The “Winter” season in the northern hemisphere (December to March) is actually the “High
Season” in Sri Lanka. This is when the island shines. The monsoon has moved to the
north-east, leaving the south and west coasts bathed in sunshine and the ocean calm and
blue.
If you are visiting during this prime window, here are the 20 places you cannot miss,
categorized for easy planning.
The Golden Coast (South & West)
1. Mirissa: The crown jewel of the south. Famous for its nightlife, clean
beach, and being the hub for whale watching. The “Coconut Tree Hill” is the most
Instagrammed spot on the coast.
2. Unawatuna: A horseshoe-shaped bay with calm waters perfect for
swimming. It’s very tourist-friendly, packed with beach bars, sunbeds, and close to Galle.
3. Galle Fort: A UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s a 17th-century Dutch
fortress that is still a living city. Walk the ramparts at sunset and explore the chic cafes and
boutique shops inside the walls.
4. Hiriketiya: The trendy newcomer. A small horseshoe bay that is a
paradise for surfers and yoga lovers. It has a very chilled, “Bali” vibe compared to the busier
towns.
5. Bentota: The classic resort town. Known for its luxury hotels (like the
Geoffrey Bawa-designed ones) and water sports on the Bentota River. Great for families.
6. Weligama: The surf capital. The long, sandy beach has gentle waves,
making it the best place in the world to learn how to surf.
7. Tangalle: Further south and much quieter. The beaches here are wilder
and less crowded. Perfect for honeymooners seeking privacy.
8. Hikkaduwa: One of the original hippie spots. Famous for its “Coral
Sanctuary” where you can snorkel right off the beach and see giant sea turtles.
9. Colombo: Don’t skip the capital. Visit the “Lotus Tower,” shop at the
“Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct,” and eat street food at Galle Face Green.
The Hill Country (Cool & Misty)
10. Ella: The backpacker hub. Famous for the “Nine Arch Bridge,” “Little
Adam’s Peak,” and a vibrant nightlife scene with live music.
11. Nuwara Eliya: “Little England.” It’s cold enough to wear a jacket. Visit
for the colonial architecture, high tea at the Grand Hotel, and strawberry farms.
12. Kandy: The cultural capital. Home to the “Temple of the Sacred Tooth
Relic.” It’s a busy city set around a beautiful lake.
13. Horton Plains National Park: A high-altitude plateau. The hike to
“World’s End”—a sheer cliff drop of 4,000 feet—is a bucket-list experience. Go early (6 AM) to
avoid the mist.
14. Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada): Crucial Note: The
pilgrimage season starts in December. This is the only time the path is lit up at night. Climbing
this 2,243m mountain for sunrise is a spiritual marathon.
The Cultural Triangle (Ancient History)
15. Sigiriya: The Lion Rock. An ancient palace built on top of a massive
rock column. The frescoes and the view from the top are mind-blowing.
16. Pidurangala Rock: The cheaper, more adventurous neighbor to
Sigiriya. Climb this for the best view of Sigiriya rock at sunrise.
17. Dambulla Cave Temple: A complex of five caves filled with 150+
Buddha statues and ancient paintings. It is a stunning display of history.
18. Polonnaruwa: The second ancient capital. It is an archaeological park
best explored by bicycle. The stone carvings here are incredibly preserved.
The Wild Side
19. Yala National Park: This is the best time to visit Yala. It has the
highest density of leopards in the world. The dry season draws animals to the waterholes.
20. Udawalawe National Park: If you want to see elephants, go here. You
are almost guaranteed to see herds of wild elephants. It is less crowded than Yala.
