8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Sri Lanka: 2025 Updated Prices and My Tips
If you're looking for up-to-date information to plan your dream trip to Sri Lanka, you're in the right place.
I'm Alice, a tropical entrepreneur with a deep love for Asia. Read more about my story.
I've been living in Sri Lanka since 2021, when Stefano and I left everything behind to go in search of our island. Today, I can finally say we've found it. I live in Ahangama, a small village on Sri Lanka’s South Coast, where monkeys swing through the garden and peacocks fly from rooftop to rooftop. Yes, peacocks really do fly — all the way up to the top of the tallest palm trees, where they spend the night. You didn’t know that? Neither did I — and I hope it’s just the first of many curious things you'll discover as you scroll through these pages.
Sri Lanka — also known as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean — is home to eight extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage Sites that reflect the country’s rich cultural and natural heritage. Here’s my detailed guide, with updated entrance fees and personal tips for visiting these incredible places.
The Sacred City of Anuradhapura
Founded around a branch of the Buddha’s enlightenment tree, Anuradhapura served as Sri Lanka’s political and spiritual capital for over 1,300 years. It’s a magical place to visit — with ancient stupas, monasteries, and royal palaces that tell the story of a millennia-old civilisation.
To truly understand the deep spirituality of Anuradhapura, it’s important to know about Poya Days — the full moon days celebrated every month across Sri Lanka. Discover more about this ancient Buddhist tradition and how it’s experienced at sacred sites in my article on The Meaning of the Full Moon in Sri Lanka.
Entrance fee: 25 USD
My tip: Start your visit at the museum next to the ticket office around 3:00 PM to avoid the midday heat and enjoy exploring Anuradhapura into the late afternoon and sunset, when the sun softens and the stupas begin to glow.
You can explore the site by tuk tuk or bicycle, ideally with a guide who can share the stories behind the stones. Remember to cover your shoulders and knees, as this is a sacred site, and consider carrying a pair of socks — you’ll be walking barefoot, and the stone floors can get scorching hot (I have only photos of myself hopping around during my first visit here!).
Don’t miss the chance to visit Mihintale, about 13 km from Anuradhapura. It's believed to be the place where Buddhism was first introduced to Sri Lanka. Its ancient ruins and breathtaking views from the hilltop make it a memorable stop — especially at sunrise or sunset.
The Ancient City of Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s second capital after the fall of Anuradhapura, is known for its remarkably well-preserved ruins — including the remains of royal palaces, temples, and stunning Buddha statues.
Entrance fee: 30 USD
My tip: Explore the site by tuk tuk or bicycle, and try to avoid the hottest hours of the day. There’s always been a bit of a rivalry between Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa — the two ancient cities are often compared, especially by travellers who only have time to visit one. Personally, I have a soft spot for Anuradhapura, but I think that’s more about the emotions it stirred in me than any objective reason. That said, Polonnaruwa is absolutely fascinating, and if you have the time, I highly recommend visiting both.
Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Sigiriya — also known as Lion Rock — is world-famous for its ruins perched atop a 180-meter granite peak. This stunning archaeological site features the Frescoes of the Sigiriya Maidens and beautifully designed Water Gardens.
Entrance fee: 35 USD
My tip: Watch out for bees near the rock walls, and try to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the intense heat. Personally, I love climbing Sigiriya at sunrise — and then admiring it from a different perspective at sunset. For that, head up Pidurangala Rock (entrance fee: 1,000 LKR), located just opposite. From there, you get an unforgettable panoramic view of Sigiriya, bathed in golden light. That sunset remains one of my favourite memories from all my travels around Sri Lanka.
Galle Fort
Galle Fort is one of Sri Lanka’s most captivating gems. Originally built by the Portuguese in the late 16th century, the city flourished under Dutch rule, becoming a key maritime hub between East and West.
Wandering the cobbled streets of Galle Fort feels like stepping back in time. Colonial mansions, colourful houses, and old churches tell stories of centuries past. The town is a charming blend of European architecture and local traditions, reflected in the many boutiques, cafés, and art galleries scattered throughout.
Entrance fee: Free
My tip: Explore the fort on foot. Get lost in its narrow lanes, admire the facades of colonial houses, and discover hidden corners along the way. Walk along the ramparts at sunset — when the sky turns golden and the sea reflects the fading light. End your day with dinner at one of the fort’s elegant restaurants. Galle Fort is a must-visit, especially in the low season, when you can enjoy its authentic charm without the crowds.
The Golden Temple of Dambulla
The Golden Temple of Dambulla — also known as the Dambulla Cave Temple — is one of the most extraordinary and best-preserved sacred sites in Sri Lanka. Set on a hill overlooking the surrounding landscape, this religious complex dates back over 2,000 years and includes five main caves, each richly decorated with frescoes and statues depicting the Buddha and other significant religious figures.
Entrance fee: 2,000 LKR
My tip: Make sure you take the correct path up — not the one leading to the golden Buddha statue — and buy your ticket before starting the climb. Once inside, begin your visit with the cave furthest from the entrance (cave five) and move backwards toward cave one. This way, the beauty of the artwork and statues builds as you go, creating a sense of growing wonder. On your way down, follow the steps leading toward the giant golden Buddha. Don’t forget to cover your shoulders and knees — a small gesture of respect that means a lot in local tradition.
Kandy and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
Kandy, the last Sinhalese capital before British rule, is home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic — one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Sri Lanka. The temple houses a tooth of the Buddha, considered one of the most sacred relics in Buddhism.
Entrance fee: 2,000 LKR
My tip: The temple is open daily from 5:30 AM to 8:00 PM, but I recommend visiting during the daily Puja ceremonies, usually held at 5:30 AM, 9:30 AM, and 6:30 PM (check the official site for updates). These are powerful moments when devotees honour the sacred tooth with prayers and offerings. Just be aware that during major Buddhist holidays or important religious dates, the temple can get very crowded. If you prefer a quieter visit, try to avoid those days. Covering shoulders and knees is mandatory, so don’t forget to bring a sarong with you.
The Central Highlands of Sri Lanka
The Central Highlands include Peak Wilderness Sanctuary (Adam’s Peak), Horton Plains, and the Knuckles Mountain Range, offering some of the island’s most spectacular landscapes, rich biodiversity, and iconic tea plantations — including the famous viewpoint of World’s End.
Entrance fee: First-class train ticket from Kandy to Ella — 5,000 LKR
My tip: Take the Kandy–Ella train ride — often described as one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. The Ella Odyssey tourist train offers reserved seating and incredible views of waterfalls, tea fields, and mountains along the way. Book early to secure a first-class seat with air conditioning for maximum comfort. If you're after a more authentic experience, reserved second-class is a great alternative. Tickets go on sale 30 days in advance via the official booking platform — and they tend to sell out quickly during high season, so plan ahead!
Sinharaja Rainforest
Sinharaja is Sri Lanka’s last remaining virgin rainforest — and a paradise for birdwatchers, home to 147 bird species, 18 of which are endemic. This lush forest is a vital biodiversity hotspot, teeming with unique plants, insects, and animals.
Entrance fee: Varies
My tip: Access to the forest is regulated, and you’ll be required to enter with a local guide — which is a good thing! These guides know the forest like the back of their hand and will show you the best spots to observe its rich flora and fauna. The forest can be visited year-round, but it’s best to avoid the periods of heavy rain to fully enjoy the experience. During the rainy season (and often even outside of it), leeches are almost guaranteed — which is actually why this is the only UNESCO site in Sri Lanka I haven’t visited yet.
Visit all 8 UNESCO sites for a journey through Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural wonders. Plan carefully, savour every moment, and let yourself be enchanted by the beauty and stories of this extraordinary island.
Have you recently visited one of these UNESCO sites and noticed a change in ticket prices? Drop a comment and help me keep this guide up to date!
