Blue Whale
Blue Whale
The population of Blue Whales seen around Sri Lanka are believed to be around the Indian ocean with frequent sightings off Mirissa (November - April) and Trincomalee (March - April) with intermittent sightings up to September.
Spinner Dolphin
Spinner Dolphin
Spinner Dolphins are resident to Sri Lankan waters. Kalpitiya is the best location to view them while they are also seen in Mirissa on most days between November through to April. Dolphin watching in Trincomalee is between March-October.
Sea Turtle Nesting
Sea Turtle Nesting
Marine Turtles can be seen nesting in Rekawa. Olive Ridley Turtles nest between November - January, while Green Turtles nest from March - July. Leatherback, Loggerhead and Hawksbill Turtles have been recorded nesting but are infrequently seen.
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Snorkeling and Diving (West Coast)
Snorkeling and Diving (West Coast)
The best time for snorkeling and diving on the west coast from Kalpitiya all the way to Tangalle on the south coast is once the south-west monsoon has receded which is between November through to Mid April each year.
Leopard
Leopard
Leopards can be seen year round in Yala, Kumana and Wilpattu National Parks. The wet season is from November - March when you get the lush green jungle habitats and the dry-season is from May - September when the big cats can be found close to the waterholes.
Sloth Bear
Sloth Bear
Yala and Wilpattu National Parks are the most reliable locations for watching the shaggy coated Sloth Bear. Although seen year-round, sightings improve between May - June when fruits such as Palu and Weera ripen and in the dry season which extends all the way through to September.
Asian Elephant
Asian Elephant
Solitary bulls and small herds of females and their young can be seen year-round in most of Sri Lanka's dry-zone national parks. Uda Walawe offers virtually guaranteed elephant sightings year-round and is best visited during the dry season when the herds congregate by the water between June - September.
Primates
Primates
Primate watching is year-round across the country. Toque Macaques and Grey Langurs can be seen across the lowlands. Purple-faced Leaf Monkey can be seen in the rain forests, highlands in the outskirts of towns on the west coast and in pockets of forested areas in the dry-zone. The elusive Slender Loris can be seen during nocturnal nature tours. The cultural triangle is the best region in the country for viewing primates, where all three species of Monkey and the Slender Loris is also encountered.
Crocodiles
Crocodiles
Mugger Crocodile can be seen year-round in lakes and the dry-zone National Parks. The larger Estuatine Crocodile is rarer and can be seen in Bundala National Park and in waterways in the outskirts of Colombo. During the dry season between the months of July through to September, large congregations of Mugger Crocodiles can be seen in the waterholes and lakes in Yala National Park.
Endemic Birding
Endemic Birding
34 endemics and a further 17 species which are declared as subcontinental endemics can be found year-round in Sri Lanka. The majority of species are found within the lowland rainforests and the cloud forests which are geographically isolated habitats. The highlight are the mixed species birdflocks in Sinharaja which are popularly referred to as birdwaves.
Migrant Birding
Migrant Birding
The months of November to March are considered as the best period for birding across the island with the arrival of over a 100 different species of migrants. Mannar and Jaffna in the North offer some of the best birding for migrant ducks, waders as well as the Greater Flamingo.
Dragonflies and Damselflies
Dragonflies and Damselflies
Dragonflies and Damselflies can be seen year-round in the island in wetlands, lagoons, river banks, lakes and other water bodies. There are 124 species with over half these species being endemic. Visiting sites such as Talangama wetlands, Sigiriya moat, Sinharaja, Kithulgala, Horton Plains and Yala will cover a number of different habitats enabling you to see a large diversity of dragonflies.
Pelagic Sea Birds
Pelagic Sea Birds
A number of rare pelagics which are seldom seen in the mainland including Skuas, Noddies, Storm Petrels and Shearwaters maybe observed when out on whale and dolphin watching expeditions from Mirissa, Kalpitiya and Trincomalee. The best time for watching these rare pelagics is during the month of April.
Butterflies
Butterflies
With over 245 species including 23 endemics, Sri Lanka is an excellent year-round destination for butterfly watching. Realistically over a hundred species can be encountered during a butterfly watching holiday of around 10 days. Swarms of 'white and yellow' butterflies can be seen in the dry-zone around February and March at the end of the wet season.
Thai Pongal
Thai Pongal
15thTaking place over a period of 2 days in mid January, Thai Pongal is a Hindu festival which pays tribute to the Sun God Surya and the cattle that plough the fields over the past year. There are festivities and fireworks and pongol, a sweet rice dish is served in Hindu homes to celebrate this harvest festival.
Kelaniya - Duruthu Perahera
Kelaniya - Duruthu Perahera
23rdThis Perahera is held around the complex of the sacred Kelani Raja Maha Vihara and commemorates the first of the Buddha's three visits to the island. The Perahara takes place on the Duruthu Full Moon Poya day in January each year.
Adam's Peak Pilgrimage
Adam's Peak Pilgrimage
julyThe start of the Adam's Peak pilgrimage season commences on the Unduvap Poya day falling in December. Also known as Sangamitta Day, it marks the day when Sangamitta, King Asoka's daughter carried the sacred Bo Tree sapling from India across to Sri Lanka, which was planted in Anuradhapura. The sapling is believed to be a cutting from the Bo Tree under which the Buddha gained enlightenment. The pilgrimage continues for a period of five months and ends on the Bak poya day in April.
Blue Whale
Blue Whale
The population of Blue Whales seen around Sri Lanka are believed to be around the Indian ocean with frequent sightings off Mirissa (November - April) and Trincomalee (March - April) with intermittent sightings up to September.
Sperm Whale
Sperm Whale
Migrating pods of Sperm Whales are mainly encountered from Mid March - April off Trincomalee, Kalpitiya and Mirissa. Occasionally superpods with over 30 individuals maybe seen. Sightings can happen outside this window but are rare.
Spinner Dolphin
Spinner Dolphin
Spinner Dolphins are resident to Sri Lankan waters. Kalpitiya is the best location to view them while they are also seen in Mirissa on most days between November through to April. Dolphin watching in Trincomalee is between March-October.
Snorkeling and Diving (West Coast)
Snorkeling and Diving (West Coast)
The best time for snorkeling and diving on the west coast from Kalpitiya all the way to Tangalle on the south coast is once the south-west monsoon has receded which is between November through to Mid April each year.
Leopard
Leopard
Leopards can be seen year round in Yala, Kumana and Wilpattu National Parks. The wet season is from November - March when you get the lush green jungle habitats and the dry-season is from May - September when the big cats can be found close to the waterholes.
Sloth Bear
Sloth Bear
Yala and Wilpattu National Parks are the most reliable locations for watching the shaggy coated Sloth Bear. Although seen year-round, sightings improve between May - June when fruits such as Palu and Weera ripen and in the dry season which extends all the way through to September.
Asian Elephant
Asian Elephant
Solitary bulls and small herds of females and their young can be seen year-round in most of Sri Lanka's dry-zone national parks. Uda Walawe offers virtually guaranteed elephant sightings year-round and is best visited during the dry season when the herds congregate by the water between June - September.
Primates
Primates
Primate watching is year-round across the country. Toque Macaques and Grey Langurs can be seen across the lowlands. Purple-faced Leaf Monkey can be seen in the rain forests, highlands in the outskirts of towns on the west coast and in pockets of forested areas in the dry-zone. The elusive Slender Loris can be seen during nocturnal nature tours. The cultural triangle is the best region in the country for viewing primates, where all three species of Monkey and the Slender Loris is also encountered.
Crocodiles
Crocodiles
Mugger Crocodile can be seen year-round in lakes and the dry-zone National Parks. The larger Estuatine Crocodile is rarer and can be seen in Bundala National Park and in waterways in the outskirts of Colombo. During the dry season between the months of July through to September, large congregations of Mugger Crocodiles can be seen in the waterholes and lakes in Yala National Park.
Endemic Birding
Endemic Birding
34 endemics and a further 17 species which are declared as subcontinental endemics can be found year-round in Sri Lanka. The majority of species are found within the lowland rainforests and the cloud forests which are geographically isolated habitats. The highlight are the mixed species birdflocks in Sinharaja which are popularly referred to as birdwaves.
Migrant Birding
Migrant Birding
The months of November to March are considered as the best period for birding across the island with the arrival of over a 100 different species of migrants. Mannar and Jaffna in the North offer some of the best birding for migrant ducks, waders as well as the Greater Flamingo.
Dragonflies and Damselflies
Dragonflies and Damselflies
Dragonflies and Damselflies can be seen year-round in the island in wetlands, lagoons, river banks, lakes and other water bodies. There are 124 species with over half these species being endemic. Visiting sites such as Talangama wetlands, Sigiriya moat, Sinharaja, Kithulgala, Horton Plains and Yala will cover a number of different habitats enabling you to see a large diversity of dragonflies.
Butterflies
Butterflies
With over 245 species including 23 endemics, Sri Lanka is an excellent year-round destination for butterfly watching. Realistically over a hundred species can be encountered during a butterfly watching holiday of around 10 days. Swarms of 'white and yellow' butterflies can be seen in the dry-zone around February and March at the end of the wet season.
Colombo Nawam Perahera
Colombo Nawam Perahera
22ndA large procession of elephants, dancers and drummers which takes place in the heart of Colombo around the Gangaramaya Temple and Beira Lake over two days centered around the Nawam Full Moon in February.
Independence Day
Independence Day
4thA nationwide holiday, celebrated on the 4th of February each year to mark the day Sri Lanka gained full independence from British rule in 1948. There are some parades attended by the head of state which take place in Colombo and occasionally in other large towns.
Mahasivarathri
Mahasivarathri
7thA sacred day for all Hindus, which is dedicated to the God Shiva. Mahasivarathri falls between late February to early March when devotees fast and all night poojas are held in temples across the country.
Adam's Peak Pilgrimage
Adam's Peak Pilgrimage
julyThe start of the Adam's Peak pilgrimage season commences on the Unduvap Poya day falling in December. Also known as Sangamitta Day, it marks the day when Sangamitta, King Asoka's daughter carried the sacred Bo Tree sapling from India across to Sri Lanka, which was planted in Anuradhapura. The sapling is believed to be a cutting from the Bo Tree under which the Buddha gained enlightenment. The pilgrimage continues for a period of five months and ends on the Bak poya day in April.
Blue Whale
Blue Whale
The population of Blue Whales seen around Sri Lanka are believed to be around the Indian ocean with frequent sightings off Mirissa (November - April) and Trincomalee (March - April) with intermittent sightings up to September.
Sperm Whale
Sperm Whale
Migrating pods of Sperm Whales are mainly encountered from Mid March - April off Trincomalee, Kalpitiya and Mirissa. Occasionally superpods with over 30 individuals maybe seen. Sightings can happen outside this window but are rare.
Spinner Dolphin
Spinner Dolphin
Spinner Dolphins are resident to Sri Lankan waters. Kalpitiya is the best location to view them while they are also seen in Mirissa on most days between November through to April. Dolphin watching in Trincomalee is between March-October.
Sea Turtle Nesting
Sea Turtle Nesting
Marine Turtles can be seen nesting in Rekawa. Olive Ridley Turtles nest between November - January, while Green Turtles nest from March - July. Leatherback, Loggerhead and Hawksbill Turtles have been recorded nesting but are infrequently seen.
Snorkeling and Diving (West Coast)
Snorkeling and Diving (West Coast)
The best time for snorkeling and diving on the west coast from Kalpitiya all the way to Tangalle on the south coast is once the south-west monsoon has receded which is between November through to Mid April each year.
Leopard
Leopard
Leopards can be seen year round in Yala, Kumana and Wilpattu National Parks. The wet season is from November - March when you get the lush green jungle habitats and the dry-season is from May - September when the big cats can be found close to the waterholes.
Sloth Bear
Sloth Bear
Yala and Wilpattu National Parks are the most reliable locations for watching the shaggy coated Sloth Bear. Although seen year-round, sightings improve between May - June when fruits such as Palu and Weera ripen and in the dry season which extends all the way through to September.
Asian Elephant
Asian Elephant
Solitary bulls and small herds of females and their young can be seen year-round in most of Sri Lanka's dry-zone national parks. Uda Walawe offers virtually guaranteed elephant sightings year-round and is best visited during the dry season when the herds congregate by the water between June - September.
Primates
Primates
Primate watching is year-round across the country. Toque Macaques and Grey Langurs can be seen across the lowlands. Purple-faced Leaf Monkey can be seen in the rain forests, highlands in the outskirts of towns on the west coast and in pockets of forested areas in the dry-zone. The elusive Slender Loris can be seen during nocturnal nature tours. The cultural triangle is the best region in the country for viewing primates, where all three species of Monkey and the Slender Loris is also encountered.
Crocodiles
Crocodiles
Mugger Crocodile can be seen year-round in lakes and the dry-zone National Parks. The larger Estuatine Crocodile is rarer and can be seen in Bundala National Park and in waterways in the outskirts of Colombo. During the dry season between the months of July through to September, large congregations of Mugger Crocodiles can be seen in the waterholes and lakes in Yala National Park.
Endemic Birding
Endemic Birding
34 endemics and a further 17 species which are declared as subcontinental endemics can be found year-round in Sri Lanka. The majority of species are found within the lowland rainforests and the cloud forests which are geographically isolated habitats. The highlight are the mixed species birdflocks in Sinharaja which are popularly referred to as birdwaves.
Migrant Birding
Migrant Birding
The months of November to March are considered as the best period for birding across the island with the arrival of over a 100 different species of migrants. Mannar and Jaffna in the North offer some of the best birding for migrant ducks, waders as well as the Greater Flamingo.
Dragonflies and Damselflies
Dragonflies and Damselflies
Dragonflies and Damselflies can be seen year-round in the island in wetlands, lagoons, river banks, lakes and other water bodies. There are 124 species with over half these species being endemic. Visiting sites such as Talangama wetlands, Sigiriya moat, Sinharaja, Kithulgala, Horton Plains and Yala will cover a number of different habitats enabling you to see a large diversity of dragonflies.
Butterflies
Butterflies
With over 245 species including 23 endemics, Sri Lanka is an excellent year-round destination for butterfly watching. Realistically over a hundred species can be encountered during a butterfly watching holiday of around 10 days. Swarms of 'white and yellow' butterflies can be seen in the dry-zone around February and March at the end of the wet season.
Easter
Easter
27thEaster is celebrated nationwide by Catholics and falls in late March to mid April. During Easter Sunday in towns with a large Catholic population such as Negombo and Jaffna, passion plays are performed and is celebrated with re-enactments of the crucifixion of Christ and a number of large processions.
Adam's Peak Pilgrimage
Adam's Peak Pilgrimage
julyThe start of the Adam's Peak pilgrimage season commences on the Unduvap Poya day falling in December. Also known as Sangamitta Day, it marks the day when Sangamitta, King Asoka's daughter carried the sacred Bo Tree sapling from India across to Sri Lanka, which was planted in Anuradhapura. The sapling is believed to be a cutting from the Bo Tree under which the Buddha gained enlightenment. The pilgrimage continues for a period of five months and ends on the Bak poya day in April.
Blue Whale
Blue Whale
The population of Blue Whales seen around Sri Lanka are believed to be around the Indian ocean with frequent sightings off Mirissa (November - April) and Trincomalee (March - April) with intermittent sightings up to September.
Sperm Whale
Sperm Whale
Migrating pods of Sperm Whales are mainly encountered from Mid March - April off Trincomalee, Kalpitiya and Mirissa. Occasionally superpods with over 30 individuals maybe seen. Sightings can happen outside this window but are rare.
Spinner Dolphin
Spinner Dolphin
Spinner Dolphins are resident to Sri Lankan waters. Kalpitiya is the best location to view them while they are also seen in Mirissa on most days between November through to April. Dolphin watching in Trincomalee is between March-October.
Sea Turtle Nesting
Sea Turtle Nesting
Marine Turtles can be seen nesting in Rekawa. Olive Ridley Turtles nest between November - January, while Green Turtles nest from March - July. Leatherback, Loggerhead and Hawksbill Turtles have been recorded nesting but are infrequently seen.
Snorkeling and Diving (West Coast)
Snorkeling and Diving (West Coast)
The best time for snorkeling and diving on the west coast from Kalpitiya all the way to Tangalle on the south coast is once the south-west monsoon has receded which is between November through to Mid April each year.
Snorkeling and Diving (East Coast)
Snorkeling and Diving (East Coast)
The East coast comes into season when the north-east monsoon recedes. The best time for exploring the dive sites and for snorkeling is from April - August.
Leopard
Leopard
Leopards can be seen year round in Yala, Kumana and Wilpattu National Parks. The wet season is from November - March when you get the lush green jungle habitats and the dry-season is from May - September when the big cats can be found close to the waterholes.
Sloth Bear
Sloth Bear
Yala and Wilpattu National Parks are the most reliable locations for watching the shaggy coated Sloth Bear. Although seen year-round, sightings improve between May - June when fruits such as Palu and Weera ripen and in the dry season which extends all the way through to September.
Asian Elephant
Asian Elephant
Solitary bulls and small herds of females and their young can be seen year-round in most of Sri Lanka's dry-zone national parks. Uda Walawe offers virtually guaranteed elephant sightings year-round and is best visited during the dry season when the herds congregate by the water between June - September.
Primates
Primates
Primate watching is year-round across the country. Toque Macaques and Grey Langurs can be seen across the lowlands. Purple-faced Leaf Monkey can be seen in the rain forests, highlands in the outskirts of towns on the west coast and in pockets of forested areas in the dry-zone. The elusive Slender Loris can be seen during nocturnal nature tours. The cultural triangle is the best region in the country for viewing primates, where all three species of Monkey and the Slender Loris is also encountered.
Crocodiles
Crocodiles
Mugger Crocodile can be seen year-round in lakes and the dry-zone National Parks. The larger Estuatine Crocodile is rarer and can be seen in Bundala National Park and in waterways in the outskirts of Colombo. During the dry season between the months of July through to September, large congregations of Mugger Crocodiles can be seen in the waterholes and lakes in Yala National Park.
Endemic Birding
Endemic Birding
34 endemics and a further 17 species which are declared as subcontinental endemics can be found year-round in Sri Lanka. The majority of species are found within the lowland rainforests and the cloud forests which are geographically isolated habitats. The highlight are the mixed species birdflocks in Sinharaja which are popularly referred to as birdwaves.
Pelagic Sea Birds
Pelagic Sea Birds
A number of rare pelagics which are seldom seen in the mainland including Skuas, Noddies, Storm Petrels and Shearwaters maybe observed when out on whale and dolphin watching expeditions from Mirissa, Kalpitiya and Trincomalee. The best time for watching these rare pelagics is during the month of April.
Dragonflies and Damselflies
Dragonflies and Damselflies
Dragonflies and Damselflies can be seen year-round in the island in wetlands, lagoons, river banks, lakes and other water bodies. There are 124 species with over half these species being endemic. Visiting sites such as Talangama wetlands, Sigiriya moat, Sinharaja, Kithulgala, Horton Plains and Yala will cover a number of different habitats enabling you to see a large diversity of dragonflies.
Butterflies
Butterflies
With over 245 species including 23 endemics, Sri Lanka is an excellent year-round destination for butterfly watching. Realistically over a hundred species can be encountered during a butterfly watching holiday of around 10 days. Swarms of 'white and yellow' butterflies can be seen in the dry-zone around February and March at the end of the wet season.
Sinhalese & Tamil New Year
Sinhalese & Tamil New Year
14thThis is the most celebrated holiday in the country which falls on the 13th and 14th of April each year. A number of shops and offices are closed during the entire week around this holiday period as it is a time for families to rejoice and celebrate together. Gifts are exchanged, new clothes are worn and houses are cleaned in preparation for the New Year. Traditional treats including Kavum, Kokis along with Milk Rice and Plantains are served to celebrate the New Year.
Adam's Peak Pilgrimage
Adam's Peak Pilgrimage
julyThe start of the Adam's Peak pilgrimage season commences on the Unduvap Poya day falling in December. Also known as Sangamitta Day, it marks the day when Sangamitta, King Asoka's daughter carried the sacred Bo Tree sapling from India across to Sri Lanka, which was planted in Anuradhapura. The sapling is believed to be a cutting from the Bo Tree under which the Buddha gained enlightenment. The pilgrimage continues for a period of five months and ends on the Bak poya day in April.
Blue Whale
Blue Whale
The population of Blue Whales seen around Sri Lanka are believed to be around the Indian ocean with frequent sightings off Mirissa (November - April) and Trincomalee (March - April) with intermittent sightings up to September.
Spinner Dolphin
Spinner Dolphin
Spinner Dolphins are resident to Sri Lankan waters. Kalpitiya is the best location to view them while they are also seen in Mirissa on most days between November through to April. Dolphin watching in Trincomalee is between March-October.
Sea Turtle Nesting
Sea Turtle Nesting
Marine Turtles can be seen nesting in Rekawa. Olive Ridley Turtles nest between November - January, while Green Turtles nest from March - July. Leatherback, Loggerhead and Hawksbill Turtles have been recorded nesting but are infrequently seen.
Snorkeling and Diving (East Coast)
Snorkeling and Diving (East Coast)
The East coast comes into season when the north-east monsoon recedes. The best time for exploring the dive sites and for snorkeling is from April - August.
Leopard
Leopard
Leopards can be seen year round in Yala, Kumana and Wilpattu National Parks. The wet season is from November - March when you get the lush green jungle habitats and the dry-season is from May - September when the big cats can be found close to the waterholes.
Sloth Bear
Sloth Bear
Yala and Wilpattu National Parks are the most reliable locations for watching the shaggy coated Sloth Bear. Although seen year-round, sightings improve between May - June when fruits such as Palu and Weera ripen and in the dry season which extends all the way through to September.
Asian Elephant
Asian Elephant
Solitary bulls and small herds of females and their young can be seen year-round in most of Sri Lanka's dry-zone national parks. Uda Walawe offers virtually guaranteed elephant sightings year-round and is best visited during the dry season when the herds congregate by the water between June - September.
Primates
Primates
Primate watching is year-round across the country. Toque Macaques and Grey Langurs can be seen across the lowlands. Purple-faced Leaf Monkey can be seen in the rain forests, highlands in the outskirts of towns on the west coast and in pockets of forested areas in the dry-zone. The elusive Slender Loris can be seen during nocturnal nature tours. The cultural triangle is the best region in the country for viewing primates, where all three species of Monkey and the Slender Loris is also encountered.
Crocodiles
Crocodiles
Mugger Crocodile can be seen year-round in lakes and the dry-zone National Parks. The larger Estuatine Crocodile is rarer and can be seen in Bundala National Park and in waterways in the outskirts of Colombo. During the dry season between the months of July through to September, large congregations of Mugger Crocodiles can be seen in the waterholes and lakes in Yala National Park.
Endemic Birding
Endemic Birding
34 endemics and a further 17 species which are declared as subcontinental endemics can be found year-round in Sri Lanka. The majority of species are found within the lowland rainforests and the cloud forests which are geographically isolated habitats. The highlight are the mixed species birdflocks in Sinharaja which are popularly referred to as birdwaves.
Dragonflies and Damselflies
Dragonflies and Damselflies
Dragonflies and Damselflies can be seen year-round in the island in wetlands, lagoons, river banks, lakes and other water bodies. There are 124 species with over half these species being endemic. Visiting sites such as Talangama wetlands, Sigiriya moat, Sinharaja, Kithulgala, Horton Plains and Yala will cover a number of different habitats enabling you to see a large diversity of dragonflies.
Butterflies
Butterflies
With over 245 species including 23 endemics, Sri Lanka is an excellent year-round destination for butterfly watching. Realistically over a hundred species can be encountered during a butterfly watching holiday of around 10 days. Swarms of 'white and yellow' butterflies can be seen in the dry-zone around February and March at the end of the wet season.
Vesak
Vesak
21stCelebrated during the poya day in the month of May, Vesak celebrated the birth, enlightenment and death of the Buddha. It is considered to be one of the most sacred days in the Buddhist calendar. Paper lanterns are hung outside homes and on the streets, oil lamps are lit and pandols depicting scenes from the Buddha's life are displayed in public areas across the country. Roadside stalls known as Dansals are setup across the island offering refreshments and meals to passers-by. The Beira Lake area in Colombo is lit up with lights, colourful lanterns and Pandols and attracts local sightseers from across the country.
Blue Whale
Blue Whale
The population of Blue Whales seen around Sri Lanka are believed to be around the Indian ocean with frequent sightings off Mirissa (November - April) and Trincomalee (March - April) with intermittent sightings up to September.
Spinner Dolphin
Spinner Dolphin
Spinner Dolphins are resident to Sri Lankan waters. Kalpitiya is the best location to view them while they are also seen in Mirissa on most days between November through to April. Dolphin watching in Trincomalee is between March-October.
Sea Turtle Nesting
Sea Turtle Nesting
Marine Turtles can be seen nesting in Rekawa. Olive Ridley Turtles nest between November - January, while Green Turtles nest from March - July. Leatherback, Loggerhead and Hawksbill Turtles have been recorded nesting but are infrequently seen.
Snorkeling and Diving (East Coast)
Snorkeling and Diving (East Coast)
The East coast comes into season when the north-east monsoon recedes. The best time for exploring the dive sites and for snorkeling is from April - August.
Leopard
Leopard
Leopards can be seen year round in Yala, Kumana and Wilpattu National Parks. The wet season is from November - March when you get the lush green jungle habitats and the dry-season is from May - September when the big cats can be found close to the waterholes.
Sloth Bear
Sloth Bear
Yala and Wilpattu National Parks are the most reliable locations for watching the shaggy coated Sloth Bear. Although seen year-round, sightings improve between May - June when fruits such as Palu and Weera ripen and in the dry season which extends all the way through to September.
Asian Elephant
Asian Elephant
Solitary bulls and small herds of females and their young can be seen year-round in most of Sri Lanka's dry-zone national parks. Uda Walawe offers virtually guaranteed elephant sightings year-round and is best visited during the dry season when the herds congregate by the water between June - September.
The Gathering of Elephants
The Gathering of Elephants
Regarded as one of the world's top wildlife spectacles, 'The Gathering of Elephants' takes place in Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks during the dry season from July through to October. Herds of elephants numbering over a hundred congregate in the open feeding on the lush green grass as the water levels in the Minneriya and Kaudulla tanks recede. They begin to disperse by around late November to the surrounding jungles once the monsoon rains set in. Between December to May, the elephants can be seen in the Hurullu Forest Reserve but in smaller numbers.
Primates
Primates
Primate watching is year-round across the country. Toque Macaques and Grey Langurs can be seen across the lowlands. Purple-faced Leaf Monkey can be seen in the rain forests, highlands in the outskirts of towns on the west coast and in pockets of forested areas in the dry-zone. The elusive Slender Loris can be seen during nocturnal nature tours. The cultural triangle is the best region in the country for viewing primates, where all three species of Monkey and the Slender Loris is also encountered.
Crocodiles
Crocodiles
Mugger Crocodile can be seen year-round in lakes and the dry-zone National Parks. The larger Estuatine Crocodile is rarer and can be seen in Bundala National Park and in waterways in the outskirts of Colombo. During the dry season between the months of July through to September, large congregations of Mugger Crocodiles can be seen in the waterholes and lakes in Yala National Park.
Endemic Birding
Endemic Birding
34 endemics and a further 17 species which are declared as subcontinental endemics can be found year-round in Sri Lanka. The majority of species are found within the lowland rainforests and the cloud forests which are geographically isolated habitats. The highlight are the mixed species birdflocks in Sinharaja which are popularly referred to as birdwaves.
Dragonflies and Damselflies
Dragonflies and Damselflies
Dragonflies and Damselflies can be seen year-round in the island in wetlands, lagoons, river banks, lakes and other water bodies. There are 124 species with over half these species being endemic. Visiting sites such as Talangama wetlands, Sigiriya moat, Sinharaja, Kithulgala, Horton Plains and Yala will cover a number of different habitats enabling you to see a large diversity of dragonflies.
Butterflies
Butterflies
With over 245 species including 23 endemics, Sri Lanka is an excellent year-round destination for butterfly watching. Realistically over a hundred species can be encountered during a butterfly watching holiday of around 10 days. Swarms of 'white and yellow' butterflies can be seen in the dry-zone around February and March at the end of the wet season.
Poson
Poson
19thA Buddhist holiday which falls on the Full Moon day in June that celebrates the introduction to Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Anuradhapura and Mihintale, considered to be the birthplaces of Buddhism in Sri Lanka are visited by thousands of pilgrims during the Poson poya.
Blue Whale
Blue Whale
The population of Blue Whales seen around Sri Lanka are believed to be around the Indian ocean with frequent sightings off Mirissa (November - April) and Trincomalee (March - April) with intermittent sightings up to September.
Spinner Dolphin
Spinner Dolphin
Spinner Dolphins are resident to Sri Lankan waters. Kalpitiya is the best location to view them while they are also seen in Mirissa on most days between November through to April. Dolphin watching in Trincomalee is between March-October.
Sea Turtle Nesting
Sea Turtle Nesting
Marine Turtles can be seen nesting in Rekawa. Olive Ridley Turtles nest between November - January, while Green Turtles nest from March - July. Leatherback, Loggerhead and Hawksbill Turtles have been recorded nesting but are infrequently seen.
Snorkeling and Diving (East Coast)
Snorkeling and Diving (East Coast)
The East coast comes into season when the north-east monsoon recedes. The best time for exploring the dive sites and for snorkeling is from April - August.
Leopard
Leopard
Leopards can be seen year round in Yala, Kumana and Wilpattu National Parks. The wet season is from November - March when you get the lush green jungle habitats and the dry-season is from May - September when the big cats can be found close to the waterholes.
Sloth Bear
Sloth Bear
Yala and Wilpattu National Parks are the most reliable locations for watching the shaggy coated Sloth Bear. Although seen year-round, sightings improve between May - June when fruits such as Palu and Weera ripen and in the dry season which extends all the way through to September.
Asian Elephant
Asian Elephant
Solitary bulls and small herds of females and their young can be seen year-round in most of Sri Lanka's dry-zone national parks. Uda Walawe offers virtually guaranteed elephant sightings year-round and is best visited during the dry season when the herds congregate by the water between June - September.
The Gathering of Elephants
The Gathering of Elephants
Regarded as one of the world's top wildlife spectacles, 'The Gathering of Elephants' takes place in Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks during the dry season from July through to October. Herds of elephants numbering over a hundred congregate in the open feeding on the lush green grass as the water levels in the Minneriya and Kaudulla tanks recede. They begin to disperse by around late November to the surrounding jungles once the monsoon rains set in. Between December to May, the elephants can be seen in the Hurullu Forest Reserve but in smaller numbers.
Primates
Primates
Primate watching is year-round across the country. Toque Macaques and Grey Langurs can be seen across the lowlands. Purple-faced Leaf Monkey can be seen in the rain forests, highlands in the outskirts of towns on the west coast and in pockets of forested areas in the dry-zone. The elusive Slender Loris can be seen during nocturnal nature tours. The cultural triangle is the best region in the country for viewing primates, where all three species of Monkey and the Slender Loris is also encountered.
Crocodiles
Crocodiles
Mugger Crocodile can be seen year-round in lakes and the dry-zone National Parks. The larger Estuatine Crocodile is rarer and can be seen in Bundala National Park and in waterways in the outskirts of Colombo. During the dry season between the months of July through to September, large congregations of Mugger Crocodiles can be seen in the waterholes and lakes in Yala National Park.
Endemic Birding
Endemic Birding
34 endemics and a further 17 species which are declared as subcontinental endemics can be found year-round in Sri Lanka. The majority of species are found within the lowland rainforests and the cloud forests which are geographically isolated habitats. The highlight are the mixed species birdflocks in Sinharaja which are popularly referred to as birdwaves.
Dragonflies and Damselflies
Dragonflies and Damselflies
Dragonflies and Damselflies can be seen year-round in the island in wetlands, lagoons, river banks, lakes and other water bodies. There are 124 species with over half these species being endemic. Visiting sites such as Talangama wetlands, Sigiriya moat, Sinharaja, Kithulgala, Horton Plains and Yala will cover a number of different habitats enabling you to see a large diversity of dragonflies.
Butterflies
Butterflies
With over 245 species including 23 endemics, Sri Lanka is an excellent year-round destination for butterfly watching. Realistically over a hundred species can be encountered during a butterfly watching holiday of around 10 days. Swarms of 'white and yellow' butterflies can be seen in the dry-zone around February and March at the end of the wet season.
Kandy Esala Perahera
Kandy Esala Perahera
19thFalling between late July to mid August, the Esala Perahera which takes place in the streets of Kandy is the most iconic event in the country. It celebrates the arrival of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Sri Lanka and runs for 10 consecutive days. Featuring a grand procession of dancers, drummers and elephants decorated in costumes, the Perahera commences and ends at the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic running through Kandy town. The Perahera grows larger and longer every night and ends with the grand finale, which falls on the Esala Full Moon day.
Kataragama Festival
Kataragama Festival
19thThe Kataragama festival is held during the month of Esala, July-August each year to mark the end of the two month long Pada Yatra foot pilgrimage from Jaffna to Kataragama through the east coast and jungles of Yala. Kataragama is a jungle shrine dedicated to the God Skanda and is a popular pilgrim center for Buddhists and Hindus where devotees flock year round. During the festival, fire walking and the grand Perahera are some of its highlights. The end of the festival is marked by a water cutting ceremony in the Menik Ganga which runs through Kataragama.
Vel
Vel
julyDedicated to Skanda, the Vel festival is celebrated in either July or August in Colombo, when ornate chariots bearing a statue of Skanda or his spear (also known as the vel) are paraded through the streets and temple grounds accompanied by the pilgrims. The deities are carried in a procession commencing from the Samangodu Sri Kathivelayuthu Swami Temple in Pettah to the Sri Manickavinayagar Temple in Bambalapitiya. A separate procession also takes place from the Kathiresan Kovil in Pettah to the New Kathiresan Hall in Bamabalapitiya.
Jaffna Nallur Chariot Festival
Jaffna Nallur Chariot Festival
julyFalling between July and August, this is the main festival celebrated in Jaffna and runs for 25 consecutive days. Dedicated to Skanda, a chariot procession takes place twice a day around the Nallur Temple premises, where devotees, drummers and dancers participate.
Blue Whale
Blue Whale
The population of Blue Whales seen around Sri Lanka are believed to be around the Indian ocean with frequent sightings off Mirissa (November - April) and Trincomalee (March - April) with intermittent sightings up to September.
Spinner Dolphin
Spinner Dolphin
Spinner Dolphins are resident to Sri Lankan waters. Kalpitiya is the best location to view them while they are also seen in Mirissa on most days between November through to April. Dolphin watching in Trincomalee is between March-October.
Sea Turtle Nesting
Sea Turtle Nesting
Marine Turtles can be seen nesting in Rekawa. Olive Ridley Turtles nest between November - January, while Green Turtles nest from March - July. Leatherback, Loggerhead and Hawksbill Turtles have been recorded nesting but are infrequently seen.
Snorkeling and Diving (East Coast)
Snorkeling and Diving (East Coast)
The East coast comes into season when the north-east monsoon recedes. The best time for exploring the dive sites and for snorkeling is from April - August.
Leopard
Leopard
Leopards can be seen year round in Yala, Kumana and Wilpattu National Parks. The wet season is from November - March when you get the lush green jungle habitats and the dry-season is from May - September when the big cats can be found close to the waterholes.
Sloth Bear
Sloth Bear
Yala and Wilpattu National Parks are the most reliable locations for watching the shaggy coated Sloth Bear. Although seen year-round, sightings improve between May - June when fruits such as Palu and Weera ripen and in the dry season which extends all the way through to September.
Asian Elephant
Asian Elephant
Solitary bulls and small herds of females and their young can be seen year-round in most of Sri Lanka's dry-zone national parks. Uda Walawe offers virtually guaranteed elephant sightings year-round and is best visited during the dry season when the herds congregate by the water between June - September.
The Gathering of Elephants
The Gathering of Elephants
Regarded as one of the world's top wildlife spectacles, 'The Gathering of Elephants' takes place in Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks during the dry season from July through to October. Herds of elephants numbering over a hundred congregate in the open feeding on the lush green grass as the water levels in the Minneriya and Kaudulla tanks recede. They begin to disperse by around late November to the surrounding jungles once the monsoon rains set in. Between December to May, the elephants can be seen in the Hurullu Forest Reserve but in smaller numbers.
Primates
Primates
Primate watching is year-round across the country. Toque Macaques and Grey Langurs can be seen across the lowlands. Purple-faced Leaf Monkey can be seen in the rain forests, highlands in the outskirts of towns on the west coast and in pockets of forested areas in the dry-zone. The elusive Slender Loris can be seen during nocturnal nature tours. The cultural triangle is the best region in the country for viewing primates, where all three species of Monkey and the Slender Loris is also encountered.
Crocodiles
Crocodiles
Mugger Crocodile can be seen year-round in lakes and the dry-zone National Parks. The larger Estuatine Crocodile is rarer and can be seen in Bundala National Park and in waterways in the outskirts of Colombo. During the dry season between the months of July through to September, large congregations of Mugger Crocodiles can be seen in the waterholes and lakes in Yala National Park.
Endemic Birding
Endemic Birding
34 endemics and a further 17 species which are declared as subcontinental endemics can be found year-round in Sri Lanka. The majority of species are found within the lowland rainforests and the cloud forests which are geographically isolated habitats. The highlight are the mixed species birdflocks in Sinharaja which are popularly referred to as birdwaves.
Dragonflies and Damselflies
Dragonflies and Damselflies
Dragonflies and Damselflies can be seen year-round in the island in wetlands, lagoons, river banks, lakes and other water bodies. There are 124 species with over half these species being endemic. Visiting sites such as Talangama wetlands, Sigiriya moat, Sinharaja, Kithulgala, Horton Plains and Yala will cover a number of different habitats enabling you to see a large diversity of dragonflies.
Butterflies
Butterflies
With over 245 species including 23 endemics, Sri Lanka is an excellent year-round destination for butterfly watching. Realistically over a hundred species can be encountered during a butterfly watching holiday of around 10 days. Swarms of 'white and yellow' butterflies can be seen in the dry-zone around February and March at the end of the wet season.
Kandy Esala Perahera
Kandy Esala Perahera
19thFalling between late July to mid August, the Esala Perahera which takes place in the streets of Kandy is the most iconic event in the country. It celebrates the arrival of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Sri Lanka and runs for 10 consecutive days. Featuring a grand procession of dancers, drummers and elephants decorated in costumes, the Perahera commences and ends at the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic running through Kandy town. The Perahera grows larger and longer every night and ends with the grand finale, which falls on the Esala Full Moon day.
Kataragama Festival
Kataragama Festival
19thThe Kataragama festival is held during the month of Esala, July-August each year to mark the end of the two month long Pada Yatra foot pilgrimage from Jaffna to Kataragama through the east coast and jungles of Yala. Kataragama is a jungle shrine dedicated to the God Skanda and is a popular pilgrim center for Buddhists and Hindus where devotees flock year round. During the festival, fire walking and the grand Perahera are some of its highlights. The end of the festival is marked by a water cutting ceremony in the Menik Ganga which runs through Kataragama.
Vel
Vel
julyDedicated to Skanda, the Vel festival is celebrated in either July or August in Colombo, when ornate chariots bearing a statue of Skanda or his spear (also known as the vel) are paraded through the streets and temple grounds accompanied by the pilgrims. The deities are carried in a procession commencing from the Samangodu Sri Kathivelayuthu Swami Temple in Pettah to the Sri Manickavinayagar Temple in Bambalapitiya. A separate procession also takes place from the Kathiresan Kovil in Pettah to the New Kathiresan Hall in Bamabalapitiya.
Jaffna Nallur Chariot Festival
Jaffna Nallur Chariot Festival
julyFalling between July and August, this is the main festival celebrated in Jaffna and runs for 25 consecutive days. Dedicated to Skanda, a chariot procession takes place twice a day around the Nallur Temple premises, where devotees, drummers and dancers participate.
Blue Whale
Blue Whale
The population of Blue Whales seen around Sri Lanka are believed to be around the Indian ocean with frequent sightings off Mirissa (November - April) and Trincomalee (March - April) with intermittent sightings up to September.
Spinner Dolphin
Spinner Dolphin
Spinner Dolphins are resident to Sri Lankan waters. Kalpitiya is the best location to view them while they are also seen in Mirissa on most days between November through to April. Dolphin watching in Trincomalee is between March-October.
Sea Turtle Nesting
Sea Turtle Nesting
Marine Turtles can be seen nesting in Rekawa. Olive Ridley Turtles nest between November - January, while Green Turtles nest from March - July. Leatherback, Loggerhead and Hawksbill Turtles have been recorded nesting but are infrequently seen.
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Snorkeling and Diving (East Coast)
Snorkeling and Diving (East Coast)
The East coast comes into season when the north-east monsoon recedes. The best time for exploring the dive sites and for snorkeling is from April - August.
Leopard
Leopard
Leopards can be seen year round in Yala, Kumana and Wilpattu National Parks. The wet season is from November - March when you get the lush green jungle habitats and the dry-season is from May - September when the big cats can be found close to the waterholes.
Sloth Bear
Sloth Bear
Yala and Wilpattu National Parks are the most reliable locations for watching the shaggy coated Sloth Bear. Although seen year-round, sightings improve between May - June when fruits such as Palu and Weera ripen and in the dry season which extends all the way through to September.
The Gathering of Elephants
The Gathering of Elephants
Regarded as one of the world's top wildlife spectacles, 'The Gathering of Elephants' takes place in Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks during the dry season from July through to October. Herds of elephants numbering over a hundred congregate in the open feeding on the lush green grass as the water levels in the Minneriya and Kaudulla tanks recede. They begin to disperse by around late November to the surrounding jungles once the monsoon rains set in. Between December to May, the elephants can be seen in the Hurullu Forest Reserve but in smaller numbers.
Primates
Primates
Primate watching is year-round across the country. Toque Macaques and Grey Langurs can be seen across the lowlands. Purple-faced Leaf Monkey can be seen in the rain forests, highlands in the outskirts of towns on the west coast and in pockets of forested areas in the dry-zone. The elusive Slender Loris can be seen during nocturnal nature tours. The cultural triangle is the best region in the country for viewing primates, where all three species of Monkey and the Slender Loris is also encountered.
Crocodiles
Crocodiles
Mugger Crocodile can be seen year-round in lakes and the dry-zone National Parks. The larger Estuatine Crocodile is rarer and can be seen in Bundala National Park and in waterways in the outskirts of Colombo. During the dry season between the months of July through to September, large congregations of Mugger Crocodiles can be seen in the waterholes and lakes in Yala National Park.
Endemic Birding
Endemic Birding
34 endemics and a further 17 species which are declared as subcontinental endemics can be found year-round in Sri Lanka. The majority of species are found within the lowland rainforests and the cloud forests which are geographically isolated habitats. The highlight are the mixed species birdflocks in Sinharaja which are popularly referred to as birdwaves.
Dragonflies and Damselflies
Dragonflies and Damselflies
Dragonflies and Damselflies can be seen year-round in the island in wetlands, lagoons, river banks, lakes and other water bodies. There are 124 species with over half these species being endemic. Visiting sites such as Talangama wetlands, Sigiriya moat, Sinharaja, Kithulgala, Horton Plains and Yala will cover a number of different habitats enabling you to see a large diversity of dragonflies.
Butterflies
Butterflies
With over 245 species including 23 endemics, Sri Lanka is an excellent year-round destination for butterfly watching. Realistically over a hundred species can be encountered during a butterfly watching holiday of around 10 days. Swarms of 'white and yellow' butterflies can be seen in the dry-zone around February and March at the end of the wet season.
Blue Whale
Blue Whale
The population of Blue Whales seen around Sri Lanka are believed to be around the Indian ocean with frequent sightings off Mirissa (November - April) and Trincomalee (March - April) with intermittent sightings up to September.
Spinner Dolphin
Spinner Dolphin
Spinner Dolphins are resident to Sri Lankan waters. Kalpitiya is the best location to view them while they are also seen in Mirissa on most days between November through to April. Dolphin watching in Trincomalee is between March-October.
Sea Turtle Nesting
Sea Turtle Nesting
Marine Turtles can be seen nesting in Rekawa. Olive Ridley Turtles nest between November - January, while Green Turtles nest from March - July. Leatherback, Loggerhead and Hawksbill Turtles have been recorded nesting but are infrequently seen.
Leopard
Leopard
Leopards can be seen year round in Yala, Kumana and Wilpattu National Parks. The wet season is from November - March when you get the lush green jungle habitats and the dry-season is from May - September when the big cats can be found close to the waterholes.
Sloth Bear
Sloth Bear
Yala and Wilpattu National Parks are the most reliable locations for watching the shaggy coated Sloth Bear. Although seen year-round, sightings improve between May - June when fruits such as Palu and Weera ripen and in the dry season which extends all the way through to September.
Asian Elephant
Asian Elephant
Solitary bulls and small herds of females and their young can be seen year-round in most of Sri Lanka's dry-zone national parks. Uda Walawe offers virtually guaranteed elephant sightings year-round and is best visited during the dry season when the herds congregate by the water between June - September.
The Gathering of Elephants
The Gathering of Elephants
Regarded as one of the world's top wildlife spectacles, 'The Gathering of Elephants' takes place in Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks during the dry season from July through to October. Herds of elephants numbering over a hundred congregate in the open feeding on the lush green grass as the water levels in the Minneriya and Kaudulla tanks recede. They begin to disperse by around late November to the surrounding jungles once the monsoon rains set in. Between December to May, the elephants can be seen in the Hurullu Forest Reserve but in smaller numbers.
Primates
Primates
Primate watching is year-round across the country. Toque Macaques and Grey Langurs can be seen across the lowlands. Purple-faced Leaf Monkey can be seen in the rain forests, highlands in the outskirts of towns on the west coast and in pockets of forested areas in the dry-zone. The elusive Slender Loris can be seen during nocturnal nature tours. The cultural triangle is the best region in the country for viewing primates, where all three species of Monkey and the Slender Loris is also encountered.
Crocodiles
Crocodiles
Mugger Crocodile can be seen year-round in lakes and the dry-zone National Parks. The larger Estuatine Crocodile is rarer and can be seen in Bundala National Park and in waterways in the outskirts of Colombo. During the dry season between the months of July through to September, large congregations of Mugger Crocodiles can be seen in the waterholes and lakes in Yala National Park.
Endemic Birding
Endemic Birding
34 endemics and a further 17 species which are declared as subcontinental endemics can be found year-round in Sri Lanka. The majority of species are found within the lowland rainforests and the cloud forests which are geographically isolated habitats. The highlight are the mixed species birdflocks in Sinharaja which are popularly referred to as birdwaves.
Migrant Birding
Migrant Birding
The months of November to March are considered as the best period for birding across the island with the arrival of over a 100 different species of migrants. Mannar and Jaffna in the North offer some of the best birding for migrant ducks, waders as well as the Greater Flamingo.
Dragonflies and Damselflies
Dragonflies and Damselflies
Dragonflies and Damselflies can be seen year-round in the island in wetlands, lagoons, river banks, lakes and other water bodies. There are 124 species with over half these species being endemic. Visiting sites such as Talangama wetlands, Sigiriya moat, Sinharaja, Kithulgala, Horton Plains and Yala will cover a number of different habitats enabling you to see a large diversity of dragonflies.
Butterflies
Butterflies
With over 245 species including 23 endemics, Sri Lanka is an excellent year-round destination for butterfly watching. Realistically over a hundred species can be encountered during a butterfly watching holiday of around 10 days. Swarms of 'white and yellow' butterflies can be seen in the dry-zone around February and March at the end of the wet season.
Deepavali
Deepavali
29thKnown as the 'Festival of Lights', Deepavali celebrates the symbolic triumphing of good over evil. It is a sacred day celebrated by all Hindus where lamps are lit in Tamil households and in Hindu temples across the country. Deepavali also commemorates Rama's return to India after having rescued Sita who spent 14 years in exile in Sri Lanka.
Blue Whale
Blue Whale
The population of Blue Whales seen around Sri Lanka are believed to be around the Indian ocean with frequent sightings off Mirissa (November - April) and Trincomalee (March - April) with intermittent sightings up to September.
Spinner Dolphin
Spinner Dolphin
Spinner Dolphins are resident to Sri Lankan waters. Kalpitiya is the best location to view them while they are also seen in Mirissa on most days between November through to April. Dolphin watching in Trincomalee is between March-October.
Sea Turtle Nesting
Sea Turtle Nesting
Marine Turtles can be seen nesting in Rekawa. Olive Ridley Turtles nest between November - January, while Green Turtles nest from March - July. Leatherback, Loggerhead and Hawksbill Turtles have been recorded nesting but are infrequently seen.
Snorkeling and Diving (West Coast)
Snorkeling and Diving (West Coast)
The best time for snorkeling and diving on the west coast from Kalpitiya all the way to Tangalle on the south coast is once the south-west monsoon has receded which is between November through to Mid April each year.
Leopard
Leopard
Leopards can be seen year round in Yala, Kumana and Wilpattu National Parks. The wet season is from November - March when you get the lush green jungle habitats and the dry-season is from May - September when the big cats can be found close to the waterholes.
Sloth Bear
Sloth Bear
Yala and Wilpattu National Parks are the most reliable locations for watching the shaggy coated Sloth Bear. Although seen year-round, sightings improve between May - June when fruits such as Palu and Weera ripen and in the dry season which extends all the way through to September.
Asian Elephant
Asian Elephant
Solitary bulls and small herds of females and their young can be seen year-round in most of Sri Lanka's dry-zone national parks. Uda Walawe offers virtually guaranteed elephant sightings year-round and is best visited during the dry season when the herds congregate by the water between June - September.
The Gathering of Elephants
The Gathering of Elephants
Regarded as one of the world's top wildlife spectacles, 'The Gathering of Elephants' takes place in Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks during the dry season from July through to October. Herds of elephants numbering over a hundred congregate in the open feeding on the lush green grass as the water levels in the Minneriya and Kaudulla tanks recede. They begin to disperse by around late November to the surrounding jungles once the monsoon rains set in. Between December to May, the elephants can be seen in the Hurullu Forest Reserve but in smaller numbers.
Primates
Primates
Primate watching is year-round across the country. Toque Macaques and Grey Langurs can be seen across the lowlands. Purple-faced Leaf Monkey can be seen in the rain forests, highlands in the outskirts of towns on the west coast and in pockets of forested areas in the dry-zone. The elusive Slender Loris can be seen during nocturnal nature tours. The cultural triangle is the best region in the country for viewing primates, where all three species of Monkey and the Slender Loris is also encountered.
Crocodiles
Crocodiles
Mugger Crocodile can be seen year-round in lakes and the dry-zone National Parks. The larger Estuatine Crocodile is rarer and can be seen in Bundala National Park and in waterways in the outskirts of Colombo. During the dry season between the months of July through to September, large congregations of Mugger Crocodiles can be seen in the waterholes and lakes in Yala National Park.
Endemic Birding
Endemic Birding
34 endemics and a further 17 species which are declared as subcontinental endemics can be found year-round in Sri Lanka. The majority of species are found within the lowland rainforests and the cloud forests which are geographically isolated habitats. The highlight are the mixed species birdflocks in Sinharaja which are popularly referred to as birdwaves.
Migrant Birding
Migrant Birding
The months of November to March are considered as the best period for birding across the island with the arrival of over a 100 different species of migrants. Mannar and Jaffna in the North offer some of the best birding for migrant ducks, waders as well as the Greater Flamingo.
Pelagic Sea Birds
Pelagic Sea Birds
A number of rare pelagics which are seldom seen in the mainland including Skuas, Noddies, Storm Petrels and Shearwaters maybe observed when out on whale and dolphin watching expeditions from Mirissa, Kalpitiya and Trincomalee. The best time for watching these rare pelagics is during the month of April.
Dragonflies and Damselflies
Dragonflies and Damselflies
Dragonflies and Damselflies can be seen year-round in the island in wetlands, lagoons, river banks, lakes and other water bodies. There are 124 species with over half these species being endemic. Visiting sites such as Talangama wetlands, Sigiriya moat, Sinharaja, Kithulgala, Horton Plains and Yala will cover a number of different habitats enabling you to see a large diversity of dragonflies.
Butterflies
Butterflies
With over 245 species including 23 endemics, Sri Lanka is an excellent year-round destination for butterfly watching. Realistically over a hundred species can be encountered during a butterfly watching holiday of around 10 days. Swarms of 'white and yellow' butterflies can be seen in the dry-zone around February and March at the end of the wet season.
Blue Whale
Blue Whale
The population of Blue Whales seen around Sri Lanka are believed to be around the Indian ocean with frequent sightings off Mirissa (November - April) and Trincomalee (March - April) with intermittent sightings up to September.
Spinner Dolphin
Spinner Dolphin
Spinner Dolphins are resident to Sri Lankan waters. Kalpitiya is the best location to view them while they are also seen in Mirissa on most days between November through to April. Dolphin watching in Trincomalee is between March-October.
Sea Turtle Nesting
Sea Turtle Nesting
Marine Turtles can be seen nesting in Rekawa. Olive Ridley Turtles nest between November - January, while Green Turtles nest from March - July. Leatherback, Loggerhead and Hawksbill Turtles have been recorded nesting but are infrequently seen.
Snorkeling and Diving (West Coast)
Snorkeling and Diving (West Coast)
The best time for snorkeling and diving on the west coast from Kalpitiya all the way to Tangalle on the south coast is once the south-west monsoon has receded which is between November through to Mid April each year.
Leopard
Leopard
Leopards can be seen year round in Yala, Kumana and Wilpattu National Parks. The wet season is from November - March when you get the lush green jungle habitats and the dry-season is from May - September when the big cats can be found close to the waterholes.
Sloth Bear
Sloth Bear
Yala and Wilpattu National Parks are the most reliable locations for watching the shaggy coated Sloth Bear. Although seen year-round, sightings improve between May - June when fruits such as Palu and Weera ripen and in the dry season which extends all the way through to September.
Asian Elephant
Asian Elephant
Solitary bulls and small herds of females and their young can be seen year-round in most of Sri Lanka's dry-zone national parks. Uda Walawe offers virtually guaranteed elephant sightings year-round and is best visited during the dry season when the herds congregate by the water between June - September.
Primates
Primates
Primate watching is year-round across the country. Toque Macaques and Grey Langurs can be seen across the lowlands. Purple-faced Leaf Monkey can be seen in the rain forests, highlands in the outskirts of towns on the west coast and in pockets of forested areas in the dry-zone. The elusive Slender Loris can be seen during nocturnal nature tours. The cultural triangle is the best region in the country for viewing primates, where all three species of Monkey and the Slender Loris is also encountered.
Crocodiles
Crocodiles
Mugger Crocodile can be seen year-round in lakes and the dry-zone National Parks. The larger Estuatine Crocodile is rarer and can be seen in Bundala National Park and in waterways in the outskirts of Colombo. During the dry season between the months of July through to September, large congregations of Mugger Crocodiles can be seen in the waterholes and lakes in Yala National Park.
Endemic Birding
Endemic Birding
34 endemics and a further 17 species which are declared as subcontinental endemics can be found year-round in Sri Lanka. The majority of species are found within the lowland rainforests and the cloud forests which are geographically isolated habitats. The highlight are the mixed species birdflocks in Sinharaja which are popularly referred to as birdwaves.
Migrant Birding
Migrant Birding
The months of November to March are considered as the best period for birding across the island with the arrival of over a 100 different species of migrants. Mannar and Jaffna in the North offer some of the best birding for migrant ducks, waders as well as the Greater Flamingo.
Pelagic Sea Birds
Pelagic Sea Birds
A number of rare pelagics which are seldom seen in the mainland including Skuas, Noddies, Storm Petrels and Shearwaters maybe observed when out on whale and dolphin watching expeditions from Mirissa, Kalpitiya and Trincomalee. The best time for watching these rare pelagics is during the month of April.
Dragonflies and Damselflies
Dragonflies and Damselflies
Dragonflies and Damselflies can be seen year-round in the island in wetlands, lagoons, river banks, lakes and other water bodies. There are 124 species with over half these species being endemic. Visiting sites such as Talangama wetlands, Sigiriya moat, Sinharaja, Kithulgala, Horton Plains and Yala will cover a number of different habitats enabling you to see a large diversity of dragonflies.
Butterflies
Butterflies
With over 245 species including 23 endemics, Sri Lanka is an excellent year-round destination for butterfly watching. Realistically over a hundred species can be encountered during a butterfly watching holiday of around 10 days. Swarms of 'white and yellow' butterflies can be seen in the dry-zone around February and March at the end of the wet season.
Adam's Peak Pilgrimage
Adam's Peak Pilgrimage
julyThe start of the Adam's Peak pilgrimage season commences on the Unduvap Poya day falling in December. Also known as Sangamitta Day, it marks the day when Sangamitta, King Asoka's daughter carried the sacred Bo Tree sapling from India across to Sri Lanka, which was planted in Anuradhapura. The sapling is believed to be a cutting from the Bo Tree under which the Buddha gained enlightenment. The pilgrimage continues for a period of five months and ends on the Bak poya day in April.
Christmas
Christmas
25thA holiday celebrated worldwide by Christians to mark the birth of Jesus Christ. Festive decorations can be seen in shopping centers, roadside stalls and in numerous homes across the country.
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