The generosity of nature, the island-nation’s ancient historical and spiritual roots, its culinary traditions and the warmth and friendly people have been the four pillars of Sri Lanka’s magnetic appeal for romancing couples from all over the world. The tropical splendour of the spice island is also shaped by two monsoons–the southwest monsoon from May to July and the northeast monsoon from October to January. So you can plan your romantic escape anytime of the year, because there will always be a dry season on both coasts which allows you to make the most of its beaches, game parks, mountain retreats or its historic places. That said, time a visit in the months of January to April or mid-July to September.
From crystalline blue waters to pristine beaches, from rich verdant plantations to nature and wildlife reserves, from archaeological ruins to deeply venerated temple sites, there are discoveries galore you can make with your loved one–and pile up memories to share and to hold and reflect upon long after you leave this blissful island.
Kandy
Sri Lanka’s last kingdom, in proximity to the untrammelled delights of Nature’s bounty, also offers you a beautiful mix of history, heritage and culture to share and delight in. Pay your respects together at the serene Temple of the Tooth, one of the island’s most significant Buddhist shrines. You can spend hours together enjoying the beautiful nature trails past water bodies and tiny villages. A lovely excursion of discovery can be made to the Elephant Orphanage in the city. Do plan to watch a traditional Kandyan dance performance and sample Sri Lanka’s legendary culinary offerings. Base yourself in one of Kandy’s beautiful resort-style hotels; often these step up to provide many indulgent services and amenities for you to enjoy your private time together.
Ella
Run away to the gorgeous misty highlands where tea estates shape the laid-back vibe of a colonial setting in this small mountain village. There are some lovely options to stay at a plantation and enjoy the seclusion of an uncrowded verdant retreat. An unmissable treat is a romantic journey here by train from Kandy through some of the most spectacular scenic environs across the iconic Nine Arches Bridge. If you are feeling energetic, you can hike to Ella Rock, cycle along the beautiful mountain trails and picnic in a pretty glade where the wind whispers gently amongst the trees and birdsong fills the air.
Bentota
This coastal beach town will blow you away with its scenic splendour and friendly vibe. Located in the southwest region of the island, it offers the spectacular setting of a beautiful lagoon with its palm-fringed beach where the River Bentota merges into the sea. While several resorts offer all kinds of cosseting services and amenities, you and your partner will love the choice of activities in this delightful destination. Spin out your days sampling the pleasures of canoeing, snorkelling, turtle watching, and surfing. Do visit the lovely Brief Garden, created by landscape artist Bevis Bawa, brother of legendary Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa.
Mirissa
The crescent–shaped beach destination, within easy reach of the historic port town of Galle, is a one of Sri Lanka’s top romantic getaways. Its tropical beauty, marked by its verdant surrounds, the stunning ocean vistas and secluded sandy spaces, makes it an idyllic retreat for couples. Long loved also for its spectacular sunrises and sunsets Mirissa has well earned its spot as Sri Lanka’s go-to beach haven for a romantic breakaway. Dolphin-spotting and whale-watching tours, along with some water sport activities, add a lively note to the laid -back serenity of the beach.
Yala National Park
A scattering of glamping resorts offers the perfect romantic setting for exploring one of Sri Lanka’s most loved game parks. Jeep safaris into Yala introduce you to the natural habitat of the highest density of leopards in the world. It’s an unforgettable experience! The glamping resorts offer all manner of luxuries in a tented facility, which both pamper your senses and indulge the wildlife buff in you in this glorious wilderness space of Sri Lanka. Yala National Park is home to over 40 species of mammals. A jeep safari also holds the promise of sightings of elephants, wild water buffalo and the nocturnal sloth bear.
Tangalle Beach
Nestling along the outer reaches of Yala’s vast jungle expanses the Tangalle Beach, on the southern coastal belt, is a big draw as a romantic escape. The seclusion of this small but picturesque beach, and its easy access to the famous national park, are sure to offer you many memorable moments enjoying this uncrowded setting. Truly compelling are the glorious sunsets over the ocean. The best place to chill out is at the western end of the bay, near Sunray Beach. Sunbathe, relax and sample the offerings of the beachfront cafes. The Paraiwella Beach Park area of Tangalle is nice for swimming as the water here is quite calm. Looking for a more lively time? Head for Tangalle Lagoon for a spot of snorkeling or scuba diving.
Pigeon Island
If you and your partner are irresistibly drawn to adventure sports, this one is really for you. Accessible out of the city of Trincomalee the island is popular with water sports enthusiasts. The seclusion of the several resorts on Pigeon Island offers you the privacy you seek. You can also indulge in some really rewarding snorkelling and scuba adventures along the beautiful 200m long and 100m wide coral reef, which is amongst the best remaining in Sri Lanka. The island also features a no-entry zone for protecting the Black Tip Reef Sharks, which means you don’t have to be out there on the open water for such privileged sightings. Pigeon Island is home to several species of sea turtles, so turtle-watching should definitely be on your wish list. You can also go on a Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari, ATV Sightseeing Adventure, and Boating. Spend time also at Nilaveli Beach, Fort Fredrick, Koneswaram Temple and the Pigeon Island National Park, one of the two marine national parks of Sri Lanka.
The mindboggling choice of romantic destinations is also sure encourages you to return on many a mini romantic escape to savour Sri Lanka’s endless charms.