January

January is one of the peak travel months in Sri Lanka as the south-west monsoon blows out and the northeast monsoon continues. Although this is not an ideal month to travel to the North and East Coasts, you can enjoy all other parts of the country while travelling during this month. Rain and storms can be ocassional across Sri Lanka with higher rainfall in east coast. However, the southern and western beaches will experience plenty of sunshine so this is an ideal time to visit for a beach holiday.

National Park Private Safaris

With dry weather dominating in most parts of Sri Lanka, January is an excellent time for wildlife safaris. The dry season forces animals to gather near water sources, making it easier to spot them. Here are the best parks to visit this month:

• Yala National Park: Best known for leopards, elephants, and bird species.
• Wilpattu National Park: A quieter park with a rich variety of animals.
• Udawalawe National Park: Famous for its large elephant herds.
• Minneriya National Park: Elephants and other animals are easily seen around waterholes.

Discovery Kitesurfing Course (Kalpitiya)

Kalpitiya’s strong and consistent winds make January one of the prime months for kitesurfing. This region offers a great mix of calm lagoons for beginners and challenging spots for experienced surfers, making it the perfect destination for water sports enthusiasts.

Deep Sea Fishing Boat Tour

The calm seas in January create favorable conditions for deep-sea fishing. Fishing enthusiasts can embark on exciting expeditions from popular coastal locations such as Mirissa, Trincomalee, Negombo, and Kalpitiya to catch species like tuna, marlin, and swordfish.

Scuba Diving

Scuba diving is a highlight of January with clear waters and excellent visibility. Explore the vibrant underwater ecosystems in top diving spots like Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna, and Trincomalee, where colorful coral reefs, exotic fish, and even shipwrecks can be discovered.

Snorkeling

The calm seas around Kalpitiya, Negombo, Hikkaduwa, and Bentota provide a perfect setting for snorkeling. The marine life is at its best, offering visitors the chance to spot sea turtles, tropical fish, and coral reefs in crystal-clear waters.

Dolphin Watching Boat Tour

January is one of the best times to go dolphin watching, especially in Kalpitiya and Trincomalee. Visitors can witness pods of playful dolphins leaping and spinning in the calm, warm waters.

Whale Watching Boat Tour

January marks the peak of the whale watching season, particularly along the southern coast in places like Mirissa and Hikkaduwa. Boat tours from these locations offer the chance to see blue whales, sperm whales, and dolphins up close in their natural habitat.

Hot Air Ballooning (Dambulla, Kandalama, Habarana, Sigiriya)

January's clear skies and mild temperatures make it the perfect month for a serene hot air balloon ride over the Cultural Triangle. Enjoy breathtaking views of Sigiriya Rock, lush forests, and ancient temples from a unique perspective high above the landscape.