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The stunning landscapes, tropical coastlines, breath-taking wildlife and rich cultural heritage make a holiday to Sri Lanka an unmissable experience for any UAE traveller. The country’s famed Cultural Triangle will tick the box for any historian, the numerous sanctuaries will enchant animal-lovers, and shoppers can choose between exploring lively street markets or floating bazaars.

With direct flights from Dubai under five hours and so much to see, it’s easy to understand why Sri Lanka holds such enduring allure. To help plan the perfect trip, here are our top destinations and must-see spots.

#1: The Cultural Triangle

The Cultural Triangle is a must-see region, where travellers immerse themselves in the island’s rich history while soaking in its spiritual heart. From the sacred Bodhi Tree and stupas of Anuradhapura to the medieval ruins of Polonnaruwa, this area captures over 2,000 years of Buddhist heritage and royal grandeur.

Highlights include climbing Sigiriya’s Lion Rock for panoramic views, exploring the Dambulla Cave Temples with their vibrant murals, and ending in Kandy at the revered Temple of the Tooth Relic. Blending history with living culture, the Cultural Triangle offers an authentic connection to Sri Lanka’s story and spirit.

#2: Yala (and a plethora of national parks)

For UAE travellers wanting safari without the long-haul, Sri Lanka’s national parks promise unforgettable encounters with the wild. The island has 26 parks protecting diverse ecosystems, home to elephants, leopards, sloth bears and crocodiles.

Yala is famed for its high density of wildlife, while Udawalawe offers close-up sightings of vast elephant herds in open grasslands. Birdwatchers will love Bundala’s wetlands, alive with flamingos, and Kumana, a quieter escape with pristine lagoons. Lesser-visited gems such as Gal Oya, Horton Plains, Kaudulla and Wasgamuwa are ideal for those keen to avoid the crowds.

If you are looking for a full safari experience, consider exploring our carefully curated  safari holiday packages. 

#3: Pettah Market

This bustling maze of stalls selling spices, textiles and jewellery will charm any shopaholic. Pettah Market in Colombo is noisy, colourful and full of energy, the perfect place to bargain and soak up local life.

It’s also a great spot to sample Sri Lankan street food, from spiced samosas to sweet tropical fruits, with many stalls offering halal bites.

For a calmer experience, the Pettah Floating Market provides a scenic lakeside boardwalk lined with stalls selling crafts and local treats.

#4: Galle and the Southern Coast

On Sri Lanka’s southern shores, Galle blends history, culture and coastal charm. At its heart lies the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, a 17th-century Dutch fortress where cobbled streets are lined with colonial buildings, boutique shops, galleries and cafés, many catering to halal preferences.

Beyond the fort walls, travellers can enjoy beach days, whale watching in Mirissa, or surfing nearby bays. Galle is also a great spot for crafts, jewellery and sampling seafood curries and hoppers. Just outside, the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery lets visitors learn about conservation and release hatchlings into the sea.

#5: Tea plantations & the hill country

No trip is complete without venturing into the misty highlands, where rolling tea plantations stretch as far as the eye can see. Towns like Nuwara Eliya and Ella offer cooler climates, mountain views, and a glimpse into the island’s colonial past.

Visitors can tour tea estates, watch the picking process, and sample a freshly brewed cup. The train from Kandy to Ella, one of the world’s most beautiful, winds past waterfalls, valleys and carpets of tea. This region also offers gentle hikes, manicured gardens, and, for the adventurous, the night climb up Adam’s Peak, where sunrise reveals breathtaking views from one of Sri Lanka’s most sacred mountains.

#6: Bentota (and other beaches)

Sri Lanka’s coastline is as diverse as its culture. Bentota offers calm, sandy stretches perfect for families, while Passikudah’s shallow lagoons are ideal for swimming. Surfers head to Arugam Bay, while Mirissa combines beach life with whale watching.

Whether you want laid-back days on the sand, active watersports, or dramatic ocean sunsets, the beaches are the perfect way to round off a Sri Lankan adventure.

If you are in pursuit of pure relaxation in the form of a beach only holiday, we have excellent options for holidays in the Maldives, tailored for both families and couples. 

Discover Sri Lanka with DW Travel

At DW Travel, we make planning your Sri Lanka getaway simple and stress-free. Whether you’re drawn to the history of the Cultural Triangle, the thrill of spotting leopards on safari, or the tranquillity of tea plantations and golden beaches, our expert team will design an itinerary that’s perfectly matched to your interests.

From flights and transfers to private tours and guided experiences, we’ll take care of every detail. With our expertise in Halal-friendly dining, family-friendly stays, and exclusive VIP options, you can relax knowing your journey will be seamless from start to finish.