Romantic Honeymoon Destinations in Sri Lanka: Your Ultimate Guide

Last Updated on October 13, 2024 by Sanjeewa Padmal (Seerendipity)

Sri Lanka is not only ideal for leisure holidays but also for newlywed couples. With many dozens of romantic honeymoon destinations in Sri Lanka, the island is a perfect spot for newlyweds looking for a mix of romance, adventure, and unforgettable memories. Let’s dive into the best honeymoon destinations this gorgeous island has to offer!

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Romantic Honeymoon Destinations in Sri Lanka

The island of Sri Lanka is a stunning tropical nation rich in history and culture, from the Galle Fort in southern Sri Lanka, the best-preserved colonial city in Asia from the 16th century, to the Sri Lankan cultural triangle, which includes majestic Buddha statues and stupas older than the Pyramids of Giza. One of the many international honours Sri Lanka has recently acquired is the CONDÉ NAST TRAVELLER’s ranking of Sri Lanka as one of the world’s friendliest vacation spots. In addition to the cultural and historical arena, Sri Lanka offers a wide range of other tourist attractions, including wildlife vacations, nature tours, adventure vacations, family vacations, and honeymoon vacations.

These attractions are dispersed throughout the island and offer visitors the opportunity to learn about the history, culture, legends, wildlife, and nature that have shaped Sri Lanka into what it is today. Sri Lanka is not only ideal for leisure holidays but also for newlywed couples. With many dozens of romantic honeymoon destinations in Sri Lanka, the island is a perfect spot for newlyweds looking for a mix of romance, adventure, and unforgettable memories. Let’s dive into the best honeymoon destinations this gorgeous island has to offer!

Why Choose Sri Lanka for Your Honeymoon?

Sri Lanka packs a punch when it comes to honeymoon experiences. Here’s why it’s a top pick:

  1. Diverse landscapes: From pristine beaches to misty mountains, you’ve got it all.
  2. Rich culture: Ancient temples, colorful festivals, and warm hospitality.
  3. Wildlife encounters: Spot elephants and leopards in their natural habitat.
  4. Delicious cuisine: Spice up your romance with flavorful Sri Lankan dishes.
  5. Affordable luxury: Get more bang for your buck compared to other destinations.

Top Romantic Destinations in Sri Lanka

Bentota: Beach Bliss and River Romance

Kick off your honeymoon in Bentota, a coastal paradise perfect for beach lovers. Many honeymooners frequent this picturesque beach, which is among the most romantic on the island. Wide sandy beaches with swaying palms are a hallmark of Bentota Beach. It boasts a gorgeous sea view, sun, and sea bath, making it one of the greatest spots for a stroll.

Here’s what to do:

  • Relax on golden sandy beaches
  • Take a romantic sunset cruise on Bentota River
  • Indulge in couples’ spa treatments at luxury resorts

Pro tip: Don’t miss the Bentota River safari for a magical experience spotting wildlife along the mangroves.

Kandy: Cultural Heart and Mountain Charm

Next, head to Kandy, the cultural capital nestled in the hills. One of Sri Lanka’s most famous tourist destinations is the shrine dedicated to tooth relics. It is well-liked by the populace as a location to call forth blessings. In order to invoke a blessing in their lives, the married couple visits this Buddhist temple and participates in religious activities. Known locally as “Dalada Maligawa,” this UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases the distinctive architecture and culture of Sri Lanka. For a lovely beginning to their new life together, the Temple of the Tooth Relic is one of the must-see locations on a honeymoon vacation to Sri Lanka.

Romantic activities include:

  • Stroll hand-in-hand around Kandy Lake
  • Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic at sunset
  • Enjoy a traditional Kandyan dance performance together

For a truly memorable experience, take the scenic train journey from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, often called one of the most beautiful rail trips in the world.

Nuwara Eliya: Little England in the Clouds

Nuwara Eliya offers a unique blend of colonial charm, natural beauty, and romantic activities that make it a perfect honeymoon destination. It’s a chance to slow down, connect with each other, and create memories in a setting that feels worlds away from everyday life.

Misty mountains, lush tea plantations, and a cool climate that’ll make you want to snuggle up with your sweetheart. Nuwara Eliya offers a refreshing break from Sri Lanka’s tropical heat, making it ideal for couples who want to enjoy the outdoors without breaking a sweat.

So, if you’re looking for a honeymoon spot that’s a little bit different but totally magical, Nuwara Eliya should be at the top of your list. It’s where tropical paradise meets misty mountains, and where your love story gets its fairy tale chapter. Ready to start your happily ever after in Little England in the Clouds?

Romantic activities include:

  • Picnic in Victoria Park surrounded by colorful flowers
  • Visit a tea plantation and factory for a Ceylon tea tasting
  • Boat ride on Gregory Lake at sunset

Ella: Misty Mountains and Waterfalls

Ella offers that perfect balance of adventure and relaxation that’s ideal for newlyweds. You can start your day with an exhilarating hike, spend the afternoon lounging in a tea field, and end with a romantic dinner under the stars. It’s a place where you can create those “remember when” moments that you’ll be talking about for years to come.

The laid-back vibe of Ella also gives you plenty of opportunities to just be together. Whether you’re sipping tea on your balcony, watching the mist roll over the mountains, or trying to perfect your curry-making skills, you’re creating those small, intimate moments that are the building blocks of a great marriage.

So, if you’re looking for a honeymoon destination that’s a little bit off the beaten path but big on romance and adventure, Ella should be at the top of your list. It’s where tropical charm meets mountain magic, and where your love story gets its exciting new chapter. Ready to start your happily ever after in the misty mountains of Ella? Your romantic adventure awaits!

Here’s what to do:

  • Hike Little Adam’s Peak for breathtaking views
  • Visit the Nine Arch Bridge, a photographer’s dream
  • Take a cooking class to learn Sri Lankan cuisine together

Udawalawe National Park: Wildlife and Glamping

Enjoy the serene surroundings of Udawalawe National Park and the enormous Udawalawe Reservoir, which make it a popular destination for those looking for leisure. The national park is located in the foothills of the hill country of Sri Lanka. Known as the greatest spot to see wild elephants, this wildlife area is one of the island’s most visited national parks. But compared to most other national parks, including Yala, relatively few people go to Udawalawe for safari; it might not be the greatest spot to watch leopards. See hundreds of playful wild jumbos while on a romantic wildlife trip at Udawalawe National Park. Visitors staying at the majority of beach resorts may easily access the national park due to its handy location close to the southern and western coastal belts.

Here’s what to do:

  • Go on a jeep safari to spot leopards, elephants, and exotic birds
  • Stay in a luxury tented camp for a glamping experience
  • Enjoy candlelit dinners under the stars

Mirissa: Whale Watching and Beach Relaxation

Mirissa, a coastal gem in southern Sri Lanka, offers the perfect blend of excitement and relaxation for honeymooners. Start your day with a thrilling whale watching excursion, where you might spot majestic blue whales and playful dolphins in their natural habitat. After your ocean adventure, unwind on Mirissa’s crescent-shaped beach, known for its soft golden sand and crystal-clear waters. As the day winds down, treat yourselves to a romantic seafood dinner at one of the beachfront restaurants, savouring fresh catches while watching a spectacular sunset. With its laid-back vibe and stunning natural beauty, Mirissa provides an idyllic setting for newlyweds to create unforgettable memories together.

Here’s what to do:

  • Go on a whale watching excursion (November to April)
  • Relax on the crescent-shaped beach
  • Enjoy fresh seafood dinners with your toes in the sand

The Selfie in Viharamahadevi Park: A Honeymoon

One of the greatest destinations in Sri Lanka for a honeymoon is Viharamahadevi Park. Many city tours of Colombo include a visit to this expansive green space, which is situated in the centre of the city. The main attractions of Viharamahadevi Park are its strolling trails and children’s play areas, making it one of the most visited locations in the city for couples and wedding photographers. Enjoy a leisurely stroll alongside the charming, serene artificial lake, surrounded by enormous trees, plants, and creepers.

Here’s what to do:

  • Go on a walk under the green canopy
  • Relax
  • Enjoy calm and quiet atmosphere

Cruise Down the Bentota River Safari

If you don’t do a river safari in Sri Lanka, your honeymoon trip isn’t complete. One of the greatest ways to take in the breathtaking scenery while spending a lovely evening on the river with your significant other is to go on a river safari. Since the boat tour passes through numerous mangrove lagoons, there is a good opportunity of seeing a variety of creatures, including monitors, crocodiles, monkeys, and other bird species.

Here’s what to do:

  • Enjoy cool breeze
  • Spot crocodiles, monitors, lizards, monkeys, and birds
  • Slow boat ride through the mangrove lagoon

Investigating coral reefs at Hikkaduwa Marine Sanctuary

One of the island’s most visited tourist destinations is the Hikkaduwa Marine Sanctuary. Numerous corals, unusual fish species, sea turtles, and many other creatures can be found in the shallow sea bed off Hikkaduwa. You don’t have to dive into the water to see the coral in Hikkaduwa; instead, rent a glass-bottom boat, which lets you sit in the boat and have a better view of the sea floor.

Here’s what to do:

  • Walk along Hikkduwa’s beautiful beaches.
  • Enjoy the evening sunset while sipping a glass of wine from your beach shack.
  • Dive into the seabed and see the fascinating array of seaplants, fish, corals and turtles

Peradeniya Botanical Garden: For Those Who Love the Natural World

Whether you are travelling to Sri Lanka for a family vacation or a honeymoon, you must visit the Peradeniya Botanical Garden. The botanical garden at Peradeniya is the largest of its kind on the island and draws many tourists each day. There are many exotic trees, plants, and creepers in the garden. Kandy is only fifteen minutes away from the botanical garden. There are hundreds and thousands of trees, plants, and creepers throughout the garden. In addition to being the best place to see plants, the botanical garden is a great place to have a romantic picnic amidst Peradeniya’s lush green vegetation and to take in the peace and quiet. Due to the northwest monsoon, November through April is the ideal time of year to visit the Peradeniya botanical garden and the majority of other tourist destinations.

Here’s what to do:

  • Enjoy peaceful relaxation amidst lush greenery.
  • Walk among a wide variety of exotic trees, plants, and creepers.
  • Enjoy the beautiful sights.

Galle: Romance

The best-preserved Dutch fort in Asia is located in Galle, a well-known city in southern Sri Lanka. The majority of honeymooners believe that it must be on the list of places to visit in Sri Lanka. In addition, Galle is well-known for its immaculate beaches, forest sections, sea sports, and getaways. Spend a leisurely morning with your loved ones on the pristine sands. Ruhmassala and a jungle beach with gorgeous beaches and lots of greenery that are ideal for a nature stroll are located just south of Galle. Additionally, remember to visit an Ayurvedic spa to experience the restorative benefits of the Ayurvedic healing system. Galle is one of the greatest honeymoon spots in Sri Lanka and a perfect site to barge in with your significant other after the sunsets if you want to spend a calm evening away from the crowds. It’s among the most adorable honeymoon destinations in Sri Lanka.

Here’s what to do:

  • Walk along the cobblestoned street with your better half under the stars.
  • Enjoy the Colonial architecture and ancient mediaeval architecture.
  • Dip into the warm waters of the Indian Ocean.

Take in the Views from Sigiriya Rock Fortress

From the summit of the Sigiriya rock fortress, take in a stunning view of the surrounding landscape and the Sigiriya lake. adorned with King Kashyapa’s garden from the fifth century, complete with paved walkways, bathing pools, granite caverns, murals, and well-kept lawns. With origins in the fifth century AD, Sigiriya is among the oldest gardens in the world. King Kashyapa lived in the rock castle while he ruled Sri Lanka in the fifth century AD. The king’s residence, which has a swimming pool and is one of Sigiriya’s greatest places to see the scenery, was perched on the rock.

Here’s what to do:

  • Walk in one of the oldest landcaped gardens in the world.
  • See the engineering skills of engineers in the ancient world.
  • Enjoy the ancient murals depicting beautiful maidens.

Planning Your Sri Lanka Honeymoon Package

When choosing a Sri Lanka tour package for your honeymoon, consider these tips:

  1. Best time to visit: December to April for the south and west coast, May to September for the east coast.
  2. Duration: A 10-day itinerary is ideal to cover the highlights without rushing.
  3. Transportation: Opt for a package with a private driver for comfort and flexibility.
  4. Accommodations: Mix luxury resorts with boutique hotels for a varied experience.
  5. Activities: Balance relaxation with adventure to suit both your preferences.

Sendipity Tours offers customizable Sri Lanka honeymoon packages that cater to your unique desires. Their expert local guides ensure you experience the best of Sri Lanka while enjoying romantic touches throughout your journey.

Romantic Experiences to Include in Your Package

  1. Couples’ Ayurvedic spa treatments
  2. Candlelit dinner on the beach
  3. Hot air balloon ride over tea plantations
  4. Private cooking class to learn Sri Lankan cuisine
  5. Sunset catamaran cruise

Discover more unique experiences in Sri Lanka

Tips for a Perfect Sri Lanka Honeymoon

  1. Pack light, breathable clothing and don’t forget swimwear.
  2. Bring insect repellent and sunscreen for outdoor activities.
  3. Respect local customs by dressing modestly when visiting temples.
  4. Try local cuisine but be cautious with street food to avoid any tummy troubles.
  5. Learn a few basic Sinhala phrases to connect with locals.

Read about cultural etiquette when visiting Buddhist temples

Key points to consider when planning a Sri Lanka honeymoon tour:

Ideal Duration: 7-10 days

Best Time: December to April for most areas

Must-Visit Destinations:

  • Bentota: Beach relaxation
  • Kandy: Cultural heart
  • Nuwara Eliya: Tea country
  • Ella: Scenic mountain views
  • Yala National Park: Wildlife safari
  • Mirissa: Whale watching and beaches

Romantic Activities:

  • Couples’ Ayurvedic spa treatments
  • Sunset beach dinners
  • Scenic train ride from Kandy to Ella
  • Hot air balloon ride over tea plantations
  • Private cooking classes

Luxury Accommodations:

  • Beach resorts in Bentota
  • Boutique hotels in Kandy
  • Tea plantation stays in Nuwara Eliya
  • Eco-lodges in Ella
  • Glamping in Yala

Culinary Experiences:

  • Seafood dinners on the beach
  • High tea in Nuwara Eliya
  • Cooking classes for Sri Lankan cuisine

Adventure Options:

  • Whale watching in Mirissa
  • Hiking in Ella
  • Safari in Yala National Park

Cultural Experiences:

  • Visit Temple of the Tooth in Kandy
  • Explore Galle Fort
  • Tea plantation tours

Relaxation:

  • Beach time in Bentota and Mirissa
  • Couples’ spa treatments

Transportation:

  • Private car with driver for flexibility
  • Scenic train rides for specific routes

    Remember to balance relaxation with adventure, and customise the tour based on your preferences as a couple. Sri Lanka offers a perfect mix of romance, culture, and natural beauty for an unforgettable honeymoon.

    Getting Around Sri Lanka

    While Sendipity Tours provides transportation in their packages, it’s good to know your options:

    1. Private car with driver: Most comfortable and flexible
    2. Train: Scenic but can be crowded
    3. Tuk-tuks: Fun for short distances in cities
    4. Domestic flights: Time-saving for longer distances

    Learn more about transportation options in Sri Lanka

    Conclusion: Your Dream Honeymoon Awaits

    Sri Lanka offers a perfect blend of romance, adventure, and cultural experiences for newlyweds. From pristine beaches to misty mountains, from wildlife encounters to ancient wonders, this island nation has it all. With Sendipity Tours, you can create a tailor-made honeymoon package that suits your preferences and ensures a stress-free start to your married life.

    Ready to plan your romantic getaway? Contact Sendipity Tours today and let them craft the perfect Sri Lanka honeymoon package for you. Your adventure in paradise begins here!

    Explore more Sri Lanka travel ideas

    Remember, your honeymoon is just the beginning of your lifelong adventure together. Make it count with an unforgettable journey through the Pearl of the Indian Ocean. Sri Lanka is waiting to weave its magic into your love story!