The history of Sri Lanka is filled with ancient, medieval, and colonial historical events. These events included popular kings of Sri Lanka, large war elephants who were used in battles during ancient times, as well as giants who served the royal palace. The colonial era of Sri Lanka has three key periods. These are the Portuguese, Dutch, and the British colonial times.

Because of this long and different time periods in the historical past of the island nation, different tourist attractions have been created. Some of these are found nearby the surfing spots in the beach but some are found inside forests and mountains. Many historians, researchers, and travellers visit these ancient and colonial places as these provide a different experience.

These landmarks and tourist destinations found in Sri Lanka include the following:

• Unique royal developments (e.g. Sigiriya, the rock fortress)
• Colonial architectural projects (e.g. the Galle Fort, Dutch Hospital)
• Religious and cultural buildings (e.g. stupas and temples, including the Golden Cave Temple)
• Ancient civilisations (e.g. large water tanks and ruins of villages)
• Colonial industries (e.g. Ceylon tea, old hill country railway lines).