Sri Lanka at a Glance 6 Days & 5 Nights

Sri Lanka is a compact island bursting with diversity—golden beaches, misty mountains, ancient ruins, vibrant cities, and lush tea plantations. Just a short flight from India, it offers a perfect blend of cultural familiarity and exotic adventure. Whether you’re wandering through the colonial streets of Galle, spotting elephants in Yala National Park, or sipping Ceylon tea in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka promises unforgettable experiences for every kind of traveler.

✅ Dos for Indian Travelers

• Respect religious customs: Remove shoes at temples, dress modestly, and avoid selfies with Buddha statues.
• Use your right hand: Especially when eating or giving/receiving items—left hand is considered unclean.
• Try local cuisine: Dive into rice & curry, hoppers, and seafood. Sri Lankan spices are bold and flavorful.
• Hire certified guides: Especially at UNESCO sites like Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, and Dambulla.
• Support local communities: Buy from artisans, visit tea estates, and consider ethical wildlife experiences.

🚫 Don’ts to Keep in Mind

• Avoid public displays of affection: Holding hands is fine, but kissing or cuddling in public is frowned upon.
• Don’t touch monks or sit at their level: Always sit lower and never touch them.
• Don’t drink tap water: Stick to bottled or purified water.
• Don’t take photos inside religious spaces: Especially with your back to statues or altars.
• Avoid climbing Adam’s Peak during pilgrimage season: It gets crowded—opt for quieter months.

🗓️ Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka

🏖️ December to March – Peak Season (South & West Coasts)

• Weather: Dry, sunny, and warm (~30°C)
• Best for: Beach holidays in Mirissa, Bentota, and Hikkaduwa; surfing; whale watching
• Festivals: Christmas, New Year, and Galle Literary Festival
• Why go: Ideal for coastal fun and cultural events

🌿 April – Shoulder Season (Island-wide)

• Weather: Pleasant with fewer crowds
• Best for: Hill country treks in Ella and Nuwara Eliya; wildlife safaris
• Festivals: Sinhala & Tamil New Year
• Why go: Great mix of beach and inland travel with mild temperatures

🌊 May to September – East & North Coasts Shine

• Weather: Dry in the east, monsoon in the southwest
• Best for: Exploring Trincomalee, Arugam Bay (surfing), and Jaffna
• Why go: Escape the southwest rains and enjoy uncrowded beaches

🍂 October to November – Shoulder Season (Island-wide)

• Weather: Mixed, with occasional showers
• Best for: Budget travel, fewer tourists, scenic train rides
• Why go: A quieter time to explore cultural sites and hill stations

🎯 For Indian travelers, December to March is ideal for coastal fun, while April and September offer great weather across the island with fewer tourists.