of mind!

Chaminda has been an amazing tour guide and driver, making our trip around Sri Lanka so much more special. He knows so much about the country and shared great stories, local tips, and hidden spots we never would’ve found on our own. He’s super friendly, always on time, and made us feel completely safe and comfortable the whole way. Nothing was ever too much trouble for him—he really went out of his way to make sure we had the best experience. Traveling with Chaminda felt less like being with a guide and more like exploring Sri Lanka with a good friend. Many thanks Alex & Jen- UK

Nirmal was our driver and guide in Sri Lanka for the first week of our family holiday. He was excellent, always ready to help and offer advice. He helped us arrange a sunrise safari, where we were alone with elephants and guided us around the Polonnaruwa. Nirmal was kind, considerate and we would recommend him to anyone thinking of a holiday in Sri Lanka. He was great with our son. We booked directly and Hasantha was very easy and accommodating when helping us arrange our trip. 5 stars

Beach in Negombo is pretty straight and popular for both tourists and locals, offering a number of activities such as kite surfing, sailing, windsurfing and jet skiing. Lots of fishermen are hunting the foreshore area for prawns and small fish in their pretty boats. A number of hotels and restaurants are along the beachfront. Lots of walking along beach, need hat and sunscreen. Careful of traders selling wares that can be bought cheaper elsewhere.

Negombo Beach is very beautiful and stretches across a large area. However, plastic can be seen in many places. Today, a lot of jellyfish were seen washed up on the beach . Vehicles can go right onto the beach. It’s not suitable for swimming. During the daytime, the sun is very strong. You can see many boats in the sea, and there are also fishermen drying fish on the beach.

A spot where the local youth, families and tourists come together to watch the sunset, when we visited. It was a Poya Monday, so everyone was in festive spirits, and still dressed up from their holiday festivities it seemed. Attention to all: take your trash home!

Nice beach in Negombo with a relaxed vibe. It wasn’t crowded at the time, making it an ideal place to unwind for travellers. This area is a nice destination for tourists 🌊

Negombo Beach is a stunning stretch of golden sand on Sri Lanka’s west coast and one of the most enjoyable spots to relax by the sea. The beach has a lively yet laid-back vibe, perfect for swimming, walking along the shore, or simply soaking up the sun. You’ll often see colorful fishing boats nearby, adding to its coastal charm and giving a glimpse into local life. The sunsets here are absolutely breathtaking, and there are plenty of restaurants and cafes along the beachfront serving delicious seafood. A visit to Negombo Beach is always refreshing as it's a great place to unwind and experience the vibrant seaside spirit of Sri Lanka!

Saturday evening beach was full of the people on the right side, people were there with families and friends. There are many stalls for food and beach clothes on the beach. Very nice place to visit.

Long deep beach Perfect Could be a bit cleaner as some litter lying around however is nice beach

This was truly a fantastic experience. The team was fully organized and flawlessly guided the entire group through the rafting. Beautiful views and emotions I will never forget!

This is my first rafting experience ever and I enjoyed a lot! SP was the coordinator who was very kind, we were accompanied by Amila and Wasana who did a GREAT JOB!!!!!! We also did a small jump from a cliff into the water which was amazing! The instructions were very clear in English. We were allowed to swim for 5-10 in between. Our overall experience was just extraordinary!

This whitewater rafting trip was an absolute thrill ride! From the moment we hit the first rapid, the adrenaline was pumping, and the stunning scenery of the river canyon only added to the excitement. Our experienced guides were fantastic, ensuring everyone felt safe and had a blast navigating the rapids. A must-do for anyone seeking an unforgettable adventure!". Thank you for #Rafting Team 39👏👏👏

Great time with this team. We just did canyoning we were three (2 adults and a 10 year old child) and it was perfect for all of us. This team has certificates and Insurances they are also well formed in life saving. During the activity they give good explanations and advise before and during each obstacles. They film many parts of the trip and take photos before each stage with a GoPro and sell you a card or they can put it in your phone for RS 5000

This is the second time we did rafting with Team 39. They are very professional. Treated us well. They have covered all the travellers with an insurance. The owner Mr. Ravi is a friendly chap. You can negotiate with him. We couldn't go for rafting on the day we booked due to heavy rains. But he allowd us to come another day without any additional charge. His team members are talented. No need to fear rafting with them.

Went canyoning and rafting with them, the guides were super friendly, helpful, and did an excellent job making sure we were safe and enjoyed the activities. The content they captured on the go pro was great too. Highly recommend the place!

We had a fabulous time with Team 39. They are professionals and friendly. They know how to give us the best experience. And Special thanks to Thilina and other team member for their warm and friendly and also professional services. We loved every bit of it ❤️ Highly recommend.

Excellent day out that cannot be missed if you’re in Sri Lanka. The scenery is out of this world. The area is not overwhelmed with other tourists so you feel really at one with nature. The company is professional and the guys who run it will take good care of you. It’s not too extreme either so a great choice if you’re a first timer.

Just had two days of adrenaline fun with this very professional company. Very easy to communicate in English. Took extra care looking after my 2 young daughters. Can highly recommend to anyone thinking of rafting or rock pooling. Regards Michael

It’s very good experience Very safety Good job ❤️❤️

My family have just had the most fantastic day, care of Kosala and his team - thank you all! For context we are a reasonably adventurous English family of five (56,55,18,16,14) . We love the outdoors, nature and stretching ourselves. We got all three in spades! The abseiling was a unique adventure. You are taken high up into the rain forested hills by tuk tuk up windy roads and tracks to the highest point. Then walk a short distance to this isolated water fall down a rock face. Stunning setting. The team were very experienced and proficient. We felt very safe. We had done very little abseiling between us but was no problem. We abseiled down to a natural infinity pool half way down with the most amazing views. Monkeys, birds, butterflies, lizards … all around. Next was rafting- again safe and experienced team. Great fun at grade 2/3 level. The surprise thrill was the canyoning. White water the whole way, shuttling down smooth rock helter skelters into rock pools. You have to concentrate and follow the experienced guides instruction to stay safe and get the most fun. What about day - awesome. Kosala really knows his stuff and has built a great team around him.

He was a very respectful and hardworking person. Unfortunately, he never got the recognition he deserved in this world. I didn’t get the chance to write a proper review about him. May Allah have mercy on him and forgive him.

We had river rafting today with exclusive adventures. Very professional and cooperative team. Highly recommend also there prices are also reasonable.

Best place for rafting eveeeeeer , Don’t try any other place except this one .

A nicely designed restaurant mainly focusing the foreign guests. The main focus is to sell tea and provide refreshments to visitors to tea factory and who take on the safari to Ramboda falls. Limited food/snacks options, mostly sweet and unhealthy snacks. The tea is fine but most of the beverages specially the coffee are overpriced. Friendly service. Ample parking. Great views and fresh air. The toilets are moderately clean. Overall a good place to take a break specially as an alternative to the Damro Labukelle Restaurant when it is overcrowded on peak days.

A fantastic stop! They offer explanations about the tea-making process, showcasing how traditional methods and machinery are used. You can even witness real-time tea leaf picking. Their store has a great selection of high-quality organic teas and powders...

This place was an amazing experience, we did the factory tour; as we did the tea plucking elsewhere. But we found out this place offers both. The tour was very informative, while being very visual as well. Once the tour was done, we went to the cafe to try their tea. Some of the best tea I have had, their food wasn’t anything amazing but it was still nice. The view is great with their tea fields everywhere. If you are near this area, I highly recommend trying this place, especially if you are interested in learning how tea is made

A quick trip with a lovely guide. The tea picking experience was a bit of a tourist thing and the 'free' tour of the factory was very good but ... the tea is ridiculously expensive. They can easily give free tours when they are charging £17 for 20g of tea! I nearly fainted when they gave me the bill!

Beautiful place. They let you to collect some leaves and take some pictures. Visit is free but here our prices: Tuktuk 6000rs go, retour and stay waiting. 500rs tip. Free visiting 1000rs tip for visiting. Photo tip 1500rs. Milk Tea dégustation 300rs. (Simple black tea is free). Box of tea 100g, 1200rs.

Wonderful experience at Blue Field Tea! The tea was delicious and authentic, and the beautiful surroundings made it even more enjoyable. Thank you for the warm hospitality and excellent service.”

Very nice place to be honest but the service is the WORST they prefer tourists more than the local people, they don't have slightest care about us but they personally direct tourists to a sitting place I really hope a manager or anyone higher see this and change it. For the note me and my mom ordered honey & lemon and ginger tea both tastes the same.

I went on a trip with my friends to Ramboda Waterfall. The view from the upper viewpoint was amazing, and swimming at the bottom was really refreshing. A beautiful spot for both sightseeing and enjoying the water! 🌊🏞️ Note: Avoid swimming during the rainy season.

What a scenic place with an easy hike. You have to just climb approximately 850m up the stairs with a ticket of Rs. 50/=. You can see a beautiful waterfall when you go up. The water under that is not that deep, so you can have a fine bath. Also, if you wanna go very close to the waterfall, that’s also possible, but, it’s kind of risky, since it’s slippery. When you go to the sandy part and look around, you feel like you are in a whole different place. ❤️🥹 A-must-visit place if you are travelling to Nuwara Eliya. 💦

Our Tuktuk driver recommended us visiting this waterfall instead of Lovers Leap and in hindsight, I couldn’t agree more with him. We had to pay 200 LKR for entry, but it’s more than worth that. The hike is advertised as easy but I would recommend people bring water and put on hiking shoes. Also bring long socks so the leeches don’t get you. You can swim which we didn’t because it was too cold, but it looks lovely.

The sound of the rushing water and the cool breeze make it such a peaceful and refreshing place to visit. The waterfall itself is tall, powerful, and picture-perfect — a must-see spot for anyone traveling through Sri Lanka’s hill country. If you love nature, this place will leave you speechless. Don’t forget your camera — every angle is stunning! 🌊 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ — Highly recommended for anyone who wants to experience the beauty of Sri Lanka!

It’s a beautiful falls. We are going to nuwara elly from Kandy. Then we stop here. We also walked all the way to top of the falls. It’s worth it. You must visit this fall if you’re going visit this place .

It was raining when I visited it and I was alone there. Super waterfall and great photo opportunity. There was more water falling due to the rain and it was super cool and mighty. Entrance is 200rupee and it is worth it. The climb is easy even with regular sneakers. After seeing this waterfall I skipped all the rest that were on my itinerary.

After about a 500-meter hike up stairs of various sizes, your jaw will drop. You walk alongside the river, but when you reach the waterfall, it’s truly breathtaking.

Yes, this is a touristy place and yes, you’re pushed into buying tea, chocolate and then souvenirs. But keeping that in mind, we still rather enjoyed our visit. The lady that received us was nice and tried to explain the whole tea harvesting and processing while showing their facilities. We couldn’t quite understand everything since it was a bit noisy, but we still learned a few things and we’re eager to try to learn more online when we get home. You will also try some tea samples, and you’re invited to try (buy) some of their cakes or chocolates (which were very good). Then you will visit the tea store (we bought a medium size can, as our suitcases are very full and we usually don’t drink a lot of tea) and the souvenir boutique (they actually have some nice T-shirt designs, but they could stock up on smaller sizes, as most were 2XL or 3XL). Then you will visit a part of the garden and you can try to harvest some of the tea leaves. The same lady was kind enough to let us take some pictures of her with her dress and the basket needed for the task. We recommend this visit.

We had a very interesting tour here. Explanation of tea production process, various kinds of tea tasting, tea leaves gathering. Tour is free, but in the end you are expected to buy something in the store and give a tip to a guide. The factory is surrounded by a scenic landscape, so we made lots of nice photos.

I recommend to come here if you want to visit a typical Sri Lankan tea factory and estate. Authentic experience, not the usual tourist trap. A guide will lead you through the factory explaining the tea production process. Then you get the chance to learn how to pick leaves during a tour of the estate and you get a tasting of different kinds of teas with a view on the tea valley. Our guide was incredibly welcoming and shared with us her knowledge. For all this, you just have to leave a tip. And there’s a shop with plenty of choice to buy tea but also coffee. No need to book in advance but better to arrange it before.

Great Experience at Glenloch Tea Factory 🍃 We had a lovely visit to Glenloch Tea Factory and Tea Center. The guided tour was informative and engaging—we learned a lot about the tea-making process and got to taste several delicious varieties. The staff were friendly and passionate, which made the experience even more enjoyable. A highlight was trying our hand at tea picking, which was both fun and memorable. We highly recommend stopping by if you're in the Nuwara Eliya area.

Amazing experience and very friendly stuff. They even dressed my daughter with the traditional clothing and took us to the tea field to pick leaves

Loved the tour—very informative and well organized. The staff were friendly, and we enjoyed tasting different teas. Beautiful location and a great place to learn about Sri Lankan tea. Highly recommend!

This was my best tea factory visit compared to the one I saw in India and Indonesia. Their process of tea making seemed also more refined with better equipment. Our factory guide explained well the process and the different types of tea. We also sampled the different types. Very nice experience.. thanks!

Why you should visit this elephant orphanage. 1. It’s the only ethical orphanage in Sri Lanka. 2. The staff have respect for the elephants. 3. The elephants have their freedom as you can witnesses them eating, bathing and taking their time. 4. They love bathing and will relax while you scrub them and shower them with water and much love. 5. They do not hurt these elephants or poke them with any sharp objects. 6. You’ll get a yummy home made lunch. 7. You’ll go home feeling happy that you have contributed to their care. 8. Looking back on you hugging and giving kisses to the elephants while they’re relaxed in the water.

What an amazing morning spent with these two lovely ladies! Manike and Kumari are the sweetest elephants and they are clearly loved and well cared for. The staff is wonderful and welcoming. This is the only ethical (read no riding!) sanctuary in Sri Lanka. It's a wonderful way to spend time with elephants in their natural habitat. They have to freedom to move about as they please and seem to genuinely like interacting with people. I can't say enough good things. If you want to see elephants in Sri Lanka, please come here and not the riding places.

My friend and I booked the morning experience and we thoroughly enjoyed it. This is an ethical project where the elephants are treated fairly and justly, which we witnessed first hand. The staff are caring and compassionate towards their elephants, and gave us a great experience, allowing us to feed, walk with and wash the elephants, in an appropriate way to not alarm or disturb the animals' peace. We also got a lovely Sri Lanken lunch afterwards which was tasty and brought us even closer to their amazing culture. This project also strives to raise awareness of the mistreatment of elephants in Sri Lanka. It is a hard watch but a necessary one to make us more aware and to ensure we support places like this which are ethical and fair. I would highly recommend the elephant freedom project to anyone travelling to Sri Lanka, who would like to learn more about their elephants, and make unforgettable memories with these amazing animals.

Well I have no words to how we were treated today! The staff and mahoots were funny, informative, extremely kind and caring. Do yourself a massive favour and go to this proper and genuine elephant orphanage where not only will you be treated like we were today with extreme care and passion with staff and mahoots that care so so much but you’ll see how caring for there two absolutely incredible elephants is done properly and ethically. Thank you for this morning you all and the elephants made our Sri Lanka trip completely worth while. We love you all ❤️

Wow! What an incredible day! Such an intimate experience with the two beautiful elephants! So lovely to see the elephants being treated so well too! This definitely needs to be on your Sri Lankan itinerary! I will never forget this. Thank you so much for having us!

A truly authentic amazing experience where I got to spend the morning with two beautiful elephants what had been rescued from captivity. It was a 4 hour programme that included a delicious Sri Lankan lunch. We fed the elephants, walked with the elephants and then washed them. The pace for the day was set by the elephants. I highly recommend a visit to this sustainable project. Our guide Maduka was so kind to me when I felt unwell. Thank you so much and to the two beautiful elephants Kumari and Manike and their handlers. The bond between them and the elephants was tangible.

Wonderful morning with the 2 elephants at the project, following them around their land and washing them. You can tell the staff all really care for the elephants and believe in what they are doing. Hopefully more projects like this can save all of the captive elephants in Sri Lanka! All staff were extremely friendly and knowledgeable. It was extremely hot so bring sun cream, bug repellent and water shoes! Lunch after was also a delicious, homemade non spicy meal! Car park is opposite and free :)

Lovely experience with an elephant - got to feed, wash and walk with her. The staff seem knowledgeable and to care for the elephants. The elephants are extremely well trained and the staff is expert at taking and creating photo ops. That said some of the conditions seem a little below western animal welfare standards. It does seem like they are making an effort to balance improving conditions while maintaining tourist revenue to help to continue to care for the elephants. They limit rides to a couple minutes for a photo op and offer alternatives such as walking with the elephant to help transition away from rides.

Overall, it was a great experience at the Millennium Elephant Foundation. We enjoyed being close to the elephants, feeding them, and learning about their care and history. The staff were friendly and informative, and the place felt welcoming. However, the elephant ride was not very good – it was extremely short, lasting only about one minute, so it’s not really worth it. Everything else was enjoyable and memorable.

Very dubious about these type of places, as I’m always concerned about the welfare of the animals. They did seem to be genuinely concerned about the elephants, though they had chains on some of them - but they advised this is for the elephants safety as much as anything else. It was fantastic to be able to feed and bathe the elephants though, and experience we won’t forget.

Very disappointing. The place is tiny, with only 4 elephants. The whole “experience” lasted less than 10 minutes – just a quick walk and a wash. Nothing like the big sanctuary they advertise online. The price is way too high (30 USD per person) for such a trivial experience. Honestly, it feels like a tourist trap and not worth the money at all.

I would not recommend this elephant sanctuary. Before entering, there’s a clear sign that says “tipping is optional,” and bear in mind that the entrance fee is already quite high. At first, our guide was great, friendly, informative, and happy to take our pictures. But things took a turn when we asked if we could pay by card for fruits (since they accepted card for the entrance fee). He said we needed cash, then immediately seemed upset we didn’t have any, asking, “How could you come to a place like this without any cash?” I explained that we had just landed a few hours earlier and hadn’t had the chance to get cash yet, but he just brushed me off. From that point on, his attitude completely changed! No more smiles and he clearly wanted us to know he was unhappy. To make matters worse, he went and complained to one of the elephant handlers about us not bringing cash, and they both sighed loudly and made dramatic faces. He even said, “Well, people usually tip the hard-working guides, but you didn’t bring anything.” It completely ruined the experience. What should have been a memorable visit turned into an uncomfortable tour. They may say tipping is optional, but it’s very clear they expect it, and will make you feel horrible if you don’t. This felt like an attempt to take advantage of visitors, and I can’t recommend it.

What an amazing experience. You can walk, Feed and bathe the elephants was amazing and no these elephants ain't chained like some areas. It's all natural

This is one of the best places if you're interested in elephant lifestyles and history. You can visit here and learn about the elephant's way of life.

Pinnawala Elephant Orphange is managed by the govt of Sri Lanka and is one of the largest elephant park having hundreds of elephant. The entry fee of LKR 3000 for adultd and LKR 1500 for kids is found to be on a higher side given the small portion of the park which is open for public viewing. There is a feeding point where you can feed fruits to elephants, a viewing deck where you can watch the many elephants together. A souvenier shop is at the exit and you buy lot of stuff there. These elephants are bathed in a reservoir which is across the road and you need to exit the park first. At the reservoir you can watch the elephants cooling down in the water. Please avoid feeding these cute beasts without asking the caretakers. There are many food outlets around, but we did not find any pure veg hotel, nor did we find any jain options. The approach road to the reservoir have many local shopping outlets. Please do visit this place when you are in sri lanka. Avoid visiting private elephant farms which the tour operator might take you, and are at least 3 times expensive.

Such a wonderful place to visit. The elephants are simply amazing and to get up so close and to feed them was the highlight of our visit for my whole family. A fantastic experience which supports the ongoing success of the species.

It was an amazing experience in Sri Lanka. Even the entry fee was little bit high. But it’s worth it. You can enjoy elephant activities . Even you can feed the elephant yourself. Also you can watch them taking shower in the driver . It’s govt operated and this is the best elephant orphanage.

An extraordinary place. There is a section where the elephants are housed and where they are brought to bathe. Those two places are separated by a street with very busy traffic. It is very impressive when they are being led or brought back from swimming through a narrow alley very close to you or across a pedestrian crossing. In agreement with the guide (mahut) you can touch them and walk with him. A small complaint - maybe there should be more benches to rest because it can be very tiring if the humidity is high. Foreigners pay a higher ticket price, 5000 rupees (15 euros). Souvenirs - standardly more expensive in places like this, as everywhere else in the world. An interesting workshop-shop of ecological paper and various paper products. The paper is made by a special process by mixing elephant dung and different grasses. A free friendly guide will explain everything to you. A place for every recommendation.

The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is a well-known conservation and breeding ground for wild Asian elephants, located in the village of Pinnawala in Sri Lanka's Sabaragamuwa Province. It's a major tourist attraction and a significant site for elephant welfare. Established in 1975 by the Sri Lanka Department of Wildlife Conservation, the orphanage was initially created to care for orphaned and abandoned wild elephants found in the forests of Sri Lanka. Over the years, it has evolved into a sanctuary where elephants are cared for, rehabilitated, and bred in captivity. Many of the elephants here have been injured or lost their mothers in the wild. The orphanage is set on a 25-acre coconut plantation alongside the Maha Oya river, which provides a natural and picturesque setting for the elephants. Visitors can observe the elephants up close, particularly during their feeding times and their famous daily bath in the river. Watching the elephants interact, play, and spray water on each other in the river is often considered the highlight of a visit. The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage plays a vital role in elephant conservation by providing a safe haven for these majestic creatures and educating the public about their plight. It's a place where you can witness the gentle giants in a semi-natural environment, learning about their habits and the efforts made to protect them.

I visited this place on last month and I really enjoyed. I loved to see One my favorite animal. This place is great see elephants. Before going to this place visit their website to aware the time table Because unfortunately I missed to see feeding.

Pinnawala is a beautiful place to see elephants up close and enjoy their natural behavior. Watching them bathe and roam freely is an unforgettable experience. A peaceful spot perfect for families and nature lovers.

We visited the Botanical Garden and honestly, it was such a beautiful experience. There are so many different species of plants, flowers, grass, and unique greenery everywhere you look. You can also find trees and plants planted by many famous and political figures, which makes it even more interesting as you walk through. The whole place is stunning and definitely worth visiting. They also offer a golf cart tour around the garden, which is perfect if you don’t want to walk the entire area. Ours was around 2,360 LKR for a one-hour ride (if I remember correctly), and it was totally worth it. Overall, a wonderful stop in Kandy!

A Refreshing Escape at Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens Visiting the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya was an absolute delight. The lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and beautifully maintained landscapes make it a perfect spot to unwind and reconnect with nature. From towering palm avenues to exotic orchids and serene lakes, every corner offers something breathtaking. The gardens are well-organized, clean, and ideal for photography, picnics, or a peaceful walk. Highly recommend this gem to anyone visiting Kandy, it’s a must-see for nature lovers and explorers alike.. Rating: 10/10

An excellent botanical garden. Perfectly arranged and excellently maintained. The hiking trails are well thought out, and there is also the possibility of driving with a guide. An interesting part where famous world figures planted certain plants in different periods of time. Well labeled plants with brief information. You can spend the entire day because there is so much to see. Any recommendation.

It was a spectacular plant life visit in candy. Starting with the flower gardens, the orchid house and ordice garden. The double coconut palms for different types of grass plant house and beautiful legend board, giving directions from 1 to 47 to Locate Everything in the Botanical Garden. We started with a ticket which is 3540 for foreigners. Of course, locals pay much less. The staff around the inquiry counter and the ticketing counter is very courtious. Buggies took us around the sprawling botanical gardens, which are close to over 100. And 40 acres. Excellent place to visit when you are in Sri Lanka. Don't miss it. Again, parking washrooms are very good and not to. Miss the store just easily to the intrigate. Excellent please to buy give away handicrafts

Beautiful garden with huge variety of flowers, plants and exotic variety of trees. Electric Buggy available with a 1 hr round trip ( at around 2.7k LKR ) that can be booked at the ticket counter. Recommend starting early in the day else there could be wait times for the buggy.

They have this buggy cart service.it was very convinient. Charges are very reasonable. Place is well maintained.But they refused to give a printed map said they are only for foreigners. They have two cafeterias as I saw.We dined in a one and they even serve lunch. Prices are unreasonable though. They charged a 1000+ for a sugary watery mango juice.

Bring a sun umbrella, stock up on water, and go! Minimum 2 hours — maximum the whole day if you want. Lots to see, lots of spots for photos. Tons of monkeys and flying foxes. Overall — super fun!

Arthur's Seat is a breathtaking viewpoint located in the heart of Kandy, Sri Lanka, offering a panoramic view of the city and its surroundings. This scenic spot is situated near the Kandy Lake, and on a clear day, it provides a stunning vista of the lake, the Temple of the Tooth, and the surrounding mountains. The viewpoint is named after the British Governor, Sir Arthur Guest, who was instrumental in developing the city's infrastructure. Visitors can walk up to the viewpoint, which is surrounded by beautiful gardens and trees, and enjoy the cool breeze while taking in the sights. As the sun sets, the view becomes even more spectacular, with the city lights twinkling like stars. Arthur's Seat is a must-visit attraction in Kandy, providing a unique perspective on the city's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Arthur’s Seat, also known as Kandy View Point , is one of the most captivating and cherished vantage points in the historic city of Kandy, Sri Lanka. Gracefully situated along Rajapihilla Mawatha and rising approximately 550 meters above sea level, this scenic spot offers a truly mesmerizing panoramic view that captures the soul of the hill capital. From this serene overlook, visitors are treated to a sweeping vista of the vibrant city below—highlighted by the shimmering waters of Kandy Lake, the sacred silhouette of the Temple of the Tooth Relic, and the rolling hills cloaked in emerald green. It’s a place where nature and heritage come together in perfect harmony. Whether you visit in the golden glow of sunrise, the soft hues of sunset, or the gentle mist of early morning, Arthur’s Seat promises a moment of peace, perspective, and beauty that lingers long after you leave. It's more than just a viewpoint—it’s a window into the heart of Kandy.

Arthur’s Seat View Point offers one of the best panoramic views over Kandy. From the top, you can clearly see the city, the lake, and the surrounding hills – especially beautiful around sunset. It’s an easy stop, not crowded, and perfect for photos. A simple but very rewarding viewpoint.

Excellent view point near to kandy. The raod is good enough condition comparing other traveling places. If you want to visit here, you have to ride around 1 hr from kandy - thalathuoya road. Easy access to the veiw point. Enjoy the nature and relax your mind!

Arthur's Seat, or Kandy view point Beautiful place perfect spot to take in the beauty of hill capital from above, located beside Kandy lake, if U visit to Kandy lake you can walk up to the viewpoint, which is surrounded by beautiful garden , I recommended the best visiting time around 5.30 p.m. you can enjoy the night view & the day view at the same visit, after sun sets the view becomes even more spectacular, with the city light twinkling like a stars. . . 👍

Arthur’s Seat offers one of the best panoramic views of Kandy city and the lake. It’s an easy spot to reach and perfect for photos, especially at sunset. A must-stop viewpoint to truly admire the beauty of Kandy.

Beautiful viewpoint, high and has space to stand, not too much crowded when I went, few sellers are there , I had the chance to buy souvenirs from there

A unique and memorable experience! In the temple we received a Buddhist blessing with a red mark on the forehead, a beautiful tradition. Donations are appreciated. From the top, you get a picturesque view of the surroundings, which makes the visit even more special. The entrance fee was around 500 rupees per person (as of August 2025).

Small Buddhist temple atop the hill next to the main city. You have to climb a lot of stairs to reach the top of the temple. There is a huge Buddha statue with stairs at the back which gives breathtaking views of the city and the river. There is a small souvinier shop for buying gifts. The view at sunset is very nice. Be careful while climbing during rains as the floor is very slippery

Bahirawakanda Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya is a hilltop Buddhist temple in Kandy, famous for its giant white Buddha statue that overlooks the entire city. It’s one of the best viewpoints in Kandy—especially beautiful at sunset and night, when the statue is lit up.

Nice place to visit and see the Lord sitting in full glory. Also encountered a foreigner who has similar issues about her guide and we got along well. There is a Hindu temple here as well and the priest does some prayer too for you if you obviously give him some money. The walk up is small but very difficult if it's in the morning. I wore black today and became a good crisp at the end of it. A quick visit here and a souvenir store to buy some blessings based things like tali or necklace is a good option. I picked up three for my family and took some pics. Evening would be a better option as it's too hot in the morning. A ticket is required that costed me 500 LKR and please remember to be clothes fully due to religious sentiments. You will have to remove your shoes before you walk up so be mindful.

Sri Lanka has a lot of interesting places, and this is definitely one of them. You can also climb to the top — the view of the city is amazing. Definitely worth a visit.

Very nice Buddha statue built on top of a hill. The temple is dedicated to Lord Buddha and people come to pray here and perform their austerities. The views of the lake and Kandy are breathtaking.

Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya is one of those spots where the statue does all the talking. It’s huge, striking and dominates the hillside. The real bonus is that you can climb up behind it, which gives you a surprisingly good view over Kandy without elbowing your way through crowds. One practical note: if the sun’s out, the stone pavement turns into a frying pan. Shoes off is the rule, so unless you fancy cooking your feet medium-rare, keep your socks on. Simple trick that saves you a lot of swearing.

One of the must see places to visit in Kandy . The lake gives the unique vibe to this ancient city. Nice place to spend time on evening with relaxed atmosphere. Much cleaner compared with other lakes.

One of the finest lake in Sri Lanka. This lake is the heart of the City of Kandy. It’s located center of the city. You can walk beside the lake . It’s so beautiful and clean. Even boat is available in this lake. I will visit this city again inshallah.

The lake is peaceful and calm. There are lots of birds, swans, water animals and fishes in the lake. The walk was quite intense in the heart but nothing too bad. We were able to stroll around the lake in an hour. There is also Joy's Motorboat service if you're interested in taking a boat ride. The lake is situated right bang at Kandy City Centre and Kandy Multiplex, so there's traffic all around the clock. Evenings are peaceful at the lake. Lots of stuff to try out and eat at the lake but be careful while trying food from local street vendors. There are many other fast food joints like Pizza Hut at a stone's throw away. The water is a bit polluted at the ends but nothing too bad. There's also a Queen's bath building at the lake and it was used as a pool during older days. The archaeological team explains the history once you enter the building and you can even watch a more detailed video at an additional cost. The lake is overall a good visit for a peaceful stroll during the evenings or at night

Kandy Lake, also known as Kiri Muhuda or the Sea of Milk, is one of the most iconic landmarks in the heart of Kandy, Sri Lanka. Built in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe, the lake adds a serene charm to the bustling city. Surrounded by a shaded walking path, it offers a peaceful retreat for locals and visitors alike. The lake is beautifully maintained, and the small island at its center adds to its mystique. Legend says the king used it as a personal garden. Along the walkway, you’ll find benches where you can sit and admire the scenic beauty, while spotting birds, fish, and even occasional water monitors. Kandy Lake is located right next to the famous Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, making it a central point for tourists. Early mornings and late evenings are the best times to visit, as the cool air and soft light create a magical atmosphere. Despite being in the middle of a busy city, the lake feels calm and timeless. It’s an ideal place for a leisurely stroll, quiet reflection, or simply to enjoy nature. Whether you’re exploring Kandy’s cultural treasures or just looking for a peaceful spot, Kandy Lake is definitely worth a visit.

Kandy Lake is one of the most beautiful and peaceful spots in the city, right at the heart of Kandy. Surrounded by lush greenery and traditional Kandyan charm, the lake offers a perfect escape from the busy streets. A leisurely walk along the shaded pathways around the lake is calming, with benches along the way where you can sit, relax, and enjoy the view. The lake is also deeply connected to the city’s culture and history, located just next to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. The reflection of the temple and surrounding hills on the water, especially during sunrise or sunset, is breathtaking. You’ll also spot birds, fish, and sometimes even turtles, which add to the charm of the place. What I loved most was how the lake feels like the city’s soul—always lively with people walking, couples spending quiet time, and tourists capturing the scenery, yet still maintaining a peaceful atmosphere. In the evenings, the cool breeze and golden light make it an especially magical experience. Overall, Kandy Lake is not just a landmark, but a serene experience that should not be missed. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, photography opportunities, or a quiet moment to take in Kandy’s beauty, this lake will leave you with lasting memories.

Kandy Lake (Sinhala: නුවර වැව), also known as Kiri Muhuda (Sinhala: කිරි මුහුද) or the Sea of Milk, is an artificial lake in the heart of the hill city of Kandy, Sri Lanka, was built in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe next to the Temple of the Tooth. Over the years, it was reduced in size. It is a protected lake, with fishing banned. Kandy Lake Location - Kandy Coordinates - 7°18′N 80°38′E Type - reservoir Primary inflows - Creek from Ampitiya Primary outflows - Creek leading to Mahaweli River Basin countries - Sri Lanka Built - 1807–1812 Surface area - 19.01 ha (47.0 acres) Max. depth - 18 m (59 ft) Water volume - 867×103 m3 (30.6×106 cu ft) Shore length - 13.4 km (2.1 mi) Surface elevation - 529 m (1,736 ft) Islands - one The lake in front of the Temple of the Tooth was formerly a stretch of paddy fields known as Tigolwela. It was converted to a lake by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinha in 1807. As there had been a pond named Kiri-muhuda (a "sea of milk") in the middle of the Tigolwela, the lake constructed subsequently too was named Kiri-muhuda. Deveda Moolacharya is considered the architect of the Kandy Lake. The king first built a dam across the paddy fields, starting from the Paththirippuwa (octagon) side, where the steps leading into the lake by the Mahamaluwa (Esplanade) are still visible, stretching across to the Poya-maluwa. The dam, upon which a roadway was constructed, allowed the king to go across to the Malwatte Vihare. According to D’Oyley, the dam was constructed between 1810 and 1812. There are numerous local legends and folklore regarding the lake. One such is that the small island at its centre was used by the king's harem for bathing and was connected to the palace by a secret tunnel. The extent of Kandy Lake is 6,544 sq. meters. The circumference is 3.21 km. The greatest depth is 18.5 meters. The parapet wall, giving the appearance of a cloud, is popularly called Walakulu Bemma and measures 633.82 meters. The building located at the centre of the lake, together with some ancient ruins, was known as Diyatilaka Mandapaya in the past. It is believed that the Kings used this pavilion for relaxation. The Kandy Lake offers a place for a stroll or a jog. The shady path surrounding The extent of Kandy Lake is 6,544 sq. meters. The circumference is 3.21 km. The greatest depth is 18.5 meters. The parapet wall, giving the appearance of a cloud, is popularly called Walakulu Bemma and measures 633.82 meters. The building located at the centre of the lake, together with some ancient ruins, was known as Diyatilaka Mandapaya in the past. It is believed that the Kings used this pavilion for relaxation. Diyathilaka Mandapaya Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe built a dam for the purpose of reaching the opposite side of the lake. The king removed the soil from both the palace end and the Malwatte Vihare end, leaving an island behind. At first, this island was used as the Royal Summer House for the Queen and the ladies of the court to relax. The British later used it as an ammunition store and added a fortress-style parapet around its perimeter. Walakula Bamma The lake is surrounded by a wall called Walakulu Bamma (Sinhala: වළාකුළු බැම්ම) or Clouds Wall, which was built to increase the beauty of the Kandy Lake. It extends around half of the lake and took one skilled architect to build it. Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe was unable to complete the wall before the city was captured by the British and he was forced to relinquish the Kandian kingdom. The Walakulu Bamma still lies unfinished. The triangular-shaped holes in the wall were used in the past for lighting oil lamps on festival days. Ulpange Ulpange or Queens Bathing Pavilion is situated partly in the waters of the Kandy Lake. The wives and concubines of Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe used the pavilion when bathing in the lake. After the British captured the city they added another storey and used the building as a library. It is currently used as a police post.

Kandy Lake is absolutely beautiful and well worth a visit if you’re in the area. Right in the heart of the city, it offers a peaceful break from the hustle and bustle. The path around the lake is flat and easy to walk—about 45 minutes at a relaxed pace—making it a great way to soak in some nature without much effort. One of the most fascinating things about the lake is how much wildlife you can spot. We saw monkeys swinging through the trees, huge water monitors (honestly, some of the biggest I’ve ever seen—even bigger than the ones in Thailand!), and all kinds of birds. We spotted pelicans, kingfishers, herons, and this time of year (June), there were tons of baby birds in nests—so sweet to see. One heads-up though: there are large bats (flying foxes) hanging in the trees around the lake. They’re impressive to see, but fair warning—they do poop, and it might land on you if you’re not paying attention, so maybe don’t linger directly under the trees too long! The lake itself was created in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe, the last king of Sri Lanka, and it’s still a central part of life in Kandy. Right next to it is the famous Temple of the Tooth, so it’s easy to combine the walk with a visit to one of the country’s most important cultural sites. Overall, Kandy Lake is a great spot to relax, take photos, and enjoy Sri Lanka’s rich mix of nature and history. Just keep an eye on the sky!

Place has much more local relevance if you deep dive into history. Great connection with India and how the tooth was brought. Extremely clean and do explore the museums inside because most people skip that. It’s a bit pricey for the location but I guess it all goes into maintenance so worth it.

The Visit to this really shrine is more than a temple. It is very nice to know the history. And also to know how the tooth reached from the Kalinga kingdom to Sri Lanka through ambassadors, the whole place, is laid out very well and very systematically. You have to go through buying the tickets. Handing over your footwear, ensuring the correct dress code is followed. And then The Visit inside the cascade is not seen by us. But the room where it is kept was seen also different offerings of Lars, fruits were kept in front of the room. A lot of footfalls appear to be happening there. And it's a very sacred experience to go through this shrine. It is much more than a temple. And definitely memorable visit. In kandy

The Temple of the Tooth in Kandy is breathtaking! 🏯✨ This sacred Buddhist site is stunning, with intricate carvings and golden embellishments. The atmosphere's serene, and the devotees' devotion is palpable. You can feel the history and significance. Be sure to dress modestly and respect the rules. The temple's a treasure trove of Sri Lankan culture and heritage. Take your time exploring, and soak up the peaceful vibes. A must-visit when in Kandy! 🙏✨ The views of the surrounding area are lovely too. Worth a visit for the history, architecture, and spirituality.

Sri Dalada Maligawa, also known as the Temple of the Tooth, is one of the most sacred places in Sri Lanka. It is located in Kandy and holds the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha. The temple has beautiful architecture with golden roofs, carved wooden doors, and peaceful surroundings. Visitors can see traditional rituals and offerings performed daily by monks. The air is filled with the fragrance of flowers and the sound of drums during the ceremonies. It is a calm and spiritual place that shows the deep Buddhist culture and history of the country. A visit here gives a feeling of peace and respect.

If you are in Sri Lanka this is something not to be missed. The most important Buddhist temple. An extraordinary place with a special atmosphere that inspires. Since it is mandatory to take off your shoes if you are not used to it, it would be best to bring some socks because on sunny days the stone slabs and paths through the temple can be very warm. A place for every recommendation. Follow the dress code...long pants, covered shoulders, no short skirts and shorts. Always ask for photography. The rest cannot be described....you have to experience it

The Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy is one of Sri Lanka’s most sacred and culturally significant places. Stepping inside feels peaceful and spiritual, with the scent of flowers, traditional drumming, and beautifully carved architecture creating a truly unique atmosphere. The temple complex is rich in history, showcasing centuries of craftsmanship, devotion, and royal heritage.

Visiting Sri Dalada Maligawa was a profoundly moving experience — this isn’t just a temple, it’s Sri Lanka’s beating spiritual heart. The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy holds more than the tooth of the Buddha; it holds centuries of history, tradition, and devotion that still ripple through every ceremony and corridor. From the moment you walk past the majestic Makara Thorana gateway, cross the moat, through the “Walakulu Bamma” (Cloud Wall), you can almost feel the weight of kings who built, preserved, destroyed, and rebuilt this site to protect the relic. The architecture — Kandyan style intricate wood and ivory carving, golden canopies, the sacred chamber that holds the relic in nested golden caskets — is breathtaking.

The place where the Tripitaka was first transcribed. The rock cave where this was done is conserved and displayed inside the temple premises. A museum, and a mountain top statue you can reach after a 2km walk through an ascending road are the other attractions here apart from the general temple components. There wasn't much of a crowd on the typical Saturday morning we visited and parking space was quite sufficient. However, the situation can be different on long weekends or poya days.

It is an ancient temple in Matale district . Nearly 2 km towards Dambulla from Matale town centre . It has rock caves turned into shrines. It's a place to worship and to study the Kandian era arts. A very important and highly respected temple by buddhists. Anyone visiting Matale , this is a must visit place.

Enjoyed my visit during off season and rainy day. There is space to explore: caves with statues and paintings, stupa on top of the rock, museum and nice views. Calm atmosphere and energy. *foreigners have to buy entrance ticket for 500 lkr

The temple holds immense cultural and religious value—it’s where the Tripitaka was first transcribed onto palm leaves in Sri Lanka, making it a foundational site in Buddhist history.  

Aluvihare Temple with historical importance to Buddhism. Buddha statue (Abhaya Mudra) in Matale, close to Aluvihare Temple. Approximately 01 km walk from the Aluvihare Temple to the Buddha statue.

Birthplace of the Written Tripitaka :- Its most famous distinction is being the place where the Pāli Canon (Tripitaka), the sacred scriptures of Theravada Buddhism, was first committed to writing on ola (palm) leaves. This monumental task was undertaken by 500 scholarly monks during the 1st century BC, under the reign of King Walagamba, due to fears that the oral tradition of the doctrines might be lost amidst famine and invasions. This act was crucial for the preservation and dissemination of Buddhist teachings.

Aluviharaya cave temple has big cultural value. Calm & quiet. Peaceful place

Got a knowledgeable host at the spice garden to explain about the spices, fruits and their benefits. They have a variety of oils and cream for your use, depends which are beneficial for you and as per your skin tone. They do provide massage which is free , however, it is mandatory to tip them. A small shop at the entrance where you can purchase the products which they explain. Rates are not so reasonable

This spice garden was truly magical. They gave such a beautiful tour. Explain the spices and the kinds of applications you can use them for the restaurant was beautiful. It was a very educational and lovely place to visit.

Amazing experience in this garden! 🌿 I learnt so much about the plants and spices of Sri Lanka. The guides gave us different samples to try, shared lots of fascinating stories, and showed us everything with great detail. I’d definitely recommend coming here with kids, it’s a fun and educational experience for them too. The entrance is free, and after the tour you can visit their shop to buy natural products.

Very valuable place for study about spices. Well maintained garden. Very good guidance. Quality spices & Herbals available here....

I had an unforgettable visit to the Ranweli Spice Garden today. We were shown around the gardens by Tyronne, who was so knowledgeable and friendly - sharing his love of spices with us. The massages were fantastic - I didn’t want it to end! We had lunch onsite overlooking the rice fields and the plantation. The food was absolutely delicious. Special thank you to Binura Anjana for the wonderful service. Thank you for looking after us so well.

On the way to kandy, our driver stopped at this spice garden. The garden tour was great, the staff explained everything and showed us all the tress, plants and its products. It mostly looked natural. After the tour, they give us a tea with a pinch of vanilla extract which tasted great. They also have a huge variety of products in their store which is mostly over priced but you can buy one or two if you wish to.

Nice place where they take you around a small spice garden, explain SriLankan spices its herbal uses etc. of course, they’re selling their products. I heard from my driver, that their products are of good quality. Lots of tourists visiting.

Have a great lunch prepared by the shop owner and tasted great. The curry chicken , potatoes and many other dishes was cooked using their organic spice plants around! The guide was so knowledgeable and tell us about plant that used to cook or medication. Learnt a lot about the the herbs used for medication in Sri Lanka. Only downside was mosquitoes may come after you .. do prepare. Spending 3700 rupees for lunch and some processed spices ..

The most informative cooking class I’ve ever attended! The owner of the place is really hands on when conducting the class and he answered all our questions. On top of that, they also use organic products from their garden to make the dishes. We had an amazing lunch with the dishes we were taught to make! After our cooking class, we did a tour of the spice garden and the staff who did the tour with us was very knowledgeable about all the herbs and plants they grow. We learned a lot!! What’s most important is that at the end of our activities, they never pressured us to buy anything but because they explained the value of their products really well, we got some stuff because we wanted to and not because we felt like we were forced to do so. Great job guys! Keep up the good work!

We had a quick stop at the Euphoria Spice & Herbal for the spice tour on our way to Kandy. It was very interesting. Unfortunately, we do not remember the name of the guide, but he was explaining us in detail and friendly about the spices & plants from Sri Lanka. We learned a lot at our approximately 30 minutes tour and can highly recommend it!

Attended the Spice gardens & cooking class as part of a tour and can honestly say it stands out as a highlight of my time in this beautiful country! These guys really know the in's & out's of the huge variety of spices grown on site and it was such a fun and interactive experience learning from the very best how to cook delicious Sri Lankan food. Shal really got us all involved & made it memorable with a karaoke session at the end!! An absolute must for anyone visiting Sri Lanka.

We had the most wonderful afternoon being taught how to cook delicious Sri Lankan dishes. The herb and spice garden was fascinating and the staff were incredibly helpful and friendly. If anyone is going to Sri Lanka make sure you book in here

Beautiful and Spice experience! My friends and me were so happy to visit this beautiful, colorful and spicy place.. Our guide was so friendly and kind. SUPER Recommended If you come in Sri Lanka and buy some special spices 🇱🇰

Great time ! The tour in the spice garden was awesome. The guide was very knowledgable and very keen in answearing our questions. Lunch was amazing. Our bellies we're so happy 😃😃 Unless other places, all their products are home made from the organic spices they grow. Really good quality.

Yapahuwa Fortress is situated in the Kurunegala District and was once a kingdom of Sri Lanka. The Yapahuwa rock resembles Sigiriya but features a unique symbolic staircase with lion sculptures, which are considered national symbols of Sri Lanka. The main staircase leads to the Temple of the Tooth Relic, and from there you can hike to the top of the rock along a small trail. At the summit, there are ancient ruins, and you can enjoy a 360-degree view of the surrounding area.

I recently visited the Yapahuwa Rock Fortress, and it was truly an unforgettable experience. It's a historical fortress and a military stronghold built in 1272 by the King Buwanekabahu to protect from foreign invaders, astonishing stone stair case with a steep slop make the fortress unique from others. If you're someone who enjoys history, nature, and a bit of adventure, this site has all three. Be prepared, though — there’s quite a bit of climbing involved! The stone steps leading up the rock are steep and long, so comfortable shoes and plenty of water are highly recommended. Water is much needed. About halfway up, the climb becomes somewhat challenging, especially with the wind blowing across the face of the rock. However, the effort is absolutely worth it. Once you reach the top, you’re rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the entire Yapahuwa area. You can even see the Daduru Oya reservoir from up there, which adds to the scenic beauty. At the summit, there’s a small ancient pond and the ruins of an old brick stupa that lately built by the period of Kandian kingdom. The sense of calm and quiet at the top is a stark contrast to the effort it takes to get there. Yapahuwa Rock Fortress is a hidden gem in Sri Lanka — full of history, natural beauty, and adventure. Definitely worth the climb!

Yapahuwa is a breathtaking ancient rock fortress with deep historical roots. Climbing to the top rewards you with stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere. The stone staircase and preserved ruins showcase the artistic brilliance of our ancestors. A must-visit for anyone who loves culture, heritage, and adventure!

A bit of hiking with history! The climb involves number of steps leading to the top. there you can see ancient ruins and scenic views. It gets very hot during the day🥵🥵 so try to go early morning or late afternoon.

Must visit place if your a person interested in learning about Sri Lankan history & culture. It’s a short climb but has very steep steps. Best to wear walking shoes. It’s a place for everyone. Only very few people know and visit this historical location. Also there aren’t many places/ hotels to lodge if you’re visiting this place.

Yapahuwa Rock Fortress is one of Sri Lanka’s lesser-known but most fascinating historical sites. Located between Kurunegala and Anuradhapura, this ancient citadel was briefly the capital of Sri Lanka in the 13th century. Though it is often overlooked compared to Sigiriya, I found Yapahuwa to be equally breathtaking, with its dramatic rock setting, unique architecture, and quiet, off-the-beaten-path charm. The fortress is built around a massive 90-meter-high rock, which rises suddenly from the surrounding plains. The climb begins at the impressive **stone stairway**, one of the most beautiful features of Yapahuwa. The staircase is adorned with intricate carvings of lions, dancers, and floral motifs, showcasing the incredible artistry of medieval Sri Lankan stonework. Climbing up, you can imagine how this fortress once served as a royal palace and stronghold to protect the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha. At the top of the rock, you’ll find the remains of the royal palace complex and enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the countryside. The landscape of lakes, paddy fields, and distant hills makes the climb well worth the effort. Unlike Sigiriya, Yapahuwa is less crowded, which allows you to explore peacefully and take in the atmosphere without distraction. The site also has a small museum near the entrance, where you can see relics, sculptures, and artifacts uncovered from the fortress. These displays give valuable insight into the life and culture of the kingdom during its short but important period of glory. What makes Yapahuwa so special is its combination of history, culture, and natural beauty. It feels like a hidden gem—majestic yet tranquil, ancient yet alive with stories. Practical tips: Wear comfortable shoes for the climb, bring water, and try visiting in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat. The climb is moderately challenging, but the views and history make it truly rewarding. For anyone traveling in Sri Lanka, Yapahuwa Rock Fortress is a must-see if you want to experience a unique piece of history away from the usual tourist trail.

This historic place is worth visiting at least once. If you are fit enough, you should climb the rock. Even though we are senior citizens, we climbed it. The stonework is exceptionally beautiful. On less crowded days, vehicles can be parked inside the premises; otherwise, there is parking outside the temple. There are no decent hotels or restaurants nearby, so it's better to bring some food and water with you.

The best time to go elephant watching here is from noon to evening. You can see a large number of elephants. And because they are fierce elephants. It is best to use an experienced driver for the safari.

We had one of the most amazing experiences. We did several national parks in Sri Lanka and this was one of our favourite. The first two hours it was bird watching cuz the elephants were hiding but then, it was a full show and it was amazing 🥹🥹 we were alone, no other jeeps and it was special.

A good national park to see wild life. Entrance is properly maintained. Well maintained washrooms. Inside the national park near the mahaweli river there are washrooms which are not properly maintained. You can observe birds, elephants and deer mainly.

Didn't see a lot of wildlife during our 4 hours exploring here, but we were the only group here the whole time (that we saw) which made it a great experience to drive around. Still saw a great array of birds and small animals and enjoyed the time in the park

Stunning experience, our guide took us for nearly 5 hours drive through the park, we were the only tourists and the only jeep throughout the entire journey. We have seen around 40 elephants, monkeys, water buffalos, turtle, many species of birds and amphibians! Totally worth, would recommend over the more mainstream parks! ❤️❤️

Was a nice get-away. So much elephants but other animals are not much visible. Maybe due to the higher area of forest and small amount of open areas.

Did a evening tour and was super. You will see a huge number of Elephants in close proximity(almost more than Minneriya national park). Safari jeeps varies over type and model but generally super cheap around 10K SLR plus the park entry tickets.Evening tours are recommended.You can either get a jeep from gate or from your hotel. Definitely less traffic than the main national parks such as Yala and wilpatthu.