UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Entrance Fees

• Non-SAARC Foreign Adults: USD 30

• Non-SAARC Foreign Children (6–12 years): USD 15

• SAARC Foreign Adults: USD 15

• SAARC Foreign Children (6–12 years): USD 15

• Children under 6 years (All Nationalities): Free entry

• In-Person: Tickets can be purchased on-site at the Jetavanarama museum or any other ticket counter. 

• Visitors from SAARC countries are required to present their original passports. Photocopies, digital copies, or any other substitute documents will not be accepted.

• Online: Payment via the Central Cultural Fund eTicket system.

Payment Methods 

• Cash and Credit/Debit card payments are accepted.

• It's advisable to carry cash as a backup.

Accepted Currency

• US dollars (USD) and Sri Lankan rupees (LKR) are accepted for on-site payments.

What Does the Ticket Include?

• Access to major monuments across the archaeological zone. However, some key sites, like Isurumuniya, require a separately purchased entry.

• Tickets are valid for a single entry on the chosen day. 

Site Guide Availability

• Site guides can be hired on-site for an additional fee.

Opening Hours

• Opening hours: Ticket counters operate from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM.

• Best time: Early morning helps avoid both crowds and midday heat. 

• Duration: At least a half-day to a full day to cover the main highlights.

Things to Do

• Visit the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, the oldest historically recorded tree in the world. 

• Explore the Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, one of the most sacred Buddhist monuments in the country. 

• Tour Jetavanaramaya Monastery and Stupa.

• Visit Abhayagiri Monastery complex.

• See Thuparamaya, the first stupa ever built in Sri Lanka. 

• Visit the Twin Ponds (Kuttam Pokuna).

• Visit the Archaeology Museum.

Recommended Dress Code

• Shoulders and knees must be covered inside temples and shrines (both men and women).

• Wear easy-to-take-off shoes as you will need to remove them frequently in shrines. 

• Due to hot ground surfaces, wear socks for protection.

• Light or white clothing, hats, sunglasses and sunscreen are encouraged. 

Washrooms

• Washrooms are available near the Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, Jayasri Maha Bodhi and Jetavanarama Museum. 

• Basic refreshment stalls are located midway through the ruins.

Shoe Stands

• Shoe stands are provided at the entrance of each sacred site to keep your footwear for a small contribution. 

Parking

• Parking facilities are available close to all sacred sites.

Drone Use

• Drone operations are prohibited unless special authorization is obtained from the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL) and the Department of Archaeology.

Important Notes

• Start your tour as early as possible due to the heat and humidity.

• Respect the Buddhist customs and traditions while visiting.

• Avoid turning your back to statues or stupas when taking photographs, as this is regarded as disrespectful.

• Carry water and stay hydrated during the visit.

• Hats and shoes should be removed when entering temples or sacred spaces.

• Respect the UNESCO World Heritage site guidelines.

Entrance Fees

• Non-SAARC Foreign Adults: USD 30

• Non-SAARC Foreign Children (6–12 years): USD 15

• SAARC Foreign Adults: USD 15

• SAARC Foreign Ahildren (6–12 years): USD 15

• Children under 6 years (All Nationalities): Free entry

• In-Person: Tickets can be purchased on-site at the Archaeological Museum. 

• Visitors from SAARC countries are required to present their original passports. Photocopies, digital copies, or any other substitute documents will not be accepted. 

• Online: Payment via the Central Cultural Fund eTicket system.

Payment Methods 

• Cash and Credit/Debit card payments are accepted.

• It's advisable to carry cash as a backup.

Accepted Currency

• US dollars (USD) and Sri Lankan rupees (LKR) are accepted for on-site payments.

What Does the Ticket Include? 

• Access to the entire archaeological site of Polonnaruwa and the adjacent archaeological museum.

• Tickets are valid for a single entry on the chosen day. 

Site Guide Availability

• Site guides can be hired on-site for an additional fee.

• Bike rental is a popular and efficient way to explore (approx. LKR 500 per bike per day, ~US $2–3).

Opening Hours

• Opening hours: 

Daily 7.30 AM - 6.00 PM.

Ticket counters operate from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

• Best time: Avoid the midday heat by arriving early. 

• Duration: Allocate 3–5 hours to comfortably explore key monuments, depending on your pace and whether you use a bicycle.

Things to Do

• Explore the Royal Palace complex and Audience Hall.

• Tour the Sacred Quadrangle, a revered site featuring multiple ancient monuments.

• See Rankoth Vehera stupa.

• Explore the Kiri Vehera stupa.

• Visit the Gal Vihara rock temple.

• Visit Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum.

• Cycle through ancient ruins and landscapes.

Recommended Dress Code

• Shoulders and knees must be covered inside temples and shrines (both men and women).

• Wear easy-to-take-off shoes as you will need to remove them frequently in shrines. 

• Due to hot ground surfaces, wear socks for protection. 

• Light or white clothing, hats, sunglasses and sunscreen are encouraged. 

Washrooms

• Washroom facilities are available at the museum, as well as near the Sacred Quadrangle car park and the Gal Viharaya car park.

• Basic refreshment stalls are located midway through the ruins.

Shoe Stands

• There are no separate shoe stands. Visitors may place their shoes near the entrance of each shrine.

Parking

• Parking is available near the ticket office and inside the archaeological site.

Drone Use

• Drone operations are prohibited unless special authorization is obtained from the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL) and the Department of Archaeology.

Important Notes

• Start your tour as early as possible due to the heat and humidity.

• Respect the Buddhist customs and traditions while visiting.

• Avoid turning your back to statues or stupas when taking photographs, as this is regarded as disrespectful.

• Carry water and stay hydrated during the visit.

• Hats and shoes should be removed when entering temples or sacred spaces.

• Respect the UNESCO World Heritage site guidelines.

Entrance Fees

• Non-SAARC Foreign Adults: USD 35

• Non-SAARC Foreign Children (6–12 years): USD 20

• SAARC Foreign Adults: USD 20

• SAARC Foreign Children (6–12 years): USD 20

• Children under 6 years (All Nationalities): Free entry

• Sigiriya Museum Ticket Price: USD 6

• Buy this ticket only if you plan to visit the museum. The Sigiriya entrance ticket already includes access to the museum.

• In-person: Tickets can be purchased on-site at the ticket counter.

• Visitors from SAARC countries are required to present their original passports. Photocopies, digital copies, or any other substitute documents will not be accepted. 

• Online: Payment via the Central Cultural Fund eTicket system.
  
  

Payment Methods 

• Cash and Credit/Debit card payments are accepted. 

• It's advisable to carry cash as a backup.
  
  

Accepted Currency

• US dollars (USD) and Sri Lankan rupees (LKR) are accepted for on-site payments.

What Does the Ticket Include?

• Access to the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the Sigiriya Museum.

• Tickets are valid for a single entry on the chosen day. 

Site Guide Availability

• Site guides can be hired on-site for an additional fee.

Opening Hours

• Opening hours: 

Daily 5:00 AM - 6:30 PM. 

Tickets will be issued only between 05:00 AM and 5:00 PM.

The frescoes area will be closed at 5:45 PM.

• Best time: A visit in the early morning or late afternoon is ideal for a more comfortable experience and better photo opportunities.  

• Duration: Approximately 2–3 hours to explore the site.

Things to Do

• Wander through the Water Gardens.

• Climb the rock fortress and enjoy panoramic views from the summit.

• Walk along the Mirror Wall with historic graffiti.

• Marvel at ancient frescoes.

• Take a walk through the surrounding archaeological site.

• Explore the Sigiriya Museum.

Recommended Dress Code

• Light, breathable clothing is recommended due to the tropical climate.

• Comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for climbing.

• No strict dress code here as in temple sites, but wearing sun protection, such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, is recommended.

Washrooms

• Washroom facilities are available near the ticket office and the tourist car park. 

• No toilet facilities inside the archaeological area.

Parking

• Parking facilities are available at the entrance and the tourist car park.

Drone Use

• Drone operations are prohibited unless special authorization is obtained from the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL) and the Department of Archaeology.

Important Notes

• Make sure to wear sun protection and drink plenty of water, as temperatures can get quite high.

• Carry water, as there are no shops inside the archaeological site. 

• Photography may be restricted in the fresco area.

• The climb involves steep stairs and requires moderate fitness.

• Respect the UNESCO World Heritage site guidelines.

Entrance Fees

• Foreign Adults: LKR 3,000

• Foreign Children under 12 years: Free entry

• In-Person: Tickets can be purchased on-site at the ticket counter. 

Payment Methods 

• Cash-only payments are accepted at the ticket counter.

Accepted Currency

• Only Sri Lankan rupees (LKR) are accepted.

What Does the Ticket Include?

• Access to the five main cave temples, each showcasing ancient murals and numerous Buddha statues.

• Tickets are valid for a single entry on the chosen day. 

Site Guide Availability

• Site guides can be hired on-site for an additional fee.

Opening Hours

• Opening hours: 

Daily 6:00 AM - 7:30 PM.

The ticket counter closes at 6:00 PM.

• Best time: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon before sunset to avoid the heat and crowds. 

• Duration: Around 1 to 2 hours to climb and explore.

Things to Do

• Explore the five caves adorned with murals and over 150 Buddha statues, plus figures of kings, deities, and Hindu gods.

• Enjoy the scenic views from the top, including possible glimpses of Sigiriya in the distance.

• Admire the Golden Buddha statue at the base, near the temple entrance.

Recommended Dress Code

• Shoulders and knees must be covered inside temples and shrines (both men and women).

• Light or white clothing, hats, sunglasses and sunscreen are encouraged. 

Washrooms

• Washroom facilities are available at the base near the parking lot and in the Golden Temple area.

Shoe Stands

• Shoe racks are available at the top entrance. A small donation or fee is required. 

Parking

• Parking is available at the base near the ticket counter and in the Golden Temple area.

Drone Use

• Drone operations are prohibited unless special authorization is obtained from the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL) and the Department of Archaeology.

Important Notes

• No flash photography allowed in caves as it may damage ancient artwork.

• No washroom facilities in the cave area. 

• Involves climbing uphill for approximately 15-20 minutes.

• Carry water; no shops or amenities are available at the cave temple level.

• Be prepared for extremely hot concrete/stone when barefoot during sunny days.

• Bring socks for comfortable walking on hot stone surfaces.

• This is an active Buddhist pilgrimage site requiring respectful behaviour.

• Respect the UNESCO World Heritage site guidelines.

Entrance Fees

• Non-SAARC Foreign Adults: LKR 2,000

• Non-SAARC Foreign Children (Below 12 years): Free entry

• SAARC Foreign Adults: LKR 1,500

• SAARC Foreign Children (Below 12 years): Free entry

• Thailand and Myanmar Adults: LKR 1,500

• Thailand and Myanmar Children (Below 12 years): Free entry

• Tickets can be obtained via automated machines near the entrance.

Payment Methods 

• Cash-only payments are accepted for the automated machines.

Accepted Currency

• Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR) only. 

• Foreign currencies such as USD and Euro can be exchanged at the counter, but exchange availability cannot be guaranteed.

What Does the Ticket Include?

• Access to the temple complex and on-site museums.

• Tickets are valid for a single entry on the chosen day. 

Site Guide Availability

• Site guides can be hired on-site for an additional fee.

Opening Hours

• Opening hours: Daily 5.30 AM - 8.00 PM.

• Best time: Anytime of the day. 

• Duration: About 1–2 hours, enough time for rituals, exploring the shrine, and any museum section.

Things to Do

• Observe daily rituals with chanting and drumming.

• View the relic casket from the public area.

• Offer lotus flowers to the shrine (flowers available for purchase).

• Experience traditional Buddhist worship practices.

• Explore the temple's intricate Kandyan architecture.

• Enjoy the surrounding royal complex and garden settings, including the royal palace and the audience hall.

• Visit the associated museum halls in the complex.

Recommended Dress Code

• Shoulders and knees must be covered inside the temple. (both men and women).

• Light or white clothing is encouraged. 

Washrooms

• Washroom facilities are available outside the temple, near the ticket counter. Ask temple staff for specific locations.

Shoe Stands

• Shoe storage is available near the ticket counter, and a token will be provided for retrieval. A small donation or fee is required.

Parking

• No on-site parking available. Visitors should park at nearby parking lots (e.g., Kandy Municipal Council car parks) and walk to the temple.

• Some street parking is available in the surrounding areas.

Drone Use

• Drone operations are prohibited unless special authorization is obtained from the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL).

Important Notes

• This is the most sacred Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka; respectful behaviour is essential.

• Respect the Buddhist customs and traditions while visiting.

• Avoid turning your back to statues or the relic chamber when taking photographs, as this is regarded as disrespectful.

• Temple can be extremely crowded during Buddhist festivals (Vesak, Esala Perahera) and full-moon poya days.

• Hats and shoes should be removed when entering the temple.

• Bulky luggage and non-essential items must be left at the reception booths.

• Times of rituals (Thewawa/ Daily Service)

Early Period of Service: 5.30 AM to 7.00 AM.

Middle Period of Service: 9.30 AM to 11.00 AM.

Evening Period of Service: 6.30 PM to 8.00 PM.

• Respect the UNESCO World Heritage site guidelines.

Entrance Fees

• Galle Fort has no general entrance fee, as it is a public, open-air heritage site. 

• Individual attractions within the Fort (museums, etc.) may charge separate fees.

Site Guide Availability

• Guided walking tours are available and recommended to explore the Fort's history and architecture. 

• Site guides offering tours, including heritage-focused ones.

Opening Hours

• Opening hours: 

Open daily, 24 hours, as it is an open public space. 

Museums and shops within the Fort operate roughly from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. 

Restaurants usually open from 10.00 AM  to 10.00 PM.

• Best time: 

Early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat, and enjoy the sunset views. 

Evening for dining and nightlife within the fort.

• Duration: Plan for 2–3 hours to stroll, visit key sites, shop, and soak up the atmosphere.

Things to Do

• Walk the complete 2.5 km fort ramparts for ocean views.

• Visit Galle Lighthouse.

• Explore the historic Dutch Reformed Church.

• Visit the Galle National Museum and the Maritime Museum.

• Dine at restaurants with colonial architecture.

• Photography at Flag Rock and Bastions.

• Visit All Saints Anglican Church.

• Sunset watching from the fort walls.

• Browse art galleries and boutique shops.

Recommended Dress Code

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the streets are cobbled. 

• Weather-appropriate clothing—light, breathable fabrics.

• Hats, sunglasses and sunscreen are strongly recommended. 

Washrooms

• Public washrooms are available behind the Fort Freeze Ice Cream Shop, near the main entrance, and adjacent to the Old Police Garage.

• Most establishments provide washroom access for customers.

Parking

• Parking is available in paid lots surrounding the Fort.

Drone Use

• Drone operations are prohibited unless special authorization is obtained from the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL).

Important Notes

• This is a functioning town with residents, shops, and hotels - respect private properties.

• Coastal location with high humidity - stay hydrated and use sun protection.

Entrance Fees

• Foreign Adults: LKR 1,240

• Foreign Children (5 - 12 years): LKR 620

• In-Person: Tickets must be purchased at Forest Department offices.

• Access via multiple entrances:

Kurulugala - Deniyaya entrance.

Pitadeniya entrance.

Lankagama entrance.

Morningside entrance.

Payment Methods 

• Only cash payments are accepted.

Accepted Currency

• Cash payments are accepted only in Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR).

• Foreign currencies such as USD and Euro can be exchanged at the entrance, but exchange availability cannot be guaranteed.

What Does the Ticket Include?

• Access to the Sinharaja Forest Reserve UNESCO World Heritage site.

• Tickets are valid for a single entry on the chosen day. 

• Note: Guide service is separate from the entrance fee.

Site Guide Availability

• A licensed guide is mandatory to enter the reserve. Solo treks are not permitted. 

• Guides can be arranged on-site at entrance points.

• Guided tour options range from short treks to full-day excursions.

• Guide Fee is based on negotiation and tour duration.

Opening Hours

• Opening hours: 

Daily 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM. 

Ticket sales often stop around 4:30 PM.

• Best months: During the dry seasons, from January to April and again from August to September, when trekking conditions are most favourable.

• Duration: 

Short tour: 3-4 hours (covers 6km)

Medium tour: 5-6 hours (covers 10km)

Long tour: 7-8 hours (covers 14km)

Lion's Rock hike: 8-9 hours (covers 24km)

Things to Do

• Trekking through the primary rainforest.

• Bird watching.

• Wildlife spotting.

• Waterfall visits.

• Canopy observation and ecosystem study.

Recommended Dress Code

• Long pants, long sleeves, sturdy closed shoes with good grip. Terrain is wet, muddy, and slippery.

• Anti-leech socks and insect repellent are highly recommended.

• Dark or camouflage clothing is preferable for bird watching.

• Waterproof jackets are advised during wetter seasons. 

Washrooms

• Washrooms are available at the main entry points, but not guaranteed deep in the forest. 

Parking

• No dedicated parking facilities are available. 

• Vehicles can be parked by the road. 

Drone Use

• Drone operations are prohibited unless special authorization is obtained from the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL).

Important Notes

• The last remaining lowland tropical rainforest in Sri Lanka.

• No independent entry allowed, professional guide required.

• Leech socks and long clothing are essential.

• Moderate to high fitness level required for longer trails.

•  Strict rules about disturbing wildlife and removing materials.