Sri Lanka’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites: 12 Cultural & Natural Treasures

List of top 12 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Sri Lanka

The prominent Sri Lanka world heritage sites list is mentioned here for you, these are the must visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Sri Lanka that you should never forget to visit in this 2025. 

1.Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

This is a major Sri Lankan city located on the banks of historic Malwathu Oya and the city is popular for its rich monasteries, surviving ruins and sheer stupas which makes Anuradhapura the most beautiful ancient city of the world. You can find a large number of excavated museums and temples at this destination to enjoy holy baths at this prominent pilgrimage destination. 

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the city of Anuradhapura is during the dry season that spans from May to September. This period offers you the most pleasant weather when there is minimal rainfall in the city and you can explore outdoor sites and ancient ruins in pleasant weather. 

• Transportation: This location is accessible by trains, buses, taxis and private drivers. 

The passenger train, Rajarata Rejini has a direct route to Sri Lanka whereas the buses with route number 57, 15, 04 and 87 provide a direct route pass to Anuradhapura. 

• Entry Fees and Permits: The permits may be required for visiting specific archaeological sites. The entry fee is free for the local travelers and children below the age of 6 years whereas for foreign adults, the entry fee for foreign adults at Anuradhapura is approximately 30 dollars and approx. 15 dollars for foreign children between the age of 6 to 12. 

2. Sinharaja Forest Reserve, Sri Lanka

Sinharaja Forest reserve is located in the tropical rainforest where you find a large number of endemic wildlife and birds. This forest reserve is a home to a large number of SriLankan mammals, birds and other species including amphibians, reptiles and insects. You can explore a wide species of fauna and flora at this destination. This tropical rainforest, listed in UNESCO, is the most biodiverse region of the world which is an ideal location for all trekkers and nature lovers. 

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Sinharaja forest reserve falls between January to May and August to December as it is considered the ideal time to visit natural reserves of Sri Lanka. 

• Transportation: From Colombo bus terminal, you can find many buses to reach Sinharaja Forest reserve. Also, you can reach this forest reserve by renting a personal car or van from the Sinharaja Tour Guide. 

To reach at the earliest, take a bus to this forest reserve from Colombo to Ratnapura then, take another bus from Ratnapura stop to Kalawana stop and once you reach Kalawana, take a tuk-tuk to Kudawa-Kalawana entrance from Kalawana. 

• Entry Fees and Permits: The entry permits are required for park visits in Sinharaja Forest Reserve of Sri Lanka. The entry fees for the foreigners at Sinharaja reserve counts to be 2.03 USD approximately for children and approx. 4.06 USD for adults. There are no special discounts for visitors from SAARC countries.

3. Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

Sigiriya is a village in SriLanka which is known for its archaeological and historical significance. It is an ancient rock fortress which is located at central Matale in Sri Lanka. The destination is listed in UNESCO World Heritage site and is famous for its prominent palace complex and massive rocks rising 200 metres above the jungle. Built by King Kasyapa, you can explore splendid natural beauty and architectural ingenuity at Sigiriya. 

• Best Time to Visit: The best time for you to visit Sigiriya is between January to April because these months offer you pleasant weather with minimum rain that makes it an ideal time for you to climb rocks during these months. 

• Transportation: 

The nearest airport near Sigiriya is Colombo International Airport. Once you reach the airport, you can take a bus or book a cab or rental car. Habarana is the closest railway station near Sigiriya. The city is easily accessible from other cities like Kandy which is 90 kms away from Sigiriya and Colombo which is 170 km away from Sigiriya. From these cities, public buses, private vehicles and taxis are available for your travel and you can find tuk-tuks from nearby towns. 

• Entry Fees and Permits: Sigiriya ticket price for foreign tourists is 35 dollars for non-SAARC foreign adults, 20 dollars for non-SAARC foreign children, 20 dollars for SAARC foreign adults, 20 dollars for SAARC Foreign Children. For local adult visitors, the entry fee is 0.41 dollars and it's 0.20 dollars for local visitors' children. The entry fee is free for children below 6 years of age. 

4. Ancient city of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka

The ancient city of Polonnaruwa, located at SriLanka’s northern province, is known for its architectural and archaeological remains that includes sculptures, reservoirs and palaces of Sri Lanka which reflect excellent works of Sri Lankan civilization during the medieval period. Nissanka Latha Mandapaya, Parakrama Samudra and Gal Vihara are the prominent sites of Polonnaruwa. Gal Vihara is a rock temple where you can find beautiful statues of Buddha and Parakrama Samudra is a large reservoir for the tourists visiting this destination. Along with stunning urban planning, the visitors can explore advanced hydraulic engineering and urban planning options at this ancient city of Sri Lanka. Additionally, Theravada Buddhism has strengthened its roots in this city due to which this city holds a high religious and cultural significance among buddhist followers from all over the world. 

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Polonnaruwa is from May to September when the weather is warm and dry. This period is known for bright sunshine, pleasant weather and less rainfall which make these months the best time to visit Polonnaruwa. 

• Transportation: There are many modes of transportation to reach Polonnaruwa. Take a train from Colombo Fort station to the Habarana station. You can take these trains for your journey- Pulathisi Intercity, Night Mail Train and Pulathisi (Intercity) are some main trains you can take to reach Polonnaruwa. Thereafter, take an intercity bus from Colombo Fort to Polonnaruwa and then, you can hire a private car or van to reach the destination. 

• Entry Fees and Permits: The entrance fee of Polonnaruwa city is 30 dollars for non-SAARC foreign adult travelers and 15 dollars for SAARC Foreign adults. In case of non-SAARC foreign children and SAARC foreign children, the entrance fee is 15 dollars. The entrance is free for local adults, local children and infants. 

5. Galle Fort, Sri Lanka

Galle Fort is a UNESCO listed coastal site located at the Bay of Galle and built by the Portuguese in the 17th century. This is an archaeological, historical and architectural heritage characterized by its unique cobbled streets, colonial buildings and majestic sights offering panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. There are many cultural attractions, mosques, churches, cafes and shops for you to shop at Galle Fort which make Galle Fort a popular destination for both history enthusiasts and tourists.

• Best Time to Visit: The best time for visiting Galle Fort falls between December to April when the weather is dry and you experience very little rainfall. Also, May to September are the monsoon months when you experience pleasant weather and fewer tourist crowds during this season. 

• Transportation: If you are visiting Galle Fort of Sri Lanka, take a direct train from Colombo to Galle Train Station. Then, you can use a tuk tuk to reach downtown Colombo and then, there is a direct train facility for you to reach Galle. Also, there are many other buses, rental cars, taxis and small tuk tuk facilities available for you to reach at this spot. 

• Entry Fees and Permits: There is no entrance fee while visiting Galle Fort in Sri Lanka as the entrance to Galle Fort is free for the visitors. 

6. Central Highlands of Sri Lanka

Central Highlands of Sri Lanka is the ecologically significant and prominent region known for its beautiful landscapes, tea plantations, valleys, mountains, and green hills. This area is the home to the highest peak of Sri Lanka which is Pidurutalagala, the tallest mountain of the island and famous Sri Pada peak of Adam. This central highland is a part of the central hill range which is characterized by a cool climate and the region is known for its rich biodiversity, fauna and flora. The natural beauty and unique ecosystem of this destination attracts visitors from all neighbouring countries and the highland is known for its vast tea production and scenic landscapes which has significantly added to the local economy of Sri Lanka. 

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit SriLankan central highlands falls between January to March which is the great time to enjoy pleasant weather and cool air of the highlands on warm dry sunny days. 

• Transportation: There are notable trains for you, operated by the Sri Lanka Railways, for your travel to reach this destination such as  the Udarata Menike and the Viceroy Special. There are many other public transportation systems as well such as local buses that connect cities and towns of Sri Lanka and other rental cars, taxis and small tuk tuk facilities are available for the tourists. 

• Entry Fees and Permits: There is no specific entry fees for visiting Sri Lanka’s Central Highlands but you can apply for an online Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) prior to your trip for the flexible visit to Sri Lanka’s Central Highlands. However, The entry permits are required for certain hiking trails in the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka.

7. Dambulla Cave Temple, Sri Lanka

Dambulla is the best preserved and largest cave temple complex of Sri Lanka whose main attractions are its fine caves and Buddha painting and statues. The statues and paintings are related to the life of Gautama Buddha and his experiences. This cave temple consists of Sinhala art and Sinhala sculpture with a 15 meters long statue of Gautam Buddha. Over 1,500 Buddha paintings cover the wall ceilings of the cave temple and the destination is covered with a complete protected zone which minimises any damages to its traditional archaeological features.

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Dambulla Cave falls between the months of May to September when the weather is dry and you experience very little rainfall to enjoy and also these are the best months to capture the best photographs with your family.  

• Transportation: You can find a direct train from Colombo Fort Station to the Habarana stoppage and from here you can book a cab or personal ride to Dambulla. This train will take you about one and a half hours to reach Habarana. For fast transportation from Habarana to Dambulla caves, you can reach there via rental cars or taxis as well. 

• Entry Fees and Permits: The entrance fee for Dambulla Cave is 6.74 dollars for foreigners whereas the entrance is free for Sri Lankan residents and locals of Sri Lanka. 

8. Sacred city of Kandy, Sri Lanka

Kandy is a sacred place for worship and a popular sacred city known for its high spiritual significance. This popular pilgrimage site is known for its religious temple of Tooth Relic which is the sacred tooth of Buddha - this makes this city one of the holiest sites for all Buddhist followers. This sacred city of Kandy is of immense importance as it holds high affiliations with Buddhism. The beauty of this city is adorned with serene lakes, dense forests and high beautiful hills. The city was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1988, underlining its cultural and spiritual significance not only to Sri Lanka but also the world over.

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Kandy in Sri Lanka falls between the months of December and April when the weather is pleasant and dry for you to enjoy outdoor activities and sightseeing. This is the best time for you to experience local festivals of the state such as the popular ‘Esala Perahera festival’ which make this time the peak tourist season for your visit during this annual procession. 

• Transportation: The best train for you to select to visit this destination is the Inter-city Express which is a cheap and pretty railway option connecting Kandy to Colombo and Baluda. There are many other public transportation systems, as well as local buses, that connect cities and towns of Sri Lanka with Kandy and other rental cars, taxis and small tuk tuk facilities are available for the tourists. 

• Entry Fees and Permits: The entry fee for the sacred city of Kandy is 6.74 USD for non-SAARC foreign adults, 5.05 USD for SAARC foreign adults and adults of Myanmar and Thailand. For non-SAARC foreign children, Myanmar & Thailand children, the entry fee is free. No special permit is needed in this regard. 

9. Golden Temple of Dambulla, Sri Lanka

Dambulla’s Golden temple is a popular world heritage site of UNESCO which is known for its stunning Buddhist artwork and remarkable cave complex. You can find more than 150 statues of Lord Buddha in the five caves of Dambulla which depict important lessons and intricate murals from the life of Lord Buddha. The most important feature of this temple is the golden statue of Buddha placed at the entrance of the Golden Temple which is a remarkable piece of beauty. This is a sacred site and a significant place for worship for all pilgrimages. The cave temple offers visitors with a unique blend of spirituality, history and art that attracts visitors from all corners of the world. 

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Dambulla’s Golden temple falls between May to September when there is a dry season in Sri Lanka with pleasant weather and minimal rainfall. It is the suitable time to enjoy sightseeing and other outdoor activities in Dambulla.

• Transportation: You can take a train Night Mail Train #7083 from Colombo Fort to the Habarana stop. Once you reach Habarana, you can take a taxi, bus or car to Sigiriya. From Sigiriya, you can easily take a tuk tuk with 3 USD to reach the cave temple. If travelling via a local bus, it will cost you around 0.17 dollars to reach Dambulla from Sigiriya. Once you reach Dambulla bus stop, take a tuk tuk for Dambulla’s Golden temple at 0.65 USD.

• Entry Fees and Permits: The entry fees for Dambulla’s Golden temple is 5.05 USD per person for foreign tourists and the entrance is free for Sri Lankan residents and locals of Sri Lanka. 

10. Galle, Sri Lanka

The famous landmark of Galle is one of the prominent Sri Lanka tourist attractions and a popular UNESCO world heritage site. It comprises a huge granite rock formation that rises 200 meters above its surrounding landscapes. This destination is known for its unique water management systems and innovative urban planning which makes it a great example of ancient engineering. There is no doubt that the Galle Fort is the most famous landmark in this city. Besides, Galle is also famous for its beaches, bustling markets, and handicrafts, all in the very spirit of Sri Lanka. The visitors pour into the town to feel its narrow charming streets, ancient churches, and a very famous National Maritime Museum. History, culture, and nature make Galle one of the major sightseeing places to visit in Sri Lanka.

• Best Time to Visit : The best time to visit Galles falls between December to April when you experience dry and warm weather. This season provides you pleasant and sunny weather when you can enjoy thrilling water sports and beach activities. 

• Transportation : To visit this destination, take a flight to Sri Lanka Airport and then there is a direct taxi for you to reach Kadawatha and once you reach Kadawatha, take a direct bus to Galle Bus Station. From here, there are mini tempos and rickshaws for your easy transportation to Galle. 

• Entry Fees and Permits : There is no entry fee for visiting this beautiful city of Galle and historical Galle Dutch Fort in Sri Lanka. However, for Galle National Museum, the entry fees for locals is 0.084 USD and 1.85 USD for foreigners. 

11. Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Sri Lanka

Sigiriya Rock Fortress was built in the 5th century by the King of Kashyapa and had been both a royal palace and a military stronghold. The site consists of a complex of gardens, ponds, and terraces, with a famous entrance in the shape of a lion's mouth, from which the name "Sigiriya" is derived, meaning "Lion's Rock." Colorful frescoes of celestial nymphs adorned the walls of this fortress from all sides. The summit offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

• Best Time to Visit: Sigiriya Rock Fortress is between the months of January to April when you experience an ideal, dry and pleasant climate that is fit for rock climbing in clear skies which makes it the most comfortable time for your visit. Also, it is recommended to visit Sigiriya Rock during early mornings to avoid midday heat journeys at the time of afternoon. 

• Transportation: You can come to this spot via airlines if you are a foreigner, take a flight to Colombo International Airport and then to Sigiriya Air Force Base. Cinnamon Air offers the best airline services. You can take a bus from Colombo bus stop to Sigiriya bus stop as well. Thereafter, rent a private taxi or car to reach Sigiriya Fortress.

• Entry Fees and Permits: The entry fee is 30 dollars for foreign tourists and 0.17 dollars, if you are a local of the country. If you are a citizen of SAARC country, you are availed with a direct 50% discount on foreign rates. 

Tips for Visiting Sri Lanka’s UNESCO Sites

Some important tips for you to visit the prominent UNESCO sites of Sri Lanka are as listed for you:

• Prior Planning: Conduct a deep research on all important sites that you want to visit and make the most appropriate selection depending on your preference and requirements. Check out all seasonal restrictions and accessibility for a convenient trip to UNESCO sites of Sri Lanka. 

• Respect all local customs: Make sure to dress up modestly while visiting religious sites and it is mandatory for females to cover their knees and shoulders while visiting prominent UNESCO heritages of Sri Lanka.

• Visit these destinations at the time of suitable seasons: Make sure you follow the best time to visit UNESCO world heritage sites in Sri Lanka to explore all main outdoor sites, enjoy all thrilling activities at these ancient ruins in pleasant weather with minimal rainfall. 

• Keep yourself Hydrated all times of your visit: The climate can be humid and hot in Sri Lanka so do not forget to take water bottles with you to regularly take little sips of water and wear a hat and sunglasses for sun protection from the hot humid climatic conditions. 

• Take help from a local guide: Consider hiring a knowledgeable and skilled local guide who can make you understand the significance of these UNESCO sites of Sri Lanka and the important information about its origin and history. 

• Environment Preservation: Please protect the delicate ecosystems surrounding these sites by not littering and adhering to designated pathways. Do not write anything on the walls of these historical sites to maintain proper hygiene and cleanliness during your journey. 

Conclusion

Sri Lanka is a prominent world heritage site of UNESCO that offers a unique glance of the rich history and culture of the country. Sacred city of Kandy and Golden Temple of Dambulla in Sri Lanka are the most prominent religious pilgrimages for all Buddhist followers. Make sure to check all Sri Lanka tour packages to avail the best deals and best offers for your visit and also, follow all recommended travel tips to avoid all types of hurracles while visiting these famous spots such as advance planning, respecting local culture, and taking all necessary steps for environment preservation. You find everything in these UNESCO sites from sacred temples to beautiful wildlife sanctuaries in these historical UNESCO sites in Sri Lanka that attract tourists all around the world. So, just pack your package for the trip to enjoy Sri Lankan beauty and explore all incredible sites in the country. 

FAQ’s

Question 1. What are the entry fees and permits required for visiting UNESCO sites in Sri Lanka?

• The entry fees and permits for the prominent UNESCO sites are as listed:

• You are required to pay approximately 30 dollars as entry fees for Anuradhapura and approx. 15 dollars is the charge for foreign children between the age of 6 to 12. 

• The fees for the foreigners at Sinharaja reserve counts to be 2.03 USD approximately for all children whereas 4.06 USD is the amount to be paid by adults.

• While visiting Sigiriya, 35 dollars is the ticket price for non-SAARC foreign tourists, the amount of 20 dollars is charged in case of non-SAARC foreign children and SAARC foreign adults and  SAARC Foreign Children. 

• Non-SAARC foreign adult visitors will have to pay 30 dollars to enter Polonnaruwa, while SAARC foreign visitors will have to pay 15 dollars.

• A foreigner's entrance to Dambulla Cave costs 6.74 dollars, while a local's entry is free.

• 6.74 USD is the entry fee charged for entering Kandy if you are a non-SAARC foreign adult, 5.05 USD for adults of Myanmar and Thailand and SAARC foreign adults.

• The entry fees for ’s is per person and the 

• 5.05 USD is the entry fee for entering Golden temple of Dambulla for all for foreign tourists whereas there is a free entrance for Sri Lankan residents.

• For Sigiriya Rock Fortress, 30 dollars is the entrance fee charged for foreign tourists and  if you are a local of the country then, you need to pay 0.17 dollars as entrance fee for this destination.

Question 2. What are the best things to do in Sri Lanka besides visiting UNESCO sites?

• The best things to do in Sri Lanka UNESCO sites are exploring wildlife parks, tea plantations and beautiful beaches of the country and also, there are many activities for you to enjoy at these sites such as hiking, surfing and whale watching.

Question 3. How many UNESCO World Heritage Sites are there in Sri Lanka?

• There are twelve total UNESCO world heritage sites located in Sri Lanka which are Anuradhapura, Sinharaja forest reserve, Dambulla cave temple, Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, sacred city Kandy, Galle Fort, central highlands of Sri Lanka, Dambulla’s Golden temple, Knuckles Mountain Range, Galle and Sigiriya Rock Fortress in Sri Lanka. 

Question 4. Are the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Sri Lanka suitable for family visits?

• Yes, many of the historical UNESCO sites in Sri Lanka are family-friendly, with Yes, the historical UNESCO sites are suitable for family visits and you can take your children and grandparents as well with you to visit these Sri Lankan spots. These are family friendly spots that offer beautiful scenic views along with educational value for all people of all ages and all types of families.

Question 5. What are the 5 most popular UNESCO world heritage sites in 2025?

• The five most popular UNESCO world heritage sites to visit in 2025 are Polonnaruwa, Kandy, Anuradhapura, Galle Fort and Sigiriya.