28/08/2024
Travel Tip - Sri Lanka is a fantastic destination to visit between September and December, as this period marks the transition from the southwest monsoon to the northeast monsoon, making certain regions particularly favorable for travel. Here are some of the best locations to consider:
1. Cultural Triangle (Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya)
Best for: History, culture, and ancient ruins.
Highlights: Explore the ancient cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, visit the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, and enjoy the surrounding wildlife sanctuaries.
Weather: This region generally experiences good weather during these months, with less rainfall compared to the southwestern part of the island.
2. Kandy
Best for: Culture, heritage, and nature.
Highlights: Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, explore the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, and enjoy the serene surroundings of this cultural hub.
Weather: Kandy has a relatively mild climate year-round, making it a pleasant stop during this period.
3. Ella and the Hill Country
Best for: Scenic landscapes, hiking, and tea plantations.
Highlights: Enjoy the breathtaking views from Ella Gap, hike to Little Adam's Peak, visit the Nine Arch Bridge, and tour the tea estates in Nuwara Eliya.
Weather: The Hill Country is cooler and can be misty, but it's a beautiful time to visit for lush greenery and clear views.
4. Trincomalee and the East Coast
Best for: Beaches, snorkeling, and cultural sites.
Highlights: Relax on the beaches of Nilaveli and Uppuveli, visit the Koneswaram Temple, and explore the Pigeon Island National Park.
Weather: The east coast generally has drier weather during this period, making it ideal for beach activities.
5. Jaffna and the Northern Province
Best for: Off-the-beaten-path exploration, culture, and history.
Highlights: Explore the Jaffna Peninsula, visit the ancient temples, and discover the unique Tamil culture.
Weather: The weather in Jaffna is dry and sunny during these months, perfect for exploring this less-visited part of Sri Lanka.
6. Yala and the South Coast
Best for: Wildlife safaris and beaches.
Highlights: Go on a safari in Yala National Park to spot leopards, elephants, and other wildlife. Relax on the southern beaches like Tangalle and Mirissa.
Weather: The south coast experiences good weather from November onwards, making it an excellent time for both wildlife and beach activities.
7. Galle and the Southern Coast
Best for: Heritage, beaches, and surfing.
Highlights: Wander around the Galle Fort, relax on the beaches of Unawatuna and Hikkaduwa, and experience the local culture.
Weather: By November, the south coast starts to enjoy sunny weather, making it ideal for a coastal holiday.
8. Colombo
Best for: Urban exploration, shopping, and dining.
Highlights: Explore the bustling city life, visit museums, temples, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife and culinary scene.
Weather: Colombo might experience occasional showers, but it's generally a good time for city exploration.
Travel Tips:
Clothing: Light, breathable clothing is recommended for most regions, with a light jacket for the Hill Country.
Transportation: Sri Lanka has a good network of buses and trains, but hiring a car with a driver can be a more convenient option for covering multiple destinations.
Festivals: Keep an eye out for local festivals such as Deepavali (Diwali) in October/November, which is widely celebrated in Sri Lanka.
