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Renowned as the ‘teardrop of India’ due to its unique shape and location, Sri Lanka is an utterly captivating island that truly has something for everyone. Whether you wish to immerse yourself in awe-inspiring scenery, discover ancient archaeological sites, explore rolling tea plantations, spot extraordinary native wildlife or stroll along golden sand beaches, Sri Lanka is the go-to destination.

Following the expert advice of our Asia specialists, Rob, Dan, Ayesha and Ollie, we have compiled a list of everything you need to know when planning an unforgettable holiday to Sri Lanka in 2025, 2026 and 2027.

As one of the most beautiful and diverse holiday destinations in the world, it should come as no surprise that Sri Lanka is a favourite of ours at ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½¹ÙÍø.

Even though Sri Lanka is small in size, it is mighty in experiences. Whether you wish to explore the historic UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the Cultural Triangle, sip tea in the enchanting jungle-clad mountains of the Hill Country or bathe in the sun on palm-fringed beaches, Sri Lanka is certainly the ultimate island getaway.

Often overlooked by travellers in favour of an African safari, Sri Lanka is not one to be underestimated and is a wonderful safari destination. Home to a collection of incredible national parks such as Yala, Wilpattu and Gal Oya, there is no doubt that you will come away with some exciting and memorable wildlife encounters.

From its exhilarating wildlife safaris to its rich cultural excursions to its thrilling beach adventures, Sri Lanka has it all. Whether you are planning a romantic honeymoon, an exciting family holiday or a luxury island escape, Sri Lanka is certainly not one to be missed.

With its spectacular location off the south-eastern coast of India, there is usually somewhere in Sri Lanka that is drenched in sun between the months of December to August.

The best time to visit, however, truly depends on what you wish to see and do. If you wish to visit the Cultural Triangle, Galle and the Hill Country, we recommend travelling between December to April where the dry season is in full swing. Whereas if you are looking for a safari experience, the best time to visit Sri Lanka would be between February to August, as the wildlife is roaming the lands in search of water.

It is worth remembering when planning your luxury holiday that Sri Lanka has two distinct monsoon seasons: the Yala Monsoon on the southwest coastline and the Hill Country (May to September) and the Maha Monsoon on the northeast (October to February).

Taking into consideration what is popular with our travellers, our Asia experts have created a list of the thirteen best things to see and do on a tailor-made holiday to Sri Lanka.

• Climb the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya: Renowned as one of the seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Sri Lanka, the Lion Rock is one of the most rewarding hikes with astounding views across the Sri Lankan countryside.
• Explore Anuradhapura’s ancient wonders: The sacred city of Anuradhapura is home to a myriad of centuries-old ruins, stupas, monasteries and Buddhist temples, offering an enchanting opportunity to delve into the rich history of Sri Lanka.
• Marvel at the Dambulla Cave Temple: A series of five beautifully decorated caves with over 150 Buddha statues, paintings and murals which date back to the first century BC and is still a functioning monastery today.
• Visit Kandy’s iconic Temple of the Tooth: Known locally as Sri Dalada Maligawa, this temple in Kandy is home to the relic of the Buddha’s tooth and is considered as one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the world.
• Ride the rails from Kandy to the Tea Country: Embark on a train journey that weaves through the most scenic routes of Sri Lanka’s Hill Country.
• Sip Ceylon tea in the vibrant green tea plantations of the Hill Country: The Hill Country is infamous for its high tea served in the afternoon overlooking the pea-green tea estates.
• See the majestic elephants of Gal Oya National Park: A remote haven which is home to the country’s largest lake, Senanayake Samudra, and if you are fortunate enough, you may see the native elephants swim from island to island and forage at the water’s edge.
• Spot the extraordinary wildlife of Yala National Park: With a 4×4 safari through Yala, you will undoubtedly spot a variety of wild elephants, crocodiles, antelope, monkeys and maybe the elusive leopard.
• Go whale watching at Mirissa: Between November and April, those who travel to the beautiful beach of Mirissa will have the chance to witness the world’s biggest mammal, the blue whale, as well as sperm whales, fin whales, Bryde’s whales, dolphins, turtles and flying fish.
• Discover the coastal charm of Galle: The massive coral-built ramparts of Galle Fort are utterly enchanting, and full of boutique shops and busy restaurants that are worth exploring.
• Surf, kayak, swim and snorkel in the Indian Ocean on Sri Lanka’s south coast: Over the winter months, the south coast’s waters are at their best.
• Witness some of the most jaw-dropping scenery from Koneswaram Temple: Climb to the highest point of Swami Rock to Koneswaram Temple, where you will be welcomed by an unparalleled view of Trincomalee Harbour, the fourth largest natural harbour in the world, and the beautiful waters of the Indian Ocean beyond. On a clear day, you may be lucky to spot whales and dolphins on their migration routes around the island.
• Escape from the bustle of the city on a Sri Lanka beach holiday on the east coast: During the summer months of June, July and August, Sri Lanka’s east coast is the perfect place for a luxury beach holiday. Whether you want to swim in the clear waters of the Indian Ocean, stroll along the untouched golden shores or soak up some Sri Lankan culture, the east coast ticks all the boxes.

Sri Lanka is a wonderfully romantic and idyllic holiday destination, yet when combined with the paradisal atolls of the Maldives, there is simply no better luxury honeymoon escape. Perfectly blending adventure with relaxation, you can explore the ancient treasures of the Cultural Triangle, sip on tea amongst the jungle-clad mountains of the Hill Country and embark on an exciting wildlife safari in Wilpattu or Yala National Park.

When you are ready to relax, hop across the warm, turquoise-tinted waters of the Indian Ocean to the quintessential tropical holiday destination for couples and honeymooners, the Maldives, where remote islands, breathtaking sunsets and perfect powder-white beaches await.

From majestic elephants to elusive leopards, Sri Lanka is teeming with wildlife and is a dream holiday destination for a safari. You can explore some of Sri Lanka’s most notable national parks such as Yala and Wilpattu and then head to the remote Gal Oya for off-the-beaten-track wildlife viewing and boat safaris along Sri Lanka’s largest lake.

During the months of June, July and August, many of Sri Lanka’s highlights are at their best. You can weave through the sites of the Cultural Triangle and meet the extraordinary native wildlife at Gal Oya National Park before escaping the heat and travelling to the cool tea gardens of the Hill Country. When you are ready to relax and recuperate, you can go to Sri Lanka’s untouched east coast beaches and bathe in the sun on some of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful golden shores.

On our tailor-made trips, you can pick and choose what you want to see and do. To start planning your luxury holidays, honeymoons or family getaways, speak to our Asia travel specialists on +44 (0) 2039 933538 or make an online enquiry.