Sri Lanka Holidays
Timeless Temples, Infinite Beaches, and Oodles of Elephants await in Sri Lanka.
Holidays to Sri Lanka
The main tourist zone stretches along the south-west coast, from Negombo to Galle, but Sri Lanka’s compact size makes it easy to explore more: Kandy, Ella, Tangalle, Sigiriya, the choice is yours. Perfect for luxury escapes, family adventures, laid-back beach breaks, and first-time Asia travellers, Sri Lanka holidays offer exciting experiences packed into one easy-to-navigate island. With warm hospitality, great year-round weather, widely spoken English, and incredible value, a holiday to Sri Lanka is truly unforgettable. Browse our best Sri Lanka deals here.
Why Visit Sri Lanka?
- A trending holiday destination for 2026/27 travellers, where sun, surf and sand are promised.
- Explore Sacred temples, historic cities, and UNESCO World Heritage sites steeped in over 2,000 years of culture.
- Safari through national parks, spot elephants and leopards, or trek misty mountains and tea plantations on wild adventures.
- Savour spicy Sri Lankan cuisine, sip fresh Ceylon tea, and experience the warmth of local hospitality.
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More About Sri Lanka
Wild Encounters in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a wildlife wonderland, where wild adventure meets whimsical nature at every turn. Explore national parks like Yala, Udawalawe, and Minneriya, home to majestic elephant herds, elusive leopards, and brilliant birdlife. Spot crocodiles lounging in rivers, playful monkeys in the forests, and colourful tropical butterflies along hiking trails. Perfect for Sri Lanka holidays filled with unforgettable safari experiences, these parks let you get close to the island’s unique wildlife.
Climb the Lion’s Rock, Sigiriya
Rising from the emerald Sri Lankan jungle, Sigiriya Rock Fortress is a must-see on any Sri Lanka holiday. This ancient UNESCO World Heritage site, also known as the Lion’s Rock, dazzles with frescoes, intricate gardens, and sweeping views from the summit. As you step between the giant stone lion’s paws to climb its steep stairways, imagine kings and queens of centuries past surveying their kingdom below. Perfect for history buffs and photographers, Sri Lanka’s ancient royal palace, Sigiriya, brings culture, legend, and jaw-dropping scenery together.
See Kandy: Sri Lanka’s Soulful Heart
Tucked amidst lush hillsides, Kandy is the spiritual heartbeat of Sri Lanka holidays. Famous for the Temple of the Tooth, where a sacred relic of Buddha is kept, the city offers history, tradition, and stunning landscapes for anyone who visits. Wander serene streets, explore botanical gardens, watch sunset across the lakes and catch lively cultural performances that bring the city’s mythical heritage to life. Then board the iconic Kandy to Ella train journey, often called one of the most beautiful rail rides in the world.
Feast on Sri Lankan Flavour
Sri Lankan food is a joyful spice carnival where coconut milk dances with chilli heat. Influenced by its position in the famous Silk Road route, Sri Lankan cuisine is a medley of tastes from India, Southeast Asia, and Arabia. Think crispy hoppers, fluffy rice, and curries bursting with cinnamon, curry leaves, and turmeric. From street-side kottu roti to slow-simmered dhal, every bite tells an island story. Sweet jaggery desserts, tangy sambols, tropical fruits, and the world's best tea keep things comforting, fiery, and fresh.
Tea, Temples & Test Matches
Cricket in Sri Lanka is more than a game; it’s a joyful island-wide celebration loved across generations. From palm-fringed grounds in Galle to electric stadiums in Colombo and Kandy, Sri Lanka cricket blends world-class sport with island magic. Expect passionate crowds, rhythmic drumming and matches played against backdrops of temples, tea plantations and turquoise skies. For fans, a Sri Lanka cricket tour offers unforgettable moments where passion, culture and cricket collide in spectacular style. They are previous cricket World Cup winners, after all.
A Beach for Everyone
If you thought Sri Lanka wasn’t a beach holiday destination, think again. From party vibes to palm-fringed solitude, Sri Lanka’s beaches truly choose you. And each one has its own personality. Unawatuna’s calm crescent bay waters are perfect for cafe-hopping swimmers and sunset chasers. Mirissa sees whale-watchers, smoothie-sippers, and laid-back backpackers. Arugam Bay, Asia’s undisputed surf capital, belongs to surfers and salty hair days. Tangalle is for peace-seekers who like their beaches wild and quiet where whereas Bentota thrills jet-ski lovers and luxury fans.
Travel Guide
Sri Lanka is perfect for a year-round holiday, with tropical to subtropical climates. Coastal areas are warm and sunny, averaging 27–32 °C, while hill country destinations like Kandy and Nuwara Eliya are cooler and lush.
- Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
- Average flight time: 10-11 hours from the UK
- Time Difference: +5.5 Hours
Weather in Sri Lanka
Average monthly temperature in Sri Lanka (°C)
- Jan 31°C
- Feb 31°C
- Mar 32°C
- Apr 32°C
- May 31°C
- Jun 30°C
- Jul 30°C
- Aug 30°C
- Sep 30°C
- Oct 30°C
- Nov 30°C
- Dec 30°C
Do UK citizens need a visa to travel to Sri Lanka?
Yes. UK passport holders must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) online before travelling to Sri Lanka. The ETA allows a stay of up to 30 days and can be extended after arrival.
What is the best time of year to visit Sri Lanka?
The best time to visit Sri Lanka from the UK depends on the coast:
· December to March: West and south coasts (Colombo, Galle, Bentota)
· April to September: East coast (Arugam Bay)
This makes Sri Lanka a great year-round holiday destination.
How long is the flight from the UK to Sri Lanka?
A direct flight from the UK to Sri Lanka takes approximately 10-11 hours. One-stop flights via Middle Eastern airports like Dubai (DXB), Doha (DOH), and Abu Dhabi (AUH), used by airlines such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, Sri Lankan Airlines, and Etihad, are also popular for UK travellers.
What currency is used in Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka uses the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). ATMs are widely available, and major credit cards are accepted in hotels and tourist areas.
What are the most popular places to stay in Sri Lanka?
The most popular places to stay in Sri Lanka depend on your travel style, but these destinations are consistent favourites and a great place to start your Sri Lanka holiday inspiration:
· Colombo – Best for first-night stays, shopping, dining and city hotels
· Kandy – Ideal for culture lovers, temples and hill-country scenery
· Ella – Popular for scenic views, hiking, waterfalls and boutique stays
· Galle & Unawatuna – Perfect for beaches, history and boutique hotels
· Bentota – Known for luxury resorts and relaxed beach holidays
· Mirissa – A favourite for laid-back beach vibes and whale watching
· Yala – Best for wildlife safaris and nature lodges
· Arugam Bay – Sri Lanka’s top surf destination
Together, these locations offer a balance of culture, beaches, wildlife and scenery, making them the most booked areas for Sri Lanka holidays. For a first-time traveller to Sri Lanka, focus on the South Coast & Cultural Triangle; it's a well-trodden path with plenty to see and good infrastructure for UK visitors.
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