Though only the ancient ruins survive, this 12th century AD palace was once a towering seven story, 1000 room marvel. It's hard to imagine, though makes for an intriguing visit!

A wildlife phenomenon if we ever did see one. Though you will have to arrange a safari tour for this activity, the elephant gathering in Minneriya National Park is a sight worth seeing. Head to the lake between July and October to see the elephants bathing, grazing and playing.

For a view like you get at the top of Pidurangala Rock we'd happily hike for mile-after-mile. Though the summit is astonishing at any time of day, we'd recommend heading out for a sunrise stroll. 

When Geoffrey Bawa designs a hotel, you know it's going to be spectacular. Surrounded by tree-after-tree, Heritance Kandalama is an eco-retreat, a wildlife oasis and an enchanting escape.