Off the beaten path in Sri Lanka - full list of insider tips

Looking for places of interest where you can avoid the crowds?
Below, you find dozens of proposals, in a long list of Sri Lanka's hidden gems.

The destinations are sorted by region, along the normal route you would take when visiting all regions clockwise one after another.
The 12 regions are:
Colombo+Negombo  -  Northwestern Province  -  Anuradhapura  -  Northern Province  - 
Trincomalee+Nilaveli  -  Pasikuda+Polonnaruwa  -  Sigiriya+Dambulla  -  Kandy  -
Central Highlands  - Arugam Bay  - Deep South  - Southwest Coast

We highlight the top category of most isolated off-the-beaten-path destination green: almost secret
Those sites that are not famous but known to well-prepared travellers are marked yellow: rarely visited
Better-known places of interest that are still not frequented by busloads of tourists are marked reddish: not overcrowded

Furthermore, for your better orientation (what do we recommended most?) we give some ratings, neatly arranged in 3 different categories:
3***stars in the left column
here are, of course, sites we recommend most
2**stars in the middle
places that are worth considering a detour
1*star in the right column
more proposals for those who can't get enough
Last introductory note: An overview - only a table of links, without images, each place sorted in in the said 3 by 3 categories - can be clicked here...

Off the beaten path in the hinterland of Colombo and Negombo

Colombo is the capital and by far the largest town of Sri Lanka. The beach resort closest to the city centre is the southern suburb of Mount Lavinia. The coastal town of Negombo, with a major fishing port and a long but unprotected and not very clean beach, is closest to Colombo International Airport. A popular tourist attraction at the coastline in between Colombo and Negombo is a boat safari in the Muthurajawela Wetlands. The most famous temple near Colombo is in the suburb of Kelaniya. The most beloved destination in the hinterland is Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage. - And here are the surprisingly tranquil places of interest in the hinterland of Colombo and Negombo:
3***stars  most recommendable
2**stars worth considering
1*star just for enthusiasts
Asked for a highly recommendable insider tip concerning off-the-beaten-path destinations in the surroundings of Colombo, the answer is: the forest and cave moanstery of Pilikuttuwa. The rare visitors are fascinated by the idyllic setting and the austere lifestyle of the monks and enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility of this place. Exploring the area requires two shorter hikes going a little bit uphill and downhill.
Why we recommend Pilikuttuwa

It's a living forest monastery, allowing to come into contact with hermits.

Pilikuttuwa is a wonderful place to stroll around. The scenery is rich in variety. The monastic complex is full of small surprises.
Maligatenna close to Pilikuttuwa is also a forest monastery with some monk cells in caves and a painted cave temple. However, walking to the stupa on the very the top reqires some more strains, as this is actually the highest elevation in the Gampaha District. But the scenic beauty of the path through the rock formations and the vistas from the very top are unforgettable.
Another meditation monastery in the same area of Siyane Korale is Varana (Warana). Distances are shorter here, but there are more painted caves open to visitors, if a monk or helper provides the keys. Actually, the Meda Maluwa („middle terrace“) of Varana has the largest cave temple of the Western Province, but the sculptures and paintings are not comparable in quality to those of Dambulla or Ridigama or Degaldoruwa in the centre of the island.
A very hidden though not entirely tranquil place in the same area is the sacred logan of Pettagangala. It’s a quite spectacular scene and almost never visited by foreigners, but often there is some noise from the nearby quarry and the immediate surroundings are not as lonesome as those of the three moansteries mentioned above.
In almost the same distance as Chilaw, but much further inland, is Dambadeniya, not far away from the Provincial capital Kurunegala. Travelling from Colombo or Negombo to Anuradhapura, you can take either the coastal road via Chilaw or the inland road crossing Kurunegala. Taking the latter route, Dambadeniya might be worth a stop of one or two hours. The unpretentious village was Sri Lanka's capital in the mid and late 13th century. It’s worth climbing the once fortified rock, the vistas to the coconut and paddy cultivation area are magnificent. The nearby wooden temple, at the place of a former tooth temple, is from the Kandyan period, it contains some of the best Kandyan paintings you can find in the western plains.
To the south of Pinnawela, there is the giant stupa of Dedigama, marking the borthplace of one of Sri Lanka’s most famous kings, Parakramabahu the Great. It’s actually the largest stupa in the western part of the island. Even more interestingly, it’s one of the few stupas that were permitted to be opened by archaeologists. Some of the findings are on exhibition in the attached museum, which is small but one of the most interesting collections of archaeological findings on the island.
Further south and not far from the Kelani river valley and its tourist hotspot Kitulgala is the ancient forest monastery of Salgala. Though mentioned in some pocket guides, it's still almost untouched. Salgala can only be visited during morning hours, as it is a place of meditation for the monks living here permanantly or coming for a visit for classes. Salgala is one of the best places to study the live of hermits, forming a central part of the Sinhalese Buddhist culture.
Koskandawala is a smaller temple in the area known as Siyane Korale, situated very close to Pilikuttuwa. Not at the same road, but easily reachable on a short detour is a typical Ambalama, a wooden hut used collectively as resting place by local paddy farmers and pilgrims.
Atthanagala has a rare example of a roofed Vatadage. Buit most of the buildings are modern and the sculptures are garish. Atthanagala is believed to be the place where Sri Lanka’s most popular king, Sirisanghabo, sacrificed his life.
In Gampaha's suburb of Henerathgoda is one of Sri Lanka’s Botanical Gardens. Dadagamuwa in the surroundings of Gampaha is not special, just a typical Buddhist temple in the Kandyan and modern style.
Typical temples in the immediate hinterland of Negombo are the cave temple of Aluthepola and the rock temple of Maboda.
Chilaw is worth considering a break on the way to Kalpitiya or Wilpattu, if you are interested in seeing a hotspot of the Hindu Culture within a Buddhist majority area. Three temples are noteworthy in the immediate surroundings of Chilaw, the most important being Munneshvaram.
Manavari to the north of the city is believed to be the first place where Lord Rama installed a Lingam in veneration of Lord Shiva.
The Replica of Kataragama temple in Madampe to the south of Chilaw is worth a photo stop. It’s a very new temple, privately sponsored.
The small Ambalama of Panavitiya has one very remarkable feature: woodcarvings only second in quality to the famous Embekke temple near Kandy. Another very old and classical Ambalama several kilometres firther north is in Karagahagedara, but this one undecorated.
To the north of Pinnawela, Padavigampola is by far the most noteworthy place for those interested in megalithic culture, as this is the largest dolmen on the island.

Off the beaten path between Colombo and Anuradhapura

Most round tours leave the region of Colombo and Negombo, which are the towns closest to the airport, first towards a northern direction, either to Sigiriya or to Anuradhapura. Indeed, it really makes sense to visit the historical places clockwise, because this way you can study them roughly in chronological order. The shortest routes to both areas, Anuradhapura District with Anuradhapura and Mihintale, and Matale District with Dambulla and Sigiriya, cross Kurunegala District, allowing to visit Dambadeniya on the way. An alternative route to Anuradhapura, as said, is the coastal road via Puttalam. - Don't miss to visit some rewarding extras on your transfer from the airport to the heritage heartlands:
3***stars  most recommendable
2**stars worth considering
1*star just for enthusiasts
For heritage travellers, definitely the number one destination along the Kurunegala-Anuradhapura road A28 is the medieval citadel and rock of Yapahuwa, sometimes called „Sri Lanka’s second Sigiriya“. The former city walls surrounding the rock are still intact and the large sculptural decoration of the imposing grand staircase to the former palace are a major attraction of Sri Lanka, the 360 degree panorama from the top is amazing. Yapahuwa can not claim to be completely off-the-beaten path. However, most visitors are surprised, how  undisturbed this great site still is.
Why we recommend Yapahuwa

Yapahuwa is still not on everybody's shortlist, though it deserves to be. Yapahuwa is of significance for the island's history and the most imposing site from the late Middle Ages.
Taking the latter route (A3 and A12), the Peninsula of Kalpitiya is worth a relaxing detour. It’s Sri Lanka‘s best place for Dolphin watching and for kite surfing. The sandy beaches are long and lonesome.  Those interested more in historical sites could consider an alternative detour to the very rarly visited cave temple and ruins of  Wilandagoda , which is completely untouched by tourism.
For those heritage travellers who have time enough for an indirect route from Kurunegala to Yapahuwa, the detour to Arankale might be rewarding, as this is a quite lovely archaeological site from the Anuradhapura period. Next to Ritigala, it’s the second most important excavation of an ancient meditation monastery of the strange Pansukulika fraternity, with remnants of characteristic double platforms, meditation pathes, a bath and an Ayurvedic hospital. The most picturesque part is the cave hermitage of Maliyadeva, who was Sri Lanka’s last Buddhist saint.
In between the said two main roads (A28 via Kurunegala and A3 via Puttalam) to Anuradhapura, there are two more alternatives, both of them neither crossing Kurnegala nor Puttalam. One is leading from Chilaw to the Kurunegala-Anuradhapura road A28. This means driving 25 km more, because this is a zigzag route. It would allow to see Munneshvaram, Panduvasnuwara, Padeniya, Yapahuwa, and Hatthikucchi. But to see all of this places within only one day, you would have to leave from Negombo at 7.00 am (or 6.00 am from Colombo) and could not spend much time at each of those historical sites.
Another alternative is actually a shortcut. From Chilaw you could take the B45 and B19, reaching the Kurunegala-Anuradhapura road A28 at Galgamuwa. This shortcut allows to visit the Hindu temple near Chilaw (see above) first and also Hatthikucchi (see below). But Yapahuwa is not at this route. Instead, you could visit a much more remote and almost unknown rock temple, which also has perfect vistas, namely the Parakamanda rock of Anamaduwa.
On Kurunegala's backyard hill known as "elephant rock" is a large new Buddha statue. The terrace is an excellent vantage point to see the city and surroundings. At the foot of the hill is a tomb of a local Muslim saint also venerated by Buddhists.
A new Buddhist hermitage still inhabited by a monk can be found near the village of Alahuwa between Colombo and Kurunegala. The monk living here is welcoming the rare guests. 
Halfway between Kurunegala and Yapahuwa is the village of Padeniya. It has one of the rare examples of a Kandyan style temple in the lowlands. Apart from Embekke near Kandy and Panavitiya near Dambadeniya, Padeniya has the most delicate lovely small pillar woodcarvings in the Kandyan style.
Nillakgama is a very small but special temple. It’s a detour of 20 km altogether up and down from the small town of Galgamuwa, which is a at the A28 main road. Nillakgama has the best preserved Bodhigara. This is a very early type of Buddhist temple, in which once a tree was venerated, predating the worship of statues in temples. Actually this type of temple was only known from written sources until the Nillakgama Bodhigara was unearthed. The tree does not exist any more, but the stone carvings are noteworthy indeed.
Panduvasnuwara is neither spectacular nor picturesque, but allowing to study palace and monastic architecture of the early Polonnaruwa period. A circular arena-type builing is unique to Kurunegala and is said to be the prison of a princes whose brothers feared she might give otherwise to a birth of an heir to the throne replacing and killing them.

Off the beaten path in the surroundings of Anuradhapura and Mihintale

Anuradhapura is the largest archaeological site in the country, it’s a must for study trips. Mihintale in only 10 km distance is not on each and every bus group’s itinerary but visited by many foreigners. Both historical sites, however, have a lot of undisturbed places, for example the Ashokarama in the very north of Anuradhapura or the Rajagirilena in Mihintale are left out on most shortlists of attractions, although they could count as highlights. Another major natural attraction in the Anuradhapura area is Wilpattu National Park. Most guests enjoy a half-day safari including the central lakes or ponds called Villus as highlights. Less crowded is the coastline of Wilpattu, the ancient Tambapanni, which can be reached on full-day safaris. - Let's come to the true off-the-beaten-path destination in the surroundings of Sri Lanka's largest archaeological site:
3***stars  most recommendable
2**stars worth considering
1*star just for enthusiasts
Mihintale off the beaten path

Mihintale attracts independent travellers and also some bus groups. However, several sites in Mihintale are almost never frequented by tourists, such as Rajagirilena, Indikatuseya, Wasammale, Doramadalawa, Mahakanadarawa, Gal Palama.
The quite picturesque historical pilgrimage site of Hatthikucchi, situated between Yapahuwa and Anuradhapura, is not completely off-the-beaten path any more, but most visitors are surprised to be able toe experience this charming ensemble of ruins surrounded by rock boulders in perfect tranquility. The rock-shelter with the perfect view to the valley is believed to have been the hideout of the legendary King Siridanghabo.
Thantirimale to the northwest of Anuradhapura is most notweworthy for one of only three surviving rock-cut Buddhas in reclining posture. It's therefore sometimes called "Sri Lanka's second Gal Vihara". The giant statue is probably from the Polonnaruwa period, a much smaller seated Buddha carved from another rock surface definitely is. The wavy surfaces of the dark granite rocks and the valleys filled with water make Tantirimale an alluring historical site. A footpath leads to a cave with very rare examples of prehistoric paintings in Sri Lanka.
Highly recommendable for heritage enthusiasts is a visit of the archaeological site of Kiralagala. It’s located 43 km northeast of Mihintale. However, when travelling from Anuradhapura or Mihintale to Trincomalee or Nilaveli Beach, a visit of Kiralagala only requires a small detour, of less than 10 kms. Kiralagala is the ancient Weherabendhigala. It seems to have been the first large monastery of the hermit brotherhood known as Pansukulikas, where typical features of Pansukulika architecture occur for the first time.
Veheragala has a painted cave temple and a stupa on a rock and some small ancient bathing ponds. Most importantly, Veheragala was the finding place ot the largest treasure of Mahayana Buddhist figurines, samples or copies of which can be seen in the small museum of the temple.
Kokabe is a very small but charming achaeological site. A detour to these untouched ancient temple ruins is worth considering when travelling fromAnuradhapura to Trincomalee.
Divulwewa is only a small archaeological site but an insider tip and a special recommendation for those studying Buddhist scultures. It has one of the very few large seated Buddha statues still in situ.
A rarely visited temple is in Isinbassagala 25 km to the north of Mihintale. The shrine is new and gaudy. However, it’s worth climbing the granite rock which is crowned by a shining white stupa. This is one of the 360 degree panoramas in the plains of the so-called Vanni area, a dry zone scrub jungle in the very north of Sri Lanka. A break in Isinbassagala makes sense when travelling the direct route (A9) from Anuradhapura to Jaffna.

Off the beaten path in the Northern Province

The major attractions of Sri Lanka’s Northern Province are on Jaffna Peninsula and on the islands in the Palk Strait. Actually, the places of interest listed below are all well-known to visitors of Jaffna. Apart from the major attractions around Jaffna, there are almost no less-known sites that could be recommended. On the other hand, all major destinations on the peninsula are still not at all overcrowded with tourists. In short: All northern attractions of Sri Lanka fall in both seemingly contradictory categories: well-known and less-visited at the same time. - Have a look at some of the famous sites in the Northern Province that are nonetheless not touristy:
3***stars  most recommendable
2**stars worth considering
1*star just for enthusiasts
The main attractions of Jaffna town are the Dutch Fort and the Kandaswamy temple in the suburb of Nallur, which is actually the older city. Nallur was once the residence of the princes of Jaffna. As said, there are only few off-the-beaten path recommendations for Jaffna and Nallur. Maybe, one example of a site left out on some typical Jaffna itineraries is the Mantri Manai in Nallur, believed to be the residence of high-ranking officials of the former Jaffna principality.
Nainativu Island has plenty of visitors. However, it’s not yet touristy. The reason is: Most visitors are Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims, the latter venerating the Buddha-visited site of Nagadeepa. The nearby Nagapooshani Amman Kovil is very colourful, similar to Tamil temples in South India. A special appeal of this Hindu temple is that it is situated at the seashore. Starting from Jaffna, Delft island and Nainativu Island could be visited on one single day.
Those interested in architectural heritage and cultural history should not miss to visit Kandarodai to the north of Jaffna town. The finds at this archaeological site were significant. The restored stupas are unique. They are small, but there are numerous of them, more than at any other place of the same size.
A boat excursion to Delft Island, is quite popular with those travellers who find their way to Jaffna. A safari on the island will allow you to see the feral horses the island is famous for and also one of Sri Lanka’s most impressive Baobab trees. Furthermore, remnants of the Portuguese and the Dutch colonial period will be visited on a round tour on the island. Though included in most Jaffna itineraries, Delft is still a remote island and you will be almost undisturbed during your safari.
Mannar Island in the northwest of Sri Lanka has feral horses and also a Baobab tree.  Mannar is very rarely visited by busloads of tourists. An insider tip is a hike along the nortwestern beach to the very tip of the islands to see the sandbanks of the so-called Adam’s Bridge, a chain of islets connecting Mannar with the Indian island of Rameshvaram.
Further attractions are Fort Hammenhiel on an islet to the southwest of Karainagar Island, the ancient port of Jambukola,  the holy bathes of Keerimalai,  the immense Nilavarai well, the northermost Point Pedro, the sand dunes of Manalkadu, and the Elephant Pass, which is an artificial dam to mainland Sri Lanka.

Off the beaten path in the hinterland of Trincomalee and Nilaveli Beach

Trincomalee  is situated on a bank between the island’s largest natural harbour and the open sea. The Koneshvaram temple on a promontory is one of the most revered sacred sites of Hindu devotees in Sri Lanka. The 10 km long sandy beach of Nilaveli and the coral reef of Pidgeon Island and the Sinnakaracchi Lagoon just north of Trincomalee town are popular with holiday makers. - Who wants to see more than only beach, has a large choice in Trincomalee-District and all the noteworthy heritage sites are not crowded with tourists:
3***stars  most recommendable
2**stars worth considering
1*star just for enthusiasts
In the hinterland of Trincomalee, there are several places of interest for heritage travellers. All of them deserve to be called off-the-beaten-path destinations. The most impressive one is the circular temple on top of a hill within the quite large archaeological site of Thiriyai (Tiriyaya). This is the best preserved so-called Vatadage from the Anuradhapura period, an absolute must-see for heritage enthusiasts and neverthesless almost undisturbed throughout the year.
Why we recommend Thiriyai

Thiriyai simply is the most significant destination for heritage travellers in the Eastern Province. Surprisingly, this perfect sample of a classical Vatadafe is left out on most round tour itineraries. Don't miss it, when staying in Nilaveli.
Further inland is the rock and monastery of Madagama. It seems not to be amazing when seen from a distance. But this almost unknown place is one of the most delightful places anywhere in Sri Lanka. Apart from some cave temples at the northern foot of the rock, the view from the very top to the Vanni plains is really charming. Most of all, a saddle at the vertical southern sloe of the rock is worth discovering. It has further hermitages and a pond within a rock shelter.
Why we recommend Madagama

The answer to this question is easy. If you are looking for an ecciting place almost no other tourist ever comes to know, Madagama is it. This ancient site in a wonderful setting is also a living hermitage.
Lonesome beaches can be found further north. A lovely small protected beach is called Arisimalai. It can be reached from a car park near Pulmuddai after a short hike of only 1 km. By the way, the surroundings of Pulmoddai are a rewarding bird watching area.
Just 4 km north of the sacred hot wells of Kanniyai, is the Velgam Vehera. Historically, it’s a noteworthy site, as this Buddhist temple, though of earlier origin, was restored and enlarged to its current size under the foreign rule of the Tamil Chola dynasty, which was Hindu and otherwise has a reputation of having destroyed Buddhist temples on the island. In the case of Velgam Vehera, they have built one. And it became style-defining concerning the layout and style of image houses in the subsequent Polonnaruwa period. Today, visitors are rare at this important excavation site.
Seruwila is one of the two holiest Buddhist sites in the Eastern Province. It’s the only stupa in Sri lanka which is believed to contain relics of all four Buddhas of our present aeon. The archaeological site has a new image house in a pagoda-style and a small museum. The place also known as Seruwawila is situated 42 km south of Trincomalee by road. It’s worth a small detour when travelling along the east coast from Trincomalee to Pasikuda Beach or to Batticaloa further south.

Off the beaten path in the surroundings of Polonnaruwa and Pasikuda Beach

For all those interested in historical places, the UNESCO World Heritage Site Polonnaruwa, which was the medieval capital during the heydays of the Sinhalese civilisation, is a must-see. Many visitors of Polonnaruwa prefer Giritale for their overnight stays, as it closer to the elephant gathering national parks. Among the major heritage sites of the Cultural Triangle, Polonnaruwa is the one closest to the sea. The newly established beach resort of Pasikuda is very popular with families with children, as the water in the crescent cove is shallow and safe. - In Polonnaruwa, there are only very few temples that are not frequented by tourists. Most travellers do not stop at the small Hindu Devales in between the exit gateway of the archaeological park and the town centre. Within the archaeological park, don’t miss to walk around on the three hills and in their western backyards of the Alahena Pirivena complex, which was the major monastery of the capital. Not many tourists explore this most alluring part of the large compound in detail. Somewhat hidden is the small monastery known as Menik Vihara right in the centre of the Archaeological park. A famous and very charming site is the palace complex of King Nissanka Malla at the banks of the Topa Wewa. It’s still a tranquil site, at least at times. - As famous as Polonnaruwa might be, the surroundings offer one very impressive and several smaller destinations that are truely off the beaten path:
3***stars  most recommendable
2**stars worth considering
1*star just for enthusiasts
In between Polonnaruwa and Pasikuda, there is a heritage site that’s not crowded at all, though it’s one of the island’s most attractive destinations at all. Actually, you could spend an entire day hiking around in Dimbulagala to see the dozens of places of interest in this isolated range. Even more isolated is the single needlepoint inselberg of Thoppigala, situated even closer to Paskuda Beach, but accordingly it’s farer away from Polonnaruwa. Thoppigala is worth a visit for nature enthusiasts. It’s a protected conservation zone. Some adventure acticities, also suitable for kids, are on offer in the plains at the foot of the imposing rock.
Why we recommend Dimbulagala

It's the sheer number and variety of attractive sites that makes Dimbulagala our favourite among all off-the-beaten-path destinations.
The Maduru Oya National Park to the south of Dimbulagala but with ist maingate at the opposite side (direction Mahiyanagana) is the only large national park on the island that is never crowded with jeeps. It’s the best chance to experience Sri Lanka‘s wildlife in a completely undisturbed way.
The most rewarding excursion from Polonnaruwa to a neighboruing archaeological site is to Medirigiriya. It’s mentioned in all pocket guides. Medirigiriya has one of the most imposing typical Sinhalese Vatadages. It’s centuries older than the more famous Vatadage of Polonnaruwa. What’s special about Medirigiriya is that there are many ancient Buddha statues still in situ. If you are an explorer, you can discover many more of them in the area between Medirigiriya and the Kaudulla tank.
Why we recommend Medirigiriya

Medirigiriya is not a large archaeological site, but it's densely packed with structures of various types, one of the earliest image houses among them. The highlight, of course, is the forest of columns of the iconic Vatadage, which is much older than its famous counterpart in Polonnaruwa. Seated atop a boulder, the Vatadage is an eyecatching sight, too.
Somawathiya is a national park that can not be explored on jeep safaris. It’s possible to visit the restored stupa within the national park, but it’s highly recommendable to do so with a jeep instead of a normal car. The architecture of the stupa is not alluring. However, the remote location might be a reason for the detour. And you can come into contact with Sinhalese pilgrims here. The stupa is believed to enshrine Sri Lanka’s second Tooth Relic.
A short excursion from Pasikuda can lead to Thennadi Bay, which is just at the opposite side of the promontory known as „elephant head“, a long peninsula covered with palm trees. Thennadi Bay is not touristy. Some Tamil fishermen live in this area. With a little luck, you will be able to study their traditional beach seaning technique of fishing, similar to the „singing fishermen“ of Kerals, though regrettably without singing.
30 km south of Pasikuda is Batticaloa, situated on a spit between the Indian Ocean and Sri Lanka’s largest and most winding lagoon. Historically, Batticaloa was the second most important port in the east of the island, this is why there is a Dutch Fort similar to that in Trincomalee. Batticaloa town is crowded with Hindu temples. They are not attractive for lovers of ancient art. But their annual temple feasts are amazing. You should not miss such an event, when spending your holidays at the east coast just in due time.

Off the beaten path in the surroundings of Dambulla and Sigiriya

The World Heritage Sites of Dambulla and Sigiriya form the very heart of the so-called Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka. Both places, the painted caves of Dambulla and the spectacular palace ruins on the so-called Lion Rock are must-sees for all first-time visitors of Sri Lanka, at least for all heritage travellers. This is why you will find it difficult to avoid the crowds at these two sites. The best chances to be undisturbed are visits just at the opening hours. Some other quite touristy - but nevertheless recommendable holiday activities - in the surroundings of Dambulla and Sigiriya are village tours in Habarana and elephant safaris in Minneriya or Kaudulla National Parks (depending on the season of elephant migration). Apart from these major attractions, there are numerous other places of interest in this amazing area, some of them completely untouched by tourism. - Even in the heartland of Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle, there are tons of heritage sites that remain completely untouched by mass tourism:
3***stars  most recommendable
2**stars worth considering
1*star just for enthusiasts
One of the greatest places in Sri Lanka is in only 1 km distance from Sigiriya. It’s the neighbour rock known as Pidurangala. This was the Buddhist monastery outside the city walls of Sigiriya. There is a lot to see in Pidurangala, a ground-level excavation site of typical monastic buildings from the late Anuradhapura period, painted caves with long relining Buddhas, prehistorical rock shelters, a gorgeous recling Buddha made of brick in one of the rock shelters. Most amazing are the vistas from the very top. Actually, the 360 degree panorama from Pidurangala is even more spectaculat than that of neighbouring Sigiriya.
Well-known and often visited, particularly in the most recommendable morning hours, is the most imposing rock-cut Buddha on the island. It’s known as  Aukana Buddha . It’s not the tallest of Sri Lanka’s rock-cut statues, but concerning mass or volume, it’s definitely the largest one and it’s extremely well designed. Hence, it attracts many heritage tourists. Nevertheless it’s not yet overcrowded and can be even lonesome at times. When travelling to Aukana, you will drive the road on the crown of the Kalawewa, which is Sri Lanka’s most famous historical tank, though not the largest one.
The beauty of the rock-cut Sasseruwa Buddha in Rasvehera can not rival that of the more famous „twin“ statue in Aukana. Having said that, we can claim that most travellers like hte Sasseruwa Buddha even more. The reason is the location or the surroundings. The rock surface, from which the Sasseruwa Buddha is cut, is at a natural platform high above the ground level, offering vistas to the wilderness. It’s a tranquil place. And much less tourists than to Aukana also come to visit this equally large statue. Apart from the rock statue, Rasvehera has also some intersting painted caves. And it’s in the middle of a nature sanctuary rich in elephants.
One of the most imposing cave temple in Sri Lanka, second only to Dambulla, is the Ridee Vihara near the village of Ridigama. The silver monastery is worth a detour for several reasons. Besides the painted caves, it has a picturesque small temple from the Polonnaruwa period. The Ridi Viharaya is listed in some pocket guides and therefore visited by some independent travellers. But busloads of tourists are rarely seen in Ridigama. Most visitors are Buddhist pilgrims.
We recommend Ridigama

In contrast to other monasteries, the monks of the Ridee Viharaya in Ridigama are not greedy at all. Hospitality here is great, though it may take some tome to find a monk or an assistant with a key to the wonderful painted caves.
Easy to reach is the Nalanda Gedige, which is in only 2 km distance from the A9 main road from Dambulla to Kandy. The Nalanda Gedige is not completely off-the beaten path. But as it is not large, many guided tours don't take notice of it. This may come to a surprise, as the Nalanda Gedige is remarkable for at least three reason. It’s the only ancient temple of Sri Lanka completely built of stone. It’s known as the Abu Simbel of Sri Lanka, as it had to be reconstructed at a higher altitude due to a reservoir project. Last not least, it’s the rare example of a temple on the island that is tantric and has a carving depicting a copulating couple – or more precisely: triple.
Ritigala near Habarana is another archaeological site which is on the shortlist of many heritage travelers and deserves to be. It’s a quaint place today and once was the largest monastery of a specific kind, inhabited by the mysterioues brotherhood that was called Pansukulikas in ancient chronicles. They were full of disdain for works of art, showing their contempt by ornating only one item with careful carvings, the urinal stones of their monasteries. Nonetheless, the almost megalithic stones of their monastic buildings were hewn precisely and quite elaborately.
Another Pansukulika monastery is not far away, only 20 km further west. Astonishingly, the archaeological site of Manakanda, though comparable in size and quality to Ritigala, is missing in most pocket guides. Maybe, that’s the reason why there is why almost never any tourist shows up in Madagama, though it’s really not far away from the traffic hub where the roads from Anuradhapura to Kandy and from Polonnaruwa and Habarana to Aukana and Yapahuwa meet.
Namal Uyana is a nature reserve with sparse remnants of an Anuradhapura-period monastery. Some guests fall in love with this place, others are disappointed. There are scenic views from the top of the hill and the streams in the jungle are picturesque at places, too. However, Namal Uyana is remarkable for two items. It is crowded with iron wood, the precious timber Sri Lanka is famous for, and it has the largest rose quartz hill in South Asia.
Kalupokuna, also called Kaludiya Pokuna of Sigiriya, is close to the famous Heritance Kandalama Hotel. That’s why sometimes busgroups or several independent travellers find their way to this archaeological site amidst a nature and bird sanctuary. Nonetheless, chances are not too bad to expereince the beauty of this location completely alone. And it’s a charming place indeed, coming close to picturebook visions of lost temples in the jungles.
The said village, where the Polonnaruwa road A11 branches off from the main road A9 to Dambulla and Kandy, is Maradankadawala. Hidden behind in paddy fields and at the foot of a hill, but one kilometer west from the busy street is a typical cave temple of Sri Lanka. It’s called Gallenvihara. Actually, this is not a must-see, but could be of interest for those who don’t like long detours for seeing some extras.
A very rarely visited site is Bakamuna to the southeast of Kandalama. Actually, it is not worth that long detour, because there is only one item of interest, one of the three surviving rock-hewn recling Buddhas in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, the other one being in Polonnaruwa and Tantirimale. The statue in Bakamuna is smaller in size and less well preserved. It’s only worth a visit, if you must have seen all important sites of Buddhist art or if you take the shortcut via Bakamuna (instead of Habarana) to Gititale and Polonnaruwa.
Little touristic attention is paid the the archaeological site of Menikdena to the southwest of Dambulla. It’s not spectacular at all. But the ancient monastery is worth mentioning as the best example of a specific type of monastic complexes that were very common in the late centuries of the Anuradhapura perios (7th to 10th century). Menikdena is a classical version of a so-called Pabbata Vihara. Besides, it’s also an arboretum within the excavated area.
National Parks near Sigiriya

Minneriya and Kaudulla are relatively small wildlife parks. They were off-the-beaten-path destinations several decades ago. But recently, they have developped into major safari hubs, at least seasonally. The reason is the popularity of elephant safaris during the local dry season, when elephants from far and wide come together at Lake Minneriya in the summer and at Lake Kaudulla in the autumn months. The event is called "elephant gathering". Dozens of jeeps will go on afternoon safaris during the main season. However, it remains to be an unforgettable experience to come close to such a large herd of elephants.

Off the beaten path in the surroundings of Kandy

Whether you are visiting the Cultural Triangle area or the Central Highlands, Kandy will almost certainly be on your way when being on a round tour. The charming hill capital is worth to stay there several days. Elephant bath or tea factory or the Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya or village tours in Pilimattalawa are popular attractions in the surroundings of Kandy. Many heritage travellers like to see the Western temples of Gadaladeniya, Lankatilaka and Embekke from the Gampola period. - Let's come to the Kandyan Hills places of interest that are still off the beaten path:
3***stars  most recommendable
2**stars worth considering
1*star just for enthusiasts
Even tourists who have not time enough for hiking in the Knuckles Range or are not eager to walk long distances, could consider a half-day excursion to Medamahanuwara and Hunasgiriya and Deanston in the southern foothills of Knuckles Range. Hiking only 2 km up and down will be rewarded with astonishing vistas. Surprisingly, not many foreigners come to know these places when preparing their tours. Great places such as Deanston are still off the beaten path. An excursion to Deanston can easily be expanded to include Corbett’s Gap and Meemure as well.
We recommend Deanston

It's only a very short hike to the extraordinary 270 degree panoramic view point, which is nicknamed "Mini World's End", though the escapment is nothing less than "mini". Already the journey from Hanguranketa to Deanston is very scenic.
We don't consider the so-called Western Temples near Kandy to be real off-the-beaten-path destinations, as they are frequented by many independent travellers and also by some bus groups. Anyway, they deserve to be visited and are worth considering a detour.

Embekke is the woodcarvin temple.
Gadaladeniya is famous for door paintings, particularly the flower maiden.

The most appealing Western Temple, undoubtedly, is Lankatalika. So let's post some images to advertise for it.
Clicking them will link to the page.
Kandy-period temples in Danthure and Dodamwela are not far away from the often visited Gampola-period-temple in Dambadeniya
The cave temple of Degaldoruwa has the most impressive murals in the Kandyan style. It’s rarely visited, though it’s surprisingly close to Kandy.
Travellers on the way to Riverston should not miss a stop at the waterfalls of Bamarakiri.
Hanguranketa, the hideout of the Kandyan kings during periods of foreign intervention, has a temple with Kandyan-style paintings and an impressive collection of palm-leaf manuscripts.
(photo courtesy of Günter Schönlein)

Off the beaten path in the Central Highlands

The number of touristic highlights in the highlands of Sri Lanka is immense. Apart from Kandy and ist surroundings the most beloved destinations in higher altitudes are Nuwara Eliya and Ramboda, Haputale and Ella, Adam’s Peak and Horton Plains, St. Clair’s and Devon Falls, Kitulgala river rafting and waterfall adventures, Sita Eliya and Divurumpola Ramayana pilgrimage sites sites, Hakgala and Ambuluwawa Gardens. Bambarakanda Ella and Diyaluma Ella and Kurundu Ella are the island's tallest waterfalls. However, the name of the major travel destination in Sri Lanka's highlands is, of course, this one: tea. Tea plantations open for visitors are found near Ramboda, Hatton, Ella. A perfect way to explore the scenic beauty of the tea regions, of course, is a train ride along the highland railroad. - Here are some proposals of attractions off the beaten track in Sri Lanka's highlands:
3***stars  most recommendable
2**stars worth considering
1*star just for enthusiasts
Though Badulla is known to many travellers as the terminus of the highland railroad, not many foreigners are going to explore the surroundings, except from Dunhinda Falls. But there are several other places of interest that could be worth a detour from Badulla, The gravel road from the tea region of Spring Valley to Namunukula village is one of the most gorgeous scenic roads in Sri Lanka. From the top of the pass, jungle pathes lead to the summit of Namunukula mountain, which has breathtaking vistas in all directions.
Why we recommend Namunukula

It's an adventure similar to climbing Adam's Peak, at least it's not less strenuous. Who prefers to avoid such stress, can nevertheless enjoy the vistas and the rarely visited tea plantations of Spring Valley.
Among the more than a hundred waterfalls of the highlands, let’s highlight 3 different regions. Near Norton Bridge are the deep chasms of Lakshapana and Aberdeen Falls. Reaching the bottom requires climbing lots of stairs at both sites. Aberdeen Falls can be the destination of a hiking tour starting at the Ginigathena Pass. Car parks are availabke at both sides of the river, but for taking photos you cannot avoid the climbs.
There are some remote places even in the touristy Kitulgala area, for example Beli Lena with a waterfall in front of a cave and the two waterfalls of Mannakethi.

A rarely visited area with lots of waterfalls is between Hanguranketa and Ragalla along the B413 road, here you find the 189 m tall Kurundu Ella and the island’s most picturesque ensemble of waterfalls known as Mandawela Ella.
However, there are some additional places that are less famous and less crowded. For example, the most famous vistas are those from Lipton Seat near Haputale and World’s End on Horton Plains. However, Kondagala near Sri lanka’s first tea plantation and Mini World’s End at Magulsima are not less spectacular and almost never visited by foreigners. The tea region of Uda Pusselawa to the east of Nuwara Eliya is rarely freqented by tourists, despite ist scenic beauty.
A much shorter and easier detour from Badulla or also from Ella is a visit of Bogoda Bridge. This is by far the oldest and largest wooden bridge in Sri Lanka. Interestingly, it is roofed, because it suved as a pilgrimage rest, a so-called Ambalama, too. Apart from the picturesque bridge, there is also a cave temple in the typical Kandyan style.

Off the beaten path in the hinterland of Arugam Bay

Among surfers, beginners and intermediates alike, Arugam Bay and the nearby town of Pottuvil are the preferred destination in Sri Lanka. Beach holiday makers, too, are attracted to the southeast coast, particularly during the northern summer months. But nights in Arugam can be quite noisy in weekends, when young people from Colombo come here to enjoy having parties with friends. Among holiday makers, the most popular excursion from Arugam Bay is a jeep safari in Kumana National Park, which due to numerous lagoons and ponds and swamps is extraordinarily rich in birdlife and is home to both crocodile species occuring in Sri Lanka. - Avoiding the tourist crowds is easy on sightseeing tours in the hinterland of Arugam Bay:
2**stars  worth considering
more 2**stars
1*star just for enthusiasts
Note: We don't rate off-the-beaten-path destinations in this region 3***stars
Kudumbigala is one of the loveliest ancient sites of Sri Lanka. Besides being a heritage destination and the best vantage point in the region, Kudumbigala is also a nature reserve. Sloth bears are said to come close to the monastery from time to time.
The  national park of Lahugala-Kitulana is too small for jeep safaris but has some obervation spots to see wild elephants. Lahugala has an important excavation site, too. The so-called Magul Maha Viharaya is surrounded by legends from a distant past. One remarkable feature is Sri Lanka’s only moonstone depicting mahouts sitting on the backs of elephants. Lahugala is on the way to Gal Oya.
Gal Oya further inland is Sri Lanka’s only national park that can be explored by boat. Boat excursions in the afternoon allow observations of wild elephants, some of them even swiming to islets close to the shores. Early morning boat safaris are better for bird observations. Prior booking of boats is advisable, as rangers and boats are not always available. There are several days a year without any foreign guests in Gal Oya. Insofar it’s still off the beaten path, though mentioned in almost all pocket guides.
Rufus Kulam is one of the most enchanting lakes in Sri Lanka. This is one of the very few places on the island, where exciting wildlife observation is possible without jeep and without ranger. Wild elephants come often to this lake in the evening hours. Also deer and wild buffalos can often be seen here. It’s also worth a half-day detour from Pottuvil or Arugam Bay without any further visits.
A morning or afternoon boat safari could be combined with a detour to Buddhangala and Rajagala and Digavapi, three araeological sites close to Ampara. Buddhangala is one of the earliest Buddhist cave hermitages on the island, Rajagala is one of the remotest temple excavation in Sri Lanka, whereas Digavapi is a pilgrimage site, believed to have been visited by the Buddha. The main attraction is the largest stupa in the Eastern Province. All three places are almost never visited by foreign tourists. Rajagala and the adjoining Piyangala hermitage are very appealing.

Off the beaten path in Sri Lanka's Deep South

Mirissa near Weligama is Sri Lanka’s major destination for whalewatching and Rekawa is the most important turtle nesting beach. The climate of particularly Tangalle and Hambantota and Kirinda at the southern coastline of Sri Lanka differs from the soutwestern beach resorts. The summer monsoon rains do not reach so far to the east. The much drier climate is a reason why the south coast has become increasingly popular in tecent decades. Another reason is wildlife. There are four national parks in Sri Lanka's Deep South. Yala is the most famous one, for spotting leopards in particular. The nearby Bundala is for birdwatching. Udawalawa further inland has a large elephant population. Lunungamwehera is rarely visited. A very special attraction at the southern coast is one of the world's very few blowholes, Hoomaniya between Matara and Tangalle. - Here are some proposals of less-known sites in Sri Lanka's Deep South.
3***stars  most recommendable
2**stars worth considering
1*star just for enthusiasts
There are several places in the hinterland of the Deep South that are rarely visited, waterfalls and forest hermitages in particular. However, the most important heritage destinations are not off the beaten path any more. Mulgirigala in the hinterland of Tangalle is nevertheless worth visiting. Though frequented by foreigners, it cannot be called overcrowded.
Why we recommend Mulgirigala

Mulgirigala has definitely the best painted caves in southern Sri Lanka. As the caves are found at an isolated rock, Mulgirigala might be called both "Dambulla of the south" and "Sigiriya of the south".
Two stupa-crowned rocky hills in the wilderness of Yala National Park are an attraction in itself. But this picturesque place is a acred site, much frequented by Buddhist pilgrims. Nonetheless, the charming ancient site is not yet crowded with noisy busloads of tourists. Sithulpahuwa is not only recommendable destination for photographers. It's actually a former monastery of some historical significance. Situhulpahuwa was the major forest monastery of the southern kingdom known as Rohana. Important Mahayanist sculptures are still in situ. For heritage travellers in the Deep South, Sithulpahuwa is definitely a must-see.
Burduruwagala between the south coast and Ella in the hillcountry are the largest group of rock-cut Buddhas on the island. However, the largest free-standing Buddhas are further east. Maligawila close to Buttalam is still a pilgrimage site in the first place, not a tourist hub. This will allow you to observe the ceremonies of Buddhist devotees and take pictures of locals instead of fellow tourists. For lovers of Buddhist art, Maligawila is certainly a must.
When travelling from Buduruwegala to Maligawila, there are two archaeological sites in the Buttala area that are almost on the way. They are rarely visited, though one of them, the giant stupa of Yudaganawa, is very imposing. Actually, this is the largest stupa in the southern half of the island. The current shape, not a dome, is the result of restaurations carried out in the heydays of the Polonnaruwa period. A smaller and older stupa and some typical temple ruins can be seen at the Dematamal Vihara at the opposite side of Buttala.
Rambavihara (Ramba Viharaya) is on the way to Udawalawe National Park. The temple ruins are not a overwhelming sight. But for those who can not travel to Polonnaruwa, the Ramba Vihara might give an impression of the island’s Buddhist monastic culture. Actually, it was an important monastery during the Polonnaruwa period.
Wawul Pane is one of the very few dripstone caves in Sri Lanka, and ist definitely the largest one. It can only be visited with gumboots and torches. Visitors are very rare in Wawul Panne, which is located in the eastern foothills of the Sinharaja range.
A typical cave temple, rather gaudy, is Sankapala on the way to Ratnapura. It’s not a major attraction for lovers of art. But it’s an interesting religious site, as there are Hindu temples, so-called Devales, attached to the former Buddhist hermitage.
Kirindi Ella is situated in only 2.5 km distance from near Pelmadulla, where the main roads A4 from Colombo via Ratnapura to the east coast and A 18 from the south coast meet. Though the waterfalls are easy to find, the observation platform is rarely visited by foreigners.

Off the beaten path in the hinterland of Sri lanka's southwest coast

There are a lot of tourist destination along the southwestern coastline between Colombo and Galle and its tropical hinterlands. Bentota is the number one destination for motorsports. The nearby Beruwela has the largest bed capacity of all beach resorts in Sri Lanka. Hikkaduwa is famous for it’s coral reefs. In between those two beach holiday hotspots, there are various attractions such as Madhu Ganga wetlands, Ambalangoda masks, Meetiyagoda moonstones, soice and herbal gardens, turtle hatcheries in Kosgoda and Induruwa and elsewhere, last not least the wonderful tropical lanscape gardens of the brothers Bawa, namely Brief Garden and Lunuganga Estate. For those interested in hiking, excursions to the reainforests of Sinharaja, Kanneliya or Bodhinagala are highly recommendable. Many beach holiday makers enjoy a day tour to Kitulgala for white water rafting. - The surroundings of Ratnapura in Sri Lanka's southwest are places that are still off the beaten path:
3***stars  most recommendable
2**stars worth considering
1*star just for enthusiasts
Kitulgala off the beaten path

Kitulgala is a tourism hotspot, included in many round tours and also a popular excursion from southwestern Beach resorts. But some places in the valley are rarely visited, two of them are listed separately on this page, namely Beli Lena and Mannakethi. Kitulgala is also a nature reserve perfect for birdwatching.
Ratnapura is the gem city. Some holiday makers like to go there for seeing gem mines or exhibitions or for shopping. We propose to combine such a visit in Ratnapura with seeingsome attractions that are in its immediate surroundings or on the way from the coast, for example the Saman Devale not far from the town centre.

Kuruwita, 13 km north of Ratnapura, has several nearby attractions, of which Bopath Falls is frequented by many weekend travellers. But most of them are Sri Lankans, as this is a waterfall close to Colombo. Only 1 km further north are the very rarely waterfalls known as Dodam Ella.
Divaguhawa is well-known among pious Buddhists as one of the places on the island that were visited by the Buddha. The first chapter of the Mahavansa chronicle mentioned he stayed one day at the foot of Siri Pada (Adam's Peak) after visiting the mountain during his third visit to Sri Lanka. The Kandyan tradition of 16 places visited by the Buddha has it that this was in a cave. Only recently, the Batathota Lena was identified as this cave. To archaeologists it is known as a site where remnants of the prehistoric Balangoda culture have been found. Divaguhawa is a very large cave room, including separate temples for Hindu deities. From the cave openong, you have an impressive view to Adam's Peak.
Batadombo Lena 4.5 km northeast of Kuruwita is an important achaeological site where bones of the prehistoric Balangoda man have been found. The rock shelter below a picturesque escarpment is now used as a resting place of locals who work in the surrounding rubber plantation. The 1.5 km uphill footpath from the car park to Batadomba Lena is scenic, with some sections crossing natural rain forest. This is a destination worth considering a detour when you are in the Kuruwita region anyway.
For those interested in a cultural-leaning day-excursion, we recommend to visit the giant stupa of Dedigama and the forest hermitage of Salgala, which are not farer away than Kitulgala.

A very rarely visited archaeological site is the island’s largest rock shelter, which is known as Pahiyangala. It’s named after the 5th century pilgrim Faxian from China. Today, a large reclining Buddha can be seen in one of the rock shelters.