How to Plan a Trip to Sri Lanka - A Guide to Organising a Holiday in Sri Lanka

Ranked among South Asia's most vibrant getaway destinations, Sri Lanka is a tiny island full of touristic possibilities. In spite of its size, the island offers not only a plethora of topographical options but also a host of attractions and activities that fall into both recreational and cultural spheres. From finding the right hotels to creating a practical itinerary, here are some tips on planning the perfect holiday in the Emerald Island formerly known as Ceylon.

Image via Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort

1. Pick the Right Time

Sri Lanka is a fantastic holiday hotspot regardless of the time of year but those who wish to experience what the island has to offer without inclement weather compromising their plans should time the trip. Unless one hopes to go white water rafting down the rapids of Kitulgala it is best to avoid travelling to the country from May to October when the monsoon rains are in full swing and most activities are unavailable due to bad weather conditions. The peak tourist season, which takes place from December to April, in contrast, is the sunniest time of the year as well as the costliest time to vacation on the island. The hefty price tag is well worth it, however, as nearly every outdoor excursion is accessible and safe during these months. Those with a tighter budget can alternatively plan their getaway in September as the rainy days are fewer and far between.

2. Hone in on the Destinations

Unless one is staying for an extended period of no less than three weeks, it is impossible to travel the length and breadth of Sri Lanka during a single getaway. This is why it is crucial to decide what areas of the country you wish to explore and experience during the planning process. Culture buffs, for example, should not miss the chance to spend time in the Cultural Triangle while beach lovers can spend their time exploring the coastlines of the beach laden isle. Wildlife enthusiasts, on the other hand, may want to centre their holiday in Sri Lanka around the national parks and safari hubs.

3. Select Accommodation Providers

Regardless of the destinations selected, one cannot stress the significance of staying in strategically situated hotels during a Sri Lankan vacation. As a country where traffic jams and other transport-related delays are common, the value of staying close to the main attractions of an area should never be underestimated. So, whether you select the Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort or any other Sri Lanka luxury villa in a particular region, it is necessary to determine the distance between the hotels and the top highlights in that part of the country.

4. Make a Sightseeing Game Plan

Depending on the locations you hope to visit, it is important to make a list of the sights and landmarks that are of interest and decide on a time frame in which to complete a sightseeing tour. Keep in mind that it is not practical to pack too many sightseeing hubs into a single day as you will find that it can be taxing and tiring. For example, do not plan any other sightseeing excursions on the same day as your climb up to witness the Sigiriya Rock Fortress or the Temple of the Tooth as both these venues take several hours to explore in full.

5. Sign Up for Activities

No trip to Sri Lanka would be complete without signing up for some engaging activities whether it's water sports or hiking tours to marvel at local waterfalls. Surfing, scuba diving and snorkelling are among the best things to do in Sri Lanka where whale and dolphin watching tours are also available.