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Travel Guide
1. When is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?
With two monsoons affecting different parts of the island at different times, Sri Lanka can be considered as a year-round holiday destination with a number of seasonal attractions.
- Beach stays: It is advised to stay on the east coast between the months of April through to October, where there are a number of interesting beach hotels and boutique properties. The west and south coast come into season from November through to April when the south-west monsoon is inactive. Marine excursions such as surfing, whale and dolphin watching, snorkeling, diving and deep sea fishing follow the same pattern.
- The terrestrial wildlife within the national parks can be seen year-round. Leopard and Sloth Bear sightings tend to be best in national parks such as Yala and Wilpattu during the dry season which spans between the months of May through to September. The ‘Gathering of Elephants’ at Minneriya and Kaudulla National Park can be observed only between the months of June – October. The Gathering is ranked amongst the world’s top wildlife spectacles where hundreds of elephants congregate in the late afternoons around the tank beds. Elephants however can still be seen year-round in other national parks such as Uda Walawe.
- Birding is year-round where 34 endemics and over 150 resident species maybe observed. The winter months are the best time of year for birding as over a 100 avian species migrate across to Sri Lanka between months of November to February, many arriving from far away Siberia, Europe and the northern parts of India.
- Whale and dolphin watching is best off Mirissa in the south and Kalpitiya in the north-west from November through to April while Trincomalee is best visited between March through to September.
- Excursions to Adam’s Peak are only run seasonally predominantly between December through to April.
- The Kandy Esala Perahara is the largest cultural spectacle in the country and takes place in central Kandy for 12 days from late July to mid August with the finale falling on the Esala full moon poya day.
2. How is the weather in Sri Lanka?
Located just north of the equator, Sri Lanka enjoys a tropical climate year-round, with average temperatures of 27°C/81°F to 32°C/90°F in the lowlands and coastal areas. The hill country in the interior is cooler with a temperature range of 12°C/54°F to 25°C/77°F.
The rainfall across the island is determined by two monsoons which affect different parts of the island. The north-east monsoon runs from around October to February and predominantly affects the north, north-west and east coasts and the highlands. The south-west which spans from late April through to September brings downpours to the west coast and the hill country. Inter-monsoonal rains may occasionally be experienced during the dry season which cannot be predicted.
3. How to get to and away from Sri Lanka?
The airport to use is Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) located in Katunayaike which is 45 min from Colombo the capital of Sri Lanka
4. What are the top experiences for Sri Lanka Tours?
Below are the main experiences in Sri Lanka
- Ancient historic sites
Sri Lanka boasts of over 3500 ancient history, and has some amazing historic cities, and monuments which rival any of the ancient world. Key sites- Anuradhapura Ancient City, Polonnaruwa Ancient City, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Dambulla Cave Temple, and Kandy are the most significant historic sites. There are so much more as well.
- People and Culture
Sri Lanka is primarily a Buddhist country but also home to different other ethnicities and religions. Many cultures have mixed over the years, and each location and region have their own unique cultures and traditions. From the cultural dances of the hill country of Kandy, to the ancient martial arts of Angampora, to the mask making traditions of Ambalangoda and many more.
- Wildlife
Sri Lanka is the best place outside Africa to view a vast diversity of wildlife. From leopards, Sloth bears, Asian Elephants, Blue Whales and so much more, this truly is the Ultimate Island Safari.
Some of the key national parks are:
Yala National Park, Udawalawe National Park, Wilpattu National Park, Minneriya National Park, Mirissa (whale watching), Sinharaja (Rainforest), Horton Plains (Montane forest in the highlands)
- Beaches and Oceans
Being an island, Sri Lanka is surrounded by oceans. From November to April the South West and Southern Oceans are in season, and from May to October the East Coast is in season. Both regions are spectacular during the season. During off season the oceans become roughs we move recommended beach stays to either South or East depending on time of travel
- Mountains and Highlands
Sri Lanka’s center are mountains, with misty peaks and beautiful landscapes filled with valleys, waterfalls and green tea estates. This is home to the famous Ceylon Tea the words best tea. Visit a tea factory and estate and learn all about what it takes to make the worlds best tea. Also enjoy some beautiful colonial buildings and estates which are now boutique hotels and lodges.
- Food and flavors
Sri Lanka is the land of spices, and some of the most unique flavors you can find anywhere in the world. From mouth watering curries to fresh fruits and vegetables, the island boasts of a rich culinary heritage. Each region will have its specialties, and also some very unique street food which the cities are known for. The choice is endless. Further the island is home to many spices from Cinnamon to Cardomon and cloves which are all grown and harvested in Sri Lanka.
- Ayurvedha and wellness
Sri Lanka is famous for its natural healing and medicine which is known as ‘Ayurveda’. This is an ancient system of medicine developed in South Asia. The name is derived from two conjoined Sanskrit words "Ayuh" (life) and "Veda" (science or knowledge). Since ancient times, man has constantly been engaged in the pursuit of achieving and maintaining an optimum state of health. Going back to 600bc, Ayurveda emerged in South Asia as the natural way of healing. In the modern day, it has evolved into a scientific system of holistic healing that has gained worldwide recognition. This traditional medicine is used by over 75% of the country’s population.
5. Where to discover the best beaches in Sri Lanka?
Because of being well-known for sea and sun, Sri Lanka has a lot of beautiful beaches attracting travelers from around the world. However, if you choose the best time to visit the beaches of the island, you will have more memorable experiences there. Therefore, we give you some advice about beaches that are suitable for each period of the year.
During November to April is the dry season in Sri Lanka, which is a great time to enjoy the South Coast.
- Bentota
- Mirissa
- Weligama
- Tangalle
- Ahangama
- Unawatuna
- Beruwala
- Waskaduwa
- Ahungalla
- Koggala
During May to October, The Southwest of the island is brought to rains by the Southwest monsoon. Therefore, you should pay a visit to the East Coast whose weather is better for travel.
- Trincomalee
- Pasikudah
- Arugam Bay (Surfing)
6. What are the most spectacular hiking/trekking trails in Sri Lanka?
The natural diversity and beauty of Sri Lanka will bring to you the most exciting hiking experiences. Your hiking or trekking trip will go through different types of terrains and landscapes with gorgeous natural sceneries. Therefore, we suggest you go to the following famous trekking trails in Sri Lanka.
- Ella has some great trekking routes such as Little Adams Peak, Ella Rock
- Adams Peak is Sri Lanka’s holiest mountain and a breathtaking view at sunrise
- Knuckles Mountain Range (Many trails and hikes)
- Riverston Area (many trails and hikes)
- Mahiyanganaya (Many trails and hikes)
- Gal Oya region (many peaks and trails)
- Horton Plains – Kirgalpotta Trek
7. What are paradises for cycling in Sri Lanka?
There are several routes depending on what the client wants- road cycling, mountain biking, village trails and sceneries etc
8. What wildlife can be spotted in Sri Lanka’s national parks?
The abundance and diversity of Sri Lanka’s nature is undoubtable, which is home to a large range of wildlife from terrestrial and underwater animals as well as birds.
Terrestrial animals
- Sri Lankan Leopard
- Sloth Bear
- Sri Lankan Elephant
- Spotted Deer
- Sambhur Deer
- Wild Boar
- Mugger Crocodile
- Saltwater Crocodile
Oceans
- Blue Whale
- Spinner Dolphin
- Sperm Whale
- Brydes Whale
- Orca
Birds (Sri Lanka has 34 species of birds endemic to the island which means they are found no where else in the world )
- Sri Lanka Jungle Fowl (National Bird)
- Sri Lanka Whistling Thrush
- Sri Lanka Blue Magpie
- Sri Lanka Bush Warbler
- Serendib Scops Owl
- Chestnut backed owlet
9. Why you should choose Sri Lanka for your honeymoon vacation?
Sri Lanka has a lot of attractions in one island, which is the paradisiacal destination for your honeymoon. The specific reasons are below:
- World Class Properties which are perfect for a honeymoon
- Fantastic beaches
- Amazing culture and history
- Stunning wildlife and nature
“This is not just a beach destination, Sri Lanka has so much to offer in one island”
10. What are Foods & Cuisines that you must try in Srilanka?
Food and cuisine is something that should not be missed when traveling to any country. And, food and cuisine in Sri LAnka also is not an exception.
- Rice and Curry (There are so many things to try, the list is endless)
- Sri Lankan Crab Curry
- Hoppers and Egg Hoppers
- Kottu Rotti
- String Hoppers
- Pittu
- Any type of seafood (fresh off the ocean)
11. Activities shouldn't be missed when traveling to Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka is an island that you can travel around the year. There are a lot of different places and activities that are suitable for each season. The following activities are some suggestions for you.
In Winter (November to April)
- Beaches in the South of Sri Lanka
- Galle Dutch Fort- This is year round
- Whale watching in Mirissa
- Cultural Triangle ( Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura) – this is year round
- Kandy – Year Round
- Hill country and tea estates- Year Round
- Yala or Wilpattu National Parks. Kumana National Park for those who seek off the beaten track
- Horton Plains
In Summer (May to October)
- Beaches in the East Coast
- Great elephant gathering in Minneriya and Kaudulla
- Cultural Triangle ( Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura) – this is year round
- Kandy – Year Round
- Hill country and tea estates- Year Round
- Yala or Wilpattu National Parks. Kumana National Park for those who seek off the beaten track
- Horton Plains
12. What to pack for Sri Lanka Tours?
- If traveling in the lowlands, which can be quite hot and humid year-round it is recommended to wear light and comfortable cotton clothing. A sunglasses and a hat or cap is highly recommended especially during sightseeing and on drives during the daytime when it can get very bright and hot. Also remember to bring along a light raincoat as downpours do occur and especially during the monsoonal months, the rainfall can be quite high.
- If hiking within the lowland rainforests of the highlands, remember to bring along some leech socks (Classic Sri Lanka will be providing these during outings to areas such as the Sinharaja Forest Reserve or Kithulgala). If visiting the hill country where conditions can be much cooler especially at night, remember to bring some light jumpers, wind sheeters and sweaters to stay warm.
13. Do’s and Don't in Sri Lanka
- A typical Sri Lankan greeting you will receive would be when a person says ‘Ayubowan’ meaning ‘may you have a long life’ with their palms pressed together. It is expected that you respond in the same way.
- Displays of affection such as kissing are frowned upon and not permitted in public areas and it is advised that couples are discreet.
- It is recommended to dress conservatively especially for women when traveling as it will reduce any unwarranted attention. Please note that nudity or topless sunbathing is not permitted on Sri Lankan beaches.
- It is important to dress conservatively and behave sensibly when visiting religious sites. When visiting Buddhist and Hindu temples, shoulders and legs should be covered, and footwear and any head wear including caps, hats or shawls should be removed. At Hindu Temples, particularly in the north, men may be requested to remove their shirts before entering. Photography of the monuments and statues of deities are usually permitted, however it is not allowed for people to pose within the photograph which can be interpreted as an insult. Shoe keepers will need to be given around Rs. 100/- to look after footwear when entering most religious sites. You may be asked to make a donation; if you chose to, place it into the donation box.
- Going to beaches in the South in Winter and beaches in the East Coast in Summer
- Visiting Kandy, Horton Plains, Galle Dutch Fort
- Watching in Whale Mirissa, and elephant in Minneriya and Kaudulla
- Exploring Cultural Triangle ( Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura)
- Coming to hill country and tea estates
- Discovering Yala or Wilpattu National Parks & Kumana National Park
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