Highlights of Sri Lanka with private driver/guide: culture, nature & beach

Well-preserved ruins of old temples, palaces and monasteries are what give the ancient capital of Anuradhapura its charm. Founded in the 4th century, the UNESCO Heritage Site is one of southern Asia’s most iconic cultural and sacred centres.

A trip to Sri Lanka is incomplete without visiting Sigiriya, one of the country’s most iconic and best-loved attractions. Also known as Lion’s Rock, the world-famous UNESCO World Heritage Site is made up an ancient fortress dating back to the 5th century AD, as well as extensive gardens and ponds. Rising 200 metres above the surrounding jungle, Sri Lanka’s clifftop citadel offers visitors a glimpse into the island’s rich cultural and architectural history.

Tucked in the very heart of the country, Kandy presents itself with a mix of beautiful old style colonial buildings and eye-catching natural scenery. The royal city radiates its shades of beauty at every moment of the day, whether it be a mystical aura during its drizzly moments or flaunting its tropical-like character on sunny days.

Tucked away in the hills of Sri Lanka’s Uva province, Bandarawela is a real hidden gem. The small town – sat high above sea level and off the tourist path – is known for its rich cultural heritage and cool refreshing climate – the perfect place to escape the heat of the lowlands. What’s more, it’s surrounded by dense green forest. So, if you’re an outdoors enthusiast or looking for excellent hiking opportunities whilst in Sri Lanka, make sure you pay a visit to Bandarawela.

Tissamaharama, often shortened to Tissa, is considered one of most pleasant towns in Sri Lanka’s southern coast – and it’s no surprise. Named after its reservoir – Tissa Wewa – the place is surrounded by stupas and wildlife reserves. Each time you look up, you’ll be greeted by the town’s snowy-white dagoba – a view you can’t get bored of. While considered an ideal place to stop off at on route to the nearby Yala and Bundala National Parks, Tissa has plenty more up its sleeve. Scratch the surface of this mellow place and you’ll be impressed.

Facing Sri Lanka's southern shores, this elegant port town is a testament to the country's rich past. Its mix of exotic and colonial architecture makes Galle's old town a delight to walk through. Discover the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort. Built during the 17th century this fortified town was a thriving Dutch quarter where commercial goods came from all over the West Indies. Imperial manors, age-old places of worship and a white-washed lighthouse are waiting to be discovered within the fort's walls. Make sure you poke around old churches, walk the walls or peek into old merchant houses and get to know the local's traditional ways.