What to See in Sri Lanka?

Cultural & Religious Wonders of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a land where ancient traditions, vibrant festivals, and spiritual rituals breathe life into every corner of the island. Its rich cultural tapestry is shaped by centuries of coexistence among Buddhists, Hindus, Christians, and Muslims—each contributing to the island’s colourful heritage. You’ll feel this diversity not just in temples and processions, but in everyday life—through music, dance, language, and the variety of delicious local cuisines.

From sacred mountains to ancient cities, C.T. Lanka Travel Agent (Pvt) Ltd. invites you to explore the spiritual heart and cultural soul of this island paradise.

Must-See Cultural and Religious Destinations

Kandy – The Sacred City of the Temple of the Tooth

Home to the Sri Dalada Maligawa, the Temple of the Tooth, this sacred site houses a relic believed to be the tooth of Lord Buddha. Each year, the streets of Kandy come alive during the Esala Perahera, a grand torch-lit procession featuring ornately decorated elephants, traditional drummers, fire dancers, and devotees in vibrant attire.

(UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada) – A Mountain of Faith

Rising over 2,200 meters, this revered peak attracts pilgrims of all faiths. Buddhists believe the sacred footprint at the summit is that of Lord Buddha, while Hindus, Christians, and Muslims interpret it differently—each attaching their own spiritual significance. The climb is especially magical at night, leading to a breathtaking sunrise over misty valleys.

Sigiriya Rock Fortress – The 8th Wonder of the World

Dating back to the 5th century AD, Sigiriya is a majestic rock fortress and royal palace built atop a 200-meter-high granite monolith. Surrounded by landscaped gardens, ancient pools, and sophisticated irrigation systems, it is also famous for its heavenly frescoes and the iconic Mirror Wall. Recognised by UNESCO, it’s a true marvel of early urban planning.

Anuradhapura – The Cradle of Sinhala Civilization

One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Anuradhapura is a sacred site for Buddhists. It is home to ancient stupas such as Ruwanweliseya and Jetavanaramaya, as well as the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, grown from a cutting of the original Bodhi tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment.

(UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Trincomalee – Sacred Shores and Serene Temples

This eastern coastal town is not only known for its beaches but also for the Koneswaram Temple, perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean. Believed to be one of the oldest Hindu temples on the island, it is dedicated to Lord Shiva and holds deep spiritual importance for Tamil Hindus.

Dambulla Cave Temple – A Temple in the Rock

Also called the Golden Temple of Dambulla, this complex of caves contains over 150 statues of Lord Buddha and intricate murals depicting his life. Carved into a massive rock, the temple has been a place of worship for more than 2,000 years.

(UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Polonnaruwa – Ancient Royalty and Timeless Temples

This medieval capital boasts remarkable ruins of royal palaces, stone temples, and towering statues of the Buddha. Highlights include Gal Vihara—a series of massive Buddha images carved into granite—and the Parakrama Samudraya, an enormous reservoir built by ancient kings.

(UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil – Jaffna’s Spiritual Heart

Located in the northern city of Jaffna, this vibrant Hindu temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan. It is a centre for Tamil Hindu culture and hosts the famous Nallur Festival, attracting thousands of devotees each year.

Each destination offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s soul—a journey of devotion, beauty, and timeless heritage. Let C.T. Lanka Travel Agent (Pvt) Ltd. guide you on a cultural voyage unlike any other, where every temple, festival, and sacred site tells a story that lives on.