Rolling green hills and rugged coastlines set the scene for a holiday in Sri Lanka. Breathe in the aromas of vibrant tea plantations, explore temples hidden within jungles and mountains, or unwind on golden-sand beaches overlooking the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.
Sri Lankan cuisine is rich with locally grown spices such as cinnamon, chillies, and turmeric, often paired with Ceylon tea or the coconut-based spirit arrack. Whether dining at your resort or discovering local eateries, food forms a memorable part of the experience.
Many resorts are ideally placed for exploration beyond the beach. Spend time in Colombo, wandering bustling markets, strolling the boardwalk, or learning about the country’s layered history. Guided tours may include UNESCO World Heritage sites, centuries-old forts, national parks home to unique wildlife, and ancient temples.
Wherever your journey takes you, Sri Lanka is a destination that invites you to slow down, linger longer, and savour every moment, sight, and flavour.
Sri Lanka can offer you everything, from a tropical monsoon season to clear skies and dry weather. Just pick your next adventure and then choose the right time to visit.
Visit between May and August to avoid the monsoon season.
Expect: Sunny skies and powerful surf.
You’ll find the sunniest, driest skies between December and March.
Expect: Warm weather and busy crowds.
Consider April to May for the south-west region and September to November for the north-east coasts.
Expect: Lower prices and possible rain.
Sri Lanka boasts great surf beaches, snorkelling spots and whale watching opportunities.
Although small, Sri Lanka has diverse wildlife, with 15 national parks.
Sri Lanka's main religion is Buddhism, with stunning temples like the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy.
From street foods like kottu roti to hearty curries and fresh cinnamon, Sri Lanka boasts endless flavours.
Book an all-inclusive resort and enjoy local food, drink and activities all included in one price. Be sure to make the most of all the offerings, including morning and afternoon snacks, fresh-cut fruits and fun activities.
Many of Sri Lanka’s best resorts offer services and activities to make things easy for families. Younger travellers can make new friends with kids’ clubs, while parents relax at the spa. Spacious family suites, kid-friendly meals and babysitting services make it easy to book a family holiday in Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka is a popular destination for honeymoons and anniversaries. The most romantic resorts in Sri Lanka feature sea views, private jacuzzis and couples’ spa treatments.
Sri Lanka has indulgent luxury resorts, perfect for extra special holidays. Book five-star resorts with extra amenities, personalised butler service and top-of-the-line spa treatments.
Sri Lanka is located in the Indian Ocean, just southeast of India. The two countries are separated by the Gulf of Mannar and the Palk Strait.
Sri Lanka is generally safe for tourists. It’s important to stay aware of flood and landslide risks during the monsoon season, and it’s recommended to be vaccinated for Japanese encephalitis before you travel. It's also important to be aware of different laws and cultural norms, for example, same-sex activity is illegal (though rarely prosecuted), topless sunbathing is prohibited and disrespecting Buddhist images or artefacts can lead to arrest.
Sri Lanka is well known for its natural landscapes, tea plantations and rich history.
If you’re visiting the southern or western coasts, then December to April is usually the best time to visit. If you’re visiting the east coast, then May to September is often the best time.
With so much to explore, you’ll probably want at least seven days in Sri Lanka, but you could easily spend up to two weeks if you have lots of sightseeing you want to do.
Sri Lanka is generally a fairly affordable destination, especially compared to some other Indian Ocean destinations.
Non-stop flights from London to Sri Lanka take around 10 hours and 20 minutes.
The best places to stay in Sri Lanka depend on your travel preferences. Stay in or near Colombo for access to the country’s biggest city and cultural hub. For coastal resorts, the southwest boasts excellent beaches, including some that are especially popular with surfers.
Sri Lanka has excellent beaches. Beaches like Arugam Bay on the east coast and Weligama and Hikkaduwa on the west are well-known surf beaches (Weligama is great for beginners). Mirissa is a beautiful beach on the south coast where you can sometimes spot whales between November and April.
You will need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter Sri Lanka. You can apply for one online or receive an on-arrival ETA at the airport. These are valid for up to 30 days.
Sri Lanka is a great holiday destination for families with lots of interesting wildlife and culture to explore.
Sri Lanka is a popular holiday destination for couples, with plenty of romantic scenery, fun couples activities and luxury resorts.
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Return flights from London Heathrow Airport 28th Apr · Air India Limited · Economy
7 nights · All Inclusive · 2 adults
Transfers included
Atol Protected
Return flights from London Heathrow Airport 15th Sep · Air India Limited · Economy
7 nights · All Inclusive · 2 adults
Transfers included
Atol Protected
Return flights from London Gatwick Airport 30th Sep · Gulf Air Bahrain · Economy
7 nights · Bed & Breakfast · 2 adults
Transfers included
Atol Protected
Return flights from London Gatwick Airport 30th Sep · Gulf Air Bahrain · Economy
7 nights · All Inclusive · 2 adults
Transfers included
Atol Protected
Return flights from London Gatwick Airport 30th Sep · Gulf Air Bahrain · Economy
7 nights · Half Board · 2 adults
Transfers included
Atol Protected
