Activities

Uncover Your Next Adventure in Sri Lanka

Architectural visits

See breathtaking sites that are renowned for their distinctive architectural design. Art and nature are skillfully combined in the Lunganga Estate designed by renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa. The design of the Independence Memorial Hall symbolises the country's 1948 freedom from British rule. Throughout the dry season, there are a lot of incredibly valuable places to visit.

Sampling local cuisine on food tours

Have a taste of Sri Lanka's amazing cuisine. You will travel throughout Sri Lanka, stopping at different places with unique cuisines and flavours. You can sample the finest delicacies from street food in Colombo to the distinctive flavours of Jaffna.

City tours

Explore ancient cities that once belonged to prosperous kingdoms. The ruins scattered across the city contain a wealth of information about Sri Lanka's past. The main cities of Galle, Jaffna, Colombo, Kandy and Nuwara Eliya are worth seeing in the dry season.

Cultural festivals or events

Because of its colourful festivals and events that go well with its stunning scenery and varied cultures, this tropical island has become well-known throughout the world. The nation's values of religious beliefs, cultural diversity and unity can all be seen during Sri Lankan festivals. Sri Lankan festivals provide both residents and visitors with an engaging and remarkable celebration experience because of their vibrant processions and customs. The Vesak Festival in May, the Sinhala and Tamil New Year Celebration in April and the Jaffna Nallur Festival in August are a few of these festivities.

Exploring museums and art galleries

Sri Lanka is home to many museums that present different facets of the nation's culture. The National History Museum has collections of insects that display their life cycles and taxidermied wildlife. See the crown jewels of the last Sri Lankan king at the National Museum in Colombo. Lastly, discover archaeological artefacts in Jaffna. For a stunning view of art visit the Lionel Wendt Art Gallery and these museums as well as the others in the area.

Visiting historical landmarks

Numerous historic sites that are closely related to Sri Lanka's past will be encountered during your travels. Among other historic cities are Anuradhapura which served as the nation's governing body and Galle and Jaffna forts which represent Sri Lanka's colonial past. You will come across these cities and their ruins as you traverse Sri Lanka along with many more. Make sure to visit during the dry season for the most optimal vacation.

Deep Sea Fishing

Visitors can go deep-sea fishing in places like Trincomalee, Bentota, Negombo and Mirissa. If you want to experience catching rare fish, venture into the deeper ocean. Travelling to the South is most enjoyable from November to April. The best months to visit the East are May through September.

Cycling

During the dry season from December to March, you can explore the many cities in Sri Lanka with bicycles. Travel across the Cultural Triangle which includes Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and Kandy, Galle Fort, Ella, Nuwara Eliya and Sigiriya. This exciting activity will allow you to explore the scenic cities in Sri Lanka up close.

White Water Rafting 

One of the most well-known activities in Kitulgala is white water rafting. The monsoon rains will make the rivers full, so May through December are the ideal months to engage in this thrilling activity.

Hot Air Ballooning

The ideal time of year to travel to Sigiriya or Dambulla for a hot air balloon adventure is from November to April when the sky is clear and the wind is calm. Visitors can see these famous cities, their ruins and neighbourhoods from a different perspective, truly showcasing their splendour.

Zip lining

To experience the thrill of ziplining, visit Ella Adventure Park or Kitulgala Forest Reserve. You can zipline 500 meters at 80 mph and take in the beautiful scenery from above as you speed through the forest

Snorkelling or Scuba Diving

The best locations to go scuba diving and snorkelling are Hikkaduwa, Pigeon Island and Unawatuna. These are where you can enjoy vivid and colourful sights of underwater sceneries that are common around the coasts of Sri Lanka.

Wildlife Safaris

Safari tours through Sri Lankan landscapes allow you to be up close and personal with wildlife. The ideal months to visit beautiful national parks like Wilpattu, Yala and Udawalawe are February through October in dry climates and December through April in wet climates.

Hiking

December to April is the dry season in Sri Lanka, making it the perfect time to explore the trails of various mountains and forests. Travel to locations like Adam’s Peak, Ella Rock, Sinharaja Rainforest and Knuckles Mountain Range.

Staying with a host family for a homestay experience

By staying with a host family you can enjoy the chance to live like a local in Sri Lanka. This will enable you to gain a true understanding of the lives, traditions and customs of the inhabitants of this island nation. You can try out this activity in the dry season.

Volunteering with local communities

Consider volunteering in rural areas of Sigiriya and Anuradhapura when you visit Sri Lanka. Working with reputable organisations to take part in beneficial or educational activities will allow you to experience the fulfilment that comes from helping others. You are able to participate in these activities during the dry season.

Learning a new language or skill

Learning Sri Lankan native languages is available at Language Centers in Kandy and Colombo. Engage in this clever endeavour throughout the year to discover Sri Lanka's splendour.

Traditional craft workshops

Take advantage of the chance to try this imaginative art form by learning some traditional crafts in Matale such as batik painting. Mask-making is an enjoyable pastime in Ambalangoda where it is performed by prodigies. You can learn to make your own souvenirs in Kandy by learning how to do woodworking.

Cooking Classes or culinary tours

Touring the cities in Sri Lanka while tasting delectable food is a great way to experience the culture of this country. You can also take part in activities that allow you to learn how to cook different dishes in this country.

Thermal Baths or Hot Spring Visits

Found in the Eastern Province, the Maha Oya Spring, a natural hot spring will offer you relaxation and warmth. All year long, this location is open to visitors and allows you to experience tranquillity like never before.

Fish Therapy and Foot Reflexology 

The sensation of tiny fish in natural springs nibbling on you can be felt at locations like Mount Lavinia Beach, Galle, and Bentota. You can experience this all year long at these locations.

Relaxing on pristine Beaches

You can relax and enjoy the scenery at the golden beaches of Mirissa, Unawatuna, Tangalle, Arugam Bay and Nilaveli. The best months to visit the Southwest Coast are November through April when there are plenty of sunny days and mild breezes. Savour the breathtaking view of the azure ocean waves striking the golden sand.

Spa Treatments and Wellness Therapies

Discover the benefits of spa and wellness treatments. Engaging in this year-round activity will help you relax and release tension from your body. These treatments are always easily accessible from hotel accommodations in Galle, Bentota, Colombo and Ella.

Yoga and Meditation Retreats

Centre your body and mind through yoga and meditation. You can try this healing technique at hotels in Hikkaduwa, Ella, Sigiriya and Arugam Bay all year long. Enjoy the breathtaking surroundings while unwinding both physically and mentally.