Activities

Cooking Classes or culinary tours

This year-round activity allows visitors the opportunity to cook traditional Sri Lankan meals. Learn the basics of Sri Lankan cuisine as you explore this fun endeavour. Travel through cities such as Colombo, Kandy and Galle where you can either learn to cook or take culinary tours.

Traditional craft workshops

Learn the traditional arts and crafts that have been passed down through generations. In Ambalangoda, you can take on the venture of mask making, while in Kandy, the renowned activity is woodworking. To learn how to handle and paint batiks, head to Matale.

Learning a new language or skill

If you wish to be more intimate with this new culture, head to the language centres in Colombo or Kandy where you can take on the endeavour of learning a new language or skill.

Volunteering with local communities

Volunteer and help out the local communities in the rural towns of Anuradhapura or Sigirya. This will give you the chance to get to know the people of this country even better.

Staying with a host family for a homestay experience

Take part in a homestay which will allow you to truly understand and learn about the Sri Lankan people and their customs and heritage.

Yoga and Meditation Retreats

Follow the yoga instructor's words as you relax your body and mind. Try this method of rejuvenation at Arugam Bay, Ella, Sigiriya and Hikkaduwa. Relax your body and soul with stunning scenery as your backdrop.

Spa Treatments and Wellness Therapies

Explore the other ways in which you can treat yourself by getting spa treatments and wellness therapies. This will soothe the tension in your body as you relax. In Galle, Bentota, Colombo and Ella, these treatments are readily available at any given time.

Relaxing on pristine Beaches

The beaches of Mirissa, Unawatuna, Tangalle, Arugam Bay and Nilaveli are considered as perfect location to relax on the golden shoreline. During the months of November to April, the southwest coast is at its prime with calm winds are just enough sun.

Fish Therapy and Foot Reflexology

Thermal Baths or Hot Spring Visits

The natural hot water springs which can be found at the Maha Oya Spring in the eastern province provide tempting relief and will submerge you in tranquillity.

Sunset Cruises or Boat Rides

Head out to the ocean as you take a cruise to see the sun setting over the horizon. On the Southwest coast, November to April is the perfect timeline to take part in this activity. May to September is the best for the East Coast. Bentota, Madu Ganga, Mirissa and Trincomalee offer these fun boat excursions.

Visiting historical landmarks

As you traverse through Sri Lanka, you will come across various historic landmarks which have a deep-rooted connection to the history of the island. Historic cities such as Anuradhapura which acted as the governing agents of the country, forts in Galle and Jaffna which signify the colonial past of Sri Lanka and more.

Exploring museums and art galleries

Sri Lanka has an abundance of museums which portray a specific part of culture. The National Museum is the home of the crown and jewels of Sri Lanka’s final monarch. The Jaffna Archeological Museum houses varied uncovered artefacts. Visit these museums and the other variety which exists here, along with the Lionel Wendt Art Gallery for s splendid view of art.

Cultural festivals or events

This island in the tropics is famous for its exciting festivals and events that go well with the stunning scenery and varied cultures. Festivals in Sri Lanka are an opportunity to highlight the country's many cultures, religions, values and harmony. Sri Lankan festivals offer both tourists and residents an immersive and unforgettable party experience complete with joyous processions and traditions.

City tours

Explore ancient cities which were once eternal kingdoms. The ruins scattered around the cities provide a great insight into the history of Sri Lanka. Explore the major cities of Colombo, Jaffna, Galle, Kandy and Nuwara Eliya.

Sampling local cuisine on food tours

As you travel from city to city, try the various foods that they are known for. Experience the joy of street food in Colombo, traditional delicacies of Kandy or seafood from Galle. These are just a few of the amazing culinary experiences waiting for you.

Architectural visits

Visit splendid locations known for their unique architecture. The iconic architect Geoffrey Bawa’s Lunganga Estate is a fusion of nature and art. The Independence Memorial Hall depicts freedom in its architecture. There are various locations as such which hold significant value.

Hiking

Trek through mountains as you head to scenic locations from December to April in the dry season. The Knuckles Mountain range, Sinharaja Rainforest, Adam’s Peak and Ella Rock are just some of the few locations that allow for scenic trails.

Wildlife Safaris

The Yala National Park, Udawalawe National Park and the other stunning national parks in Sri Lanka offer visitors the opportunity to be up close and personal with wildlife as they head out on the safari jeep. February to October is perfect for the dry zones, while December to April is for the wet zones.

Snorkelling or Scuba Diving

Go snorkelling at Hikkaduwa, Pigeon Island and Unawatuna for the most perfect views of coral reefs and marine life during November to April on the southwest coast and May to September on the east coast.

Zip lining

Head to the Ella Adventure Park or the Kitulgala Forest Reserve to have a thrilling ziplining adventure. This heart-thumping activity allows you to see the sights from above.

Hot Air Ballooning

When the wind is calm from November to April, it becomes the perfect time to head to Sigirya or Dambulla to go on a hot air balloon ride up in the clouds.

White Water Rafting

Kitulgala is famous for whitewater rafting. It is an adrenaline-pumping activity which is best done from May to December as the rivers will be fed by the monsoon rains.

Cycling

The dry season in Sri Lanka is from December to March. This is the perfect time to take a calm bike ride as you visit some of the major locations of Sri Lanka. Locations such as the Cultural Triangle, Galle Fort, Nuwara Eliya and Sigiriya.

Deep Sea Fishing

Mirissa, Bentota, Negombo and Trincomalee are some of the locations which allow visitors to try out deep-sea fishing. Take a boat excursion out to the deep sea where you can try your hand at fishing new variants of fish that are not commonly found by the shores. If you’re in the South, November to April are the best months. May to September are the best months for the east.