I’ve spent time traveling around Sri Lanka, from the coastal towns to the central highlands. The best months to visit are December through April for the south and west coasts, and May through September for the east coast. The country is small but full of variety—rainforests, beaches, tea hills, and wildlife.
Exploring the South and Central Regions
The southern coast is my starting point. I stay near Galle for its mix of history and beaches, then move along the coast toward Mirissa and Tangalle. The beaches are wide, and the water is good for swimming and surfing in the dry season. Inland, Ella and Nuwara Eliya sit high in the hills, surrounded by tea plantations and waterfalls. The train ride between Kandy and Ella is one of the most scenic I’ve ever taken.
In the Cultural Triangle, Habarana is my base. It’s quiet and close to Minneriya National Park, where large herds of elephants gather during the dry months. Nearby, Sigiriya Rock and Dambulla Cave Temple are two of the most important archaeological sites in the country and easy to visit in a day.
The East Coast and Wildlife
Trincomalee and Arugam Bay are my favorite places on the east coast. Trincomalee has calm bays for snorkeling and whale watching, while Arugam Bay is a relaxed surf town. Both are less developed than the south and have a slower pace. Yala and Udawalawe National Parks in the south are good for spotting elephants, leopards, and birdlife.
Travel Tips for Visitors
I usually hire a driver for longer trips since roads can be slow and train routes don’t reach every region. Tuk-tuks work well for short distances. I carry cash for small towns and bring light clothing for the heat, plus a jacket for the cooler hill country.
Sri Lanka rewards time spent in one place. It’s easy to combine beaches, wildlife, and mountain travel in a single trip.
If you want to explore more guides to similar regions, visit my destinations page.