Looking for a magical destination with a variety of experiences to celebrate the start of your journey together as newlyweds? Sri Lanka is definitely the best place to head to!

A honeymoon in Sri Lanka can have many flavours in terms of culture, natural beauty, and amazing hospitality. The abundance of choices of what to do and see, will keep you craving for more. There is something for every type of couple, from romantic strolls on the beach to daring hikes in the mountains. So, here are some amazing honeymoon destinations in Sri Lanka to get you thinking about how you want to spend this special, intimate time together.

Trincomalee – For the Quieter Beaches

Looking for a relaxing, quiet beach getaway? Trincomalee is the place to be!

Located on the Northeast coast of Sri Lanka, Nilaveli, Uppuveli, and Pasikudah , are perfect for an intimate stroll on the beach, or perhaps to merely unwind, sunbathe, and catch an early morning sunrise together.

The white sandy beaches of Trincomalee are a must visit on your honeymoon.

Special Activities for Honeymooners:

• Visit the Pigeon Island beach
• Have a swim at the pristine Marble beach
• Enjoy the evening ocean breeze with an ice-cold beer at the Uppuveli beach, surrounded by quaint beachside restaurants
• Read, relax and unwind by sunbathing at Nilaveli beach

Best Time To Visit: May to October

How To Reach: There is a train from Colombo Fort Station to Trincomalee five times a day that takes roughly three and a half hours to complete the journey.

Things To Do:

• Whale watching
• Sightseeing
• Snorkeling

Ella – For a Serene and Intimate Getaway

Do you prefer the misty mountains, and cooler climate? If so, Ella, a lovely Sri Lankan mountain village, is ideal for you newlyweds! It’s the perfect destination for a cosy honeymoon in one of the most beautiful locations in Sri Lanka. Taking the train to this pretty place is highly recommended due to the mesmerising scenic route. Around you, there are acres of tea plantations, cloud covers, jungle canopies, and plenty of activities to explore.

We are certain you should add this to your honeymoon itinerary, as Ella is known to be one of the most romantic honeymoon destinations in Sri Lanka.

Special Activities for Honeymooners:

• Have a picnic at Ella Rock
• Take a dip in Ravana Falls
• Watch the sunrise at the nine-arch bridge
• Take a stroll to explore the Ella town

Best Time To Visit: All the year-round, April is the best time

How To Reach: Take the iconic Kandy to Ella train to enjoy picturesque landscapes

Things To Do:

• Ella Rock Hiking Tour
• Cycling Tour
• Hike to Ellawala waterfall
• Hike to the top of Little Adam’s Peak

Yala National Park – For The Wild Couple

Seeking a wildlife adventure? The Yala National Park is one of the best places to honeymoon in Sri Lanka for couples who love nature and are wild at heart. Welcome to the land of the leopard! Yala boasts of the highest leopard density in the world. Yala is definitely one of the best spots for adventurous wild romance in Sri Lanka.

Special Activities for Honeymooners:

• Strolls by the beach
• Cycling Tour
• Bird watching
• Trek to Sithulpawwa Rajamaha Viharaya – an ancient temple within the park
• Camping under the stars

Best Time To Visit: February to July

How To Reach: It’s a four hour journey from Colombo by car

Things To Do:

• Tented Safari Camping Trip
• Fishing
• Bird Watching

Kandy – Immerse in Culture

For couples who love immersing themselves in the culture of a destination, there can be no better place than Kandy. Widely known as the last kingdom city of Sri Lanka, Kandy houses the Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha. It’s a city steeped in tradition, and this is quite obvious if you visit Kandy during the Esala festival in the months of July and August. It is truly one of the most beautiful honeymoon places in Sri Lanka, buried in rich cultural heritage.

Special Activities For Honeymooners:

• Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic
• Watch traditional Kandyan dancing at the Kandyan Cultural Centre
• Take a stroll through the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens
• Treks and hikes to get the adrenaline pumping

Best Time To Visit: July to April

How To Reach: The train from Colombo Fort to Kandy is about a two and a half hour journey.

Things To Do In Kandy:

• Explore the streets of Kandy
• Watch Traditional Kandyan Dancing
• Visit the botanical gardens
• Early Morning stroll around the Kandy Lake

Kandalama – A Quaint Retreat

Kandalama is an ideal destination for couples looking for less crowds and lots of privacy! It is a small village that is located near the famous Sigiriya Fortress. You are likely to find the blue sky dotted with hot air balloons, a popular activity in this part of the island. Kandalama is a great option if you want to have the option of a romantic getaway, coupled with wildlife safaris, visits to UNESCO World Heritage sites, and a peek into rural Sri Lanka.

Special Activities For Honeymooners:

• Sunrise hot air balloon ride over the Kandalama Lake or Dambulla
• A visit to Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the Dambulla Cave Temples
• Safari in Minneriya Park

Best Time To Visit: January – April, July – September.

How To Reach: It’s a two hour journey from Kandy by car
Things To Do:

• Sunrise Ballooning
• Cycling through the rural land
• Jeep Safari to Minneriya/Kaudulla National Parks
• Visit Sigiriya, the famous Lion Rock and the Dambulla Cave Temples

From sun and sea to lush rainforests to exotic wildlife – Sri Lanka is a paradise isle that offers you every kind of experience you can think of! Oh, and did we say that the people are amazing, the food divine, and the culture and history intriguing? All the more reason to come visit us.

We guarantee that a trip to the island for your honeymoon will give you amazing, authentic experiences, as well as many opportunities to connect with each other and make memories that will last you both a lifetime and beyond.

Get in touch with us if you need help planning your honeymoon in Sri Lanka.

The post What are the places to cover in Sri Lanka on a honeymoon? first appeared on Tales of Ceylon.

Sri Lanka offers plenty of distinctive experiences that are ideal for any type of traveller. Whether you are looking to explore wildlife, dive into the depths of the ocean, immerse yourself in a wellness experience, or bask in the warm tropical sun along our coast, there’s something for everyone in our Paradise Isle.

1. Wildlife Safari

Sri Lanka has become a preferred wildlife destination in the South Asian region, thanks to the tropical island’s abundance of diverse natural ecosystems and wildlife species. The ecosystems in these parks often range from tropical cloud forests to rainforests to montane forests. These ecosystems are home to approximately 123 species of mammals, 180 species of reptiles, 122 species of amphibians, 227 species of birds, and 93 species of fish, many of which are endemic to Sri Lanka.

The Eastern and Southeastern coasts of the island are possibly the best regions for safaris. Several national parks with diverse flora and fauna dot the region.

Yala National Park – A six-hour drive southeast of Colombo, this national park is considered to be the country’s premier national park, sitting along a beautiful stretch of coastline. The park is home to more than 200 species of birds, 44 species of mammals, 47 species of reptiles, 18 species of amphibians, along with several other fish species and invertebrates.

Minneriya National Park – A short drive from the Sigiriya rock fortress, this park is over 8,800ha (21,745 acres) and is home to hundreds of Sri Lankan elephants. The months of August and September are special for the Minneriya National Park, as it plays host to the annual ‘Elephant Gathering’. During this season, more than 200-300 Asian elephants gather around the Minneriya reservoir to feed off the grass that grows on its banks. This is one of the few places in Asia where such a phenomenon is recorded, and is certainly a unique experience, allowing you to see elephants feeding and bathing as they socialize with the rest of the herd.

Udawalawe National Park – Elephant sightings are almost guaranteed here, but keep an eye out for other endangered species that may make a surprise appearance. Rare and endemic species of mammals such as the Sri Lankan sambar deer and the Sri Lankan sloth bear have been known to wander in the wilderness here. Some of the endemic bird species that dwell in the park are the Sri Lankan spurfowl, Sri Lankan jungle fowl, and the Sri Lankan grey hornbill. If you visit during the dry season that runs from May to October, you just might spot them during your safari.

Discover more details about Wildlife Safaris in Sri Lanka here.

2. Surfing

Surfing is an activity that is increasing in popularity in Sri Lanka, and the island is now rather well known as a tropical surf paradise. Sri Lanka is surrounded by warm water, palm-fringed sandy beaches and awesome breaks that are suitable for beginners and advanced surfers.
The ideal season for surfing varies according to destination, due to the changes in tide. The Southwestern and Southern coastal beaches are ideal for surfing between November and April. The East coast season for surfing runs from May to October.

Here are some of the best surf spots in Sri Lanka:

Arugam Bay – This surf point is primarily known as one of the best surfing destinations not only in Sri Lanka, but in the whole of Asia. Several international surfing competitions are hosted here which means it is more suited for advanced surfers. May to October is considered to be the ‘peak’ season, and it is when the coastal town comes alive with surf enthusiasts from around the world.

The areas that are popular among the surfing community here are the Main Point, Pottuvil Point, and Crocodile Rock.

Mirissa – Mirissa is a small town located along Sri Lanka’s southern coast, about a 100 miles from the bustling city of Colombo. The sand-bottomed wave breaks are safe for the beginner, and allow intermediate surfers to hone their skills. The ideal times to experience the waves are in the early morning and the late afternoon. The coast is also lined with restaurants and cafés, and is home to a bustling nightlife.

The best surf spots here are the Point Reef Break and the Main Beach Break.

Ahangama – Ahangama with its long stretch of beautiful tropical shoreline, offers all sorts of surf breaks. Uncrowded waves for every level of surfer can be found here, from beginners to experts, with ideal conditions for both long and shortboarding. Kabalana “The Rock” with its perfect A-frame breaks, is one of its most famous swells. Not to mention, the beach is not as crowded as other parts of the south, and has a fantastic selection of surf camps.

3. Snorkeling

Snorkelling in Sri Lanka provides you with a uniquely relaxing experience, completely different from the beauty of life on land. Snorkelling does not require any sort of qualification, however, it is recommended that you hire a guide for safety reasons. You could either rent snorkelling gear from one of the dive centres, or you could purchase them in any of the surf shops.

Some must visit places for Snorkeling in Sri Lanka are:

Hikkaduwa – Hikkaduwa is known for its impressive coral reefs and marine life within, and so is naturally known to be one of the best places to snorkel. The shallow waters, not more than 200m from the shore make it a perfect snorkel spot for beginners.

Pigeon Island – Located towards the North East of the island, a few meters off the coast of Trincomalee lies Pigeon Island, surrounded by an abundance of marine biodiversity. Not only will you witness the beauty of the coast and coral reefs, but if you are lucky, you will also get to see a variety of sea creatures including sharks and turtles.

Bentota – Bentota offers wide areas of colourful corals, tropical fish and shipwrecks. Small angelfish, large parrotfish, groupers and jackfish are some of the marine species you’ll come across during your snorkel session.

See our article on Diving and snorkeling in Sri Lanka for more information.

4. Ayurveda Wellness

Ayurveda is a Sanskrit term that means “the Science of Life.” True to its name, this medical practice advocates for a true balance of mind, body, and spirit. Sri Lanka has its own indigenous knowledge base of medicine and health, and it is the combination of Ayurveda with Sri Lanka’s indigenous roots in medicine that forms today’s famous Sri Lankan Ayurveda experience.

If you want to get away from the stressful daily grind, an Ayurveda retreat in Sri Lanka is the ideal option. An Ayurveda retreat is a peaceful vacation where you may retreat, rest, and rejuvenate at your own pace from the stress and strain of daily life.

Ayurveda retreats strive to foster a healthy lifestyle via a combination of clean eating, exercise, and mindfulness, and they help you maintain your wellbeing by exposing you to the many different therapies that Ayurveda medicine is famous for. Herbal oil treatments mixed with massages, acupuncture, and spa therapies are examples of these.

Ayurveda retreats aren’t a temporary break from your busy life but a holistic reset of your mind, body and spirit. Sri Lanka is often known for its beaches and surfing but the country’s commitment to Ayurveda and wellness is just as impressive.
Coupled with the island’s signature tropical temperament and magnificent natural beauty, a Sri Lankan Ayurveda retreat is the perfect way for you to rest, relax, rejuvenate and reset from your busy life.

Read our article on Ayurveda in Sri Lanka to learn more.

The post What are some unique experiences in Sri Lanka? first appeared on Tales of Ceylon.

Touring Sri Lanka by train is convenient as it saves you from traffic congestion on the road, an added bonus is that it gives you a unique view of the beauty of our paradise isle!

Whether you are chugging along the sunny coast, or through sleepy villages, or passing waterfalls, a train journey in Sri Lanka can be a delightful experience, as you will have the opportunity to interact with locals and also meet fellow travelers.

Train fares differ according to the length of the journey and the seating class you opt to travel in. A majority of trains offer First, Second and Third class seating, and in most cases seating can be reserved ahead of time for selected classes.

If you wish to take a normal train, it is best to book tickets at the railway station in advance to ensure you receive a seat. You could also speak to your travel agent and they will be happy to make the necessary arrangements for you. A website is available to reserve your train ticket however, it will be an online reservation only. Passengers need to collect their physical ticket from the mTicketing service enabled station.

Colombo to Kandy
Start – Colombo Fort; End – Kandy; Distance – approx. 80 miles/125km – Duration approx. 2hrs 30mins

Colombo to Galle
Start – Colombo Fort; End – Galle; Distance – approx. 75 miles/120km – Duration – approx. 1hr 40mins

Kandy to Nuwara Eliya
Start – Kandy; End – Nanu Oya Station,Nuwara Eliya; Distance – approx. 122 miles/196km – Duration – approx. 3-4hrs

Colombo to Ella [Recommended – Scenic Route]
Start – Colombo Fort Station; End – Ella Station; Distance – approx. 169 miles/272km – Duration – approx. 7-9hrs

Kandy to Ella
Start – Kandy; End – Ella Station; Distance – approx. 86 miles/140km – Duration – approx. 6-7hrs

Colombo to Anuradhapura
Start – Colombo Fort Station; End – Anuradhapura Station; Distance – approx. 128 miles/206km – Duration – approx. 3hrs 30mins

Exploring Sri Lanka by train is time saving, convenient and affordable, in addition to being one of the best ways to see more of the island!
For train schedules visit
https://eservices.railway.gov.lk/

Tips for traveling by train in Sri Lanka

1. Take snacks and water

Trains have no food carriages, so it’s best you take your own snacks and beverages. Try and get snacks before you get to the station.

2. Travel light

All carriages have overhead luggage racks, which ideally fit backpacks and small suitcases. However, it is not a good idea to travel with more than one large bag.

3. Double-check the platform for your train

When you arrive at the main platform gate and enter upon showing your ticket, remember to inquire about the correct platform your train will leave from. Also be mindful, most platforms have two sides, make sure you are on the right one.

4. Be mindful of the open doors

Most carriages on Sri Lankan trains have open doors. The doors remain open throughout the journey. If you choose to wonder about the carriage, watch your step.

5. Have a light jacket on hand

Although a tropical country, depending on the time of year, the hill-country can get chilly. Taking a light jacket with you for the ride would be ideal for trips in to the highlands.

The post Can Sri Lanka be toured by Railways? first appeared on Tales of Ceylon.

Sri Lanka’s east coast experiences dry and warm weather during the month of July, with temperatures in the region averaging 29-30°C. On the other hand, the southern and western coast experiences regular showers at short intervals.

Moving further inland, the Cultural Triangle becomes very hot and humid, and temperatures easily soar to more than 30°C. The weather in the hill-country is pleasant, but it can get rather cold during the evening.

Things to do

There are plenty of things to do in Sri Lanka in July; the primary activity being water sports. Take your entire family to the east coast to participate in some exhilarating surfing action. Maybe even go on a diving and snorkelling excursion as well. The Pigeon Island National Park near Trincomalee is ideal for this.

Additionally, this is a great tome to explore the Cultural Triangle since the weather is perfect. The ancient cities of Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura contain much of the rich history and heritage that Sri Lanka is famous for. Go ahead and check out the ruins of the many stupas and palaces in the area. The Minneriya National Park, located in close proximity, is perfect for a wildlife safari. The Udawalawe National Park and Kaudulla National Park are also worth visiting, as the safaris here will allow you to enjoy the diverse flora and fauna of the island.

The hill-country in the central region of the island is ideal for both outdoor activity and relaxing. Hiking along the nature trails of the mountains during this season can be a bit dangerous due to wet weather, however, certain parts of the Hunnasgiriya and the Knuckles Mountain Range are safe for such activity. Make sure you bring some layers when visiting this region, since it is colder than usual.

Where to go

Cities along the eastern coast such as Trincomalee, Arugam Bay, Passikudah, Batticaloa, and Kalkudah are rather popular for water sports. From scuba diving to boat rides, there are many water-related activities you can enjoy here.

Do not forget the Cultural Triangle, as the ancient cities of Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura are perfect to visit during this time. Do try and make the effort to visit the other places in the region as well, such as Ritigala, Dambulla, and Mihintale. They have some wonderful historic sites that should not be missed.

Nature beckons to be explored in the national parks. Udawalawe, Kaudulla, and Minneriya National Parks are idyllic locations to catch a glimpse of the island’s unique biodiversity.

The post Visiting Sri Lanka in July first appeared on Tales of Ceylon.

June is when the monsoon that begins in the Bay of Bengal reaches the western and southern coasts of Sri Lanka. Although rain is frequent, these regions still experience high humidity and temperatures that average above 28°C. Similarly, the hill-country becomes quite chilly due to the monsoon rains.

On the other hand, the weather on the east coast tends to ease up with low rainfall, making the seas calmer and ideal for water sports. The Cultural Triangle also experiences a similar weather pattern to that of the eastern coast.

Things to do

The east coast of the island becomes the hub for water sports-related activities during this time. The shores of Trincomalee and Arugam Bay become the prime destinations for diving, snorkelling, surfing and swimming.

You can also explore the captivating history of the island when you visit the cities located in the Cultural Triangle. Marvel at the ruins of the ancient kingdoms of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa. The Minneriya National Park, situated in close proximity, is a great change of pace, as it allows you to go on a safari and catch a glimpse of the diverse flora and fauna.

The hill-country gets slightly colder with frequent rainfall, so hiking in the mountains can be a bit tricky. However, there are a few places, such as Hunnasgiriya and parts of the Knuckles Mountain Range that are accessible during this time. This also a great time to explore the famous tea plantations of Sri Lanka.

Water sports can still be enjoyed on the southern and western coasts, however, we recommend caution as many areas experience choppy waters. Always ask your tour operator or tour guide for advice on which areas are best to head to depending on which activities you want to enjoy.

Where to go

Since the east coast is the ideal place to be, the coastal towns of Trincomalee, Arugam Bay, Batticaloa, Passikudah, and Kalkudah should on the top of your travel itinerary. The opportunities for exciting water sports are endless here.

Do not forget the ancient cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa as well, since they provide great insights into the island’s intriguing past. The hill-country, in the central region of the island is a great place to relax and enjoy cool climes. Towns such as Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Mahiyanganaya, and Hatton are some of the best cities to visit in the highlands.

The national parks of Minneriya, Wasgamuwa and Kaudulla should also be added to your itinerary as you are bound to see an amazing array of biodiversity on your safari.

The post Visiting Sri Lanka in June first appeared on Tales of Ceylon.

The monsoon season starts on the south and west coast of Sri Lanka during May. It is also the time when the eastern coast of the island starts to experience more sunny weather. Temperatures on the east coast would average around 30°C. The northern coast of the island also experiences a similar weather pattern. The precipitation levels in the hill country and the Cultural Triangle increase during this time.

Things to do

While the monsoon season starts to reach the southern and western coasts of Sri Lanka, the east coast opens up for some amazing water sports. Whether you want to surf, snorkel, or dive, cities along the eastern coast offers it all during this period.

That is not to say that the southern and western coasts should be avoided. There are plenty of attractions to visit in these regions. Galle alone has the Galle Fort and several other natural wonders. If you are looking for a nature excursion, national parks such as Wilpattu, Yala, Kumana, and Bundala are perfect to visit during this time.

Exploring the illustrious history of the ancient kingdoms located in the Cultural Triangle is something that should not be missed. Visiting these ancient monuments will allow you to delve into the rich heritage and culture of the island and its people.

Hiking in the incredible mountains located in the central highlands is another great experience. Since the region does not experience the full brunt of the monsoon season, the mountains are safe to visit.

Where to go

If you are looking for adventure, the best place to go is the eastern coast. Cities like Arugam Bay, Batticaloa, Trincomalee, and Passikudah are great coastal towns to partake in adrenaline-filled water sports. The hill-country towns of Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, and Mahiyanganaya are perfect for those picturesque hikes through misty mountain trails.

The nature enthusiast will love the idea of visiting Yala, Kumana, Bundala, and Wilpattu National Parks, since you can go on safaris and guided bush walks.

The island’s history in the Cultural Triangle awaits exploration. The cities of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Dambulla, and Matale are the best places to go for this activity.

The post Visiting Sri Lanka in May first appeared on Tales of Ceylon.

The month of April is easily one of the best months to visit Sri Lanka, as the weather in the west, south, north, and central regions of the country is ideal for travel.

Popular southern coastal cities like Galle, Hikkaduwa, and Mirissa experience a temperature that would average around 30°C, along with high humidity. The northern region, along with the Cultural Triangle experiences a similar weather pattern.

The temperatures in the central highlands, in cities such as Kandy and Nuwara Eliya begin to get warmer and are subject to occasional rainfall. It is during this time that the weather on the eastern coast starts to ease up as well, with relatively less rainfall.

Things to do

There are many activities and excursions you can enjoy on the island during this time. Safaris at parks such as Wilpattu, Yala, and Udawalawe are a great option, since it is dry and the animals can be spotted with ease. Additionally, you can go camping and hiking in the central highlands, as it is deemed safe during this period by the authorities.

The Cultural Triangle is the perfect place to experience the rich heritage of the island. Whether, you visit Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Dambulla, or even Kandy, there is much to see and learn about Sri Lanka’s intriguing history, culture and craftsmanship.

This month is also famed for being the time when the Sinhala and Tamil New Year dawns. Filled with fun celebrations and games, if you are lucky, you just might be able to participate in the festivities that take place throughout the island! Sample some delicious Sri Lankan sweets that are made especially during this time of year, they are bound to be like nothing you’ve had before.

There is a lot of activity on the southern and western coasts of the island during this time. You can go surfing, swimming, snorkelling, and diving in places like Hikkaduwa and Mirissa to name but two. Water sports can also be enjoyed in coastal cities like Bentota. Remember that it can get rather hot at this time of year, so stay hydrated, use sunscreen and where a wide brimmed hat to stay comfortable.

Where to go

You can set off on safaris in the Wilpattu, Yala, Kumana, and Udawalawe National Parks during this month. Head to the southern coastal towns of Galle, Unawatuna, Hikkaduwa, Weligama, and Mirissa if you want to enjoy the island’s amazing beaches and experience some exhilarating water sports.

Cities like Nuwara Eliya, Kandy, and Ella are great places to go to, if you are craving outdoor activities such as trekking, hiking, camping. At the same time, Sigiriya, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and other cities within the Cultural Triangle are waiting to be explored by culture and history enthusiasts.

The post Visiting Sri Lanka in April first appeared on Tales of Ceylon.

March is a great month to visit Sri Lanka as the skies are generally clear and the days warm. Temperatures along the southern and western coasts continue to rise, pushing averages of the mid-30°C’s, which means it can get rather hot and dry. You can expect some rainfall towards the latter part of the month.
The rains on the east coast begin to reduce in March, however it can still be rather wet. The skies here begin to clear only in April. Temperatures in the Cultural Triangle, which is situated in the center of the island, can go up to the mid-30°C’s. Rainfall in this region is generally at a minimum during this time. The weather in Kandy and in the highlands begins to get warmer during March, with little rainfall.

Things to do

Visits to the country’s wildlife parks in Yala and Udawalawe are ideal at this time of year. Dry conditions mean more animals come out of dense jungle in search of water, increasing your chance of sightings. Camping is a fun activity, especially if you are travelling with family. March is also a great time to head to Mirissa for whale watching.
Beach activities such as swimming, sunbathing, snorkelling and diving can be enjoyed on the southern and southwestern coasts of the island. Conditions for kitesurfing are favourable in Kalpitiya at this time. Keep in mind that it can get rather hot along the coast. Keep yourself hydrated, wear a hat and sunglasses.
Head to the Cultural Triangle to visit heritage sites from Sri Lanka’s colourful and intriguing history. Drive up to the central highlands to experience cool weather and embark on treks through rainforests and parks. You can enjoy great Sri Lankan cuisine and relaxing Ayurvedic massages and treatments all year round.

Where to go

You can visit wildlife parks such as Yala, Udawalawe and Wilpattu during this period. Head to the coastal towns of Galle, Colombo, Bentota, Weligama, Mirissa and Negombo if you want to soak up the sun. Activities such as snorkelling, diving and surfing can be enjoyed along the southern and southwestern coasts at this time of year.
Visit Sigiriya, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and Kandy for exiting history and heritage tours, and head to Horton Plains, Moon Plains, Kanneliya or Sinharaja for hikes and treks.

The post Visiting Sri Lanka in March first appeared on Tales of Ceylon.

December can be a great time to travel to Sri Lanka, as the weather is not too hot or dry. This is primarily due to the monsoon season ending in late November or early December. The central highlands, including tea country in Nuwara Eliya, are green, lush and extremely beautiful at this time of year. It can get rather chilly up in the hills, so its best to have a sweater or two in hand. The weather in the southern and western coasts are perfect for sunbathing and beach activities in December.

Things to do

Sri Lanka is a year-round holiday destination, as there’s always fun and exciting things to do in the country. If you are visiting in December, you can enjoy coastal activities such as swimming, snorkelling, diving, surfing, whale watching. Nature and safari lovers can enjoy wildlife safaris, bird watching and plenty of exciting hikes and treks during this time. Those who enjoy culture and history can visit the country’s cultural triangle where there are a number of temples and ruins that date back thousands of years. December is also a great time for foodies to enjoy plenty of delicious Sri Lankan cuisine, in addition to unique seasonal fare.

Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Sri Lanka can be a fun experience. The city of Colombo gets rather busy during this season with many Christmas activities such as carols, themed markets, shopping events, and of course extravagant Christmas Day lunches and dinners being offered by almost all hotels and restaurants. There are plenty of Catholic, Protestant and non-denominational churches that conduct Christmas Eve and Christmas Day services in English should you wish to attend.

New Year’s Eve is a time for raucous fun on the island. Take your pick from beach parties, all night-long dinner dances at hotels, spirit filled parties at pubs and bars, or a quiet elegant dinner with your loved ones, as you watch the skies light up with midnight fireworks.

Where to go

The coastal towns of Galle, Bentota, Weligama, Mirissa and Negombo are great places to visit for sun, sand and swimming. The southern and southwestern coasts are ideal for snorkelling, diving and surfing at this time of year. If whale watching is something that interests you, head over to Mirissa for an unforgettable experience.

You can also enjoy some wonderful wildlife safaris at Yala National Park or Udawalawe National Park at this time. Kumana National Park is perfect for birdwatching.

Visit Ella Rock, Horton Plains Park or Kanneliya Forest for hikes and treks that will give you a chance to experience the diverse natural beauty of the island.

Head over to Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and Sigiriya to experience the fascinating cultural heritage of the country. It is possible that you will experience some rain due to the eastern monsoon.

Aim to spend Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Colombo or Galle, as these cities offer more choices in terms of activities and parties.

Take note that December is peak season for tourism in Sri Lanka. Therefore, you may have to pay high season surcharges for accommodation and certain experiences.

The post Visiting Sri Lanka in December first appeared on Tales of Ceylon.

You would do well to plan your trip to Sri Lanka in January. Not only is it a great start to the year, but the pleasant weather conditions in the western and southern parts of the country will ensure you have a memorable holiday.

The weather in the western and southern coast is perfect for sightseeing and beach activities. You can expect temperatures of around 30 °C, and plenty of sunshine. Rainfall is possible, but will be at a minimal.

The temperature in the central highlands drops to its lowest during this time, with Nuwara Eliya usually recording an average of about 15 °C.

The weather in the cultural triangle is largely pleasant, although you should expect a bit of rain.

Things to do

By January, the southern coast of Sri Lanka is well into tourist season. The beaches are great for sunbathing, swimming, snorkelling, diving and engaging in a host of water sports. If you are a lover of nature, you can enjoy exciting wildlife safaris, birdwatching and whale watching, or go on hikes and treks through national parks and rainforests.

Visits to the cultural triangle should definitely be undertaken as Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage is not something to be missed out on. The food experience in Sri Lanka is great all year round. Definitely try some of the country’s delicious seafood when you are in the western and southern coasts. Enjoy relaxing and therapeutic spa treatments which are available at all tourist hot spots.

Where to go

Visit the coastal towns of Galle, Bentota, Weligama, Mirissa and Negombo for sun, sand and swimming. Bentota is great for plenty of exciting water sports at this time. Mirissa is where you should head if you want to whale watch. The southern and southwestern coasts are ideal for snorkelling, diving and surfing at this time of year.

Yala and Wilpattu National Parks can be visited in January, but you may catch the tail end of the north eastern monsoon in early January. Udawalawe and Kumana National Parks are most suited for birdwatching.

Visit Ella Rock, Horton Plains Park, Kanneliya Forest or Sinharaja Forest for rewarding hikes and treks which will give you the opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of the country. You can also climb Adam’s Peak, as the season begins in December.

Head over to Sigiriya, Anuradhapura and Kandy for cultural tours that offer a glimpse into the country’s ancient history.

Keep in mind that peak season surcharges may apply at hotels and at certain tourist attractions during this time.

The post Visiting Sri Lanka in January first appeared on Tales of Ceylon.