Things to Do in Sri Lanka | The Ceylon Story

Explore Things to Do in Sri Lanka

From ancient cultural sites to breathtaking natural wonders, Sri Lanka offers endless adventures for every type of traveler.

Explore Sri Lanka

Click on the markers to discover activities in different regions

Ancient Cities Exploration Cultural Triangle

4.5 (128 reviews)

Discover the ancient kingdoms of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, UNESCO World Heritage sites with magnificent stupas, palaces, and stone carvings.

Full Day Moderate

Sigiriya Rock Fortress Cultural Triangle

5.0 (187 reviews)

Climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock, an ancient palace fortress with breathtaking views, frescoes, and water gardens that showcase advanced ancient engineering.

3-4 Hours Challenging

Dambulla Cave Temple Cultural Triangle

4.5 (96 reviews)

Explore the magnificent cave temple complex with over 150 Buddha statues and intricate murals dating back to the 1st century BCE.

2-3 Hours Easy

Tea Plantation Tour Hill Country

5.0 (142 reviews)

Journey through the misty hills of Nuwara Eliya and Ella to visit tea plantations, learn about tea processing, and sample world-famous Ceylon tea.

3-4 Hours Easy

Train Journey Hill Country

4.5 (156 reviews)

Experience one of the world’s most scenic train rides from Kandy to Ella, winding through tea plantations, mountains, and waterfalls.

6-7 Hours Easy

Horton Plains Hike Hill Country

5.0 (89 reviews)

Trek through the stunning Horton Plains National Park to World’s End, a dramatic escarpment with breathtaking views over the hills.

3-4 Hours Moderate

Beach Relaxation Southern Coast

4.5 (203 reviews)

Unwind on the pristine beaches of Mirissa, Unawatuna, or Pasikuda. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or simply basking in the tropical sun.

Flexible Easy

Whale Watching Southern Coast

5.0 (134 reviews)

Embark on a boat tour from Mirissa to spot blue whales, sperm whales, and dolphins in their natural habitat (seasonal: November-April).

Half Day Easy

Galle Fort Exploration Southern Coast

4.5 (178 reviews)

Wander through the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site with colonial architecture, boutique shops, and charming cafes.

2-3 Hours Easy

Jaffna Fort Jaffna Peninsula

4.5 (67 reviews)

Explore the historic Jaffna Fort built by the Portuguese and later occupied by the Dutch, offering insights into the region’s colonial past.

2 Hours Easy

Arugam Bay Surfing East Coast

5.0 (115 reviews)

Ride the waves at Arugam Bay, one of the best surf spots in Sri Lanka with consistent breaks suitable for all skill levels.

Flexible Moderate

Temple of the Tooth Kandy

5.0 (201 reviews)

Visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of Buddhism’s most important sites housing a tooth relic of the Buddha.

1-2 Hours Easy

Rainforest Trek Sinharaja Forest

5.0 (103 reviews)

Explore the UNESCO-listed Sinharaja Forest Reserve with a guided trek to discover endemic wildlife, birds, and lush vegetation.

3-4 Hours Moderate

Wilpattu Safari Wilpattu National Park

4.5 (92 reviews)

Experience a safari in Sri Lanka’s largest national park, known for its natural lakes and diverse wildlife including leopards and elephants.

Half Day Easy

Yala Wildlife Safari Yala National Park

5.0 (156 reviews)

Embark on a thrilling safari in Yala National Park, famous for its high density of leopards and diverse bird species.

Half Day Easy

Adam’s Peak Pilgrimage Adam’s Peak

4.5 (134 reviews)

Climb the sacred Adam’s Peak during pilgrimage season to witness breathtaking sunrise views from the summit.

4-5 Hours Challenging

Galle Lighthouse Walk Galle

4.5 (98 reviews)

Walk along the Galle Fort ramparts to the iconic lighthouse, enjoying panoramic views of the Indian Ocean.

1-2 Hours Easy

Negombo Beach & Lagoon West Coast

4.5 (112 reviews)

Enjoy the golden beaches of Negombo and explore the scenic lagoon with boat tours and fishing experiences.

Flexible Easy

Colombo City Tour Colombo

4.5 (145 reviews)

Explore the vibrant capital city with visits to Gangaramaya Temple, Independence Square, and the bustling markets.

Half Day Easy

Featured Tour Packages

Handpicked experiences that showcase the best of Sri Lanka

Cultural Triangle Explorer

5 Days / 4 Nights

Immerse yourself in Sri Lanka’s ancient history with visits to Sigiriya, Dambulla, Polonnaruwa, and Anuradhapura.

All entrance fees included
Expert local guide
Comfortable accommodation
Daily breakfast & dinner
$450 per person

Wildlife & Beach Escape

7 Days / 6 Nights

Combine thrilling wildlife safaris with relaxing beach time on Sri Lanka’s stunning southern coast.

Yala National Park safari
Beachfront accommodation
Whale watching excursion
All transfers included
$680 per person

Hill Country & Tea Trails

6 Days / 5 Nights

Discover the misty highlands of Sri Lanka with scenic train rides, tea plantation visits, and mountain hikes.

Kandy to Ella train journey
Tea factory tour & tasting
Horton Plains hike
Colonial-era hotel stay
$520 per person