Sri Lanka Ranked 5th Best Place to Visit in Asia for 2026

December 29, 2025

Sri Lanka has been ranked fifth among the best places to visit in Asia by U.S. News & World Report, placing the island nation alongside some of the continent’s most iconic destinations, including Mount Fuji, Tokyo, Palawan, and Seoul.

U.S. News & World Report, an American media company known for its global rankings, consumer advice, and in-depth analysis, ranked Mount Fuji in Japan as the top destination, followed by Tokyo, Palawan in the Philippines, and Seoul in South Korea.

Describing Asia, the publication noted that the continent is “the planet’s largest continent, a world unto itself, with destinations that grant travelers uniquely enriching experiences that can’t be found close to home.”

The Best Places to Visit in Asia for 2026 rankings were compiled after evaluating local prices, accessibility, cuisine, the variety of attractions, and reader feedback.

In highlighting Sri Lanka, the publication praised the country’s rainforests, beaches, and ancient ruins, noting that the island offers world-class travel experiences without the heavy tourist crowds seen in many popular Asian destinations.

U.S. News & World Report described Sri Lanka as:

“The island nation of Sri Lanka, located off the southern tip of India, boasts rainforests, beaches, and ruins, without the tourist crowds of Asia’s most popular destinations. Despite its small footprint, Sri Lanka features 26 national parks, many of which are ideal for a safari excursion to encounter elephants, leopards, and sloth bears. Meanwhile, ancient sites like Sigiriya, a 600-foot-high fortress, and the temples of Polonnaruwa hold their own appeal, and the palm-fringed golden beaches that line the shores are never too far away for those seeking a more laid-back vacation.”