If learning about history and religion is your cup of tea, then Sri Lanka is a country you simply must visit. However, there’s more to this place than just rich and vibrant history and spirituality.
Sri Lanka has some of the friendliest people on earth, and they will all be more than willing to help you get around. It can definitely boost your confidence if you decide to visit this astonishing country. In any case, feel free to read our guide to find out the best time to visit Sri Lanka!
READ MORE: We share our picks on what to do in Sri Lanka in 2022
We think that spring is the best time to visit Sri Lanka
Both spring and summer seem like good times of year to visit Sri Lanka. The start of spring might seem like the best choice for visits for several reasons:
- The temperatures start to rise – While Sri Lanka is not a cold country by any means, tourism has always been connected with high temperatures. The travellers who decide to go to Sri Lanka can expect temperatures well into the mid-30 degrees Celsius, even at the beginning of spring.
- The rains are not as harsh as in some other months – Since Sri Lanka’s geographical location, rains and higher humidity levels are to be expected. In April and May, this is not the case, and the late spring in Sri Lanka will be the best time to visit for most tourists.
- It is the best time to see the famous wildlife – Sri Lanka is known for having amazing wildlife like elephants, leopards, sloth bears and more, which make safaris in the country an amazing and also affordable experience.
Of course, you can still visit Sri Lanka in summer and enjoy even warmer weather. However, summer in Sri Lanka can offer you something else – months of festivals and traditions.
Traditions and festivals in Sri Lanka you shouldn’t miss out on
There are some lovely festivals tourists are more than happy to attend. Here are some of our favourites:
- Poson Poya – This festival is celebrated to remember the coming of Buddhism to Sri Lanka some 2300 years ago. It is the second most celebrated festival in Sri Lanka, and the entire island is in a festive mood. Think of it as a Sri Lankan Christmas!
- Vel Festival – Hindu religion is not forgotten in Sri Lanka as well, and Vel Festival is a celebration of the Hindu god of war, Skanda, who triumphed over evil by producing a divine trident (known as Vel). Sri Lanka has many different religious holidays, and tourists are free to partake in them as well, regardless of their religion.
People in Sri Lanka are open to visitors and tourists, and they keep the true spirit of religion alive. Sri Lanka, however, has so much more to offer, but you must be mindful of the rules and regulations there.
Things you mustn’t do while in Sri Lanka
People in Sri Lanka will greet you with hospitality and love. They are some of the friendliest people you will find in Asia, much like Thai people are. That doesn’t mean you can do whatever you please and exploit their hospitality, though. There are some things you should not even dream of doing while in Sri Lanka. For instance:
- Insulting their religion – The last thing you want to do in such a spiritual and religious country is to disrespect their religion. If you are visiting a temple, make sure to take off your shoes. Also, never touch a monk on their head since that is considered the most sacred part of the body.
- Don’t turn your back to Buddha or wear similar clothing – We understand that you might want to show respect towards Sri Lankans by dressing in their clothing, but you should try to avoid anything that can make you look like you are cosplaying Buddha. The locals won’t take kindly to that. Also, don’t turn your back to a Buddha statue; face it if you want to take a quick photo.
Another thing you should not do is compare Sri Lanka with India. Most tourists make this mistake, and the locals never look kindly at it. Keep in mind that these two countries are completely different and have their own different history, tradition, and culture.
Spring in Sri Lanka will make you forget everything
Spring in Sri Lanka is, arguably, one of the best seasons of the year to be in this beautiful place. Everything will be full of life, and you will simply get drawn into it. Meeting new people won’t be an issue as well, as Sri Lankans will help you out by being as friendly as ever.
Sri Lanka is a place of Buddhism and a place with few worries. You should try to be like the locals when it comes to that. After all, in spring, you can find a lot of Buddhist festivals and traditions, as it represents rebirth. Just go along with the vibes you find there, and you will have a fantastic time.
All you need to do to enjoy Sri Lanka is appreciate it for what it is – a wonderful location. Even if you are not a fan of miraculous beaches or resorts, you will still have a lot of fun there. All you have to do is enjoy what you see and find.
Conclusion
Sri Lanka will keep you enthralled in her impeccable spirituality, wonderful nature, and incredible people. We highly recommend visiting either during the spring or summer months, since most of the festivals are held then. You can visit any time of the year, however. Sri Lanka won’t disappoint you!
