On any given day this sprawling market houses literally tons of government-regulated gold, gems, and precious metals.

An ancient stone fortress considered by many to be the eighth wonder of the world.

This ancient cave temple complex is the largest and best-preserved temple complex in Sri Lanka.

David Robert Jones was a Berliner — from 1976–1978

These crypt figures are said to be the giant and his family, turned to stone mid-rampage

A one-of-a-kind barrier keeps venomous snakes away from tourists

Originating in the 16th century this fort is far more than a military structure.

This elaborate temple was built around one of the Buddha's teeth.

This 14th-century Sri Lankan temple is a mixture of Sinhalese and Dravidian architecture.

A coin-operated model railway tucked inside a busy train station

A Sri Lankan tea factory's ironic take on the Los Angeles landmark.

Known as the most scenic route in Sri Lanka, this train line is steeped in history and offers an unparalleled view of the country.

Seven beautiful 1,000-year-old rock-cut Buddhist statues.

Only the foundation remains of the rest stop building that was hit by three large tsunami waves, killing 47 visitors.

Does this 10-foot-tall statue carved into a rock face depict a king afflicted by a skin condition or a Buddhist figure?

Actually this "ancient" way of fishing may have started as recently as WW2

To gaze upon the visage of Sri Lanka's biggest Buddha, one must first pass through the Tunnel of Hell.

This fort dates back to 1588 and was colonized by the Portuguese, Dutch, and English and sits prominently on the Indian Ocean where azure water lap the coast.

This peaceful, round shrine in the middle of the Sri Lankan jungle acts as a beacon of peace.

This peaceful sanctuary is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Colombo.

The first and only planetarium in Sri Lanka.

This space rocket-like Buddhist stupa sits atop two giant arches and can be seen from out at sea.

Pettah's beautiful floating market was once a stinky canal in a sketchy industrial area.

Why is there a vintage Rolls Royce in this Buddhist temple?