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When is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?

Oct 29, 2023 • 6 min read

From finding the sweet spot between the monsoons, to experiencing the liveliest cultural festivals, here are the best times to visit Sri Lanka © Cavan Images / Getty Images

If anywhere deserves the title of a true year-round destination, it’s Sri Lanka .

Like neighboring Maldives , its proximity to the equator ensures pleasantly warm, stable temperatures whatever the season. Sri Lanka's annual dual monsoons mean that while one side of the country is taking a soaking, the other is primed for afternoons on the beach. 

On top of this is a calendar chock-full of festivals and holidays, offering a unique cultural highlight for visitors almost every month.

So whether you’re looking for the best time to hit the beach , spot wild elephants in a national park , hike to the summit of Adam’s Peak, or simply avoid the tourist crowds, here’s our guide to the best time to visit Sri Lanka.

December to March is the best time to hit the beach

Sri Lanka’s high season coincides with the coming of the best weather in the south and west of the country, meaning popular resorts like Hikkaduwa and Mirissa are at their most idyllic, but also busiest. However, the Maha monsoon season (October to January) keeps the East , the North, and the  Ancient Cities  wet. 

Sri Lanka is a year-round wildlife-watching destination but generally, the best times to spot elephants, leopards and buffalo align with the main November-to-April tourist season. All the big parks are open and the dry conditions mean that animals start to gather around water holes, making them easier to spot (especially between February and early April).

By December, high season is in full swing, with bathers on beaches along the south and west coast jostling for towel space. The Adam’s Peak pilgrimage season, when pilgrims of all faiths (and the odd tourist) climb the sacred summit near Ella , starts in December and lasts until mid-April.

The end of the month also sees the arrival of Christmas, which is celebrated enthusiastically by Sri Lanka’s Christian community. Followers of other faiths also join in secular events over the holidays – expect over-the-top decorations aplenty.

January sees the peak of the tourist season in Sri Lanka. Crowds may be at their largest, but fine weather in the south and west makes it an appealing time to visit the country. Additionally, many popular towns host major events during the first month of the year.

This includes Duruthu Perahera in  Colombo , a lavish festival of lights, dances, and parades to celebrate the first of Buddha’s visits to Sri Lanka. Elsewhere, Galle 's somewhat more sedate annual literary festival takes over the city's Unesco-protected fort.

Visitor numbers are still high in February, with wintering Europeans baking themselves on the beaches in the dry winter weather. This is a busy month for Sri Lankans, with Independence Day early in the month, commemorated with festivals, parades, fireworks, and sporting events across the nation.

Visitor numbers decline but the festival of Maha Sivarathri in early March (or late February) brings a flurry of activity, with Hindus commemorating the marriage of Shiva to Parvati with all-night vigils and more. It’s the most important day for Shaivites, who comprise the majority of Sri Lanka’s Hindus.

September to October and April are the best times for exploring the whole country

Squeezed between the two main monsoons, Sri Lanka’s two shoulder seasons offer the best weather right across the country, with fewer crowds and lower prices. April, however, does coincide with Sinhala and Tamil New Year, which can cause transport troubles as people move around the country.

This is a good time for trekking in the Hill Country or climbing Sigiriya , with the weather mostly dry but not as hot as in the height of summer.

September, and sometimes August, also sees 200 or more elephants group together for several weeks in one spot in Minneriya National Park . The event, known as "The Gathering" where baby elephants can be spotted too, is considered one of Asia’s great wildlife spectacles.

October can be a bit unpredictable, with the Yala monsoon fading and conditions building towards the Maha monsoon. In many areas, thunderstorms arrive in the afternoons, and rain is common, but there's still good surfing on the east coast. Make sure you add a raincoat to your list of things to pack if you're visiting in October.

Warm and dry across the majority of the country, and outside the prime tourist period, April is a great month to be in Sri Lanka. Although Christians comprise only six percent of Sri Lanka’s population, Christian festivals – including Easter, which usually falls in April – are still celebrated with gusto (don’t be surprised if you see the Easter bunny adorning a few shop windows).

A more significant event in April is Aurudu (New Year), with New Year’s Eve (April 13) and New Year’s Day (April 14) nonreligious holidays. Over the days before and after, buses and trains are jammed as people flee from big cities to home villages. 

Ramadan also tends to fall in April or May, with some Muslim-owned businesses closing during daylight hours.

May to August is the b est time to avoid the crowds

Low season in Sri Lanka starts with the coming of the Yala monsoon in May, which pounds the west and south, as well as the Hill Country, through August.

This is the best time for trips to Jaffna in the North or the chilled-out resorts along the east coast, like Arugam Bay , known for their laid-back surf scene. Accommodation prices during this period are generally lower and crowds are thinner.

Despite the Yala monsoon, many must-see festivals take place during this period. Among the best of them is Vesak Poya, a two-day festival in May where colored lights adorn every Buddhist home, shop, and temple. There's also the vibrant Esala Perahera in  Kandy , where thousands of dancers and drummers form a giant procession through the town.

The ongoing monsoon means tourist crowds are scarce through most of the country in June, with the exception of the east coast beaches that avoid the rain. Meanwhile, another major Buddhist event, the Poson Poya, gets underway.

The celebration of the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka sees festivities take place in the temples of Anuradhapura , while, nearby, thousands of white-clad pilgrims ascend the calf-busting 1843 steps to Mihintale’s Dagoba.

For fans of cultural festivals, who aren’t easily disheartened by the odd downpour, July marks a good time to be in Sri Lanka. The key focal point for the country’s Buddhists this month is Esala Perahera, which begins at the end of July and lasts for 10 days.

The Kandy Esala Perahera is legendary, but smaller parades are held across Sri Lanka. Many celebrations feature dancers, drummers, and stilt-walkers who practice all year for the occasion.

Another large-scale procession takes place in Colombo as part of the Hindu celebrations of Aadi Vel, which sees the gilded chariot of Murugan (Skanda), the Hindu god of war, ceremonially hauled through the city’s streets.

August marks the last month of low season, with the rains of the Yala monsoon slowly beginning to ease. To maximize the chance of avoiding the rain, visitors should head north to Jaffna, which plays host to the enormous and spectacular Nallur Festival each August.

The event climaxes on day 24 with parades of juggernaut floats and gruesome displays of self-mutilation by entranced devotees.

Poya (full moon) days

It is worth noting that every poya (full moon) day is a holiday in Sri Lanka, and buses, trains, and accommodation fill up, especially if the full moon falls on a Friday or Monday. No alcohol is supposed to be sold on poya days and many bars close (though some hotels discreetly provide cold beer "under the table").

This article was first published March 2021 and updated October 2023

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Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka: Month by Month Breakdown

In recent years, Sri Lanka has emerged as one of the best tourist destinations in Asia, because this small island nation off the southern edge of India has an incredible wealth of diversity.

You can explore biodiverse forests and wetlands, go on safari in search of elephants or leopards, or whale watching along the extensive coastline.

There are glorious beaches, colonial ruins and ancient cities waiting to be explored.

But it’s important to know the best time to visit Sri Lanka because while the country’s southern location near the equator ensures that it enjoys warm temperatures all year round, you need to be wary of the monsoons. 

Different parts of the country are hit at different times of the war by prevailing monsoons that bring with them wind and rain.

The north and eastern coast is hit between November and March, while the south and west coast are hit between April and September.

Luckily though, that means that there’s always a great place to visit any time of the year in Sri Lanka. To help you plan your trip, here’s our month by month breakdown on the best time to visit Sri Lanka. 

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Sri Lanka (Travel Guide)

Table of Contents

January in Sri Lanka 

January is a great time to be in the southwest of Sri Lanka because this part of the country is dry and the weather is wonderfully pleasant – it’s not humid and it’s not too hot. 

The days are remarkably sunny and there are few clouds in the sky, but of course, with optimal temperatures, comes peak tourist season. 

Those temperatures range between 20 and 30 degrees depending on your location, which draws in many winter sun-seekers from across the northern hemisphere too. 

January might be the best time to visit Sri Lanka, but everyone else will have the same idea too, especially in the southwest which is the tourist hot spot. 

Yaks National Park is one d the most popular destinations in January, and it’s worth the higher costs and busier tracks because you’ll be able to see a wealth of wildlife in the wilderness. 

The animals are easy to spot in the dry season, and you’ll be able to find elephants, leopards and perhaps even a sloth. 

February in Sri Lanka

February is also the best time to visit Sri Lanka to explore the south and west coasts too, but these sides of the island are rain-free. 

The north and east coasts, on the other hand, are right now being lashed with heavy rain and storms from the prevailing monsoon. 

February is busy in the south though, but the weather is beautiful. Head to Marissa, along the coast, where you can enjoy fantastic white sand beaches and sit under swaying palm trees in a tropical idyll. 

Mirissa is a great destination for whale watching and dolphin spotting and February is the perfect time to be there.

This is the middle of the whale watching season here, which runs from November through to April, and concludes with the dry season.

March in Sri Lanka

March is the last month of the dry season in the southwest before the monsoon winds arrive bringing with them rainstorms for the next half of the year. 

This is your last opportunity to enjoy the southwest at its best because the weather is hot but the humidity has yet to arrive. 

Again, head to Mirissa for the whale and dolphin tours, or explore Yala National Park to see the flora and fauna.

While Yala might be dry, and the scenery isn’t that great to look at, the wildlife is easy to spot because of the lack of greenery.

As watering holes empty, the animals will congregate around particular areas where they can find water and hence they’ll be easier to find when on safari.

April in Sri Lanka

April is still a good time to visit the southwest beaches, even as the monsoon begins to arrive along the coast. 

It’s still sunny and temperatures are climbing ever higher, so you can spend your days lazing on the beaches. 

It’s a good time for wildlife spotting too, so head to the national parks for some safari adventures. 

Temperatures can be high in April though, so you might want to consider heading inland and into the more mountainous regions.

This is the best time to visit Sri Lanka to see iconic highland destinations such as Ella or Kandy and to rise the famous picturesque terrain into the Central Highlands.

At higher elevations, you’ll escape the worst of the April heat, and did some great hiking spots and tea plantations to visit.

May in Sri Lanka

May is when the southwest monsoon really begins to hit home and this is a month when the low season begins in Sri Lanka. 

But while the tourist destinations in the south and west might be rainy and wet, it’s a different story in the north.

In fact, this is the best time to visit Sri Lanka to explore the northeast coast, where you’ll find a dry climate and hot and sunny days as the monsoon ended weeks ago here.

Visit Trincomalee to enjoy the beaches of the east coast and to see the whales as they migrate here.

If you want to escape the heat, then head into the highlands, although be prepared for a few rain showers here too.

June in Sri Lanka

June is still low season across Sri Lanka because the monsoon is ravaging the south and west and temperatures across the country are at their highest. 

If you visit in June, you’ll get some bargains on flights and accommodation, but you’ll want to stay as far north as you can to escape the rains and the heat. 

July in Sri Lanka

The low season trend continues through July, as the rain cause havoc along the southwest coastlines. 

Again, head north and get off the beaten track as you’ll find a wealth of intriguing destinations to discover in the dry and sunny parts of the country.

Explore ancient cities or go whale watching along the coast and see a part of Sri Lanka that few tourists ever make the effort to visit, at a time when there are few tourists anywhere in the country.

August in Sri Lanka

August is still low season across Sri Lanka however the extremely high summer temperatures are starting to lower and actually, the monsoon in the southwest begins to calm down. 

While there will be rain, it’s not quite so fierce, and the northeast still remains totally dry. 

This is a great month for safari, because in Minneriya National Park the animals are all gathered at the watering holes, and it’s a famed time to see the herds of elephants as they move across the plains. 

In Yala National Park in the youth, the lighter rains make the park more accessible while the flora is at its most extant and green, after the heavy monsoons.

It’s a lovely time to explore this part of Sri Lanka, as most tourists will only ever experience safaris in the dry season.

September in Sri Lanka

The east coast is on top form in September, because while the southwest still experiences rainfall and the north is beginning to be hit by the monsoon too, places like Trincomalee and Arugam Bay at their best. 

The sun is out in force here and you can explore the long coastline and enjoy the spectacular beaches.

You’ll even catch the whales in action too, so take a tour out in search of these beautiful marine mammals. 

The east coast is still developing in terms of tourism, but now is the best time to visit Sri Lanka to see this part of the country while it’s still rustic and authentic. 

October in Sri Lanka

The southwest monsoon will be ending now, so it’s a good time to visit the more touristy parts of Sri Lanka before the high season crowds arrive. 

The weather is still hot and muggy but it’s mostly dry, and you’ll see Yala National Park as it’s resplendent with green scenery. 

The east coast is also beautiful in October and it’s the last chance to experience the beaches before the northeast monsoon hits. 

November in Sri Lanka

November is the tentative start to the high season in Sri Lanka because temperatures are lower and the climate is cooler. 

The southwest is now dry and sunny and attracting tourists, but it’s still a good time to explore before the December rush begins during the Christmas holidays. 

December in Sri Lanka

December is peak season in Sri Lanka, because Christmas and New Year holidays bring in travelers and vacation-goers from across the world, especially those looking for winter sun.

This is the best time to visit Sri Lanka to explore the southwest coast, as temperatures are hovering between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius.

It’s incredibly dry and sunny and the perfect time to be relaxing on the beaches. 

Along the southwest coast, you’ll find whales and dolphins and it’s a great time to take a boat tour.

Equally, you can just take the chance to relax and unwind in the glorious weather as you spend Christmas Day in the sunshine.

More on Sri Lanka:

• Ultimate Sri Lanka Itinerary: 2 Weeks to 4 Weeks
• The Most Spectacular Places to Visit in Sri Lanka
• Ultimate Guide to Sigiriya Lion Rock in Sri Lanka
• Polonnaruwa in Sri Lanka: Best Sights & Travel Tips
• Best Sri Lanka Safari: 8 Park Comparison guide
• 10 Epic Things to do in Ella, Sri Lanka
• 9 Epic Reasons to Visit Mirissa, Sri Lanka
• Safari Guide to Kaudulla National Park
• Yala National Park Safari: Only Guide You Need
• Kumana National Park-The Only Safari Guide You Need
• 10 Sri Lanka Beaches You’d Be Foolish to Miss
• 11 Epic Reasons to Visit Arugam Bay (Spoiler: Epic Breaches!)
• Boogie Boarding in Sri Lanka

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Travel planning resources, about david stock.

I have always been an outdoorsman so becoming an adventure traveler was just the next natural step. I love nature, I love to get off the beaten path and I like to explore. I enjoy scuba diving and cars. And yes, Lina and I have a naked dog.

2 thoughts on “Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka: Month by Month Breakdown”

This is a very helpful guide. I would love to visit Sri Lanka (once all this craziness is over) and had no idea when to go. It seems there’s really pros/cons to every month, but I think August would be a perfect time for me to visit because I’d looove to see animals at the watering hole! Thanks for the guide!

Glad to hear you found our information helpful for planning your trip to Sri Lanka! You’re exactly right, the best time really depends on what your travel goals are. August is a great time for viewing wildlife! Hoping you can go this year(fingers crossed). Cheers.

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When is the best time to visit Sri Lanka? 

By Sophie Prideaux

While it’s a popular holiday destination year-round, deciding on the best time to visit Sri Lanka can depend on several factors, from the areas you plan to visit to the activities you want to enjoy. The country’s position in the Indian Ocean means it experiences several different weather systems, so travellers seeking sunny climes should be able to find what they are looking for at most times of the year.

Sri Lanka’s weather

Sri Lanka ’s climate is tropical, which means it experiences distinct wet and dry seasons. However, temperatures stay hot and humid throughout the year and, even during the rainy season, there is often still a good amount of sunshine each day, especially in the country’s coastal areas.

Nine Arch Bridge in Demodara, Sri Lanka

When is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?

Like all tropical countries, Sri Lanka’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s always wise to expect the unexpected and prepare for all eventualities. However, generally speaking, the best weather in Sri Lanka is experienced in the period between December and mid- April . These months are considered peak season, and as such, visitor numbers spike, which means prices can go up as well.

The country’s most unpredictable weather is experienced during its two monsoon seasons – the south-west (yala) monsoon, which hits the south and west coasts between May and August , and the north-east (maha) which affects the east coat and cultural triangle between November and January. An inter-monsoon period also occurs in October , which brings heavy rainfall to the whole island.

However, to really understand the best time to plan your visit, you need to take into account how the different areas of the country experience each season.

Northeast coast

In the northeast coastal areas of Jaffna and Mullativu , conditions are influenced by the northeast monsoon, which brings heavy rains between October and December. The driest conditions are enjoyed between May and September , although the summer months are more likely to bring cloudy, overcast conditions. For the best of the weather here, March to May offers average temperatures sitting around the mid-twenties and low levels of rainfall, averaging 37 millimetres per day.

Best month: April

The east coastal regions of Passekudah, Trincomalee, Arugam Bay, Batticaloa, Nilaveli and Kuchchaveli experience the full force of the north-eastern monsoon, so the months between October and December are best avoided. However, while the rest of the country experiences rains from the southwest monsoon between May and September, these are the months when the east coast comes into its own. During these months, there is plenty of sunshine and humidity levels drop to around 60 per cent – which is comparable with western Europe . These months bring very little rain and average temperatures sit in the mid-30s, making it a good summer holiday destination.

Best month: August

Northwest coast

Areas of the northwest coast such as Kalipiya, Puttalam and Mannar escape the brunt of the southwest monsoon, but still feel its effects during the summer months, when high winds occur. Much of the rain here is brought about by the northeast monsoon between October and December, although it does enjoy some partial protection from neighbouring India . The best of the weather here is enjoyed between January and March when temperatures rise to an average of 31°C and the average rainfall is around 37mm per day.

Best month: February

The Cultural Triangle

Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites including Dambulla, Anuradhapura and Sigiriya, is dry for much of the year, only experiencing rainfall between October and December. For the rest of the year, conditions here are generally hot and dry, with plenty of sunshine and less humidity than other parts of the county. May and April are particularly hot, with average temperatures sitting around 32°C. February and March are slightly cooler, averaging around 29°C – slightly more favourable for exploring these cultural sites.

Best month: March

Sri Lanka's Tea Country

Tea Country

Sri Lanka’s Tea Country sits at an altitude of around 2,000 metres above sea level, so naturally experiences much cooler temperatures than other parts of the country, which is great for those hoping to hike Adam’s Peak . The hiking season begins in December and runs until May, when this region experiences the driest conditions. In nearby Kandy , which sits at a lower altitude, temperatures are hotter, averaging in the low thirties during these months.

CNT Editors

Olivia Morelli , CN Traveller

Best month: January

Southwest coast

As expected, the weather on Sri Lanka’s southwest coast, home to the capital Colombo , is dictated by the south-western monsoon, which brings heavy rains between May and September. The dry season here runs from December to March, when temperatures stay in the low thirties, and there is often plenty of sunshine to be found. However, this is also one of Sri Lanka’s busiest spots, so during peak season, expect it to be crowded, especially in January, when the Duruthu Perahera Festival takes place.

Galle, Sri Lanka

South coast

Many of Sri Lanka’s best beaches are found on the south coast, in Galle, Mirissa, Unawatuna and Mawella , so many travellers want to factor a visit south into their itineraries. This region often experiences heavy rain during October, with the best of the beach weather often occurring between late November and April. During the early months of the year, temperatures sit in the mid- to high-twenties, and rainfall is at its lowest.

Weather in Sri Lanka in April

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Sri Lanka is known for its palm-fringed beaches, ancient ruins, lush greenery, and some of the most vibrant cultures you'll ever encounter. April is the shoulder season and brings a unique blend of tropical warmth, occasional showers, and vibrant festivities. But before you pack your bags, let's talk about the weather in Sri Lanka in April — because nobody wants to be caught in a downpour when they're exploring a new destination.

What is the weather like in Sri Lanka in April?

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The weather in Sri Lanka in April kicks off the transition from the inter-monsoon period to the southwest monsoon season. Expect warm temperatures — but keep an eye out for rising humidity and sporadic rain showers, especially in the central and southern regions. While coastal areas might still catch some rays, don't be surprised by scattered showers and the occasional thunderstorm, especially towards the end of the month.

April falls right into the shoulder season for tourism in Sri Lanka. It's not as bustling as peak months like December to February, but you'll still spot a fair share of fellow travelers, especially in the first half of the month. As we inch closer to monsoon season, tourist numbers tend to ease up a bit.

On average, Sri Lanka receives around 150-200mm of rainfall in April. You can expect a mixed bag of short bursts of heavy rain followed by sunnier spells. This can throw a curveball into your outdoor plans like beach bumming , hiking, or wildlife safaris, and you’ll want to keep an eye out for potential transportation delays on those wet roads.

Overall, April can still be a good time to visit Sri Lanka, especially if you don't mind occasional rainfall and prefer fewer crowds. The landscape pops with lush greenery and blossoming flora, offering ample opportunities to soak in the country's stunning natural wonders. That said, if you're dead set on dry weather, you might want to pencil in your visit earlier in the year.

Rough Guides tip: crafting a Sri Lanka itinerary can be time-consuming. Entrust the planning and booking to our knowledgeable local experts .

Sri Lanka, Kandy © Shutterstock

In general, the weather in Sri Lanka in April brings warm to hot temperatures across the country, creating perfect conditions for exploration and adventure. However, there are some regional differences to keep in mind. The northern parts of Sri Lanka tend to be slightly warmer and drier, while the southwest and southeast regions experience slightly cooler temperatures with higher rainfall.

North Sri Lanka

In April, North Sri Lanka experiences average high temperatures ranging from 32°C to 34°C (90°F to 93°F), while lows typically hover between 26°C and 28°C (79°F to 82°F). This region sees minimal rainfall during April, with precipitation averaging around 50-100mm throughout the month.

Southwest Sri Lanka

April brings slightly cooler temperatures to Southwest Sri Lanka (cities like Colombo and Galle ) compared to the north, with average highs ranging from 30°C to 32°C (86°F to 90°F), and lows averaging between 24°C and 26°C (75°F to 79°F). Rainfall is more prominent here, with precipitation ranging from 150-250mm during the month.

Southeast Sri Lanka

The southeastern part of Sri Lanka like Batticaloa and Trincomalee experiences temperatures similar to the southwest. Average highs in April range from 30°C to 32°C (86°F to 90°F), with lows of 24°C to 26°C (75°F to 79°F). Rainfall in this region is moderate, with an average of 100-200mm throughout April.

Learn more and compare the weather in different months with our guide to the weather in Sri Lanka .

Sri Lanka Bus © Shutterstock

Yes, April is a fantastic time to visit Sri Lanka. This month offers a winning combination of favorable weather and vibrant cultural festivities. As the inter-monsoon period bows out and the southwest monsoon season steps in, you can expect warm temperatures and the occasional shower, mostly in the afternoons or evenings.

During April, Sri Lanka transitions from the cooler months to warmer days. While you’ll likely run into some rain, it typically doesn't disrupt travel plans significantly. Instead, it adds to the lush greenery and picturesque landscapes.

Additionally, April is jam-packed with cultural celebrations and festivals across Sri Lanka, offering a unique insight into the rich heritage and traditions of the country. From the colorful Sinhala and Tamil New Year celebrations to various religious festivals, April is a great time to experience Sri Lanka’s rich heritage and traditions. 

Ready to take your trip without the hassle of planning and booking? See our tailor-made trip service .

In April, Sri Lanka marks the transition from the shoulder season into the low tourist season — especially at the end of the month. Tourist crowds thin out, giving you more space to enjoy the country's popular spots without feeling like you're in a crowd. 

Plus, accommodation and activity prices usually take a dip compared to the high-season months, making April a savvy choice for budget-conscious travelers.

But don't pack away that sunscreen just yet! The weather in Sri Lanka in April is warm, but as the month progresses, so does the chance of rain.  Traveling during this month means keeping an eye out for those occasional showers, especially in the evenings, to dodge getting caught in a surprise downpour.

If you're all about beating the crowds while still enjoying good weather, you might want to consider slipping into Sri Lanka during March or May, the shoulder months.

Still planning your trip? Browse our Sri Lanka itineraries for inspiration. 

The weather in April in Sri Lanka is great for seeing nature © Shutterstock

When planning your trip to Sri Lanka, make sure to check if your visit coincides with one of the country's fabulous festivals and events. Remember, booking your accommodation early is key to securing the best options. And for more inspiration for your Sri Lankan adventure, be sure to explore our selection of the top things to do in the country . 

Sinhala and Tamil New Year

Get ready to kick off April with a bang as Sri Lanka celebrates the Sinhala and Tamil New Year. This festive occasion marks the beginning of the traditional New Year for both communities, and the whole island comes alive with rituals, cultural performances, and mouthwatering feasts. 

From lighting the hearth to indulging in delicious treats like kiribath (milk rice) and sweets, there's no shortage of joyous activities to partake in. Due to its significance and widespread celebrations, booking accommodations in advance is highly recommended to fully immerse in the festivities.

Nuwara Eliya Season

Escape the heat and head to Nuwara Eliya, also known as "Little England," where April brings cooler temperatures and stunning scenery. This picturesque hill station is a haven for travelers seeking tranquility amidst lush green landscapes, blooming flowers, and mist-covered mountains. Whether you're into hiking, tea plantation tours, or simply picnicking in nature, Nuwara Eliya has got you covered. 

Nuwara Eliya Flower Festival

If you're a fan of flowers, then the Nuwara Eliya Flower Festival is a must-visit in April. This vibrant event showcases the region's floral diversity and horticultural expertise, with intricately designed displays, competitions, and plenty of plants and flowers for sale. 

The festival offers a sensory delight — with fragrant blooms and vibrant colors against the backdrop of Nuwara Eliya's hills. 

Sri Lankan kiribath © Shutterstock

Planning a trip to Sri Lanka? Why spend hours of research and planning when you can instead book your trip today with our tailor-made trip service? Our trips are designed by local travel experts and are completely customizable. 

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• Sri Lanka flora and fauna (13 days): For those fascinated by Sri Lanka's biodiversity and World Heritage sites, this 12-day round trip offers an immersive journey through lush jungles, ancient cities, waterfalls, and beaches.

Planning your trip to Sri Lanka? See what the weather is like in Sri Lanka in other months: 

• January : Bask in the sunny warmth of Sri Lanka while mingling with friendly crowds, perfect for beach outings and cultural explorations.
• February :  Dive into the island's vibrant atmosphere under clear skies and bustling crowds, ideal for soaking up the diverse sights and sounds.
• March : Enjoy the hot, dry climate alongside moderate crowds, offering an excellent balance for outdoor adventures and sightseeing.
• May : Experience the tranquility of Sri Lanka's off-peak season with heavy rainfall and minimal crowds, perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
• June : Find serenity amidst heavy rain and sparse crowds, offering a unique opportunity for relaxation and unhurried exploration.
• July :  Discover the island's charm amidst intermittent rain and reduced crowds, allowing for budget-friendly travel and authentic cultural experiences.
• August : Enjoy the easing of monsoon rains and fewer tourists, making August ideal for budget-conscious travelers to explore the island's treasures.
• September : Take advantage of clear skies and dwindling crowds, providing a perfect setting for nature lovers and budget travelers.
• October :  Delight in comfortable temperatures and moderate crowds during Sri Lanka's shoulder season, offering an ideal blend of adventure and cultural encounters.
• November : Experience warm weather and moderate crowds, making it a great time to explore beaches, wildlife, and historical sites without the peak season hustle.
• December : Join the festive buzz of Sri Lanka's holiday season amidst sunny weather and bustling crowds, creating a lively atmosphere for memorable celebrations.

The Rough Guides to Sri Lanka and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Travel advice for Sri Lanka

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Sri Lanka

• Crime and personal safety tips Sri Lanka
• Culture and Etiquette in Sri Lanka
• Eating and drinking in Sri Lanka
• How to get to Sri Lanka
• Getting around Sri Lanka: Transportation Tips
• Travel Health Sri Lanka
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Sri Lanka
• Travel Tips Sri Lanka for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Sri Lanka

Find even more inspiration here

written by Dre Roelandt

updated 25.03.2024

Dre Roelandt is originally from the United States but lives and works in Berlin, Germany. Dre is a freelance writer and artist with a passion for travelling. They are an in-house Content Editor at Rough Guides.

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Sri Lanka in April: Perfect Travel Weather

• ~ mins read

Exotic and alluring, Sri Lanka has been seducing travelers for centuries. Named ‘Serendib’ (the origin of the word ‘serendipity’) by early Arab traders, the endless beaches, timeless ruins, ancient cultures, diverse wildlife, and incredible cuisine have inspired almost magical regard for this tiny island country. April is the last month of the high season in Sri Lanka, making it one of the best times to visit. The weather is generally clear and dry all around, particularly in the central region of the country. This is also a perfect time to explore Sri Lanka ’s Cultural Triangle, where the country’s top-visited sites are concentrated. And for beach lovers, the summer weather in Sri Lanka in April is a perfect excuse to check out its many beach resorts.

• Donald MacDonald
• From Scotland

Sri Lanka Weather in April

The weather in Sri Lanka in April is just perfect for exploring the country’s inland gems as well as enjoying its coastal attractions.The central region is hot and dry during the day with cool evenings. Coastal areas, meanwhile, see hot and a bit humid conditions during the day and balmy nights. Expect a smattering of thunderstorms in the hill country and the southwest. The average temperatures across the country are more or less the same. In the capital city, Colombo, the mercury fluctuates between 25°C and 32°C with a few rainy days. In Kandy, mornings and evenings are a bit cooler than Colombo. If you head up into the mountains, the cooler it gets. For instance, the town of Nuwara Eliya sees temperatures between 12°C and 22°C.

For a seasonal overview, check out our guide on the best time to visit Sri Lanka .

Weather in Sri Lanka in April - Rainfall and Temperatures

Why visit sri lanka in april.

 April is a great time to visit Sri Lanka as the tail end of the high season offers visitors the chance to enjoy the country’s popular attractions and activities in relative peace and quiet of the peak tourist month. Here is a list of some of the top reasons why you should plan a trip to Sri Lanka in April :

• Sinhalese New Year (Avurudu): Celebrated by both Sinhalese and Tamils in Sri Lanka, this festival is one of the most important ones of the year. The new year begins at the sighting of the new moon, which marks the Sun God’s passage from Pisces to Aries, which according to Sinhalese astrology, marks the end of the harvest season and spring.
• Easter: Sri Lanka’s Christian population joins the rest of the world to celebrate Easter. You will find all the usual Easter traditions like chocolate eggs and bunnies everywhere.
• Hit the Beach: With lovely warm weather and fewer crowds around, April is a good time to hit the beaches. Head to Arugam Bay, on Sri Lanka's dry southeast coast, for a seaside paradise of coconut palms, golden sands and inviting waters.
• Whale Watching at Dondra Head: April is the last month to catch the migration of gigantic blue whales as they pass the Dondra Head on their journey from the Bay of Bengal to the western Indian Ocean. 

Where To Go and What to Do

No place is off limits in Sri Lanka in April, as the weather all around the country is generally pleasant and it does not rain as much. The central and Cultural Triangle regions are warm and dry during this time. Colombo can get humid and muggy around this time, so those preferring cooler climes can head to Kandy . Once the capital of the ancient kings of Sri Lanka, Kandy overlooks a lake and has many interesting attractions to explore. Wander through the beautiful Royal Botanical Gardens and visit the famous Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Housed in Kandy's teeming temple complex, the relic is thought to have belonged to Buddha himself and many wars have been fought over it. Light a votive candle and place a few petals to honor Buddha.

The season for the annual pilgrimage to the sacred mountain of Adam’s Peak comes to an end in April, so it is a good time to consider making the journey. The mountain is believed to hold the Sri Pada (sacred footprint) of Buddha. Every year, hundreds of devout followers climb the mountain to see and pay their respects to the footprint which is part of a rock formation near the summit.

Take an unforgettable train journey through Hill Country on the most beautiful rail route in the country. The iconic four-hour train trip departs from Nuwara Eliya and travels through vast tea plantations, dense forests teeming with birds and wildlife, and across the breathtaking Nine Arch Bridge to Ella.

Head to the Gal Oya National Park in the east of the country to see elephants in their natural habitat. Synonymous with Sri Lanka, elephants can be seen everywhere around the country, from working on tea plantations to leading parades. But there is no better place to see them than in the wild.

From hiking in the central highlands to hitting the stunning beaches in the south to attending local festivals, Sri Lanka in April offers an array of exciting experiences for visitors. With pleasant weather conditions all around, Sri Lanka’s top attractions and hidden gems are waiting to be explored and discovered in April.

Design your tailor-made itinerary with the expert guidance of our local travel experts who can customize your Sri Lanka trip to your needs. You can also check out our Sri Lanka tours in April for some inspiration.

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Asia , SRI LANKA

Best time to visit sri lanka + month by month breakdown.

Located in the tropics, with its notoriously hot and humid weather, choosing the best time to visit Sri Lanka is absolutely key in making sure you have the best time possible across this amazing island!

A diverse country, with a huge range of different topographies – from the central highlands to the steaming coast – the climate does vary across this Indian Ocean island, which is actually much bigger and more diverse than most people imagine.

And that’s exactly why I’ve decided to bring you this article, spelling out when best to visit Sri Lanka is based on the activities you want to enjoy there, as well a month by month breakdown to help you plan an amazing trip.

So read on to discover when the best time to visit Sri Lanka is overall, as well as the peak times to go based on exactly when you want to travel there and how you want to spend your time when you do…

Related Posts

• Perfect 10 Day Sri Lanka Itinerary
• Best 8 Parks for a Sri Lankan Safari + How to Plan
• Catching the Colombo to Kandy Train: All You Need to Know

My stay in Sri Lanka was sponsored by Sri Lanka tourism but, as always, all views are my own.

This page contains affiliate links meaning Big World Small Pockets may receive a small commission on any purchases at no extra cost to you.

Overall Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka

Overall, the best time to visit Sri Lanka is during the country’s majority dry season, which runs from December to April.

This dovetails with the best time to visit other countries in south and southeast Asia too, which means if you’re enjoying a longer travel in this part of the world, you’re in luck!

During these months in Sri Lanka, it’s drier and therefore less humid in the more visited parts of the island, namely the southwest regions.

In these areas, the sea is also calmer at this time of year, making December to April great months to hit the beach and the surf here too.

If you plan to visit several different parts of Sri Lanka – think the central highlands, the cities of Colombo and Galle, as well as the cultural triangle – December to April provides the best all round balance of blue sky days, little rain and reasonable temperatures.

Unfortunately, this is when the minority wet season (known as Mala) hits the east and north of the country, but the rain isn’t that severe during Mala and is easy to navigate.

That said, if you want to get off the beaten track in Sri Lanka, by visiting the lesser visited north and east of the island, or head to the more popular parts in the south and west without the crowds, then the opposing months of May to September may actually be a better time to visit the island.

During these months, there’s better weather in the east and north, kitesurfers will be in their element in the south, and, in general, Sri Lanka sees less tourists and offers better prices on accommodation.

Even though May to September typically sees the majority monsoon (known as Yala) arrive in the more popular southwest regions, it’s important to remember this wet period is not like the Indian monsoon season.

Indeed it really only rains for a few hours a day (think 3-4 hours) in the southwest of Sri Lanka at this time (thanks to the highland geography in the centre of the island) and the mornings are usually clear and perfect for getting out and about.

Grab an umbrella and you’ll be fine!

During October and November, there’s an inter-monsoonal period across Sri Lanka, when rain can fall anywhere in the island, so these are the only months when I’d avoid visiting Sri Lanka.

Sunshine usually returns by December however, making this island a great option for a Christmas / New Year holiday!

Sri Lanka Climate

At this point, it’s probably worth taking a minute to talk about Sri Lanka’s climate to help you better understand when best to travel here.

Situated in the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka enjoys a tropical climate with wet and dry seasons that roughly divide the island’s weather into 2 distinct seasons.

At least it does at the major coast and cultural spots of the southwest, where the dry season runs from December through April.

The central highlands of the island enjoy a slightly different climate, thanks to their elevation, and the lesser visited north and east of the island, have a reverse rainy season to the more popular southwest.

Situated near the Equator, temperatures remain fairly consistent year round in Sri Lanka (meaning the rain is the main thing to consider when it comes to the best time to visit).

In the coastal and low lying regions, things are always pretty hot and humid (up to 90%!), with temperatures averaging around 28 degrees celsius all year.

In the island’s central highlands, temperatures are slightly cooler, due to the elevation, with daily averages around 20 degrees celsius.

Night’s in the highlands can be chilly – sometimes down to just above freezing – so do be prepared if you’re travelling to destinations such as Kandy and Ella.

Sri Lanka’s Hottest and Wettest Months

As we’ve established above, temperatures stay fairly consistent in Sri Lanka year round and, being located close to the equator, this means they are always pretty high!

As such, being warm in Sri Lanka, when daytime temperatures regularly exceed 30 degrees celsuis, is not a problem!

The biggest thing to consider when you travel here weather-wise therefore, is the rain!

Across the island, which as we know now really has 2 distinct weather patterns, it’s June and July, plus October and November, that are the wettest months.

June and July herald the Yala monsoon in the southwest of the country, which is the heaviest of the island’s 2 monsoons (Mala in the north and the east is gentler), and October and November mark the inter-monsoonal period, where rain can be expected anywhere across Sri Lanka.

In each of these 4 months, overall 300mm of rain can fall, so you’ll definitely need an umbrella!

Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka’s Beaches

The most popular Sri Lankan beaches are located in the southwest of the country which means the best time to visit them is from December tp April.

This is also a great time for whale watching in these regions.

If you’re looking for a winter coast getaway therefore, Sri Lanka makes a great choice.

There’s also beautiful beaches around Trincomalee in the east of the island and here it’s best to visit from May to September, especially for whale and dolphin spotting.

Also the home of kitesurfing in Sri Lanka, Kappalady, is best visited during these “off-season” months too.

Best Time to Surf in Sri Lanka

Arugam Bay is the most famous surf spot in Sri Lanka and is located on the east coast. 

This means the best time to head here is May through September.

If you’re visiting at other times of the year, then you may be better placed to head for the surf at Weilgama on the south coast.

Here the sea calms sufficiently from October onwards.

Best Time for Safaris in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s top safari spots are mostly collected in the southeast of the island, making May to September technically the best time to visit.

However, I visited Yala National Park (the flagship spot where I saw a leopard) in May / June and it was lovely weather and rain-free.

The other top safari spot outside the southeast of the island is Minneriya National Park – located closer to the centre of the island and reachable in a day from Colombo.

Minneriya is a good option for a Sri Lanka safari if you’re visiting between December and April.

Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka’s Highlands

The island’s central highlands – think destinations such as Kandy, Ella and Nuwara Eliya – are best visited during the peak season of December through April when the weather is most stable in this elevated area.

Don’t forget that it’s much cooler up here too.

This can act as a welcome relief from the heat and humidity in the southwest at this time, but do bring warmer layers for the fresh evenings and nights.

May, July and August is also a good time to visit the highland region for the festivals – many of the main Buddhist religious spectacles take place during these months.

When to Visit Sri Lanka by Month

January & Feb

As discussed, these are some of the best months to visit the southwest of the country, including the southern beaches, the city of Galle (which hosts a great literary festival at this time) and the central highlands.

March & April

Still good for the southwest region, but humidity is building ahead of the incoming monsoon.

Head to the central highlands for some relief.

Also a great time to visit the Cultural Triangle!

May & June

The most important Buddhist festival, Vesak Poya, is celebrated in May, so be prepared for cultural spectacles, as well as some disruption to travel.

June sees rain coming to the central Highlands and southwest region, but eastern and northern destinations, such as Trincomalee and Jaffna, are drying out.

July & August

Rainfall is increasing in the highlands, but there’s lots of great cultural festivals to enjoy there during these months.

If you’re looking for Sri Lankan beaches to visit in July and August, it’s all about the east coast, including Arugam Bay, where the surf will be in full swing!

The northern peninsula is a great off the beaten track during these months and prices across the island are lower generally, making these months a great time to visit Sri Lanka for bargain hunters.

A transitional month where the monsoon finishes in the southwest and begins in the northeast.

Time it right however and you are might to get sun in both areas, making September a good all-round time to visit Sri Lanka.

October & November

Potentially wet months where rain can fall across the island at any time.

Not the best months to visit in my opinion, you will however see lower prices and thinner crowds.

The beginning of high season in Sri Lanka, prices are increasing as the winter holiday season approaches in Europe and North America.

Wet in the north and the east, but lovely blue sky days beckon in the south and west.

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Top Travel Tips for Sri Lanka

How to Get to Sri Lanka?

Flights to Sri Lanka’s main international airport, Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), arrive from cities across the world, including direct from London.

As always, I use Skyscanner to find the best flight deals.

The airport is just 30km from Colombo, but I recommend heading to the chilled beach spot of Negombo first to acclimatise.

How to Get Around?

Trains, domestic flights and buses all allow you get around Sri Lanka.

However, if you want to visit some off the beaten track spots, hiring a driver is really the best way to see the county.

Top Sri Lanka Tours

Alternatively, if you’d rather not travel Sri Lanka independently, these top Sri Lanka tours are another great way to experience an adventure here.

Where to Stay in Sri Lanka?

Check out these top accommodation picks across the island…

5 Key Packing Items

Make sure you’re prepared to visit Sri Lanka with these top 5 packing items…

Learn what else you should take in this complete Sri Lanka packing list .

Travel Insurance

Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

Travel Money in Sri Lanka

The easy way to spend abroad with real exchange rates, no markups and no sneaky transaction fees, you can use your Wise card just like a debit card in Sri Lanka… and it links easily with Google and Apple pay. Get yours here .

PIN IT TO PINTEREST!

And there you have it, my guide to the best time to visit Sri Lanka.

Have any more questions about when, where and how to travel this country?

Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the comments box below…

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

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Weather in Sri Lanka in April

Travelling to Sri Lanka in April? Here’s a detailed overview to help understand the weather in Sri Lanka in April. The tropical climate of the country makes it the perfect time to visit this island in April. Sri Lanka has a complex weather pattern with two monsoon seasons that affect different regions at different times of the year. The Yala monsoons hit the south and south-west coast in the months from May to September. The Maha monsoon winds, on the other hand, bring rainfall to the east and north-east coast from December to February. The weather in Sri Lanka in April is pleasant throughout the country. The south and south-west coasts start to experience light showers as May approaches and the north-east and east coasts fall completely out of the monsoon season and experience plenty of sunshine. So if you’re looking to hit the beaches and explore all the other regions that Sri Lanka has to offer, April is the time to go.

South and west coast of Sri Lanka in April

The south and west coast of the country primarily receives rainfall from May to September with the inter monsoonal winds affecting the entire country in October and November. If you’re travelling to Sri Lanka in April you’ll experience some sunny days and light rainfall towards the end of the month. The temperatures are usually 25-35 degree celsius. February, March and April are the best months to plan a whale watching trip to Mirissa along with a wildlife safari to Yala National Park as you can spot the animals that come out to drink water given the drop in water levels. April is also a great time for thrill seekers looking to indulge in water sports like surfing at beaches like Bentota, Mirissa, Weligama and Hikkaduwa.

East and north-east coast of Sri Lanka in April

The east and north east coast receives rainfall between the months of October to January/February. April is the ideal time to visit this coast of the island, since the wildlife parks of the east are warm and skies are clear. The weather makes it easier to spot the animals roaming around in the open. It’s also a great time to visit Trincomalee, a beach town known for its serene beaches of Uppuveli and Nilaveli. Whether you’re looking go diving, whale watching or simply looking to relax in the tropical climate of this gorgeous coast, April is the time to go.

The Hill Country and Cultural Triangle in April

Heading towards the inland, the hill country region around Nuwara Eliya and Ella are predominantly dry. Rainfall in this region is almost negligible. The temperature in this region fluctuates between the mid 20 degree celsius. April is also ideal for trekking the popular Knuckles mountain range. It is also a great time to visit the cultural triangle including the ancient ruins of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa. Sigiriya Rock is another unmissable site this time of the year. However, for the ideal experience, you. must commence your climb early morning or just before closing hours. This helps avoid the large crowds during the day and also provides a panoramic view of the cultural triangle, at sunrise or sunset.

National Parks of Sri Lanka in April

Its best to visit the national parks of Sri Lanka in the dry season. The month of April is completely dry along the east and north east coast of Sri Lanka. Hence Minneriya National Park in this region is a must visit, if you’re looking to spot a huge density of elephants. It is also the ideal month to visit national parks in the south. National parks like Yala National park and Udawalawe, offer high chances of spotting rare wildlife species.

To sum it up

The monsoon season starts in full force in the southern and south western coast in May. The end of April might experience light showers here, but they are short lived and sporadic. There is enough sunshine to enjoy some beach time. With this month, it is mainly knowing what region to visit in order to escape the showers and have a pleasant experience. The east and north east coast experience prime tourist season in the month of April. All in all, travelling to Sri Lanka in April is a good idea. However, make sure to read our guide on the best time and best places to visit Sri Lanka for a detailed insight on planning your trip. Get in touch with us and we’ll take the load off you, We’ll help curate the ideal trip that reflects your travel style and caters to all your requirements.

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When to go to Sri Lanka

When is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka is a year-round holiday destination thanks to its combination of weather systems ensuring that one or several regions, as well as a section of coastline, is statistically always expecting sunshine.

Whilst the best time to go to Sri Lanka is between December and mid-April , which is considered to be the countrywide peak season, the traditional summer holiday months are also favourable on the east coast which is at its peak from May to September.

Temperatures are fairly constant year round, with coastal regions enjoying average temperatures of 25-30°C and the highlands 15-18°C on average. If you’re travelling during the summer months (May to September) you’ll want to head towards the east coast and northern regions for dry, sunny weather, as the west and south west coasts experience rain at this time. On the flip side, the west and south west enjoy favourable weather conditions during the winter months ( October to February ) when the monsoon season hits the east and north.

Sri Lanka weather & when to go

Pick a month below.

Weather seasons are becoming less predictable but peak visitor months remain more certain.

Unfollow the herd - avoid the peak months to enjoy fewer crowds, better availability, often lusher countryside and help to spread the economic benefits of tourism.

Weather overview

Unlike many other Asian destinations, Sri Lanka can lay genuine claim to being a year-round holiday destination. You just have to know which side of the island to focus on in any given month, and this is never more important than when planning your beach destination.

When should you travel to Sri Lanka?

The period from December to mid-April is considered the peak season for overall weather and therefore overall visitor numbers. Whilst there is good reason for this, there are equal benefits to travelling outside of this period, with the shoulder season often providing the best of both worlds; namely great weather and a lower visitor numbers.

Summer holiday is also a popular time with the east coast expecting plenty good weather and sunshine whilst the south-west monsoon leaves much of the south and west coast with high rainfall and winds.

When is the best beach weather in Sri Lanka

The easiest way to understand the seasons of Sri Lanka’s beaches is to divide the coast into three sections:

The south-west (the section south of Negombo & Colombo) and the entire south coast. 

Peak season: December to March Shoulder season / mid-season: October, November and April Monsoon season: May to September

The entire east coast

Peak season: April to September Shoulder season / mid-season: October Monsoon season: November to March

The central and northern section of the west coast (from Negombo northwards)

Peak season: February to October (but high winds/big seas from June to September) Shoulder season/ mid-season: October Monsoon season: November to January

Sri Lanka’s weather by region

Unquestionably, the starting point when planning your trip in Sri Lanka is understanding the two monsoon seasons.

Colombo & South-West Coast

Bentota, colombo, negombo, kalpitiya.

The south-western monsoon brings rain to the south-west of Sri Lanka between May and September , while the dry season in this region runs from December to March .

With the west coast’s weather governed by the south-western monsoon, the best weather is expected between late November and April. Average temperatures throughout rarely drop much below 30 °C, but at certain times high rainfall and stormy conditions mean that your idyllic beach plans are best made elsewhere.

Rainfall is at its highest between June and September, although August is often an exception with much lower rainfall.

The South Coast

Galle, weligama, mirissa, tangalle, yala national park.

The beaches along the south coast, from Galle as far east as Mawella and Hambantota are expecting their best weather between late November and April. Further east, beyond Yala NP , the weather can also be influenced by the north-eastern monsoon, with its higher rainfall from October to January, and dryer weather from May to September. As with much of Sri Lanka, September & October can also see heavier rain, although by November blue skies are expected once again, with good weather expected through till May.

Central & Northern sections of the West Coast

Kalipiya, puttalam, mannar.

This section of coastline gets very different weather to beaches and towns further south (below Negombo) as, put in really simple terms, it only gets caught on the fringes of the south-west monsoon. So whilst during the summer months between June and October the winds and sea can both be high, it’s unusual for there to be rainfall. This makes beaches such as Kalpitiya very popular with windsurfers and kite-surfers or more intrepid beach goers looking who cherish time on the sands without the crowds.

Passekudah, Trincomalee, Arugam Bay, Batticaloa, Nilaveli, Kuchchaveli

Sri Lanka’s east coast comes into its own while the rest of the island is experiencing monsoonal rains. Influenced by the north-eastern monsoon, the best weather is from April to September, with the monsoon running from October until January.

Presently the infrastructure and resort development are minimal, but things are changing fast, with a host of luxury hotels planned in the coming years. If you are happy with more basic beach accommodation, the east coast's summer offers a truly exceptional opportunity to enjoy some of Asia’s least developed beaches.

North-East Coast

Jaffna, mullativu.

In the north and eastern coastal regions of the country, the weather is influenced by the north-eastern monsoon, which brings wind and rain between October and January , and drier weather between May and September .

There is also an inter-monsoonal period during October and the first half of November, when rain and thunderstorms can occur across the island. This clears up as December nears, with conditions getting balmier by the day during the second half of November.

The Cultural Triangle

Dambulla, anuradhapura, sigiriya, minneriya national park.

Many of Sri Lanka’s cultural highlights, including no less than five UNESCO sites, including Dambulla, Anuradhapura and Sigiriya , are located within this ‘dry zone’. Aside from a high rainfall in November and December, conditions remain fairly arid throughout the year, although visitors during June and July may experience the hot, strong winds that help keep the south-western monsoon at bay.

Kandy & Tea Country

Kandy, ella, nuwara eliya, haputale, hatton, adam's peak.

Kandy sits at a far lower altitude than the 'Tea Country' and because of this can expect to enjoy higher temperatures and lower rainfall than in the hills to the south. Your journey from Kandy to the Cultural Triangle climbs an elevation of 700 metres, so you feel a drop in temperature as you climb. The weather in the Tea Country is influenced by both monsoons, the result of which is a climate somewhat reminiscent of a Scottish autumn for much of the year. Sitting at nearly 2,000 metres above sea level, the region is much cooler than elsewhere in Sri Lanka.  December marks the beginning of the Adam's Peak pilgrimage season, which runs throughout the dry season until May.  

What to expect in Sri Lanka?

Whilst planning any holiday around the seasons, it’s important to remember that the world’s weather has a funny habit of not sticking to script, and this is never truer than in Sri Lanka. You will often be blessed with clear blue skies in what should be rainy season, or with torrential downpours in the middle of the dry season. Therefore you would do well to consider a whole host of other elements (ie seasonal airfares, school holidays etc) in addition to the weather when making your plans.

In general when it does rain, it’s unusual for the rain to last all day, with downpours tending to be short and sharp, often with a number of inches falling in just a matter of minutes. In extreme cases this can lead to localised flooding, which when severe can require last minute alterations to your travel plans... one of the highlights of travelling in Asia!

Relative humidity in Sri Lanka typically ranges from 60% - 90% and is generally higher in the south-west and mountainous areas, although it is also effected by seasonal patterns and rainfall. While Colombo can experience year-round daytime humidity in excess of 70% (rising to approximately 90% during the monsoon season), humidity in the Cultural Triangle drops as low as 60% during the monsoon month of March, and peaks at around 80% during the November and December rains. In the highlands, Kandy's daytime humidity usually ranges between 70% and 80% throughout the year.

We think you may like this journey…

Sambol, Surf & Safari

Combine the island’s top wildlife crowd pleasers with some magnificent hidden gems and cultural highlights before spending some time on the beach.

Looking for inspiration?

10 Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka in April 2024

Are you looking for a place to spend your family’s vacation? If so, it’s important to start planning a vacation to Sri Lanka . Take a look through our tourist guide to gain a sense of this ultimate adventure, and know that your journey to this amazing family location will be nothing short of a heavy dose of joy and entertainment.

Sri Lanka is overflowing with wonderful sites for youngsters, prominent adult attractions, and endless family adventures. Visit these places, visit landmarks, and partake in several of the most appealing activities since this country will provide you with a fantastic opportunity to reestablish your family ties and spend precious time again.

We’ve compiled a list of the 10 finest locations in Sri Lanka to assist you in planning the perfect family vacation, so study this article before planning your schedule.

Table of Contents

Top 10 Places to Visit in Sri Lanka in April:

1. galle/dutch fort.

Experience a day outside with your families at the Galle or Dutch Fort, one of the country’s most memorable and iconic archaeological sites. This ancient structure, constructed by the Portuguese and strengthened by the Dutch, is one of Sri Lanka’s top family destinations.

Stroll about and take in the splendour of the colonial structures throughout your visit to this renowned tourist destination. Visit the galleries, cafes, bookstores, and thrift stores located within the fort’s crowded pavilions along with your family members.

Galle Attractions:

• The Galle Lighthouse
• Dutch Reformed Church
• Maritime Museum
• Old Dutch Hospital
• Ramparts and Bastions

2. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

Enjoy a trip to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, which is situated in the Pinnawala village, 13 kilometres northeast of Kegalle, inside the Sabaragamuwa Region of Sri Lanka, and is yet another renowned tourist attraction filled with nature’s bounty. This orphanage is designed to care for elephants orphaned by their moms and you can see a group of wild Asian elephants.

The glimpse of elephants dancing and swimming will excite your children. They will additionally be allowed to observe the elephants’ regular routines, such as bottle feeding of smaller elephants and the regular distribution of elephant foodstuffs such as jackfruit, coconut, tamarind, and grasses to nourish the grownup elephants.

Attractions:

• Elephant bathing in the river
• Feeding the baby elephants
• Elephant herd observation
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3. Yala West National Park

Travel to the Yala West National Park across Sri Lanka’s Southern Region and Uva Region for a jungle safari, which would be one of the best exciting activities to do with your family. Sri Lanka may look small on a map, but it is home to a number of the world’s most unique wildlife regions.

This National Park would be a delight for animal enthusiasts. Don’t skip out on a jeep adventure with your family through Yala West National Park, where you may witness the park’s courageous leopards.

Attractions of Yala West National Park (Yala National Park) :

• Leopard spotting
• Elephant watching
• Birdwatching (including peacocks)
• Safari tours

4. Galle to Mirissa

Travelling to Galle for a whale observation excursion with kids can be a lot of fun because they will get to see places they haven’t seen previously. Through Galle to Mirissa, the boat will transport you. You will encounter joyful dolphins along the trip, which your children will undoubtedly enjoy.

You might even be fortunate enough to see a gigantic blue whale, which could add to the excitement of your vacation. This one excursion will undoubtedly provide your kids and you with the greatest unforgettable memories throughout your Sri Lankan vacation.

Galle to Mirissa Attractions :

• Whale watching tours
• Mirissa Beach
• Coconut Tree Hill
• Snorkeling and diving spots

5. Kandalama

Visit Kandalama with your families and take an adrenaline-pumping hot air balloon trip. Fly high into the sky and look down to witness the breathtaking beauty beneath your feet. The mystical magnificence of the sky and endless amazing views will be revealed via hot air ballooning.

While partaking in the breathtaking view, you may also take some excellent photographs because this journey will provide you with a fantastic photographic opportunity as well as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. So don’t hesitate to include this on your checklist of must-do activities with your family when you travel around Sri Lanka.

Kandalama Attractions :

• Heritance Kandalama
• Dambulla Cave Temple
• Sigiriya Rock Fortress (close proximity)
• Kandalama Reservoir

Explore Ceylon’s tea plantations to be transformed into the colonial period. The tea estates in Sri Lanka would be one of the greatest spots to visit with your children. Enjoying a stroll around the beautiful green tea cultivation with your children will be unforgettable.

Not only will you be able to roam throughout the tea plantation, but you will also get the opportunity to learn about the full tea-making procedure.

Ceylon Attractions (Sri Lanka as a whole):

• Tea plantations and factories (e.g., in Nuwara Eliya)
• Cultural Triangle (Dambulla, Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura)
• Beaches along the southern coast (Unawatuna, Hikkaduwa)
• Historical Colombo
• Yala National Park
• Nuwara eliya
• Anuradhapura
• Trincomalee

Experiencing the renowned family adventure spots in Sri Lanka could be a lot of excitement, but driving to an offbeat spot could be even more exciting. Don’t miss out on an exciting village visit to Vedda when touring this unique country.

By visiting this village with your families, you may learn about the native manner of living. Sit down with your friends and explore a new flavour by eating the village’s traditional food. Vedda produces a large amount of natural honey, so there’s plenty to go around.

Vedda Attractions  (Indigenous people of Sri Lanka, attractions related to their culture):

• Dambana, a village where Vedda culture can be observed
• Vedda Museum
• Cultural experiences (traditional hunting techniques, rituals)

8. Sigiriya Fortress

The Sigiriya Fortress is a fantastic sight within Sri Lanka’s famous tourist sites . King Kasyapa built this magnificent masterpiece over 1600 years ago. The Sigiriya Fortress, one of the greatest locations to explore for grownups, will be a pleasure for culture and heritage enthusiasts.

You can show your children about this magnificent structure and tell them about its historical significance. Morning or late evening is the best time to see the Sigiriya Fortress.

Attractions of Sigiriya Fortress :

• Lion’s Rock
• Mirror Wall
• Royal Gardens

9. Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery

Get your vacation to Sri Lanka even more memorable by visiting Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery, which is one of the greatest popular destinations for children and families. Your children will undoubtedly like this turtle breeding facility.

You can invest a lot of time here observing small turtles being nourished and looked for. Don’t lose the chance to see a diversity of turtle varieties at the hatchery. Also, get up close and dance with the newborn turtles as they swim in the water.

Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery Attractions :

• Turtle conservation projects
• Turtle release
• Educational tours

10. Beira Lake

Cherish your favourite memories with your families! Don’t forget to take a soothing boat excursion on Beira Lake in Colombo. At this location, you may hire a duck paddle boat and explore the beautiful waterways.

Swans and actual ducks will greet you as you paddle over the lakes, making your boat excursion even more enjoyable. Your family holiday in Sri Lanka will undoubtedly enchant you.

We hope that this article assisted you in identifying interesting 10 locations to visit in Sri Lanka with your family.

Beira Lake Attractions :

• Gangaramaya Temple
• Seema Malaka Temple
• Relaxing walks around the lake

Sri Lanka Weather April 2024

Sri lanka festival in april 2024:.

In April 2024, the most popular festival in Sri Lanka will be the Sinhala and Tamil New Year . This national festival, celebrated on the 13th or 14th of April, marks the beginning of the new year according to the Sinhalese solar calendar and is a time of joy and renewal for both the Sinhalese and Tamil communities. It is characterized by a series of traditional rituals and activities, including:

• Lighting of the Hearth : Signifying the start of the new year with a new fire.
• Preparing Traditional Sweets : Families prepare and share a variety of traditional sweets.
• Engaging in Traditional Games : Both children and adults participate in games and sports.
• Auspicious Times : Observance of specific times to perform tasks like transactions, eating, and working, believed to bring prosperity.
• Home Decoration and Cleaning : Homes are thoroughly cleaned and decorated to welcome the new year.
• Wearing New Clothes : People wear new clothes to signify a fresh start.
• Family Gatherings : Families come together to celebrate with special meals.
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About The Author

Tusk Travel Team

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Sri Lanka Travel in April: 5 Best Places to Visit Now

Sri Lanka is an amazing country for travel in April, but the weather feels so unpredictable. Why is that? It's down to two monsoon seasons, as each impact on Sri Lanka in different places and different times of the year. Once arriving in Sri Lanka, is your only concern is the beaches? The best time to visit is in: December, January, February and March.

Those months have the lowest levels of rainfall in Sri Lanka and the country's peak season. March and April are the warmest months of the year. That's when the temperatures hover around about 90° Fahrenheit in a lot of places. Which is why we suggest you travel in April. A lot cheaper as well because peak season is coming to a close, you can pick up some great deals.

Rainy Season in Sri Lanka

There is rain pretty much all year round in Sri Lanka, it's a tropical country after all. It can only be described as being hot and humid, despite any monsoon rainy season. From April onwards until the end of the year, it's not unusual for it to rain most days. The heaviest of the rains are in July and August, and again in November. But don't be put off by the rain because it isn't constant, often it's over before its begun. Showers don't last all that long, and the sunshine returns soon after.

Sri Lanka has two differing monsoon seasons. To get the best out of your holiday to the Island it's necessary to know as much as possible about each monsoon:

• the first monsoon season covers the months of May, June, July and August
• the second monsoon follows later, October through to until the end of January

It's important to appreciate no matter the monsoon, Sri Lanka has places to discover. Is visiting Sri Lanka in April worth it? Most definitely, yes. Especially in April with tourist crowds thinning out before May comes about. The first monsoon lands in the south of the Island including the west coast too. That means, for April you are considering places that are:

• central based, to the north and the east of Sri Linka have the driest places

Of course, that's not to say you're forbidden from going south or west. You can, only you accept that's where the heaviest of the rainfall might be. Once the first monsoon clears up the second one isn't far away. The second one takes shape on the opposite end of the Island:

• the north and east see the heaviest rainfall, resulting in the south and west being the driest

Does that leave you scratching your head? That's how we felt, and it begs the question were are the 5 best places to travel in April.

Visiting Sri Lanka in April

A Sri Lanka trip in April is your last best chance of enjoying the Islands culture before the first deluge. A lot of the excitement of Sri Lanka builds up due to the wildlife, that's how it was for us anyway. Having been on safari in India , we were keen to see how neighboring Sri Lanka faired. Of all the possible adventures you could have in Sri Lanka, here are our top 5 for you:

• Yala National Park
• Sigiriya Fortress
• Nuwara Eliya

Of course, there are beaches on the east of the Island. Are the beaches to the south and west of Sri Lanka better? That's a personal opinion actually. All the beaches are beautiful for a holiday experience. We'll disclose the best beaches but be wary of increased likelihood of rain during April. Those are:

• Mirassa Beach
• Hikkaduwa Beach
• Dickwella Beach
• Tangalle Beach
• Negombo Beach
• Matara Beach
• Koggala Beach
• Unawatuna Beach
• Weligama Beach

Rain is unpredictable at the best of times, but it's not raining every day in April. Besides, if you are prepared to wait out the showers when it does rain, then great ― there is no problem. In April the showers are intermittent, not heavy. May arrives with twice the amount of rainfall seen in April.

• Top 10: Best Beaches for Taking a Holiday in Sri Lanka

1. Yala National Park

Number one spot is the family friendly safari Yala National Park . It's one of the Island's best and most family friendly places to visit. What more can we add, to what we've already covered before? Only that you must go on a Yala safari on any springtime holiday. You must realize Sri Lanka is a top destination aside from its much larger neighbor, India. In fact, many Indians' holiday on Sri Lanka too, for the cooler climate.

The hilly parts of the country with higher altitudes are cooler, to the warmer coastal areas. Nuwara Eliya is a fine example of Sri Lanka's temperature variance. Yala National Park is bang on the southeast coast. The perfect location for your safari on the Island's most famous wildlife park. Don't delay, because later in the year, there's a monsoon hanging over the park.

When planning your Sri Lankan holiday, day to day things to do is when to decide on your Yala safari in April. Do you go with a half day tour or a full day tour? And if a half day tour, is it better to take a morning tour or afternoon tour. Then you've to book the darned tour and pay for it, in advance to avoid disappointment of missing out.

We took an afternoon tour for two reasons:

• the late afternoon is a little cooler, more so going into the evening
• we captured spectacular digital memories of the sunset

For most holidaying tourists, a half day is more than long enough. The half day tour lasts up to 5 hours, long enough to see most of the park's top wildlife, the leopards and elephants.

• The Complete Guide to Yala National Park, Sri Lanka's Great Safari

2. Sigiriya Fortress

It's far more convenient and a sensible option to visit this Royal Palace when staying in Kandy City. The reason is simpler transport links, for the distance to travel. Nuwara Eliya is further to the south, and Sigiriya Rock to the north. We took a hire taxi to the attraction covering the 50km distance, it was to get us there quicker. Hiring a taxi on Sri Lanka is cheap, and haggling the cost can shave off as much as a dollar.

Sri Lanka is an amazing country for backpackers. The rock fortress is a top attraction for trekking enthusiasts. The Island in fact is one great adventure waiting for you. Many of you will arrive at Colombo's Bandaranaike International Airport . That'll be your starting point, or base for your holiday. Flying in from the US or Europe, it's your best bet. Coming to Sri Lanka from within Asia, you may have other options. Indian airlines have daily flights to Ratmalana Airport (also close to Colombo City) and Sigiriya's Airport .

You can avoid a lot of hassle by flying to the local airport from Colombo City, directly. We didn't, but you could if you wanted to. We wrote about Sigiriya Rock Fortress in another Sri Lankan travel guide, link below. That guide delves further into the potential for adventurous trekking destinations.

Dambulla Cave Temple

We were interested in visiting the temple, but due to time constraints, we negated on it. Your plans may differ and afford you the luxury of a visit? Of course, it's an important temple of cultural significance.

• 5 Best Reasons why Sri Lanka is a World Class Holiday Trekking Destination

3. Beira Lake

The heart and soul of Colombo City is its magnificent lake, Lake Beira. Fingers crossed you've had the sense to book a city tour in anticipation of your arrival. The lake adorns the city beautifully.

For quiet, more relaxing moments from the city's hustle, escape to the lake. Long walks you can enjoy, the lake is geared towards being friendly for couples and families. The lake is one of our top ten attractions in Colombo City by the way. We found our way there after wandering the local markets to buy fresh fruit and snacks. We had ourselves a picnic by the lakeside followed by a boat trip on the lake itself.

One popular spot on the lake is a small Island near to the lake's center. We shan't spoil it for you.

If you care to exercise your yoga practice, start from Viharamahadevi Park . It's also a great choice for those who love jogging early morning or late evening. Jogging not for you? Still, you enjoy a different sensation once the streetlights are lit. The park and lake are safe for an evening stroll, to finally end your day at one of the restaurants close by.

When booking your hotel in the city, find a hotel close to the lake. You don't want to be more than 15 minutes away. Day time temperatures can be 90° Fahrenheit and quite humid by mid-morning.

4. Kandy City

We found ourselves in Kandy City for the sights from Ella Rock. Traveling to Ella Town isn't a big deal, and you should consider it in any Sir Lankan travel itinerary. Make time on your holiday and be sure to board the Kandy to Ella Tea Train. The journey that may very well most of the day, is worth it in so many ways:

• sights of central Sri Lankan landscape, villages and tea plantations
• it's a slow train over bridges and through tunnels

You stare out of the window at the true authenticity of Sri Lanka life, enjoying tea and cake. Frequently, you find locals on the train too, going about their business. Their kids full of energy playing chase. The local kids are playful and inclusive of other (foreign) kids, so keep a sharp eye on your kids. Could it be a long journey? If that's what you want, yes. It wasn't for us. The hours passed away, for we had:

• a good book
• a local couple who understood conversational English, boarded halfway through
• the landscape, mountains and waterfalls

Quite a few times we ventured to stick our heads out of the window for the breeze. The train has poor air conditioning, so sit next to a window that opens. Holding onto the handrails on the carriage doorway, to lean out for the thrill. The journey takes so long because the train is a lot slower moving (compared to trains back home). Hanging out at arm's length is safe.

Provided you are holding on to the rails, and there are no obstacles such as:

• other passengers
• overhanging branches
• track signs

The Kandy to Ella Train Journey

There are a few things we were not aware of about this train journey. Be sure to buy tickets for the fast train, to avoid the following concerns:

• the journey is much longer than the advertised time, the train makes a lot of stops and expect delays
• which side of the train you sit on makes a difference to the sights you see
• the train is more crowded at the weekends, on a Friday and a Monday, choose another day for your journey

Your purchased ticket will cover the first class, second class or third-class carriages. Paying more for the first class isn't worth it in our opinion, pay second class. Being thrifty will land you in the carriage with more local people. The third-class carriages have much less personal space. Also, another thing. To ensure you actually get a seat to yourself in second class, book in advance for a reservation.

If you have no seat in second class, you won't get into first class. You'll get into third class though to find yourself a space on one of the benches there.

Note: Book your tickets in advance by 6 weeks to guarantee your tickets are ready and delivered to your Colombo City hotel in time. Once your tickets have been paid for, seats are reserved meaning no one else can have them. Each seat has a number, like at the cinema. Pay for everyone all together to ensure best chance of consecutive seats. Sri Lankan Railways

5. Nuwara Eliya

South of Kandy City is the town of Nuwara Eliya. Travel time by taxi is a touch over an hour. We realized traveling any distance in Sri Lanka, it's best by private taxi. Avoid the bus service is our advice. We found the bus services to be slow, unreliable and debilitating. No air conditioning, always crowded and uncomfortable. Hiring taxis in Sri Lanka (much the same in India in fact) is always an option. Cheap too, all considered.

In India, traveling by train is more ideal for distance travel. Say, between cities that are close together. Greater distances apart, it makes sense to catch a domestic flight. In Sri Lanka, stick to the tuks-tuks in town and taxis for distant journeys. We paid US$10 (in local currency) for our trip to Nuwara Eliya Town. Amazing.

Part and parcel of the Sri Lankan landscape is inclusive of Nuwara Eliya. The Kandy to Ella train does stop off at the town, but not for long enough in our experience. It's best to make arrangements to travel on another day. By doing so you can make a day trip of it from Kandy City, or Ella town. Which is more convenient for your plans.

The rolling, cascading hills surrounding the town are gorgeous. All around you as far as the eye can see are tea plantations. The tea estates are responsible for some of the best tea in the world. As good, delicious and sought after as what Assam tea is. We arrived in town too late in the morning, missing sights of the mist rising over the forest canopy.

Rest assured, if we're ever back to Nuwara Eliya again, we won't miss nothing.

If you are not heading to Nuwara Eliya as part of a guided tour from Kandy City, think about hiring a car or taxi. Renting a moped or motorbike isn't advisable in our opinion. In April it may rain without warning ― a motorbike offers you no shelter. If your travel insurance covers you driving a car, do so from US$28 a day. The bigger the car you choose, the more expensive of course.

Things to see and do in Nuwara Eliya include:

• visit Single Tree Hill for the panoramic views
• enjoy a tea party at the Grand Hotel
• from the town center, walk to Victoria Park for the flowers in bloom
• visit Lake Gregory, dating back to the British colonial period
• trekking in the Horton Plains National Park, aim to reach the "World's End" peak

Best Time to Visit Colombo City?

Best time for Europeans to travel to Sri Lanka? We'd say January and February. That is when the south and west of the Island is most pleasant, and driest. Although it can rain all year round on Sri Lanka, often there can be consecutive days without rain. It's a lucky dip what you get but for the beaches, travel those two months for best results.

Remember, Sri Lanka seldom dips below 80° Fahrenheit so it feels warm no matter what.

Final Thoughts

If you've ever had a holiday in India, no matter where and enjoyed yourself then Sri Lanka is for you. You'll enjoy a holiday on the Island and April is as good a month as any. Even if you've never been to India, then Sri Lanka will open your eyes to what you could expect with India. No argument to which is best or better, or which one to begin with. Both are so like the other. If you can't decide on either, settle it by flipping a coin.

What is certain, when you do travel to Sri Lanka for your holiday you won't be stuck for anything to do. There are many things to see and do, as you can tell from our travel guide. The attraction of Sri Lanka is the natural landscape. Beautiful tea estates span the Island's highlands. One more convenience of Sri Lanka, and the other way around, is you can piggyback from one to the other.

Spend a week on Sri Lanka, and then head off to some place in India. It's so easy to make that happen, it's incredible you can't believe it. Not until you touch down in Mumbai City for example. So, think about it, won't you? Any holiday to Sri Lanka, you won't be disappointed.

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• Ekansh’s Anniversary Trip To Sri Lanka In April Was A Bouquet Of Beautiful Memories

27 Mar 2023

It was our first anniversary. So, we wanted to go to someplace beautiful. After checking numerous romantic destinations on internet, we decided to go to Sri Lanka. We chose Sri Lanka because of its scenic beauty and it has many amazing locations to visit. Also, we wanted a place that had less travel time from India and was within budget. We mentioned out queries at various platforms and finally booked our romantic trip to Sri Lanka with TravelTriangle. The following are the best experiences of our trip that would surely help future travelers.

Table Of Content

Ekansh trip details for sri lanka in april, sri lanka in april itinerary account, hotels we stayed during our trip to sri lanka in april, do’s and don’ts in sri lanka trip, sri lanka travel tips, how to reach sri lanka, experience with traveltriangle, commonly asked questions by travelers.

Trip Type: Family Trip Duration: 6D/5N Number of people: 4 persons Trip Cost: INR 137,018 Inclusions: Airfare, Airport Transfers, Accommodation, English-speaking Driver, Sightseeing, Breakfast Exclusions: Lunch, Dinner, Visa

  22 Places To Visit In Nuwara Eliya In 2022: The Mini London Of Sri Lanka!

Here is a day-wise account of my first anniversary trip to Sri Lanka in April that we enjoyed to the fullest.

Day 1: Touchdown In Colombo

We reached Colombo around 4 pm in the evening and was received by Mr. Prasal, the cab driver outside the airport. We straight away went to the hotel. After resting for some time, we went for a walk to explore the city of Colombo. We had dinner in a vegetarian restaurant and that was our day. We recharged our batteries for all the excitement and adventure in store for us the next day.

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Day 2: Kandy Tour

We checked out from the hotel and headed towards Kandy. On the way, we stopped at the Pinnewala Elephant Orphanage where we watched elephants taking bath in the river. We spent time over there for 1-2 hours. It was fun watching animals existing in their natural habitat. After that, we had a sumptuous lunch and moved towards the famous Tooth Relic Temple . It was a huge temple with old stories about it. The temple is located in a complex in the former kingdom of Kandy. We enjoyed taking a tour around the temple as it was so peaceful and serene.

15 Things To Do In Ella In 2022 To Take Your Sri Lanka Trip To The Next Level

Day 3: Nuwara Eliya

The third day of our trip to Sri Lanka in April was spent amidst the lush greenery of Nuwara Eliya. It is a paradise on earth. The rolling mountains with tea plantations with verdant grrenery looked soothing to the eyes. We visited Seetha Eliya where she was held captive. We saw the Ashok Vatika that we had only read about in our mythology books. Haggala Gardens was also an absolute delight. The low-country lotus and water lilies floating in the pond looked enchanting. We also went to see the cultural show later and enjoyed it to the fullest.

Day 4 & 5: Pearl Workshop & River Safari

This day was exciting. We visited the workshop of pearls in Kandy where they told us the procedure of making pearls. The supervisors there gave detailed information about the different pearls and their value. We were exhilarated to be enlightened with the information. We even bought a few pearls for home as souvenirs. We also particpated in water sports activities. The river safari in the backwater lake was amazing. visited Boat ride in the backwater lake. We also visited the Tortoise House where we found a variety of tortoises. We even held baby crocs in our hand. It was a fun experience On our last day of our holiday in Sri Lanka in April, Mr. Prasal dropped us at the airport. All in all, it was a fun trip.

  The Complete Guide To Applying For A Sri Lanka Visa For Indians

We stayed in 4 hotels during our stay in Sri Lanka. Here is how I would like to give personal ratings on the basis of our experience.

1st night in Colombo: Hotel Descent Hotel in Ceylon City

Location: 3/5 Rooms: 3/5 Services: 3/5 Hospitality:3/5 Hygiene: ⅗

2nd night in Kandy: Skyloft Kandy

Loved the view and location

Location: 5/5 Rooms: 5/5 Services: 4/5 Hospitality: 3/5 Hygiene:5/5

3rd-night Ramboda: Thuruliya Lodge Hotel

Again, the views from our room and the location of the hotel were great

Location: 5/5 Rooms: 5/5 Services: 3/5 Hospitality: 3/5 Hygiene: 4/5

4th-night Wadduwa: Blue Beach Wadduwa

The view and location of the property were amazing

Location: 5/5 Rooms: 5/5 Services: 4/5 Hospitality: 4/5 Hygiene: 5/5

  Our City Tour In Sri Lanka Made Us Fall In Love With This Country Even More

• Don’t forget to take a train ride in Sri Lanka
• Don’t take pictures of local residents without prior permission
• Dress appropriately
• Don’t drink tap water
• Do buy tea from Sri Lanka
• Do not take selfies with Buddha and other religious monuments

  When Adventure Met Beauty: Our Honeymoon Trip To Sri Lanka

• If you are planning a vacation in Sri Lanka, add more days to it since most of your time will be spent in traveling.
• Water sports are a must. Do add it to your itinerary.
• Make the best of your Sri Lanka vacation by doing as many things as possible. Also, to avoid FOMO!

The easiest and most comfortable way to reach Sri Lanka from India is by boarding a flight either from Delhi, Chennai, or Kolkata and getting down at Colombo Airport. Colombo Airport is well connected to the other parts of the country from where you can take a mode of public or private transport to your preferred destination.

Our experience with TravelTriangle was great. Aparajita, the TT executive was very helpful and patient in solving all our queries and provided support throughout the trip.

  The Ultimate Guide To Sri Lanka’s Dambulla Cave Temple

Liked Ekansh’s experience in Sri Lanka in April? Plan a spectacular family vacation in Sri Lanka and have cherished memories with your loved ones. Sri Lanka is a beautiful island that offers so many exciting experiences and you can easily spend days exploring the different corners of the island.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

How were the locals and hospitality there?

The locals were sweet and very accommodating. Mr. Prasal was our cab driver and he took great care of us in Sri Lanka. He was very understanding and helped us with sightseeing the best spots in Sri Lanka and even shopping in Sri Lanka.

Is April a reasonable time to visit Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka during April was hot in the day and moderate in the morning and evening but the weather did not dampen our spirits or excitement on the trip.

Which restaurants did you visit on your trip & how was the food there?

We visited many Indian Restaurants in Sri Lanka for Indian food. We enjoyed our dining experience at Bollywood Masala in Bentota.

How was the shopping experience at your destination and what would you suggest travelers buy from there?

Shopping in Sri Lanka was a great experience. We bought a few precious pearls from our vacation. Tea and coffee are other things we would suggest fellow travelers buy from their Sri Lanka trip.

Were you satisfied with the budget for your holiday? Was there anything you felt was missing out?

Yes, we were very much satisfied with our budget. Since we were on our first anniversary trip to Sri Lanka, we had equal parts relaxation and activities planned for us.

What are the various things to do in Sri Lanka in the month of April?

Here are a few things that you can do in Sri Lanka in April: 1. Water sports like River Safari or surfing 2. Tea tasting sessions in the hill country 3. Train ride though the country 4. Visit Pinnewala Elephant Orphanage 5. Go shopping 6. Visit a turtle park

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Sri Lanka In April: 5 Best Places To Visit in 2021

Planning holiday to Sri Lanka in April? Sri Lanka, a tropical paradise island situated just a few scores of kilometers from the southern tip of India. Place of lush nature, rich culture, and history which goes back several millennia.

Just like almost any other place in the world, your visit to Sri Lanka, and experience of it, is influenced by weather and its seasons.

Some times of the year offer a more pleasant experience in some parts of the country. While in other parts of the country you might be absolutely miserable during the same part of the year, just like visiting Scottish highlands in November or Rome in August.

Sri Lanka’s weather is influenced through the year by both northeastern and southwestern monsoons.

Between the middle of April till September southwestern monsoon, also known as Yala, is bringing heavy rains to the southern shore and highlands of central Sri Lanka.

From November to March the northeastern monsoon called Maha is bringing wet weather to the northeastern coast and inland area. Some years this monsoon exerts its influence on the northeast coast even in April.

So, if you are planning to visit Sri Lanka in April, what regions and placer are offering the most pleasant experience? In short, the Cultural Triangle.

The central region encompassing three historic capital cities, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Kandy; where some of the oldest and most important cultural monuments of the Sinhala civilization are located.

But some other areas are also worth visiting during this time of the year.

Without further ado here is the list of five best places to visit in Sri Lanka in April.

5 Best Places To Visit in Sri Lanka in April 2021

Yala national park.

Yala is one of the two oldest and the largest national park in Sri Lanka. Very popular among visitors to the island, and has a tendency to get a bit overcrowded during the months of December, January, July, August, and September.

But April is arguably the best month to visit it and enjoy the rich wildlife of this national park with low crowds and pleasant weather.

Suggested Tour: 5 Days Sri Lanka Tour Packages

Anuradhapura

The ancient city that was the capital of Sinhalese Kingdom from the 4th century BC until the 11th century AD.

Today it is one of the eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Sri Lanka. With archeological evidence showing continuous habitation since the 10th century BC.

Suggested Read: Sri Lanka Tour Packages from Bangladesh

The city is best known for the Golden Temple of Dambulla, a Buddhist cave temple complex dating back to the 1st century BC.

It is also known for the Ibbankatuwa prehistoric graves from 7th century BC, which is the evidence of the existence of developed civilization on the island long before the arrival of Buddhism to Sri Lanka.

Near the city of Dambulla is the ancient fortress of Sigiriya. The citadel built on top of a 200 meters high rock which dominates the plains that surround it, was built in the 5th century AD.

The citadel and rock are surrounded by monumental gardens, that feature water pools and fountains supplied with water by underground channels, of which many are still functional.

Suggested Read: Sri Lanka in February: 5 Best Places to Visit

Polonnaruwa

The ancient city that was established as a capital by the Chola dynasty in the 10th century AD, at the start of a period during which Hinduism flourished in Sri Lanka.

Built on arid plains, the city is surrounded by many man-made reservoirs, of which the most magnificent is Parakrama Samudra. This shallow reservoir, which name means the Sea of King Parakrama, is a system of five interconnected reservoirs.

Oldest of them is the Topa Wewa, which was built in the late 4th century AD.

Today, besides their original function of supplying water for paddy fields during the dry season, these reservoirs provide feeding and watering grounds for wild elephants inhabiting northwestern parts of Sri Lanka.

Wilpattu National Park

Along with the Yala National Park, Wilpattu is one of the two oldest national parks in Sri Lanka, and the second-largest per area. It got its name from more than a hundred lakes (willu) which are located in it.

It is home to many endemic species of flora and fauna, it is one of the places every nature lover must visit at least once in their lifetime. Check our guide on how to get from Colombo airport to Wilpattu National Park.

When visiting a country any traveler must be aware of the weather patterns and its local peculiarities when planning their itinerary. Or to consult an expert. If they wish to spend their trip in as pleasant as possible atmosphere of exploring new places and relaxation.

Contact T2 Travels Sri Lanka to arrange your holiday in Sri Lanka in April.

About the Author: Editorial Staff

Sri Lanka Travel Guide: a 3-week travel itinerary

Sri Lanka has to be one of the greatest travel destinations of all time, a beautiful tropical island in the middle of the warm Indian ocean waters. Three weeks is an ideal length for a Sri Lanka route, as you cross through the jungle, mountains, tea plantations, and paradise coastline. Start in big metropolitan cities and end your time relaxing on beautiful beaches with a coconut in hand. Everything you could possibly dream of is in this beautiful country with the perfect Sri Lanka route. 

Sri Lanka Route Guide

This 3-week itinerary through Sri Lanka is a day-by-day Sri Lanka route. The island is easy to travel through and can be done by bus, tuk-tuk, motorbike, taxi, or private driver. One of the more popular options is to travel by traditional Sri Lankan train , gaining a wonderful insight into Sri Lankan culture as you fly through beautiful landscapes. 

Use this 3-week route to cover the top things to do in Sri Lanka, and if you have more time, we’ve added some additional options. 

Day 1 – 2: Relaxing in Negombo or Colombo

Start your trip in Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital city. Here you’ll discover a unique mixture of modern and traditional, where towering skyscrapers and luxurious rooftop bars sit next to stunning mosques, traditional houses, and bustling street markets.

After a busy day of sightseeing, head to one of the beautiful parks to relax and see unique tropical plants, trees, and flowers. Alternatively, take a wander down to the city beach, where you can watch locals flying their kites in the coastal breeze or cheering as they score points playing cricket. 

However, Colombo is not the closest city to the airport. For more convenience, head to Negombo, a laid-back town that’s right next to the airport.

Where to Stay in Negombo

Negombo is a great place to stay for cheaper accommodation with swimming pools where you can relax and unwind after the flight.

Hotels in Negombo 😴

The beaches are also far more picturesque in this city, so if you’re looking to enjoy coastal relaxation, it’s a better choice to begin your trip.

Day 3: Sightseeing in Kandy

Kandy is Sri Lanka’s second-largest city and one of the most beautiful you’ll find in all of Sri Lanka . Discover the old colonial buildings that line the edges of a vast lake in the center, keeping an eye out for exciting wildlife and unique plants. Plus, the buzzing streets filled with coconut sellers and stalls are just a stone’s throw away from this fantastic nature. 

To get from Colombo or Negombo to Kandy you have three options, the bus, train, or a taxi. Looking for a Sri Lankan driver? Contact our friend Indi on Whatsapp (+94777644144) .

Don’t forget to pay a visit to the Royal Botanical Gardens, a fantastic tranquil wilderness in the city full of a diverse range of plants, trees, and flowers. As you look around, you’ll notice that the mountains and tropical rainforests are never far away! It’s this proximity that makes Kandy a great jumping-off point for day trips.

Read : 9 Things to do in Kandy

Where to Stay in Kandy

Kandy offers a good selection of affordable hostels and hotels to suit every kind of traveler.

Hostels in Kandy 😴

We recommend staying in the city center to explore everything easily. Alternatively, choose to stay up in the hills for ultimate tranquility.

Day 4: Sigiriya

Lion Rock in Sigiriya is one of the country’s most famous landmarks. The enormous natural formation sticks out of the flat landscape, towering above forests and grasslands filled with elephants. On top of the 200-meter square-shaped rock, you’ll find the remains of an ancient palace and gardens and many rock drawings along the way. Additionally, Lion Rock is one of the eight UNESCO World Heritage sites in Sri Lanka, which is another reason to add it to your Sri Lanka route!

Alternatively, visit Pidurangula Rock , Lion Rock’s nearby little sibling. This rock may be smaller, but it provides a better view as it looks directly onto Lion Rock. There’s also a cheaper entrance fee too! 

If you have time to stay a few nights in Sigiriya, we recommend relaxing in one of the many beautiful hotels in nature, hiking the rocks, or going on an elephant safari in the flat valley. To get there, hire a driver or look for a shuttle bus (a 3-hour drive from Kandy).

Read: Climb the World-Famous Sigiriya Lion Rock

Where to Stay in Sigiriya

Most of the accommodation in Sigiriya is a bit higher in price. However, it does allow you to enjoy and make the most of the incredible scenery in this area.

Hotels in Sigiriya 😴

Tip: Some hotels even have direct views from the rooms of the rocks themselves!

Day 5: Kandy to Ella Train Ride

Head back to Kandy to catch the most beautiful train ride in Sri Lanka . This long train ride is one of the top things to do on any Sri Lanka route, taking you through stunning rolling hilltops, rainforest, and luscious green tea plantations. Hang out the door with the wind in your hair and feel the weather get cooler as you move higher up into the mist and the clouds of the Sri Lanka highlands. Get Kandy Train Tickets here .

Read: Kandy to Ella Train

Day 6 – 7: Nuwara Eliya

The train from Kandy goes all the way to Ella , making a few stops on the way. Get off a little earlier and spend a night in the natural beauty of Nuwara Eliya, an area famous for tea plantations.

Here are all your hotel options in Nuwara Eliya.

It’s especially well known as being home to the Lipton plantation, one of the world’s most famous tea growers and exporters! In fact, the history of colonization here by the English has even affected the architecture, with lots of English-style bungalows dotted through the fields, giving Nuwara Eliya the nickname ‘Little England’.

Read: Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka

Day 8 – 10: Ella

Visit one of the most blissful and natural places in Sri Lanka : Ella. The small town has a laid-back hippy vibe, complemented by the great mountains and hills that tower over the town. Stay in a hilltop guesthouse with incredible views, and use it as a base to climb to Adams Peak, Ella Rock, or the mesmerizing Nine Arch Bridge . When you’re done hiking, head for one of the many picturesque waterfall pools for a refreshing dip.

Ella is one of the most beautiful places in the country and an absolute must-do in Sri Lanka !

Read: Best Things To Do in Ella, Sri Lanka

Where to Stay in Ella

Ella is full of fantastic accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts with swimming pools and beautiful views.

Hotels in Ella 😴

It can be fun to stay in the hillside guesthouses outside of town, where you’ll have great views and easy access to hiking trails.

Day 11 – 13: Arugam Bay

Ready to catch some waves? Arugam Bay is the most famous surfing spot in Sri Lanka . It’s so popular that many surfers make this their home between April and October when the days are sunny and warm, and the waves are great. It’s easy to see why people spend so much time here, with the relaxed way of life, living in a wooden beach hut, surfing, and sunbathing by day, and enjoying all the fantastic bars and restaurants by night. This is where you’ll truly find hammock-swinging and coconut-sipping vibes! 

Read: Things To Do in Arugam Bay

Where to Stay in Arugam Bay

Arugam Bay is all about the beach! As such, most of the accommodations are located along the coastline. Choose from charming beach huts, mid-range guesthouses, or upscale beach resorts.

Hotels in Arugam Bay 😴

Day 14: Go on Safari in Sri Lanka

From Arugam Bay, it’s super easy to take a day trip to Yala National Park for a safari amongst nature. You might even be lucky enough to spot the elusive leopard!

See availability for a safari tour to Yala

Join a tour, jump in a jeep, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime. As you cross over bumpy dirt roads, around lakes, and through bushland, you’ll see vast groups of wild elephants and other animals. There are plenty of national parks to choose from in Sri Lanka , some of the most popular being Udawalawe National Park or Yala National Park . 

Read : Best national parks in Sri Lanka

Day 15 – 16: Mirissa

Head south to the paradise beach town of Mirissa. Take off your shoes and say goodbye to regular life as you slow down and feel the sand between your toes and the waves against your feet. Mirissa isn’t just about the beach, though; there are beautiful coconut tree forests to explore, fascinating tidal islands, and endless great restaurants.

Read: Best Things to do in Mirissa, Sri Lanka

Mirissa is also one of the best places in Sri Lanka to see Whales, which migrate here between November and March. You’ll find the most spectacular sunsets in this part of the country, a winning combination with a sunset whale-watching trip.

Tip: Are you someone always looking for a secret beach? Find your perfect beach on the list of 10 x Best Beaches in Sri Lanka .

Where to Stay in Mirissa

Mirissa is relatively small, so most guesthouses and hotels will be within walking distance of the beach.

Hotels in Mirissa 😴

As with most areas in Sri Lanka , prices are low for accommodation, and you can find beautiful beachside hotels, with views of the ocean, for a lot less than you might expect!

Day 17 – 19: Unawatuna

The Unawatuna area has the most famous beaches in Sri Lanka , known for the white sand, great surfing, lively beach bars, and Instagram-famous palm-tree swings. The town is small, but it has excellent shopping, guesthouses, and trendy restaurants.

It’s also a great jumping-off point to local sights nearby, like Galle Fort , Koggala Lake, or even the bright lights of Colombo! You could quickly lose track of time in this beautiful little beach town, and it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind at the end of your Sri Lanka route.

Read: Awesome Things To Do in Unawatuna

Where to Stay in Unawatuna

Unawatuna is fast becoming one of the most popular destinations in the country. Because of this, expect to pay slightly higher prices for hotels and guesthouses.

Hotels in Sri Lanka 😴

Tip: Hotel Tri is a beautiful hideaway near Unawatuna around Kogalla Lake. The sunrise and sunsets here are one of a kind overlooking the lake and cinnamon plantations.

Day 20+21: Back to Colombo

Finish your trip and stay close to the airport in Colombo.

Here are all your hotel options in Negombo.

If you have a little extra time before your flight, visit Barefoot Handicraft and its fantastic restaurant or tick off some of the sights you may have missed at the beginning of your trip.

Optional Places

Sri Lanka is an absolute heart-stealer, and the likelihood is that you may want to stay for longer than three weeks. If you’re extending your route, there are many more amazing places to visit, especially in the northern part of Sri Lanka (where you’ll find some real hidden gems!). Some of the most popular places to visit on a Sri Lanka route are:

• Trincomalee
• Polonnaruwa

How to Visit Sri Lanka

International flights arrive at Colombo airport (actually closer to Negombo than Colombo).

From here, it’s straightforward to take public transport to your next destination or arrange for a driver to collect you. 

Getting Around in Sri Lanka

Hiring a driver in Sri Lanka is a very popular choice as it’s so reasonably priced. To do so will usually cost about $50 per day, which allows you a lot more flexibility with your itinerary. It also helps you get to the more remote places, which otherwise might be quite tricky. 

We recommend to rent a car in Sri Lanka through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

Contact our friend Indi on Whatsapp (+94777644144) . Make sure to tell him you came via ‘Salt in our Hair’ so you’ll get the best price possible. 

Buses are a very cheap option; it’s just a few dollars for a full day of traveling by bus! Be aware that buses are usually packed full of people, and you will have to stand. Don’t expect air conditioning, but you’ll have the perks of enjoying local TV with Sri Lankan music videos! 

Purchase any transport tickets online here

Taking the train is a must-do in Sri Lanka . The country is home to some of the most beautiful train rides globally and has become renowned worldwide for the experience of hanging out the train door as tea plantations and rolling hills fly by. 

The price for a second-class cabin varies from $1.50 to $4. Sometimes they run out of seats, meaning you have to stand or sit on the floor. But do as the locals do and enjoy this beautiful experience!

Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a year-round destination. There isn’t a perfect period to visit because each side of the island has its own “best time to visit.” which means the sun will always be shining somewhere! ☀️

The dry seasons by month and destination are:

• North – May to September
• Center  – January to April
• South  – December – March

If you choose to visit these areas in the rainy season, you can still have a really enjoyable time. Prices will be lower, there will be fewer people, and nature will be particularly luscious. However, be aware that the rains can bring rough waves to the coast, causing the beaches to get pretty dirty and unusable at this time.

Sri Lanka Visa

You need a Sri Lanka visa to be allowed into the country. Luckily, arranging a visa isn’t difficult at all. All you need to do is make sure your passport is valid for at least six months. You can select several options for your visa for Sri Lanka , depending on how long you are planning to stay and for what reason you are visiting the country.

Online Visa, Sri Lanka

The first option is to apply for your Sri Lanka visa online . It’s wise to apply at least a few days before your arrival. Usually, the applications are approved within a few hours, and you will receive your ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation). The 30-day tourist visa will cost you $35.

Order online: Get your visa easily here!

Visa on Arrival

Even if you have not applied for ETA can get a Visa on Arrival on arrival for Sri Lanka . There is a counter at the airport in Colombo where you can go. However, you will pay $5 extra, and there are generally long queues. For this reason, we recommend applying for your visa online ahead of time.

How Much Does Sri Lanka Cost?

In Sri Lanka , payment is made in the Sri Lankan Rupee (not the same as the Indian Rupee). Currently, $1 is equal to 2 Sri Lanka Rupees. Generally, Sri Lanka is a cheap place to travel in, especially in the more remote locations like the North or the center.

A variety of accommodations is on offer, from budget guesthouses to the more luxurious beachside hotels. Plus, wherever you go, you can always find cheap and delicious food, either sold on the street or in small restaurants (a bowl of local rice and curry typically costs about $1-3 USD!).

Costs of Traveling in Sri Lanka

Travel on a budget in Sri Lanka, from $190 − $410 USD weekly per person, mid-range $530 − $960 USD, and high-end from $920 − $1250 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $10 − $30 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $10 − $20 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $2 − $50 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $50 − $80 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $10 − $30 USD
• Activities: $2 − $30 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Vaccinations Sri Lanka

Whatever the length of your trip is, it’s recommended to get two vaccines:

• DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Polio)
• Hepatitis A

Staying away for several months? Then you probably should get vaccinations against Hepatitis B and rabies. There is no Malaria risk in Sri Lanka.

Travel Insurance Don't forget a travel insurance for your Sri Lanka trip! Heymondo covers medical emergencies, theft, delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more, with 24/7 worldwide assistance and medical chat. As a Salt in our Hair reader, we've got you 5% off! Check Heymondo here

By purchasing through our links, you support us at no additional cost. Thank you for your support. ♥️

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10 Best Beaches in Sri Lanka

Best places to visit in nuwara eliya, 9 unmissable things to do in unawatuna, sri lanka.

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Wow, what a fantastic resource for planning my upcoming trip to Sri Lanka! Your detailed route guide is exactly what I needed to map out my itinerary and make the most of my time on this beautiful island.

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Sri Lanka in April 2024 – Is April a good time to Visit Sri Lanka?

Rightly called as the pearl of the Indian Ocean, this place is a diverse mix of beauty and serenity in its atmosphere. A mix of road, rail and air trips through Sri Lanka gives a whole new dimension of completeness a traveler expects out of a trip. Visiting Sri Lanka anytime between December to April is considered ideal. And if you are a summer lover, visiting Sri Lanka in April could be the best thing you could do for yourself. Let us unwrap Sri Lanka the right way to get the best out of it.

Weather in Sri Lanka in April

Sri Lanka experiences summer in April and a Sri Lanka trip in April will help you explore the best beach life. Surrounded by water, this country is a home to various beaches but take along sunscreen to save yourself from tans. The temperature in Sri Lanka in April is above 30 degree celsius. Taking along breathable, comfortable to wear outfits will become your travel partner and join you in all your adventures. Sri Lanka experiences hot weather along the coast but is much cooler at hill stations.

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5* Properties. Pristine Beaches. Exciting Itineraries

Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka in April

A flight from India would take you to the entrance of the Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo. Exploring this city would reveal the flavour of Sri Lanka in every aspect. Colombo stands to be a comfortable ‘explore in one day city’. Opting for local tuk-tuks would be a great idea as this allows flexibility and turns out to be cost efficient on bargain. There are various places to explore like the Gangaramaya Buddhist temple, Seema Malaka temple, Dehiwala zoo and Galle face green. There are a number of food stops which allows you to enjoy the World of Sri Lanka and the taste of its food along with the hospitality of its hosts.

Also read: Things to do in Sri Lanka

Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple

This is one of the important temples in Colombo and is an eclectic combination of Sri Lanka’s culture in Modern tradition. This temple also happens to be a learning centre apart from being a place of Worship. This is one of the not to miss places while you visit Sri Lanka in April.

Seema Malaka Temple

This temple happens to be a part of the Gangaramaya temple in Colombo and is a mostly reached out place to meditate and is less seen as a worship centre. And if you are looking for a sane environment allowing your inner voices to speak, visiting this place on your trip to Sri Lanka in April would be a perfect decision.

Dehiwala Zoo

This Zoological garden is a home to various fauna and flora of the country. This zoo also exhibits animals and if you are someone who loves connecting to wildlife, you should not miss this place. This is one of the oldest zoos in Asia and the elephant show is the most adored exhibit of all.

Also read: Reasons to visit Sri Lanka

Galle face green

This 5-hectare wide spread urban park is best to visit in the evenings. Located at the heart of Colombo, this place gives chill breezes all you will need on your trip to Sri Lanka in April as it is located on the ocean-side. This park is visited by everyone – children, vendors, teenagers, kite-flyers and elderly people. Best suited for an evening chill out. Check the Best time to visit Sri lanka .

This place calls itself the cultural capital of Sri Lanka and it would become a sin not to enjoy its climate. The taste of Buddhism is around every corner of Kandy. Kandy might be the best place to purchase goodies as this would truly help you take home the real essence of Sri Lanka.

Also Read: Budget Sri Lanka tour

Tooth Relic Temple

A fallen tooth has always been a childhood fantasy to every kid and now they grow to embellish their childhood by visiting the Tooth relic temple. Also known as Sri Dalada Maligawa, this place has a rich mix of architecture and culture and is a must visit in Sri Lanka in April.

Other places to visit include The Kandy lake, historic three temple loop of Kandy and the flavourful coconut savoured dishes make it a worthwhile idea being at Kandy. Visiting the Royal Botanical garden should be considered only if you have enough time to admire nature’s art. This place is best enjoyed during summer due to its climate. We are here to customize your Sri lanka honeymoon packages and make your journey a memorable one.

3. Nuwara Eliya

A peaceful train travel amidst nature would freeze every traveler with awe and melt them with the love for nature. This travel remarkably becomes the best thing to do in Sri Lanka in April. Little England might sound a foreign word but the homage it has to vegetation is heartwarming. Nuwara Eliya is studded with numerous tea gardens.

Also Read: Tea estates in Nuwara Eliya

Things to do in Nuwara Eliya

• Boating at Gregory lake.
• Visiting the Victoria Park
• Visiting the Lovers leap and Hakgala garden would add in more colours to your nature-visit itineraries.
• With multiple tea outlets around every corner, purchasing the best flavours of tea from here would help you with ideal detox anytime in the near future.

4. Visiting the Bentota beach

Early morning, beaches and turtle walks will just give you that fancy beach mood to vibe at. Light blue sky reflecting over clear waters makes it appear cool everywhere. With Kosgoda turtle hatchery being just 10km away, this place also could definitely make it into the itinerary.

Is April a good time to visit Sri Lanka?

With Summer vibes already hitting on the country, visiting Sri Lanka in April could be the best idea which is further justified by the celebration of Sinhalese New Year and Easter which is celebrated around every corner in Sri Lanka. Hence visiting Sri Lanka in the month of April could be a best choice.

Also read: A 5-day Sri Lankan itinerary

For best Sri Lanka tour packages , visit the Pickyourtrail website where you can either choose from our packages or customise your own itinerary and unwrap Sri Lanka in your favourite way!

Aiswarya Giridharan

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The 14 Items You Need for Any Active Trip, From Someone Who Hiked, Biked, and Kayaked for a Week in Sri Lanka

Don't forget to pack any of these travel essentials.

If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Travel + Leisure / Madison Woiten

As an avid traveler and outdoor enthusiast, I’m always looking for destinations that have a lot of opportunities to be active. Hiking, biking, kayaking, rafting, scuba diving — I do it all and I love it all. So, when I heard that Intrepid Travel was offering a hiking, biking, kayaking Sri Lanka trip, I signed up immediately, and quickly started putting together a packing list . 

Since each activity required its own gear, I had to put a lot of thought into what I brought on the three-week-long adventure. And, because I’d prefer to not be hauling around multiple massive suitcases, I always travel light with items that work well across multiple activities — say, leggings that are great for both hiking and biking , a poolside cover-up that doubles as an everyday shirt or dress, and hiking sneakers that could be worn from the trail to the city streets . I also had to take Sri Lanka's wonderfully warm climate into account (luckily, I was visiting during the dry season, but I knew rain was still possible); this meant that I'd need clothing that was moisture-wicking, cooling, and quick-drying . 

Whether you’re heading to Mexico, Morocco, or Machu Picchu (or you’re lucky enough to visit Sri Lanka), here’s what you’ll need for your next active trip this spring or summer. This foolproof packing list will keep you comfortable, dry, and safe on the trails, roads, and rivers so you can focus on having fun. 

Arc’Teryx Women’s Beta LT Jacket

I will be the first to admit that this is one crazy expensive jacket, but having worn it on hundreds of miles of hikes over the past year, I’ll add that it is 100 percent worth the price. The beauty of this jacket is that it is ultralight and breathable, so you can wear it during hot and humid hikes in Sri Lanka (which I did). But, it comes equally in handy for cold-weather hikes and snowshoe treks in Yellowstone (which I also did) when layered over fleece. Instead of stuffing your closets with multiple jackets to wear at different times of year, you just need this one awesome jacket. 

Typically, the more waterproof a jacket is, the heavier and less breathable it is, but Arc’Teryx has managed to make this insanely lightweight jacket 100 percent waterproof, which is why the price is higher than lesser-quality jackets. This way, you stay dry without totally overheating and sweating. Water-resistant is not the same as waterproof, and I was very grateful that this jacket is fully waterproof , as it got me through several rainy days in Sri Lanka in February and also a wet and wild 96-mile hike in the Scottish Highlands last summer. I also used it for biking, kayaking, rafting, and walking around town. It might not ever need to buy another jacket again — it’s that good.

Matador Beast 18 Technical Pack

Though the pack is called “technical” — and this definitely is a technical pack — don’t let the name fool you; you don’t have to be a super technical hiker trekking through the backwoods to appreciate this pack. Yes, it has all of the convenient features that you need for a hiking pack, such as plenty of pockets, water bottle sleeves, and straps to attach your hiking poles, but this also shines as a good everyday pack. I do use it for hiking, but I’ve also used it for biking since it also doubles as an excellent day bag. I wore it nearly every single day during my three weeks in Sri Lanka while touring cities and hauling my stuff to the beaches along the southern coast. 

What's more, the bag has a waterproof coating, it’s super light, and it folds down when it's not in use, so you can seamlessly fit it into your luggage and then whip it out when you arrive (I also sometimes use it as my carry-on bag to save even more suitcase space).

Smartwool Classic All-season Merino T-shirt

Merino wool is great because it is soft, durable, comfortable and it can be worn in any temperature or season. It wicks away moisture and dries quickly, which keeps you dry and cool in the summer and dry and warm in the winter. I’ve worn this shirt on hot and sweaty hikes in Tucson and Mesa, Arizona, and through chilly fall hikes in New York’s Adirondacks. This shirt was easy to wash in a hotel sink and it dried super fast, so I was able to wash and re-wear it several times in Sri Lanka.

Not all wool is ethically or sustainably sourced, so I appreciate that Smartwool uses ZQ-certified wool to ensure responsible sourcing. I also love that Smartwool is one of few outdoor brands that has truly inclusive sizing, with many of their tops and bottoms going up to a 4XL.

Cassandra Brooklyn

Smartwool Active Women’s Leggings

The name of this product perfectly describes it, as these are leggings made of wool and intended for active women. Hello, that’s me! I’ve been wearing these leggings for about a year and a half and they’ve gone all over the world with me while hiking, biking, kayaking, dancing, relaxing, and even lounging on river cruises. Like the previously mentioned Smartwool T-shirt, these leggings are also made from high-tech wool to keep you cool, wick away moisture, and dry quickly. They can also be worn year-round, regardless of the weather or temperature. 

The side drop-in pockets are perfect for holding your phone or hotel key card, and there’s also a hidden interior waist pocket where you can hide money and credit cards. Though these are designed for “active” activities, because they are slim-fitted, pretty, and available in solid colors (I have the all-black pair), they can easily be worn with a cute top for going out to dinner or walking around town. This way, I can get multiple uses out of a single pair of pants, which is also easy to rewash in the sink and hang dry overnight to rewear the next day.

Outdoor Vitals Altitude Sun Hoodie

I got this lightweight, long-sleeve “sun hoodie” two years ago for a two-week-long summer rafting trip in the Grand Canyon, and it’s still one of my favorite tops for all sorts of adventure travel. Not only is the sweatshirt rated to protect your skin against high-altitude sun, but thanks to the hood, it provides protection for your ears and neck — two areas that often get a ton of sun exposure but less attention when it comes to sunscreen application. The shirt is so light that it almost feels like wearing nothing and it dries super quickly, so it was my go-to for kayaking in Sri Lanka. I also wore it for a 25-mile bike ride through tea plantations and as a cover-up while reading at the beach.

OtterBox Symmetry Series Phone Case

When you're always on the move, you need to make sure that every part of your travel repertoire is durable — even your phone case. I prefer sleek, thin cases that offer an extra layer of defense should my phone fall out of my pocket while I'm hiking or biking, which is why I'm a fan of OtterBox's stylishly protective Symmetry cases. They provide excellent drop protection, are compatible with MagSafe charging pads, and come in a ton of fun colors and prints. 

The cases have raised edges to help protect the camera, but I also use this OtterBox antimicrobial screen protector for even more coverage. This combo worked well for me on the Sri Lanka trip (and for everyday life in New York City) because the case is thin enough to fit in my hip pouch and prevents scratches, cracks, and other drop-related damage. If you need even more protection, opt for the OtterBox Defender case , which is a bit thicker and even more rugged.

Darn Tough Lightweight Hiking Socks

Even in the best hiking shoes or boots, your feet can get sweaty and prone to blisters if you’re not wearing good socks. While you certainly can hike in the everyday cotton socks that many of us wear at home, they don’t breathe or have grip, so your feet may sweat and slide around in your shoes. Darn Tough socks are super comfortable, ultra-lightweight, made in the USA. and they come in various weights, colors, prints, and styles (no-show, ankle, crew, and knee-high). For this trip, I wore the low-cut version for cycling and walking around town, and the crew version when hiking to offer a bit more protection from plants and bugs.

Sawyer Stay-Put Sunscreen and Insect Repellent

Speaking of bugs, this two-for-one deal ensures that your insect repellent and SPF needs are covered. It’s important to wear sunscreen on vacation regardless of where you go and what you do, but it’s especially important when you’ll be active outside in the sun for many hours. Even some of the best everyday sunscreens don’t cut it when you’re hiking, biking, and kayaking because they might sweat off before you’ve even gotten started. I love the Sawyer Stay-Put Sunscreen because it does just that — it stays put . 

I have sensitive skin, so I always apply a fancy-pants facial sunscreen from my aesthetician in the morning. But when I’m traveling, I often wind up re-applying later in the day with Sawyer's Stay-Put formula so I’m not carrying around multiple types of sunscreen during the day. I’m happy to report that I’ve never had issues with my skin breaking out as a result. This combo bundle also includes their picaridin insect repellent, which I also love because it is safer and more effective than the gross-smelling DEET sprays and lotions a lot of us grew up with. I didn’t actually encounter many mosquitos in Sri Lanka, but I was still glad to have repellent with me.

Altra Lone Peak 8 Trail Running Shoes

Hands down, these are my favorite shoes in the world. Technically, they are trail running shoes, but I never run; I only use them for walking and hiking. This is the newest version of the shoe, which I started wearing a few months ago, but I’ve worn an earlier version of this shoe nearly every day for the last two years. The extra-wide toe boxes and sticky soles make them super comfy and provide a non-slip grip that was perfect for the dry, wet, and rocky trails in Sri Lanka. I also wore them for walking around the streets of capital city Colombo and while visiting tea plantations and spice gardens. Depending on the trip, these could easily be the only shoes that you'll need to pack. 

Keen Rose Active Sandals

Even though this was an active trip, I didn’t want my feet to be stuck in hiking shoes every day, so I also brought my trusty Keen hiking sandals. Keen is known for making really rugged hiking boots, shoes, and sandals that offer great grip, comfort, and support, and I love these sandals because they’re a bit softer, lighter, and prettier than traditional hiking sandals. While I do wear them for light hiking, I especially love them on multi-activity trips because they’re cute enough to be worn with dresses, skirts, or leggings and blouses. In Sri Lanka, I wore them to hike up Mini Adam’s Peak in the tea town of Ella, to visit Buddhist temples in Kandy, and during my tuk tuk tour in Colombo.

Hydro Flask Lightweight Trail Series Water Bottle

This has been my main go-to water bottle for the last two years because it’s ultra-rugged and insulated, but also impressively lightweight. While an insulated water bottle wasn’t completely necessary for this trip, I loved carrying it with me because it was more refreshing to drink cool water during a 90-degree bike ride than it was to drink stale water that had been heating up in plastic all day. I usually stuff the bottle into the side pocket of my daypack, but because it has a sturdy handle, I used a carabiner to clip it onto my kayak or raft. And while I mostly filled this bottle with cool water for hiking, biking, kayaking, beach-going, and walking tours in Sri Lanka, I filled it with hot tea for my long-haul flights to-from the country. This bottle is not cheap, but it lasts forever (I’ve literally taken it on hundreds of miles of hikes).

Grayl GeoPress Water Filter Bottle

I refuse to buy bottled water anywhere in the world because the discarded bottles are devastating to the environment, particularly in countries that lack adequate recycling facilities. I haven’t bought bottled water in over six years, and that’s precisely because I always carry this Grayl GeoPress Water Filter Bottle with me. I’ve used it to filter and drink water from rivers, streams, lakes, and waterfalls around the world, and I also used it to filter the water in my hotels in Sri Lanka. There are newer models of the Grayl filter available, but this is the one that I use; it’s fantastic with its convenient drinking spout. I usually use it to filter the water and then pour it into my insulated canteen to carry during the day.

Bajío Eldora Sunglasses

I have a few pairs of sunglasses on rotation, but for active trips, I always opt for higher-end polarized frames like these sunnies from Bajío. Why? Because they are more comfortable, they block out more sun, and they stay put on my face without adding a ton of extra weight or making me overheat. Polarized glasses are designed for people who spend a lot of time outside, especially doing activities around water and snow, which produce a lot of glare. While I’ve worn these glasses on plenty of snow hikes in Wyoming, Wisconsin, and upstate New York, they also worked beautifully for hiking, biking, and kayaking in Sri Lanka. 

They were especially important for the kayaking trip and a separate whale watching boat tour that I did because the sun’s glare off the water was so intense. I’m also a big fan of Bajío sunglasses because there are hundreds of combinations of frames and lenses. The brand also offers unique frame shapes and pretty frame and lens colors — like these stylish hot pink frames with bright blue, pink, or purple polarized lenses. 

Catherine Dress Mini Cover-up

Even though the focus of my trip to Sri Lanka was hiking, biking, and kayaking, I also spent a couple of nights at the beach and there were great pools at a lot of the hotels. Swimsuit cover-ups are handy anywhere in the world, but they are especially important in more conservative countries like Sri Lanka, where it’s not exactly polite to run around with your butt hanging out. Do some travelers do it? Yes. Do the locals appreciate it? No. I love this cover-up dress by Catherine because it works as a swimsuit cover-up at the pool and beach, but it also doubles as a cute top when paired with jeans (or my aforementioned Smartwool leggings).   

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Update April 12, 2024

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Travel Advisory September 5, 2023

Sri lanka - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued after periodic review with updates to protest information. 

Exercise increased caution in Sri Lanka due to civil unrest , and terrorism.

Country Summary: Protests over the economic and political situation in Sri Lanka could erupt at any time. In some instances, police have used water cannons and tear gas to disperse protesters. U.S. citizens are reminded to avoid all gatherings, even peaceful ones, that could turn violent with little or no warning.

Terrorist attacks have occurred in Sri Lanka, with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, hospitals, and other public areas.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in remote areas. 

 Read the  country information page . 

 If you decide to travel to Sri Lanka: 

• Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues. 
• Follow the instructions of local authorities. 
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information. 
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds. 
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. 
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter . 
• Review the  Crime and Safety Report  for Sri Lanka. 
• U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. 
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel. 

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Must be valid for six months from expected date of departure from Sri Lanka.

One page required for entry stamp. 

Yellow fever vaccine is required for individuals above nine months of age who are traveling to Sri Lanka from a country designated by the World Health Organization (WHO) to have a risk of yellow fever transmission, including transit more than 12 hours in an airport located in such a country. For more information, please refer to WHO .

Foreign currency over USD 15,000 must be declared.

If exiting with foreign currency over USD 5,000, the full amount brought in or acquired in Sri Lanka must be declared.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy colombo.

210 Galle Road, Colombo 03, Sri Lanka Telephone: +(94) (11) 202-8500 Fax: +(94) (11) 202-7345 Email:  [email protected]

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Sri Lanka for information on U.S.- Sri Lanka relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

U.S. citizens visiting Sri Lanka must have either an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) or a visa to enter Sri Lanka. 

U.S. citizens intending to visit Sri Lanka for purposes of tourism or transit require an approval notice from Sri Lanka’s Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) System), onward/return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds. The ETA system is available online or at the port of entry; however, visitors are strongly urged to use the online system to avoid lengthy delays at the port of entry. This travel authorization allows entry for up to 30 days.  

U.S. citizens intending to visit Sri Lanka for short-term business activities such as participating in business meetings, engaging in business negotiations, or attending conferences and workshops are required to obtain a business ETA. Business ETAs are not available online. Business travelers must obtain travel authorization either from the nearest Sri Lankan Embassy or Consulate before arrival in Sri Lanka, or at the port of entry in Sri Lanka.

U.S. citizens intending to visit Sri Lanka for religious or volunteer work or for local employment must obtain entry visas from the nearest Sri Lankan Embassy or Consulate before arrival in Sri Lanka. These visas are not available at the port of entry or through the online system.

All visitors staying beyond the expiration date of their visa must obtain a visa extension from the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo and pay the relevant visa fees.

Specific inquiries regarding entry and exit requirements should be addressed to the  Embassy of Sri Lanka , 3025 Whitehaven Street NW, Washington DC 20008, telephone (202) 483-4025, fax (202) 232- 2329. Contact the Sri Lankan Embassy by  e-mail ; the Sri Lankan Consulate General in Los Angeles at 3250 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 2180, Los Angeles, CA 90010, telephone (213) 387-0210; or the  Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka to the United Nations  in New York City, 820 Second Avenue, 2 nd Floor, New York, NY 10017, telephone (212) 986-7040, fax (212) 986 1838. There are several honorary Sri Lankan consuls general and consuls in the United States. Visit the  Embassy of Sri Lanka website  for current visa information.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Sri Lanka. 

Safety and Security

Terrorism: Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to target crowds more effectively. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

The last terrorist attack in Sri Lanka occurred on April 19, 2019, when terrorists carried out coordinated bombings of hotels and churches in Colombo and Batticaloa, killing more than 250 people and injuring more than 500 more. The terrorists were Sri Lankan nationals associated with the Islamic groups National Thowheeth Jama’ath Millathu Ibraheem. Authorities believe the perpetrators of the attack are dead or have been captured. Many hotels and shopping areas increased their physical security presence in response to the bombings and security screenings of guests and bags has become standard in many locations.

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Most crimes against U.S. citizens continue to be petty crime and crimes of opportunity (e.g., pickpocketing, hotel room thefts, and fraud). There is some organized criminal activity, which can involve drug-related crimes and gang-on-gang violence, but these events do not tend to involve foreign travelers.

There are occasional reports of credit card fraud. Authorities have arrested foreign nationals and organized groups for complicity in financial crimes. Avoid situations where your card is removed from your view. There have been reports of employees at reputable businesses (e.g., restaurants or chain grocery stores) wearing data skimming devices in their clothing and scanning a victim’s credit card or using other methods to steal credit card information. ATM skimming is also a threat. If you use an ATM, be on the lookout for skimming devices. Cover keypads with your hand.

Street hustlers are common around popular hotels, shopping areas, and other tourist sites. There are occasional reports of snatch and grab theft of purses or jewelry owned by tourists, but no recent reports of armed robberies.  Beware of tuk-tuk or taxi drivers offering “special” tours or access to festivals or gem shops. This common scam often results in tourists being heavily pressured to buy “gems” that are either cut glass or are worth much less than the price being asked.

Likely due to Sri Lanka’s economic situation, there is a scam in which a tuk-tuk driver charges your ride using an app on their phone, claiming the meter is broken. When you get close to the destination, the phone either slips down or the app closes, and they charge a much higher amount than the routine cost. If a tuk-tuk does not have a meter, agree on a price before beginning the ride, and try to have the correct amount of cash so you do not need change.

Surf schools are known to run scams where they claim renters damaged their boards and demand exorbitant prices to repair the damage. Examine and take pictures of your surfboard before taking it into the water.

Sexual harassment is pervasive. Both foreigners and locals, more commonly women, report instances of cat calls and physical harassment (grabbing of body parts) while in crowded areas and/or public transportation.

Demonstrations  occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
• Past demonstrations have turned violent. Police may deploy water cannons and/or tear gas in response to violent protests.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

In general, demonstrations in Sri Lanka are peaceful, resulting only in traffic congestion. However, some have ended in violence between the protestors and police or opposition groups. Demonstrations can involve confrontations with police, resulting in the use of water cannons and tear gas to disperse crowds. Large political rallies are common. These rallies are generally peaceful but can disrupt traffic.

International Financial Scams: See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.

Internet romance and financial scams occasionally occur in Sri Lanka. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited text messages and WhatsApp messages. Common scams include:

• Romance/Online dating 
• Contracts with promises of large commissions 
• Work permits/job offers

Tips to avoid scammers:

• Look for red flags like their location is far away, their profile was recently created or seems too good to be true, the pace of the relationship is moving too quickly, or they ask for money.
• Set up a phone call/video chat in the initial stages.
• Do a reverse image search on the profile picture.
• If they ask for help, you should refer them to the closest U.S embassy or consulate so we can assist them.

Be cautious of using dating apps/online dating websites abroad as U.S. citizens can be targeted by scammers. Make sure to inform your friends and family of your whereabouts, meet at a well-known public location, and do not consume suspicious food or drinks. Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs.

Technology Usage Abroad: Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and physical damage anywhere in the world. Best practices prior to traveling abroad are keeping all software (operating system and apps) updated, and use virtual private network and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications if possible. Make sure that all VPN/VoIP are reputable, and U.S. based. Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi.

Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact both the tourist police (hotline: 1912 or 011-242-1451) and the U.S. Embassy (011-202-8500) for assistance. Report crimes to both the tourist police and the U.S. Embassy. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care ;
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police;
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent;
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation  and following its conclusion;
• Provide a list of local attorneys ;
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S. ;
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution;
• Help arrange flights home; and
• Replace a stolen or lost passport .

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. If you break local laws in Sri Lanka, your U.S. passport will not help you avoid arrest or prosecution. It’s very important to know what is legal and what is not where you travel. 

In places like military checkpoints, you may be taken in for questioning if you do not have your passport with you. When arriving in Sri Lanka, ensure your luggage does not contain prohibited or restricted items, such as weapons, ammunition, explosives, gold, narcotics, and pornography. In some places, it is illegal to take pictures of certain buildings.

Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Sri Lanka are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Under the Cultural Prosperity Act and the Antiques Ordinance, the unlicensed export of antiques from the country is considered a criminal act.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask the police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods:  Counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries and they may be illegal according to the local laws. Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. You may be subject to fines and/or have to give up counterfeit and pirated goods if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website and U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Special Circumstance : Sri Lanka recognizes limited  dual nationality . For further information, please contact the Sri Lankan Embassy in Washington, D.C., the Consulate General in Los Angeles, or the Sri Lankan Mission to the United Nations in New York City.

The Sri Lankan police and military maintain several checkpoints throughout the country. U.S. citizens are advised to always carry identification such as their passports with them while in Sri Lanka. Photography is prohibited in designated high security zones and near many government facilities such as offices and military installations.

U.S. citizens who arrive by yacht or private boat should be aware that all marine harbors are high security zones. Travelers arriving by sea should be prepared for Sri Lankan Navy officials to inspect their vessels and should always wait for radio clearance before coming into port. 

Religious Laws: Tourists should be mindful of restrictions and observances when planning to visit any religious establishment, whether Buddhist or Hindu temples, mosques, churches, or other locations considered sacred by the local population. Posing for a photograph with your back to a statue of Buddha is a serious offense in Sri Lanka, punishable by a fine or arrest. Travelers should also be cognizant of displaying religious imagery, including tattoos of Buddha, while traveling to and transiting within the country, as foreign nationals have been arrested or denied entry to Sri Lanka due to such tattoos.

Faith-Based Travelers: See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports

International Volunteers:

• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

Women Travelers: If you find yourself in a life-threatening situation, you are encouraged to call the tourist police immediately (hotline: 1912 or 011-242-1451) and follow up with a call to the U.S. Embassy (011-202-8500). We can sometimes connect you with a non-governmental organization in Sri Lanka that may be able to provide assistance.  If you are victimized overseas, you may be entitled to receive compensation for counseling and/or other services such as relocation back to the United States. For further information, visit the U.S. Department of Justice's Office on Violence Against Women .

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes committed in Sri Lanka. See our tips for  Women Travelers .

Students: See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

LGBTQI+ Travelers : See our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights Report for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: While in Sri Lanka, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different from what you find in the United States. The Sri Lankan Supreme Court has directed that steps be taken to provide easy access for persons with disabilities to public buildings. Although there are regulations on accessibility in place, lack of wheelchair access in most buildings limits access for people with disabilities. Potholes and sidewalks in poor repair can make movement very difficult. The road network in Sri Lanka is improving, but many roads remain in medium to poor condition. Sidewalks and road crossings in most major towns tend to be congested with vendors, stray dogs, and groups of people loitering on street corners. 

Ambulance Services: For ambulance services in the Sri Lanka, dial 1990.

Ambulance services are widely available, but response times vary, and training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards. Ambulances are typically not staffed with trained paramedics and often have little medical equipment. Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

We highly recommend that all travelers review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Travelers’ Health webpage and general Traveler Advice for Sri Lanka. 

• Review all sub-sections including the Travel Health Notices, Vaccines and Medicines, Non-Vaccine-Preventable Diseases, Stay Healthy and Safe, Healthy Travel Packing List, and After Your Trip.  
• Reasons for Travel (for example: Adventure Travel, Spring Break Travel)  
• Travelers with Special Considerations (for example: Allergies, Long-Term Travelers and Expatriates)  
• General Tips (for example: Traveling with Medications, Travel Vaccines)  

The Department of State, U.S. embassies, and U.S. consulates do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance overseas. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

The Department of State strongly recommends supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Medical Facilities: There are six large hospitals in the Colombo area, including four facilities with emergency medical and trauma service: Asiri Surgical Hospital; Lanka Hospital; Asiri Central Hospital; and the government-run National Hospital of Sri Lanka. Medical facilities outside Colombo are limited. Hospitals and doctors typically require payment “up front” prior to service or admission. The availability of medical supplies is uneven; therefore, travelers should always carry any prescription medications with them. Serious medical conditions can require evacuation to the United States or to a nearby country with more advanced medical facilities, such as Thailand or Singapore. Neither Thailand nor Singapore require U.S. citizens to have entry visas.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Pharmaceuticals: Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescriptions in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments. Please visit U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with Sri Lanka's Ministry of Health to ensure the medication is legal in Sri Lanka.

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

Water Quality: In many areas, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.

Infectious Diseases: Several mosquito-borne diseases, including dengue fever, Chikungunya, and Japanese encephalitis are present in Sri Lanka. Dengue fever, in particular, is widespread in Sri Lanka’s Western Province, where the capital Colombo is located. Adequate mosquito protection is strongly advised to prevent this serious illness.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Recommended vaccines that are specific to this region include Japanese encephalitis and typhoid (and rabies pre-exposure prophylaxis for some travelers).

For additional health information about Sri Lanka, please visit:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: While in Sri Lanka, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. Vehicular traffic in Sri Lanka moves on the left (British style). Traffic in Colombo can be congested. Narrow two-lane highways, overloaded with trucks, poorly driven buses, and a variety of conveyances on the road, ranging from ox carts and bicycles to new four-wheel-drive vehicles, make driving dangerous. Unexpected roadblocks and one-way streets are common and may not be clearly marked. Many visitors hire cars and drivers for long trips through the country. Individuals who choose to hire three-wheeled vehicles (“tuks” or “three wheelers”) should use metered vehicles or negotiate prices beforehand to avoid confrontations upon arrival. If you are renting a vehicle, you should specifically request one with working seatbelts.

Heavy rains sometimes cause flooding which can make roads inaccessible for several days and bring with them the risk of landslides.

GPS Navigation Apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country. Prior to using the GPS app make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe. The GPS navigation app may give you the shortest route without safety considerations.

Public Transportation: While public buses are readily available, the U.S. Embassy does not recommend using them due to safety concerns.

See our Road Safety page for more information. Visit the website of Sri Lanka’s national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight: As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Sri Lanka, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Sri Lanka’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA's safety assessment page.

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Sri Lanka should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings .

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• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

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Home » Asia » Sri Lanka » Sri Lanka Itinerary Trip Planner | Travel Routes for 2024!

Sri Lanka Itinerary Trip Planner | Travel Routes for 2024!

So you’re planning an itinerary for Sri Lanka? That almost feels self-defeating. Both a part of South Asia and an island paradise, time has a certain way of taking its own flow here—locals lovingly refer to it as  ‘Sri Lanka Time’.

But perhaps you’re visiting Sri Lanka for a quick-blast holiday? Or maybe you just want to explore it fully before you kick off to the next grand destination? Either way, it’s good to know exactly where to go in Sri Lanka before you arrive.

Though not as big or as difficult to travel as its bigger brothers further up the subcontinent, you’re still looking at slow transit times and unpredictable occurrences of deeply-structured chaos. That’s why it’s important to be clued in on the ins-and-outs of executing a Sri Lanka itinerary seamlessly.

And that’s exactly why I present to thee a seamless itinerary for Sri Lanka… Two in fact!

Using these travel routes for Sri Lanka (as marked by the varying monsoon seasons), you’re going to see  a lot  of the country! All the best parts in fact, plus some sneaky bonus stops you’re probably not going to find out about anywhere else. I’ll be covering the coolest destinations in Sri Lanka, what to do there, and, of course, the best and brightest places to stay.

In one seamless guide.

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The Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka

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Sri Lanka is an all-year-round destination… in that it’s always raining and always sunny simultaneously somewhere on the island. The pesky alternating monsoon seasons make planning a trip to Sri Lanka a wee bit more complicated. In that sense, Sri Lanka is also a year-round monsoon destination!

• Northeast “Maha” Monsoon (December to February): Over the Christmas holiday period, the north and east take a refreshing shower, Arugam Bay all but shuts down, and the south coast of Sri Lanka is in full tourist swing.
• Inter-Season “Dryboi” Monsoon #1 (March-April): You’ll catch some rains in the southwest quadrant of the island during this period while everywhere else stays mostly dry.
• Southwest “Yala” Monsoon (May-September): This is when Sri Lanka’s south and west coast highlights really start to get soaked. The Yala monsoon period is easily when to go to Sri Lanka’s east coast—spending a surf season “stuck” in Arugam Bay in particular.
• Inter-Season “Sadboi” Monsoon #2 (October-November): It kinda just rains everywhere during this period… a lot. Have fun with that!

Right, so that may look way too complicated, but it’s not so bad. Except for when it really pours, the rains in Sri Lanka are pretty typical Asian-style monsoons: they rarely hang around for more than a couple of hours max. You can still expect frequent catchups with Mr Blue Sky even during the rains.

Realistically, the best time to visit Sri Lanka depends on where you want to go . Keep in mind the rough timing of seasons (and my even rougher attempt to break them down), and you’ll find that crafting a primarily dry itinerary for touring Sri Lanka will be easy. Just avoid the ‘Sadboi’ season; that shit sucks.

Weather in Sri Lanka

Monsoons aside, the climate in Sri Lanka is a much more straightforward ordeal. Expect serious thigh chafing conditions—hot and humid. Sometimes it may be just hot, and sometimes it may just be humid, but it’s probably always going to be at least one of the two.

The exception is in the hill country (central highlands). Up here, things cool off considerably and even get properly cold in the right places. I’d actually go so far as to say it’s my sweet spot; blissful sunny mornings cooled off by drizzles of afternoon mist leading into a full night’s rest snuggled betwixt the blankets.

Check out the table below for some average temperatures in Sri Lanka. I’ve chosen Colombo (Sri Lanka’s west coast capital) and Nuwara Eliya (the balmy capital of the mountainous tea country) to contrast the two distinct climates.

So, before we start the 14-day Sri Lanka itinerary extravaganza, I wanna talk about arrival and Day 0. For any and all backpacking routes in Sri Lanka, you’ll be landing at Sri Lanka’s international airport— Bandaranaike —which is near Colombo but not in Colombo. This is a blessing in disguise.

Colombo is beautiful on the inside… probably. It’s hard to tell because it’s so ugly on the outside. I spent a week here: the only redeemable thing I found was UberEats so I could just stay in my hostel in Colombo .

Instead, I present to you… Negombo!

Negombo is a fine alternative to staying in Colombo’s gridlocked mayhem. It even sounds similar!

Negombo is a whole lot more chill, the beaches are nicer, and it’s closer to the airport. Maybe I sound like a vacuum salesman pitching the newest model, but suck it up, princess! Any and all times you can skip Colombo, do it.

Colombo is yesterday’s soggy street roti disappointing my mouth.

Where to Stay in Negombo:  YoYo Beach Hostel

There are actually two YoYo sister hostels in Negombo—this one and the airport hostel. The YoYo Beach Hostel is aimed more at a party vibe; you can expect to crack open the arrack by night and sleep off the migraine on the beach by day.

The  YoYo Airport Hostel  (which is closer to the airport than the beach) is more setup for one-night stayovers when flying in and out of Sri Lanka. You’ll get quiet vibes and a soundproof room with the option to transfer to the Beach Hostel if you wanna partake in family dinner. Truth be told, they’re both pretty mint places to stay, and you can’t really go wrong with either!

Sri Lanka in Two Weeks: The Breakdown

1. Bandaranaike International Airport 2. Negombo 3. Sigiriya 4. Kandy 5. Ella 6. Yala National Park 7. Mirissa (South Coast Beaches) 8. Galle Fort

December to January is the peak; March and April is a comfortable shoulder season.

1. Looking at Sigiriya Rock 2. The train ride to Ella 3. The hill country

Stop 1: Sigiriya (Days 1-3)

Next up is Sigiriya. You’d be hard-pressed to find a single suggested itinerary for Sri Lanka that didn’t include the majestic wonder of Sigiriya: the ancient rock fortress.

Set in the central, dry, and hot lowlands region, Sigiriya sits inside the Cultural Triangle area (which I’ll cover more in the ‘3-Week Sri Lanka Itinerary’ ). Beneath the hulking behemoth of Lion’s Rock  (AKA Sigiriya), is a relatively sleepy and tourist-lite village (comparatively to Sri Lanka’s other famous places to visit). I actually really dig the town; tourists float in, but it’s not overdone. Plus there are some endearing strange ones kicking around town.

The rock fortress of Sigiriya is the main draw to this area (not to mention one of the most famous tourist attractions in Sri Lanka).  If you’re only in Sri Lanka for 14 days, it’s a must-see thing. Powerful yet humbling, the supposed tomb of the God-King Ravana himself, it’s also mega-touristic and a tough price to swallow for those travelling Sri Lanka on a budget.

There are, however, other options…

You can potentially find a direct bus, but the train runs from either of the  ‘-ombos’  to nearby  Habarana . It’s an easy bus ride or tuk-tuk to Sigiriya from there.

The choice is as follows:

• Pay  $25 , climb Lion’s Rock with a horde of tourists and locals (it’s a very sacred site), and experience the admittedly very impressive ancient fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Or… climb the nearby Pidurangala rock for about  $3  with a smaller swarm of tourists and locals, and watch the sunset (or sunrise) set the hues of Sigiriya ablaze.

Ultimately, the choice is yours, however, I do recommend the latter. And at sunset. Alternatively, just do both!

• Shenadi Restaurant –  Yummy local food at cheap prices—it’s just that simple.
• Rastarant Sigiriya –  The juices are bangin’ and the slackline’s a’ hangin’!

Where to Stay in Sigiriya:  Jungle Vista

The family who runs the hostel are also mega-lovely, can easily organise safaris and tours, and cook up a mean Sri Lankan feed every night. It’s a bit out of Sigiriya town (about 10 km) but absolutely worth the tuk-tuk fare (the family can organise you transport anyway).

Stop 2: Kandy (Days 3-5)

Ok, ok, Kandy… most tourists I meet travelling Sri Lanka are pretty unenthused by Kandy. I can’t necessarily blame them. It’s, admittedly, a bit like chewing bubble gum—fun for a brief period, but the magic quickly wears off.

Yet, still, I like Blandy. It’s a normal but pretty city where normal people do normal boring things. There’s a mall with an ice-cream parlour, a lake for moonlit romantic strolls, and heaps of cheap food around.

If you’re a backpacker, Kandy is similar to Colombo (albeit way more chill and lacking in a proper nightlife); there’s not much reason to go there except to start the unbelievable train journey to Ella. If you’re visiting Sri Lanka for the first time, or on a whirlwind 5 to 7-day itinerary, you can just book a hostel in Kandy , stay a night, rest up, and catch the train right on out the following morning.

Unless you’re lucky enough to score a direct bus, chances are it will be one bus to  Dambulla  (30 mins approx.) followed by another bus to Kandy (hopefully < 3 hours).

Honestly, I scoped a few attractions out, and it really is the kind of city where you’re better off just wandering and seeing what secrets you find. That said…

• Temple of the Tooth –  Easily the most famous thing to see in Kandy, this temple holds a very sacred artefact: the alleged tooth of Lord Buddha himself. Personally, I’d say it’s not really worth the price of entry since you don’t even get to see the tooth, but it’s a mention for the temple-nutters.
• To the Batcave –  This is something special. I’m not sure if it’s seasonal (I visited Kandy in September) but at twilight, the sky fills with a myriad of bats—truly innumerable. Find a high spot in the hills, roll up, and enjoy the show.
• Licenced to Grill –  Delicious puns aside, you get wraps and burgers at mean prices with chips that are really more like wedges (which makes them better).

Where to Stay in Kandy:  Hipsters Hideout Lounge

You know when something is not particularly special, but it just kinda appeals to you. That’s how I feel about Hipster’s Hideout Lounge.

It’s cheap and the walls have got some cool art going on, but it was also pretty quiet every time I visited Kandy. The dorms are basic too—no lockers. That said, I like the vibes, and it’s always my go-to place every time I stay in Kandy.

Inter-Stops: The Kandy to Ella Train

This is why you have to at least pass through Kandy: the train to Ella. The Kandy to Ella train is a must-do thing on any and all Sri Lanka itineraries. It’s not a journey to be missed.

Chances are you’ve already heard of the train ride from Kandy to Ella. If not, you’ve at least seen pictures, even if you don’t know it. Winding train tracks elegantly slice paths through the jungles, tea plantations, and misty slopes of the hill country. It’s one of those types of train journeys where you get to do this:

You don’t have to actually board the train at Kandy. There are stops before and after, and you can even board the train at Colombo. That is a bloody long ride though.

Kandy is about the right distance to Ella (roughly an 8-hour train ride plus the margin-of-error for the Asia effect), and there are a few extra spots you can stop along the way in Sri Lanka’s hill country if you can smush it all into your travel itinerary route. Since we’re already smushing a lot in, I’ll cover the extra places to go in the 3-week itinerary: check the hill country section .

Stop 3: Ella (Days 5-8)

Man, cutting only 4-days from your Sri Lanka itinerary for Ella hardly even seems like enough! Ella is easily my favourite place to go in Sri Lanka: I collectively spent around 2 months there staying it what used to be one of the best hostels in Sri Lanka (R.I.P. and bless).

I wouldn’t suggest staying in Ella town itself. There’s some good food in town, and some souvenir/Goa-lite shopping, but, otherwise, it’s an over-capacity tourist bubble. The real draw of Ella is everything around the bubble.

Smack-bang right in the middle of the emerald sea of the hill country, Ella is surrounded by gorgeous tea plantations, stunning valley panoramas, and plenty of aimless wandering opportunities. If you’re not staying outside town in the fairytale fields of cloud forests and shifting mists, you’re missing out.

From Kandy, I’m only going to tell you to catch the train every time.

• Little Adam’s Peak –  An easy walk with a grand payoff. For people that like eating the cake but don’t wanna bake it.
• Ella Rock –  A more challenging and dynamic hike with, arguably, less viewing payoff. There are heaps of backtracks here making it a fave for anyone that likes exploring. For those that like baking the cake but don’t want to eat it because the calories will ruin their trim walking figure.
• Nine Arches Bridge –  It’s a pretty bridge that the trains runs across with people selling drinking coconuts nearby. I don’t really get it, but it’s mega-touristy and a super popular attraction in Sri Lanka, so I thought I’d be remiss not to mention it.

In Ella itself:

• Matey Hut –  There are some blessed dank eateries in town (shoutout to the nameless roti shop on the south edge of town), however,  Matey Hut serves up high-quality Sri Lankan cuisine in a tourist restaurant setting.
• Cafe Chill –  It’s not really my jam—a proper tourist joint through and through. The prices are high, the food top-notch, and the music is usually on-point too! Along with  Cafe One Love , it’s one of the two main watering holes in town.
• MozarElla –  No matter where you go in the world, you will always find three things: pigeons, pizza, and Australians.

Where to Stay in Ella:  Ella Escapade Hostel by Nomadic

As I said, it’s better to stay  outside  of Ella, and this is a sweet spot. Getting into town itself will take some forethought, however, in the surrounding area of the property, there is heaps to explore.

You’ve also got free breakfast here saving you the trek into town (although walking the train tracks into town is always a blast). Ella Rock is also super close and easy to access. Once you get to Ella town itself and feel how touristy and packed it is, you’ll be glad you booked this peaceful place outta town in the mountains.

Stop 4: Yala National Park (Days 8-10)

We’re heading south towards the beach, but first, stop 4 and a disclaimer! Listen, there are three things nearly all backpackers travelling Sri Lanka will do:

• Go on a safari
• Get an elephant tattoo (probably shortly after the safari)

On point two, Yala is arguably the best place to visit in Sri Lanka in your 14 days of adventuring for a safari; it’s Sri Lanka’s biggest national park . Personally, though, I wouldn’t recommend it.

The animal tourism in Sri Lanka has a less than sterling reputation . Even on my own personal backpacking trip to Sri Lanka, I saw multiple instances of animal abuse both inside and outside the tourism industry.

Many safaris in Sri Lanka are not at all in line with responsible and ethical wildlife tourism , and nearly all are contributing to the greater issue. In Yala alone, safaris are overbooked, traffic is frequent, drivers are reckless and endanger the wildlife, and wild animals are (and have been) killed as a result.

Chances are, if you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, you’re already considering booking a safari. Ultimately, you do you. Just consider this the counter-perspective.

Unles you want to organise a driver or shared tourist taxi (which is easy from Ella), you’ll need to catch the bus. There are a few options for where you can go close to the national park, but Ella to Kataragama is a standard route and base for exploration.

A safari or not—s’up to you. Fair warning though, you’re not really permitted to explore the national park at your own duress like other places in the world. I’d really just suggest outright skipping Yala and the moral bankruptcy to go just soak up the beach for longer.

Where to Stay in Yala:  Leopard Trails

When I say luxury, I do really mean luxury: it’s an expensive, high-end tent accommodation with all the trimmings of a modern-day resort. And, of course, they’ll set you up for all your safari shenanigans.

An Ethically-Sound Alternative to a Sri Lankan Safari: Millennium Elephant Foundation

That’s right – you can get up-close-and-personal with some of the most majestic beasts in Sri Lanka and not even feel a drop of moral anxiety about it!  Millennium Elephant Foundation  is  ethical elephant tourism.

These guys don’t even let you ride the elephants. They used to let you ride them bareback, but now they’ve exchanged that program for their much more whimsical and respectable  Elephant Walk Experience . It’s kinda like a first date: you get to hang out, go for a romantic stroll with your partner elephant, and even help them bathe at the end if you’re lucky. ?

Was the first date divine? Then it’s time to commit because the  Elephant Foundation accepts volunteers too!  Not only will you get to hang out, care for, and bathe with the lovelies, but you’ll help out around the property too with farming, veterinary work, and teaching!

Honestly, there’s zero reason not to drop the cash you were going to spend on booking a safari on this instead. It’s  1000 times more  of an authentic experience,  1000 times less  morally reprehensible, and  100,000 times better  than sitting in a jeep staring slackjawed at wild animals that really just wish you’d piss off…

Stop 5: South Beaches (Days 10-13)

And it’s time for the beach! We’ve spent nearly 14 days in Sri Lanka already, and we still haven’t hit the beach—shameful.

Instead of sending you along Sri Lanka’s south coast, however, I’m going to lay out the beach destinations here for you (southeast to southwest direction) and who they’re good for:

You’ll find a bus from Kataragama no sweat. Once you’re on the south coast, the train runs from Colombo as far east as  Matara  (between Mirissa and Tangalle), and the buses run straight along the coast from town to town. Getting around Sri Lanka’s south coast is super easy!

Pretty much anything associated with beaches and tourists:

• Diving/Snorkelling
• Drugs, backpackers, and parties

Where to Stay in Sri Lanka’s South (Mirissa):  Colours Hostels

A good atmosphere and a pumping little piece of backpacker accommodation in Sri Lanka’s south. To be fair, there are heaps of cool areas stay (just see above), but Mirissa is pretty central, close to lots of good beaches, and has a neato tourist-friendly scene going on.

Good people generally float in, the family feeling is high, and breakfast is a killer. Expect good vibes.

Galle and the Fort (Days 13-14)

Galle Fort—so pretty yet so strange. It is the perfect spot, however, to round off your southern Sri Lanka tour. Inside the fort proper—Galle’s main tourist hub—there’s an almost timeless bubble quality (even if the tuk-tuk bois are too thirsty); it’s easy to decompress here before heading back towards the madness of Colombo (or, ideally, straight to the airport).

Galle is an oddball. Outside the fort in Galle city things make sense in that they make no sense: the typical South Asia craziness ensues. It’s a Sri Lankan city through and through.

Once you step inside the fort though, the game changes—rice and curry goes out the bathroom window and barista coffee and cake come right on in. It’s like a little slice of Europe in Sri Lanka (right down to the narrow alleyways lined with Volkswagens and Portuguese/Dutch-era colonial architecture).

Personally, I’m not a big fan of staying in Galle Fort. The lack of street food and vendors peddling single cigarettes feels too inauthentic. But if you’re wondering where to stay in Sri Lanka for 2-3 days after a whirlwind highlight itinerary route, it’s a very beautiful place to tie it all up with some fine-dining and a romantic moonlit stroll.

Both the main bus station and the train station are situated right out front of the fort—easy peasy!

Depending on your style of travel, you’ll either find heaps to do or not much:

• Shopping –  And heaps of it! Tea, spices, souvenirs, art, gems (watch for scams) are all on ample display.
• Dining –  Much like shopping, there are heaps of restaurants functioning more on a Western schema.
• Early morning/late night strolls –  Galle is easily prettiest when the tuk-tuk mafioso and touts are sleeping off a hard day’s harassing. And, honestly, it’s kinda charmingly quaint.
• Galle Lighthouse –  I just think it’s super pretty.
• Abacate –  I simply CANNOT recommend this place enough. Genuinely authentic food inside the fort coming in at a fair price (which is also unheard of in the fort). I know the cook and his family personally, and there isn’t a single person in Sri Lanka I would rather send me into a blissful kottu-induced food coma on the whole damn island.
• Street eats –  For street food and hole-in-the-walls, you’ll have to leave the fort. Once you cross the big intersection back to the city main, you’ll find the good stuff again.

Where to Stay in Galle Fort:  Fort Sky House

Well, Galle Fort is  super  upper-class and when in Rome… rent a swanky apartment with an open-air kitchenette/lounge bar terrace! The whole apartment is most definitely continuing that whole Sri Lanka meets European village neighbourhood feel.

It’s in a sweet location in the fort—conveniently located but still in a private spot—with a very gracious host. Honestly, you’re about to leave Sri Lanka, so why not pimp out and just treat yo’self for the remaining nights!

Getting Home:  After Galle, getting to the airport is pretty simple. One option is to ride the train to Colombo and make your way from there, however, you’ll also find buses that go direct from Galle’s main bus station to the airport. Just ask around, and you’ll be fine.

Okely-dokely, you’ve got an extra week, and the rains are pissing down in the south. There are a few crossovers between this suggested Sri Lanka itinerary and the last, however, I’ll elaborate further on a few areas. Besides, Sigiriya, Ella, and the train are absolutely necessary things to do in Sri Lanka even in just seven days.

I’ve given you a few extra bonus stops too, but mostly I’ve bumped this up to a 3-week itinerary for Sri Lanka to give you extra time to spend in Arugam Bay. Arugam Bay is one of those places that people get stuck.

Sri Lanka in 3 Weeks: The Breakdown

1. Bandaranaike International Airport 2. Negombo 3. Sigiriya 4. Polonnaruwa 5. Anuradhapura 6. Wilpattu National Park 7. Jaffna 8. Trincomalee 9. Arugam Bay 10. Ella 11. Nuwara Eliya 12. Adam’s Peak  (Sri Pada) 13. Kandy 14. Meemure Village

March through to September with the summer months being the busiest.

1. Mad munchies in Arugam Bay 2. Still the hill country 3. An adventure to Meemure

Stop 1: Sigiriya and the Cultural Highlights (Days 1-4)

Well, we already talked about Sigiriya, so instead, I’m mentioning a few other notable places to travel to in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle. I still recommend staying in Sigiriya and soaking that yumminess up though (potentially with some side-adventures to explore the local landscapes).

But, since you’re spending a few more days touring Sri Lanka, there are a few extra bonus day trips from Sigiriya you could consider:

• Polonnaruwa – The ancient city of kings. It’s a $25 entrance fee, but, honestly, if you were considering dropping that on Sigiriya Fortress, just visit Polonnaruwa instead. Think of Polonnaruwa as a historical theme park. Once, 800 years ago, it was a thriving city, a hub of culture and commerce, and the seat of power for one of Sri Lanka’s ancient kingdoms . Now it’s a playground for lovers of archaeology, history, and ruins. It’s a large space—you’ll need to hire a tuk-tuk driver or a bike to explore it—but if you’re a sucker for old-world goodness, it’s worth the trip.
• Dambulla cave temple – It could be worth the trip if you’re really into temples. Dambulla town itself is a waste, but the cave interior temple (another extremely sacred site in Sri Lanka) is very impressive. It’s also extremely commercialised and carries that whole “God is dead” feeling… so… up to you!
• Jathika Namal Uyana (Rose Quartz Mountain) – Dude, I missed checking this out, and I hate myself so much for that. It’s exactly what it purports to be: five bucks and you’ll be standing on a mountain of pink rose quartz. Don’t be like me— go .

Where to Stay in Sigirya (again):  Nethmini Leege Cottage

It’s another place to stay in Sigiriya and a damn cool bit of accommodation in Sri Lanka—a treehouse! Nestled in the jungle, you’ll be surrounded by the gorgeous nature of Sri Lanka’s lowlands.

It’s very close to Sigiriya town and walking to Lion’s Rock is even an option. It’s still a homestay, however (treehouse or not), so expect some damn good home cooking! A mum-cooked meal when you’re so far away from home is always a blessing.

Stop 2: Anuradhapura (Days 4-6)

If you’re feeling the temple/history burnout, you can leave Anuradhapura off your itinerary in Sri Lanka. There’s not much else to see there except more of Sri Lanka’s historical attractions.

Well, that’s a lie—there is one thing that’s pretty dope: Sri Maha Bohdi . Thought to be the oldest-living human-planted tree in the world, the tree started as a cutting from the original tree that Lord Buddha gained enlightenment beneath. Planted as a sapling by one of the kings of old, now it’s an incredibly revered place to visit in Sri Lanka.

Past that, you’re looking at a similar concept to exploring Polonnaruwa, albeit slightly different in the execution. Another archaeological park with a $25 entrance fee and another archaic kingdom, however, this time it’s the cradle of Buddhism in ancient (Sinhala) Sri Lankan civilisation.

Enormous towering dagobas (brick stupas) and sprawling monastic complexes fill the area. Much like Polonnaruwa, it’ll be a matter of renting a bike or tuk-tuk driver to explore Anuradhapura to its fullest.

From Sigiriya, your options are:

• To travel to Dambulla and catch the direct bus from there.
• Or you should, theoretically, be able to catch a train from  Habarana  (or any other station) to Anuradhapura (since the train runs through it). I can’t properly confirm this through my sources, however.
• Abhayagiri Vihara –  One of the major monasteries in Anuradhapura and the biggest in Sri Lanka for a long while. Topped by a towering dagoba, there is some complex architecture on display here including the pools and intricately carved Moonstone.
• Isurumuniya Vihara –  Another monastic complex except this time, it’s carved out of rock!
• More of the same –  Yah, seriously, throw a rock in Anuradhapura and you’ll hit a ridiculously impressive dagoba or stupa (and probably a one-way ticket to Sri Lankan jail). A couple of other key players in Anuradhapura’s stupa scene include  Jetavanaramaya  and  Ruwanwelisaya .

Check out  Mango Mango  for some cheap local cuisine in a restaurant setting. Failing that, the shopping centre has some other snackeries.

Where to Stay in Anuradhapura:  Heaven Upon Rice Fields

Well, to start, there’s aircon, and in the mugginess of Sri Lanka’s central region, that really is a little slice of heaven (upon rice fields). Honestly, it’s just a nice place to stay in Anuradhapura.

A cute little Sri Lankan bed and breakfast with a darling outlook of—yup, you guessed it—rice fields! Yummy brekky, yummy dinner, bike rental (which is perfect for exploring Anuradhapura), and a damn nice room.

Booking a Tour in Sri Lanka

Usually, I’m not much of a tour guy, however, for some of these major historical sites in Sri Lanka— Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura in particular —you can see why booking a tour is smart. With such a complex and deep history locked behind such an esoteric culture and language, booking a tour is really the only way to fully comprehend these ancient wonders of Sri Lanka.

Organising a tour once your there is always easy; there’s always a bare minimum of 36 touts lurking in the bushes at any given time. However, if you want to pre-book, or want to ensure that you get a legitimately insightful and professional guide, I’d advise booking a less off-the-cuff tour through the links below.

Safari Stop-or-Not: Wilpattu National Park

Wilpattu National Park is northwest Sri Lanka’s answer to Yala. The largest national park in Sri Lanka, Wilpattu is also potentially an even better choice than Yala for seeing leopards (they’re still mighty rare, however).

Pretty much everything I said about Yala National Park still holds true here. It’s not so much a matter of the park-to-park context as it is the wildlife tourism in Sri Lanka as a whole.

That said, with two different Sri Lanka itineraries, two different monsoon seasons, and two different routes, this your alternative place to go if your heart is really just that set on a safari.

Where to Stay in Wilpattu National Park:  Base Camp Wilpattu

More ethically questionable luxury glamping— woo!  This one is allegedly reported, however, to abide by a strict set of environmental policies and be run by some upstanding peeps. Whether that’s true or not I can’t say, but I can say that you’ll be comfortable!

Fancy beds, fancy meals, fancy trimmings, and they’ll probably even deck you out with you own emblazoned fancy pants. Jokes aside, the reports are in that this is a dope place to stay and start your safari from. Apparently the staff really do care.

One Last Note on the Ethics of Wildlife Tourism in Sri Lanka

You can find reasonable or even positive forms of animal tourism in Sri Lanka (and low-impact safaris too). This is more a callout to be  shrewd . Extremely shrewd.

You’re travelling in a region of the world with a historically poor (and earned) reputation for the mistreatment of animals. A lot of backpackers and tourists kinda just roll in and assume that because a man in khakis told them it’s ok, that’s it’s ok. That’s usually not the case.

So be critical; taking the hypothesis that it’s a case of unethical tourism until given proof to the contrary is a good method. It’s better to be safe than sorry on this topic.

Oh, and for the love of God, please,  do not ride the elephant s .

Bonus Stop: Jaffna (Days 6-8)

Now, this is certainly an uncommon place to visit off the standard Sri Lanka backpacking itinerary. I’m saying it’s a bonus stop because:

• It is going to add some distance to your travel route.
• It’s a bit more challenging to travel.
• You honestly may just be busting to hit the beach after spending a week in the hot, humid, booze-less cultural epicentre of the island.

It’s impossible to really understand Jaffna without knowledge of the history of Sri Lanka. The tl;dr is that there are actually two subgroups of Sri Lankan people—the Sinhala and the Tamils. In modern times, there was an ungodly civil war that ripped these two peoples lives apart for more than two decades, and in the primarily Tamil northern area of Sri Lanka, you’ll still see traces of the horrors that occurred.

It’s not all doom and gloom though… Jaffna is also super pretty! It’s a change in architecture to a more South Indian style and, if your spice palette has refined enough to notice the subtle differences, it’s a change in cuisine too.

You don’t need to spend too many days in Jaffna. Mostly, you’ll be concerned with checking out some (more) temples and finding a soulful spot in the ocean to cool off during the midday heat. The remaining eleven days on this Sri Lanka itinerary is going to leave the historical stuff alone mostly in exchange for the blissful beach days. But if you’re interested in rounding off your experience by meeting the other half of Sri Lanka’s people before getting lost the bikini-booty-bods, travel to Jaffna.

There’ll be a bus—there’s always a bus in Sri Lanka—but the train also runs all the way north to the Jaffna peninsula.

• Island tour –  From the tip of the Jaffna peninsula, there are a couple of choice islands to visit: there’s  Nainativu Island  with its gorgeous Tamil-Hindu temple while  Delft Island  has both colonial and natural delights.
• Off-beat travel –  There are plenty of official homages to the civil war in Jaffna, however, look hard enough and you’ll start to see darker examples of what transpired. Crumbling ruins, forts, and even old bullet holes are there for those willing to look.
• Malayan Cafe –  Cheap and proper local grub where they won’t even bother giving the whiteys cutlery. An absolute gem.
• Jaffna mangos –  Not to be confused with the restaurant in Jaffna  called  ‘Mangos’ (who serve killer dosa). The mangos in Sri Lanka’s north are rumoured to be the best on the island, and you’ll find plenty of street food ops to eat them with a seasoning of chilli, sugar, and salt.

Where to Stay in Jaffna:  Sky Park View Guesthouse

First up, I like the location; it’s right across from a park! There aren’t any dorms here, but the private rooms are cheap (the same prices as a dorm in a lot of other hostels around Sri Lanka).

You’ve got scooter rental, super friendly and helpful staff, and plenty of local food around. It’s not ultra-flash, but it is home and a good bit of budget accommodation in Jaffna.

Stop 3: Trincomalee (Days 9-12)

The warm-up to the inevitable time-sink of Arugam Bay. There’s no good swell in Trincomalee if you’re chasing the ultimate surfing holiday in Sri Lanka , however, everything else is on point!

You’ll find long sandy beaches lined with deckchairs and drinking holes. A Lion Strong, a round of beach volleyball, and an escape from the insane midday heat in the sparkling water is a guarantee. It’s also considerably quieter than Arugam Bay—like everybody left their mutual chaos behind along with their binge alcoholism.

That’s what Trinco feels like: Arugam Bay all grown up. Arugam Bay in its 30s when it started showering regularly and stopped sleeping with everything with a pulse. It’s cleaner, a bit more refined, a bit more expensive, and also a bit more boring. It’s either the warm-up to Arugam Bay or the place to come down afterwards.

From either Anuradhapura or Jaffna you can catch the train, but it will require a backtrack to the  Maho Junction . There are also direct buses from both cities which would be your better option.

The train actually alights closer to the centre of town where you almost definitely won’t want to stay considering all those beautiful Sri Lankan beaches hanging around.

• Uppuveli  is the main tourist hub ( Sarvodaya Road  specifically). It’s one long street filled with restaurants, shops, and various bits of accommodation with  plenty  of beach access.
• Nilaveli  to the north of Trinco is a much quieter area. There are still plenty of Sri Lanka’s beautiful beach hotels and resorts, but the actual area (and beach) is way more local.

As I said though, Trincomalee is noticeably more expensive than a lot of other places in Sri Lanka that I visited. If you’re budget travelling in Sri Lanka, the best way to keep the costs down is to step outside the tourist bubble. One foot off of Sarvodaya Road back into the real Trinco and everything gets  a lot  cheaper.

Where to Stay in Trincomalee:  Wanderers Hostel

And it’s back to the hostel life! Dorms with aircon (boom, Buddha),  plenty of travellers to chill with, private rooms for sex after the beach! (Na, Trinco is  wayyy  too hot for banging.)

It’s a chill hostel although I do wish they would actually fill that plunge pool up. There’s free tea and coffee but no food served, and the WiFi is inexplicably good. Like, really damn good—I don’t get it either.

Stop 4: Arugam Bay (Days 12-?)

We maaaade it. Here’s a season in Arugam Bay in a nutshell:

• Sweet wonderful vacuous meaningless backpacker sex

Personally, it’s not my vibe (except the doobies-munchies). But any way you swing it,  this is undeniably a backpacker haven—anywhere the Israelis congregate en masse usually is. If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, and particularly a first-time visit, plan to lose track of your holiday itinerary for an indeterminate amount of time. Arugam Bay is the surf mecca of Sri Lanka as well as the backpacking mecca. Arugam Bay is one of those places.

It’s a sticky place.

You may want to consider a taxi if you’re not a fan of long stints on the bumpy bus. Otherwise, from Trincomalee, it’s a bus to Batticaloa and a change for Arugam Bay.

Wednesdays are also a party night, but it’s a dumb party and no one goes:

• Blue Wave Hotel Pool Party (Thursdays) –  An Israeli pool party (legitimately) featuring Tel Avivian Ibiza vibes and next-level trash music. It’s easily the best place to get laid in Arugam Bay.
• Whiskey Point (Fridays) –  The traveller-fave of Arugam’s throwdowns. A beach bar a bit out of town featuring house and techno.
• Mambo’s (Saturdays) –  It’s another beach bar featuring techno and house except that this one is in town and there’s a slackline—yay!

My happy place:

• Mama’s Restaurant –  Welcome to Sri Lanka at it’s finest! All-you-can-eat rice and curry buffet, 6 types of curry, full-power papas, and no end or regrets in sight until you puke.
• Blue Vans/Trucks –  On the south side of town, there’s a row of them all serving up street eats, and they all kick ass!
• Bites –  Go here, get yourself a brookie It’s a brownie-cookie—eugenics done right.

Where to Stay in Arugam Bay:  The Long Hostel

The amenities are tight, and the dorms get the job done, but you’re more staying here for the vibe. It’s backpackery, young, 100% party-surf focused, and, honestly, kinda cliquey. Like I said, love it or hate it, it’s Arugam Bay to a tee.

Oh, and the iced coffees will blow your mind wide open.

A Final Note on Backpacking Arugam Bay

Jokes aside, Arugam Bay really is backpacker central and a place people “get stuck”. It’s like a little slice of Thailand backpacking with a South Asian twist. Whether you love that or not is ultimately up to you.

If you’re not so much on a backpacking Sri Lanka tour as vacationing there, it may not be your vibe. Despite the copious amounts of joints being rolled, it definitely doesn’t feel chill. With such a high concentration of travellers, there’s the level of madness that you’d expect from other similar bubbles in the world like Pai, Pokhara, or Goa (though nothing competes with Goa).

Even if you’re a backpacker through-and-through but, perhaps (for example), one who’s grown into quiet living and out of many elements of the Southeast Asia backpacking scene, it still may not be your vibe. Unless you’re like me and will go anywhere there’s cheap food and doobs. Then it’s kickass for a week.

…Or if you’re a surfer. Then you’ll definitely be fine.

Stops 5-6: Ella, Kandy, and the Hill Country (Days 16-21)

Yup, the same as the 2-week Sri Lanka itinerary except in reverse! I really cannot stress enough how much this part of the country and the train journey are a must-see in Sri Lanka in any itinerary.

Ella really is the ultimate detox to skip the bends leaving Arugam Bay. There is a tranquil majesty to Sri Lanka’s hill country ( outside of Ella town) that will make even the most crushing wipeout a gentle ride to shore. If you can take a few extra days to hike, explore the valleys, or even just smoke and watch the sky, definitely do it.

When you do catch the train to Kandy, there are a few extra stops you can consider to break up the trip, provided you have the time:

• Nuwara Eliya – One of several points of interest in Sri Lanka that still  heavily carries the colonial remnants. The racecourse, the architecture, the tea, and definitely the post office all feel like cracking open a city-sized time capsule the British colonialists left behind. You’re up high in the hills here though, so expect it to get cold and rainy.
• Haputale –  Speaking of tea, at Haputale you’ll find Lipton’s Seat (yes, of  that Lipton) which is really more like an imperialist’s throne overseeing the incredible sweeps of plantations, hills and even right down to the south coast on a clear day!
• Hatton –  I’m not so much suggesting that you stick Hatton on your Sri Lanka itinerary as what’s near it: the mighty and majestic Adam’s Peak (AKA Sri Pada AKA  Samanalakanda AKA  Bob’s Your Uncle AKA a million other things). One of the most sacred places in Sri Lanka, Adam’s Peak is an absolutely exquisite climb to venture above the sea of clouds. The climbing season for both pilgrims and tourists runs from December to May, however, it’s a much nicer climb in the shoulder season before it gets crazy.

When you do arrive in Kandy, and since you’ll be departing shortly, forget the dorms! Take a nice accommodation in Kandy out of the city or up in the hills, and soak up the last few days spent with Sri Lanka.

Where to Stay in Sri Lanka’s Hill Country

Idyll Homestay

The view is incredible, the bed is incredible, the visits from the local critter-cuties are incredible… the breakfast is  super  incredible! What ties it all together though is the host: he really goes above and beyond for his guests. Short of languishing within a hippy mountain palace, it’s undoubtedly one of the nicest places to stay in Ella.

Laughing Leopard Hostel

Truthfully though, the staff who run this place are warm and friendly to a fault; they really do create a space for people to relax in whatever capacity. If they also happen to enjoy some late night drinks and techno bangers, can you really blame them for that?

The Cliff Lodge

High up in the hills above Haputale is The Cliff Lodge: a place to retreat to, ditch the WiFi for a few days, and reset. Calling it a  “lodge”  is generous—you’re given a tent set up in an old tea picker’s hut, but that’s part of the charm. For nighttime fires, unreal starscapes, and a complete digital detox, this is where to stay in Sri Lanka.

Private Rooftop Villa with a Plunge Pool

Stop! You had me at skinny dipping!

I didn’t say skinny dipping…

Well… now you did!

It’s a private top floor villa outside of Kandy surrounded by lush greens and splatterings of colonial architectural charm. Breakfast is complimentary, the hosts are mega-chill, and, again, there’s a private plunge pool. Finish Sri Lanka with a bang…?

The Ultimate Boss: Meemure and the Knuckles Mountain Range

Mmm, yum. Mountains—my happy place (other than joints and buffets). This is about as off the beaten path in Sri Lanka as you can probably get. The unquenchable, untameable, and unabashed Knuckles Mountain Range hiding Sri Lanka’s most remote village—Meemure.

You’ll need to dedicate at least 3 days in Sri Lanka from your itinerary for the trip: one day there, one day to explore, and one day to return. If you can spare more time, then that’s even better.

Travelling to Meemure is one of those things where it’s about the journey. It may not be as hardcore as some other South Asian adventures (*cough* backpacking Pakistan *cough*) , but it’s still the most hardcore thing and hidden place I could unearth on my trip to Sri Lanka.

I really can’t break that down concisely here; you’ll have to read my  Meemure Village Cheeky Adventure Guide  for the deetz!

Again, check the guide. Even reaching and experiencing Meemure (and laying eyes on that absolutely magnificent Lakegala) is a feat and reward together. Outside of that, the Knuckles Mountain Range is so, so yummy and missing out on hiking them would be a damn shame. If you happen to see a leopard too, congrats! You’re a real traveller: stuff the safari up the industry’s left nostril.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Holy mother of box-ticking, Batman! Those are some blessed Sri Lanka travel itineraries.

Now, you’re probably going to have a cracker of a time no matter where you go; there are heaps of beautiful places in Sri Lanka . There are also heaps of beautiful feeds to feast upon in Sri Lanka! (I’ve failed to mention it thus far, but get yourself a kottu—Sri Lanka’s answer to greasy hangover food.)

However, before commencing on that ultimate holiday vacation to Sri Lanka, get yourself keyed on the insider knowledge. I didn’t live there for three months just so I could not share this stuff!

How many days should I spend in Sri Lanka?

Truthfully, I’d say anything less than a month just really isn’t doing it justice. There are just soooo many places to see in Sri Lanka . You could, however, potentially smush it all into a 3-week trip to Sri Lanka. My initial route backpacking around Sri Lanka was similar to the above-listed 3-week itinerary and weighed in somewhere between 3 and 4 weeks in execution.

If you’re not really the smoke, surf, and turf kinda human, the beaches may not slow you down as much as they would a typical backpacker. For everyone else though, Sri Lanka’s beautiful beach destinations—Arugam Bay in particular—will more than likely initiate “Actually, I’ll leave tomorrow,” syndrome.

When you’re planning your trip to Sri Lanka, ease up on the allotted time in your itinerary for the historical and cultural sites, and free up more for the ‘fun’  stuff. The historical sites in Sri Lanka are dope, no doubt, but every traveller I met at the beach or in Ella expressed regret over not having gotten there sooner.

Besides, for the same cost as entry to Sigiriya Fortress or Polonnaruwa, you could rent a surfboard for 7-8 days. You do the math.

…Wait, nevermind, I just did it for you.

What kind of travel budget do I need for touring Sri Lanka on an itinerary?

Obviously, that’s a highly variable question dependent on the length of your itinerary and travel style. I was able to live pretty comfortably on a daily budget of $20 a day in Sri Lanka, however, this is The Broke Backpacker and so that should give you an idea of how cheaply I travel .

If you travel like a backpacker, but it’s more of a holiday itinerary for Sri Lanka (as opposed to that sweet, sweet slow travel life), upwards of $40 a day should be plenty. That’s an extra $20 of wiggle room a day on top of the necessities (sleeping, eating, smoking) for activities, partying, and whatever else.

BUT, if you’re more the quick vacation type, say a budget for 2 weeks in Sri Lanka, $60 a day is a cool max. You can set yourself up in a few top hotels around Sri Lanka and leave the dorms behind.

Finally, if you want to scoot around the island quickly, maybe a whirlwind 5 or 7-day itinerary through Sri Lanka’s highlights, you’ll be relying on taxi services or even a private driver. Honestly, that could run you up to $100 a day or even more depending on how you eat and sleep.

Folks, slow travel is cheaper.

How to Get Around Sri Lanka

Right, so I’ve mentioned a lot of buses and trains , and the truth is that they’re simply the cheapest way of getting around Sri Lanka. But they’re also slow. And uncomfortable. And prone to the South Asia effect (it once took me 11ish hours, 6 bus changes, and one after-dark breakdown to go the 200 km from Unawatuna to Ella).

That said, I still love the public transport in Sri Lanka! It’s chaotic and an adventure every time. And… it’s super cheap:

• Bus from Trincomalee to Arugam Bay (via Batticaloa): < $7
• Versus a private taxi: $85-$90 (contingent on you haggling ability)

Taxis are, otherwise, going to be the main form of tourist transport services in Sri Lanka to utilise. You can save money by hooking up with a crew and sharing transport to the next destination; it’s always easy to find peeps in the tourist bubbles. Taxis are faster, but they’re expensive; you’re going to need to haggle like a pro .

You could also consider renting a bike in Sri Lanka. Cost-wise, that’ll run you about $5-$10 a day (though you can definitely get it cheaper if you rent for an extended period), however, Sri Lanka is a phenomenal road trip country! Just make sure you dot your i’s and cross your t’s with licencing and legalities.

And wear a bloody helmet—dem buses will smoke ya!

Tuk-Tuk Rental in Sri Lanka

Aww, yeahhh —and now we’re talking about the best way to travel in Sri Lanka. Cross the whole damn thing in your own mighty three-wheeling steed!

Can you rent your own tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka? Damn, right you can, and it don’t get much better than this. Well… unless you pay the few extra bucks for the optional boombox!

It really isn’t as confronting to learn to drive a tuk-tuk as you may think. I started to get the hang of it within 5 or 10 minutes. Plus, the looks the other tuk-tuk drivers give you when you overtake them are just so damn delicious.

It’s definitely not the cheapest form of transport in Sri Lanka— $25-$30 a day including rental costs, food, etc. —but that’s not really the bloody point! You’re driving a goddamn tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka! No matter what happens, it’s gonna be a journey you remember for the rest of your life, guaranteed.

All I can say is that I did it (well, hitched a ride with some peeps who did it), it was hella fun, I made some blessed life-long friends along the way (love you guys to the moon), and it’s a top recommendation for travelling around Sri Lanka without a shadow of a doubt.

Check out tuktukrental.com for more info. Use the code  brokebackpacker at the checkout when you decide to take the plunge, and let the good times roll out!

What to Pack for Sri Lanka

Packing for Sri Lanka is pretty straightforward; take whatever your usual backpacking setup is. There aren’t too many other nuances speak of.

DEFINITELY DO, HOWEVER, take a high-quality rain jacket . Even if you’re doing your best to avoid the monsoon, chances are that you’ll get rained on at some point during your visit to Sri Lanka.

Oh, and the mosquitoes are assholes. Take something from home or, better yet, just buy some Odomos when you arrive. It’s cheap there, and the best damn mosquito repellent I’ve ever used!

Travel Security Belt

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

Microfiber Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

‘Monopoly Deal’

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Still wondering what to take to Sri Lanka? Then check out our full backpacking packing list more more ideas on gears, gadgets, and goodies for the road!

Staying Safe in Sri Lanka

So… Is Sri Lanka safe ? Yup! I mean, it’s not perfectly safe, but you can also choke on your toothbrush if you’re not careful so…

It’s easiest to think of it as India-lite. The same travel rules you’d apply for backpacking in India, apply it here and then just dial it back a notch.

• If someone asks if you’d like to take a photo of them, or they’re behaving like a tourist attraction (eg. a stilt fisherman or tea picker), then they’re almost definitely going to ask for money if you do take that snap. Kids will too!
• Never trust a tuk-tuk driver—GPS out and money is exchanged only after you’ve confirmed you’ve arrived at the correct destination.
• Travellers of the feminine disposition won’t have nearly as hard a time as in India but should still be wary, smart, and be careful where they’re walking alone at night. And get used to being stared at—take it in stride.
• Don’t leave your valuables unguarded on the beach (or anywhere for that matter).
• Your shoulders and knees need to be covered at sacred sites. No iconography of Lord Buddha-san (tattoos, shirt logos, etc.) and no turning your back on the Buddha statues or taking selfies with them.
• Watch out for scams but also don’t spit the dummy every time someone overcharges you 20 rupees. Therein lies the road to insanity.

Honestly, it’s a standard South Asia affair. Sri Lanka is pretty chill, and out of the three major backpacking destinations of the Indian subcontinent (Nepal, India, and Sri Lanka), I’ve found Sri Lankans (the Sinhala people specifically—maybe it’s the Buddhism) to be the most scrupulous and sincere.

Getting Insured for Your Trip to Sri Lanka

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know when planning their Sri Lanka itinerary.

How many days is enough to visit Sri Lanka?

14 days is a great amount of time to get around the country and take in the highlights.

Is 10 days enough in Sri Lanka?

It’s pushing it but you could see most of the main sights if you prioritise your time.

Is 3 weeks too long in Sri Lanka?

3 weeks is the perfect amount of time to really take in pretty much everything there is to see and have some down time too.

Is Sri Lanka cheap?

Yeah, Sri Lanka is a super affordable destination, it’s an ideal place to go backpacking!

Concluding Your Itinerary in Sri Lanka

Y’know, when I started writing this itinerary, I was all like “Man, itineraries are lame” .  And now…? Well, I still think itineraries are lame.

But it was also an absolute pleasure to write about travelling Sri Lanka again. I get a little blast of candy-nostalgia every time I return in my mind’s eye to that gorgeous island. Cloud forests rolling through plantations and emerald hills, the chaotic madness of any and all bus rides, dawn on sunkissed beaches watching lone fishermen drag their laden nets in.

Sri Lanka is both the gem of the Indian Ocean and subcontinent itself. Whether it’s one, two, or three weeks in Sri Lanka, every moment is a blessing. If you can give yourself 3 months, that’s even better!

Plan your trip with my perfectly crafted itineraries for Sri Lanka; there is a lot of love and care in them. See all there is to see, but also, remember to stop and smell the kottu. And to meet the peeps.

And to ride the trains, take a big slow breath, and, most of all, to appreciate the sky.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Ziggy Samuels

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Hey Ziggy, we are older backpackers planning a 3 month trip to Sri Lanka early next year. I am excited by your information and will refer to it many times, I’m sure. We love travelling slowly, Sri Lanka will suit us well. Thank you!

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Sri Lanka travel advice

Latest updates: The Health section was updated - travel health information (Public Health Agency of Canada)

Last updated: April 15, 2024 13:01 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, sri lanka - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Sri Lanka due to the economic crisis which has led to shortages of basic necessities including fuel, food and medicines.

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Current economic situation

Sri Lanka is experiencing economic difficulties which may result in limited availability of resources, including basic necessities like medicines, fuel and specific food items. Power outages, though infrequent, may occur.

The fragile economic situation may also impact public services, including healthcare. Limited access to resources can impact the security environment.

If you are in Sri Lanka:

• keep supplies of food, water and fuel in case of lengthy disruptions
• make sure to have sufficient supply of any required medicines on hand as availability may be limited
• check that your travel documents are up to date
• avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Demonstrations occur frequently in Colombo, and occasionally elsewhere in the country. Security forces may use tear gas and water cannons during violent protests. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

More about mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Security forces

The Sri Lankan military continues to maintain a strong presence in the country’s North and East, including the Jaffna Peninsula. Military and police checkpoints can be established and road closures can occur suddenly.

Security forces have wide-ranging powers, including the authority to:

• impose curfews
• detain without charge for extended periods
• search individuals, vehicles, residences and commercial premises

Individuals of Sri Lankan heritage, including those who don’t have Sri Lankan citizenship, have been detained on occasion by police or security forces. 

• Always carry formal photographic identification with you
• Keep an eye out for signage warning of military or demining zones
• Keep to well-traveled roads
• Avoid venturing in forested areas or abandoned properties
• Monitor local news for latest updates
• If you’re detained, ask the authorities to contact the High Commission of Canada

There is a threat of terrorism. Past attacks have resulted in fatalities.

Further attacks can’t be ruled out. Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Violent crime occurs, including harassment and assault aimed at Western foreigners.

Petty crime such as purse snatching and pickpocketing is common, especially on public transportation. Theft has occurred in hotels and guesthouses.

Credit card fraud is common. Pay very close attention to your credit card when it is being handled. To minimize risks, you should opt to pay in cash whenever possible.

Ensure that your personal belongings, including passports and other travel documents, are secure at all times.

Inter-communal tensions

Inter-communal and religious tensions exist throughout the country and have led to violence. Further violent incidents could occur.

Spiked food and drinks

Foreigners have been targeted in incidents of drink spiking, often combined with sexual assault or theft. Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Women’s safety

Women are often the target for unwanted attention. They should exercise caution when travelling alone.

Advice for women travellers

Swimming conditions may be unsafe. Follow the advice and warnings of local authorities.

Water safety abroad

Tourist facilities

Tourist facilities are widely available but quality varies, especially inland. You should arrange travel to remote areas through a reputable travel agency.

Road safety

Road conditions are usually poor outside major cities.

Road accidents, often causing death and injuries, are common due to poorly maintained vehicles, erratic driving practices and pedestrians and roaming animals on the road.

Roads may be closed on short notice.

Public transportation

Travel by bus is generally unsafe due to aggressive drivers and the risk of theft.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Sri Lankan authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Sri Lanka.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: required  Business visa: required  Student visa: required  Work visa: required

For stays of up to 30 days, you can apply online for a tourist visa. You can obtain all other visas at a Sri Lankan government office in Canada or abroad.

Visas may be extended at Sri Lanka’s Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo.

You cannot convert a visa status once in Sri Lanka. Non-compliance with visa restrictions may result in deportation.

You will also need to fill out an online arrival card. You can complete the online form three days before arriving in Sri Lanka.

• Apply for the Electronic Travel Authority - Sri Lankan Department of Immigration and Emigration
• Arrival Card form - Sri Lankan Department of Immigration and Emigration

Special permissions

Journalists and media crews need permission to travel to some northern districts.

Entry into Sri Lankan waters, at any point, requires prior permission.

Other requirements

An onward or return ticket and proof of sufficient funds to sustain you while you are in the country are required to visit Sri Lanka.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Dengue: Advice for travellers - 8 April, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country   where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the brain.  It is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk is very low for most travellers. Travellers at relatively higher risk may want to consider vaccination for JE prior to travelling.

Travellers are at higher risk if they will be:

• travelling long term (e.g. more than 30 days)
• making multiple trips to endemic areas
• staying for extended periods in rural areas
• visiting an area suffering a JE outbreak
• engaging in activities involving high contact with mosquitos (e.g., entomologists)

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Travellers going to countries in South Asia should speak to a health care professional about getting vaccinated.

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

Medical services and facilities do not meet the standards you might normally expect in Canada. 

Medical facilities in certain areas outside of Colombo are limited, particularly in the north. In the event of a major accident or illness, medical evacuation is often necessary. Medical transport is very expensive.

Medical facilities may require confirmation of insurance coverage, guarantee of payment or an up-front deposit before admitting patients.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict.

Alcohol consumption in public places is prohibited.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Smoking is prohibited in many indoor public places, workplaces and on public transport. Use designated smoking areas.

Exporting antiques without a proper licence is illegal.

Photography

Photographing and videotaping government and military installations, as well as in any designated high-security zone, is prohibited.

Dress and behaviour

Dress conservatively, behave discreetly and respect religious and social traditions and artefacts to avoid offending local sensitivities. Posing for a photograph next to a statue of Buddha is a serious offence, punishable by a fine or an arrest. Tattoos, jewellery and clothing associated with Buddhism are considered offensive and may lead to fines, arrest or deportation.

Identification

Carry official identification at all times.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Sri Lanka.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Traffic drives on the left.

Checkpoints may be set up. Carry personal identification at all times and comply with government and security force instructions.

You should carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Sri Lanka.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Sri Lanka, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Sri Lanka.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Sri Lanka, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Sri Lankan court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Sri Lanka to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

The currency is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR).

Credit cards are widely accepted in major urban and tourist centres. You may encounter difficulties in making Visa and MasterCard cash withdrawals. There are ATMs in major cities, but some do not accept international cards.

Monsoon and rainstorms

The rainy (or monsoon) season extends from December to March in the northeast and June to October in the southwest.

Severe rainstorms can cause flooding and landslides, which can lead to deaths, injuries and large population displacements.

• Stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
• Large-scale emergencies abroad
• Weather forecasts - Sri Lankan Department of Meteorology
• Disaster warnings and weather reports – Sri Lankan Disaster Management Center

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Sri Lanka is located in an active seismic zone and may be prone to earthquakes and tsunamis.

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 119 / 118
• tourist police: 94 (11) 242 1052
• medical assistance: 110
• firefighters: 94 (11) 242 2222

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada to Sri Lanka in Colombo and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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• Leaders Speak
• Brand Solutions
• Visas and Passports
• Sri Lanka introduces revamped e-visa system

As part of this initiative, the Sri Lankan Immigration department has collaborated with IVS Global Institute and GBS Technology Service to introduce the new e-visa system, replacing the existing ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) method. This transition is geared towards enhancing efficiency and convenience, offering travellers a smoother journey from application to approval.

• Online Bureau ,
• ETTravelWorld
• Updated On Apr 19, 2024 at 02:29 PM IST

Schengen visa delays hit summer vacation travel plans for Europe

While post-Covid revenge travel, especially to international destinations, continues to hit the roof, getting the Schengen visa has become a problem—especially for certain countries. Travel agents say that people who have been rejected or have not found an opening to apply, are forced to lie about their destinations and sometimes go via the Scandinavian countries where slots tend to be more available.

• By Online Bureau ,
• Published On Apr 19, 2024 at 02:29 PM IST

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Daily Archives: April 25, 2024

Sri lankan food and beverages promoted at the fha exhibition in singapore.

Six Sri Lankan companies from the food and processed beverage sector are participating in the FHA (Food and Hotel Asia) Food & Beverage Exhibition, at Expo Singapore from 23-26 April 2024. Spices, confectionery it ...

Sri Lanka National Arbitration Centre visits Bangladesh to promote Sri Lanka as an arbitration hub in South Asia

A delegation of the Sri Lanka National Arbitration Centre visited Dhaka, Bangladesh from 21 to 23 April 2024, to promote Colombo as an arbitration hub and enhance awareness of the importance of commercial arbitration. ...

Foreign Minister to attend the World Economic Forum’s Special Meeting on Global Cooperation,  Growth and Energy for Development in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Foreign Minister Ali Sabry is scheduled to leave for Riyadh, Saudi Arabia to attend the World Economic Forum’s Special Meeting on Global Cooperation, Growth and Energy for Development which will be held in Riyadh, Saudi ...

State Minister of Agriculture and Plantation Industries Mohan Priyadarshana De Silva meets Undersecretary of State, Ministry of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty and Forests of the Italian Republic Luigi D’Eramo

State Minister of Agriculture and Plantation Industries, Mohan Priyadarshana De Silva visited Italy to attend the 18th Session of the Committee on Phytosanitary Measures (CPM18) held at the Food and Agriculture Organiz ...

Country Living

8 Off-The-Beaten-Path Destinations to Visit in 2024

Posted: April 25, 2024 | Last updated: April 25, 2024

Every travel bucket list should include those major cities that are sure to blow you away: Paris, Dubai, New York City, Sydney, the list goes on. While traveling to these hotspots is sure to provide a memorable vacation—don’t skip the lesser-known but equally impressive destinations tucked in small towns and metropolitan suburbs all over the world. You can find few crowds besides flocks of flamingos in the Caribbean, hike to an active volcano in Guatemala, and relax in ancient Roman baths in England. Planning a new vacation? Consider these eight off-the-beaten-path destinations.

1) Bath, England

Come for the ancient Roman baths in this English town of the same name , but stay for the charm you’ll find on every side street. The city was founded by the Romans in the first century, developing into a beautiful town that today houses an impressive collection of Roman remains. The stunning architecture, charming pubs, and countryside location combine to make this city a must-visit. Plus, it’s a quick train ride from the travel hub of London.

Many have Greece or Italy's Amalfi Coast high on the list of dream destinations, but the coastal cities of Albania match the beauty but not the price tag. Head to Sarande, Ksamil, or Vlore to enjoy pristine beaches and luxury lodging options including bungalows.

3) Cardiff, Wales

This city-meets-coast town is a quick train ride from London, offering a comparable yet vastly different British experience. In Cardiff , you’ll find lively pubs, Victorian architecture, and excellent dining options all housed within a compact downtown center, plus a charming waterfront district and some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet.

4) Gstaad, Switzerland

If you’re planning a Swiss vacation, you have no shortage of options when it comes to picturesque towns, winter sports, and mountain views. While St. Moritz, Zermatt, Lucerne, or the Interlaken region may top the typical lists, make plans to visit the ultra-lux city of Gstaad instead. Stay in a posh five-star property, browse designer shops, and get your winter thrills at the nearby Glacier 3000.

5) Sri Lanka

Swap wine country for tea country when you visit Sri Lanka , which houses seven distinct tea districts each producing their own variety. These growing regions are stunning, with many offering lodging options for the most immersive experience. In addition to tea plantations, Sri Lanka is known for its fascinating wildlife, flavorful cuisine, and beautiful beaches.

Part of the “ABC Islands” in the Dutch Caribbean, Bonaire is has made impressive sustainability efforts dating back more than 80 years, plus it has luxury boutique properties and stunning beaches. It’s said just as many flamingos are living there as there are permanent residents (tens of thousands), which are extra pink thanks to the salt flats on the island. Skip the high-traffic Caribbean destinations for this hidden, sustainable gem instead.

7) Mackinac Island, Michigan

This island swaps cars for horse-drawn carriages, and that’s just scratching the surface of the charm of Mackinac Island . You’ll have to hop aboard a ferry to reach the town, which is best known for its world-famous fudge, quaint downtown district, hiking and biking trails, and spectacular sunsets.

8) Antigua, Guatemala

Antigua has seen its fair share of natural and not-so-natural disasters—from an intentional fire to earthquakes, avalanches, floods, and volcanoes. Don’t let that deter you, because it's a resilient and colorful city. While there, creator Sarah Woodard shares tips for taking a guided hike up the Acatenango Volcano for views of Fuego Volcano—which is so active, it has small eruptions every 15 to 20 minutes.

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Elephants gather at the Elephant Transit Home inside Sri Lanka’s Udawalawe National Park. Here, elephants receive medical attention, often from attacks and traps set by humans, before being released back into the wild.

Humans and elephants are struggling to coexist. Both are dying at alarming rates

Photographs by Federico Borella Story by Tristen Rouse, CNN Published April 21, 2024

Editor’s Note: “The Whole Story with Anderson Cooper” features an inside look at the fatal conflict playing out between elephants and mankind in Sri Lanka. “Elephant Vs. Man” "> “Elephant Vs. Man” with CNN's Nick Paton Walsh premieres Sunday, April 21, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on CNN.

Photographer Federico Borella was working with a group of Sri Lankan park rangers last summer who are typically responsible for scaring off elephants that come too close to human settlements. One morning, they were called to the scene of a death.

Sarath Wijesinghe, a 51-year-old civil defense force officer, had gone out to turn off the electric fence surrounding his village. The fences, intended to prevent elephants from raiding homes for food, are activated during the night and turned off during the day to allow farmers to come and go from the village. As Wijesinghe switched off the electricity, he was attacked and killed by an elephant.

Borella, an Italian photographer focused on documenting environmental issues, was in Sri Lanka to photograph the mortal and material fallout of human and elephant interactions. Amidst a crowd of hundreds — people from surrounding villages who had come to see the aftermath of the morning’s attack — he photographed Wijesinghe’s body as it was wrapped with linen cloth.

“This is probably the saddest thing I saw,” Borella said of his time in Sri Lanka, much of which was spent photographing people who had survived encounters with elephants and efforts to mitigate attacks. In Wijesinghe’s death, “I saw the issue directly.”

Wijesinghe is just one of many who lost their lives to elephants last year. Elephants in Sri Lanka killed at least 169 people in 2023, according to the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society , a conservation organization in the country. In that same period, humans killed 476 elephants.

The deadly conflict is driven by human encroachment. As humans continue to move into areas already inhabited by elephants, homes and farms are built adjacent to elephant corridors, centuries-old pathways used by elephants to move in search of food and water.

It’s a problem that’s not new and not limited to a single country. Researchers have found that since 1700 — when expanded European colonization led to more logging, more roads and more farming — elephants across Asia have lost nearly two-thirds of their habitat . But the issue is particularly felt in Sri Lanka, which is home to an elephant population more than twice what experts would expect given the habitat now available to them.

Borella began photographing human-elephant conflict as part of a larger interest in how human expansion, deforestation and urbanization make people more present in the lives of wild animals.

“Since we are the most powerful species in the world, we think we have the right to do whatever we want, to conquer everything,” Borella said. “Especially against animals.”

Over the course of two trips to Sri Lanka, Borella focused his attention on the consequences of the conflict. Sitting on a porch, speaking through a translator, he listened as Mallika Herath cried, describing the elephant attack that disabled her and killed her 5-year-old granddaughter, Nirupama Lakshani, while the two walked to school.

Borella said he spent hours listening to her story before he finally asked to photograph a picture of Nirupama. The young girl stands out in Borella’s mind. Most victims of elephant attacks are adult farmers.

“I think this is one of the youngest victims,” he said.

A lot of attacks on humans come from elephants breaking into homes in search of food, Borella said. Many homes in Sri Lanka have a specific room used to store rice, which elephants can smell from miles away. Using their massive size, elephants can collapse walls onto sleeping families, destroying entire homes to get at the food inside.

This is almost exactly what happened to W.M. Disananyake Wasala, another survivor Borella photographed. Attacked in his backyard by an elephant trying to get into his house, Wasala’s leg had to be amputated due to the injuries he sustained.

Talking about the attack, what surprised Borella was that Wasala didn’t seem angry about what had happened to him. “He was not looking for revenge.”

Borella also documented elephants victimized by humans. One elephant, nicknamed Raju, bore a scar and a disabled leg from having been shot. Raju died shortly after he was photographed by Borella. He fell into a canal, and his disabled leg meant he was unable to escape.

Another elephant Borella photographed was a calf with a disfigured face. It had been the victim of a “jaw bomb” — a homemade explosive covered with fruit to entice an elephant to bite it.

The photographer plans to travel back to Sri Lanka this year to expand the portion of his work focused on elephants themselves.

Meanwhile, effective solutions to the conflict remain elusive.

In some villages, electric fences have been successful. One that Borella visited hasn’t had a casualty in the three years since it installed an electric fence. But those same fences, when turned up to a high enough voltage by angry farmers, are also the number one killer of elephants. Other villages utilize watchtowers or contact rangers with nonlethal ammunition to drive off elephants.

One expert Borella spoke to as he researched the issue said the only answer might be to clear the elephant corridors of human activity.

“It’s called a conflict because of this: Both species are trying to survive,” Borella said. “It’s difficult to find a solution.”