The island nation of Sri Lanka is nothing short of glorious - abundant with picturesque landscapes, magnificent mountains, lush green tea gardens, and romantic beaches. It is an island paradise with no shortage of awe-inspiring sights, natural, cultural and historical beauty. And there are some places which are worth visiting at least once in a lifetime. Here are the tourist places you must visit in Sri Lanka.

It's a place heavily engraved with ruins, making it hard not to wonder about the ancient city life at the ruins of Polonnaruwa. It is well preserved and full of archaeological treasures including hundreds of historical structures like temples and tombs, stupas and statues.

Get entranced by the splendid panorama through Ella Gap, magnifying a spectacular gap in the southern mountain wall. Build in the middle of the gorgeous countryside, with petit vegetable plots, tea plantations on the hill slopes and forests on the top, this hill station is nothing less than spectacular. Ella is most definitely one of the most alluring places to visit in Sri Lanka.

This alluring hill station with a prominent colonial ambiance of a golf course, mock Tudor buildings, and a gentlemen's club, still has a spiritual vibe. It also features Sri Lanka's most scenic rail ride. Ride the train from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya to enjoy the magnificent views of the surrounding mountains, waterfalls, and tea plantations. 

The breathtaking murals and statues in this beautifully preserved cave with over 150 statues of Buddha will leave you stunned. Experience the calm and peace in this gritty cave temple epitomized by the extraordinary cultural artifacts of ancient Sri Lanka.

Spend a night here to witness the magical sunrise that would be hard to forget. Adam's Peak is a biodiversity hotspot and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is incomparable to any other sunrise watching spot. 

Mirissa is the most appealing beach hideaway in Sri Lanka, where time just flies by while you spend your days, sun-kissed on a hammock or whale watching. This beach paradise is a perfect escape from reality. It is a must to add it to the holiday list.

Sri Lanka has the highest density of highly protected wild leopards. These alpha predators can easily be sighted in Yala, which lies on the southern coast of the island. These big cats make your day; and after a spell-bounding  safari you can rest on the beach to end the day. 

It's the most dramatic view in Sri Lanka, to get lost amidst the ancient ruins, stunning frescoes, and water gardens. The most attractive view is from the top, with jungle and hills spread in every direction. It's something you cannot miss for the world.