Kataragama, Sri Lanka: Sightseeing Spots

Updated in 2025

Leaving NUWARA ELIYA early in the morning, it took us several hours to reach Kataragama. Located in the southeastern part of Sri Lanka, Kataragama is one of the island’s oldest and most sacred towns. People from all walks of life - Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims, and even tourists - visit this spiritual town, either to seek blessings or as part of their travel journey (THINGS TO DO IN NEGOMBO).

 

Temples

On the drive into Kataragama, I noticed temples along the way - some active, others seemingly quiet or unused. I briefly stepped down at one, just for a quick look. Even without stopping at every temple, I could feel the spiritual pull. Kataragama is, as I like to call it, a pilgrimage town. These temples speak directly to your breath, body, mind, and soul - meaningful and significant in their own quiet way.

Nuwara Eliya Travel Guide: Discover Sri Lanka

Updated 2025

What can you expect in Nuwara Eliya, or even on the route involving a drive uphill and downhill through winding mountain roads?

 

My journey from Kandy (PLACES TO VISIT IN SRI LANKA) to Nuwara Eliya took me up into the central highlands, passing tea plantations, misty forests, waterfalls, and valleys along the way. Nuwara Eliya sits at an elevation of about 1,868 meters (6,128 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest towns in the country. It is often called “Little England.”

Places to Visit in Sri Lanka

Updated in 2025

From Negombo (THINGS TO DO IN NEGOMBO), the road journey - roughly two hours - took me deeper into the heart of Sri Lanka, revealing some of the must-visit destinations the country proudly offers. Along the way, I passed through Rambukkana, Mawanella, and Kandy. Covering these areas took two days, filled with fascinating sightseeing stops.

 

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage (Rambukkana)

I arrived at about 11:30 am, and the place was packed. From the parking area to the riverbank, the street buzzed with shops and visitors. At the river, I watched elephants of all sizes bathing and playing- an up-close and endearing experience. After the usual photos with the elephants (expect to pay), I joined the crowd lining the roadside to see the elephants parading back to the orphanage. Inside, I spent time learning how these gentle giants are cared for. Truly worth a visit.

Things to Do in Negombo, Sri Lanka

“Updated  Version - 2025”

Beautiful beaches, untouched nature, ancient temples, deep-rooted traditions, and flavorful Sri Lankan food rich in spices and coconut milk - these were already in my mind before I even landed in the Pearl of the Indian Ocean.

 

My flight from Malaysia landed at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) - also known as Colombo Airport or Katunayake Airport - located in Katunayake, a suburb of Negombo. This is where I began.