Sri Lankan Tourism

In the twelfth century, the explorer Marco Polo wrote that Sri Lanka was the finest island in the whole world. For centuries it had been a tourism destination, particularly for European travelers. Recently, the Sri Lankan Civil War that spanned over 25 years and ended in 2009 has had a negative impact on tourism and the growth of the industry stagnated, however following this era a resurgence in Sri Lanka as a tourist destination has been evident. In 2012, post office worldwide holiday costs barometer named Sri Lanka as the best valued destination for holidays.[1] Tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka exceeded 1.5million in 2014.

West Coast[edit]

Negombo (35 km north of Colombo)

Mount Lavinia (12 km south of Colombo)

Kalutara (42 km south of Colombo)

South Coast[edit]

Beach in Yala National Park

Bentota (62 km south of Colombo)

Ambalangoda (Approx 85 km south of Colombo)

Hikkaduwa (98 km south of Colombo)

Roomassala (119 km south of Colombo)

Unawatuna (120 km south-east of Colombo)

Weligama (143 km south-east of Colombo)

Mirissa (151 km South east from Colombo)

Matara (160 km south of Colombo)

Tangalle (195 km south-east of Colombo)

East Coast[edit]

Arugam Bay (315 km east of Colombo)

Pasikudah ( Batticaloa)

North Coast[edit]

Nilaveli & Uppuveli (280 km north-east of Colombo)

Trincomalee (257 km north-east of Colombo)

Religious sites[edit]

Famous religious sites in Sri Lanka that attract a large number of tourists,

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Kandy

Shrine of Our Lady of Madhu ,Mannar

Nainativu Nagapooshani Amman Temple ,Jaffna

Gangarama Temple, Colombo

Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque,Colombo