Sri Lanka is a picnic paradise. The extravagant sunsets, the shade of palm trees, ancient ruins, rolling hills, cascading falls, and tranquil lakeshores of the island offer stunning backdrops for moments in nature’s embrace. They are a motley canvas to paint your memories with your loved ones or in quiet contemplation. We are taking you to the best picnic places in Sri Lanka, where, as your picnic blanket unrolls and the tasty goodies come out of the basket, you press play on the feast of senses.
Galle Face Green, Colombo
Starting our picnic journey in the heart of the capital, Colombo, Galle Face Green is one of the classic day outing places in Sri Lanka. This seaside urban park is the perfect spot to spread a blanket, savour delicious snacks, and watch the azure waters dance to the rhythm of the island breeze. You will have a fantastic view of iconic landmarks like the Galle Face Hotel and the Old Parliament Building. As the sun sets, the park transforms into a hub of local activity, with kite flyers, cricket players, and families all coming together. Galle Face Green comes alive with its street food vendors and stalls in the evening. Satisfy your taste buds with an array of local delicacies. Don’t forget to try the fiery dance of kottu roti, the sweet pink melodies of faluda, and the playful crunch of isso wade dishes out at the stalls.
Independence Square, Colombo
A poignant symbol of Sri Lanka’s journey to freedom, the square commemorates the country’s independence from British colonial rule in 1948. The towering Independence Memorial Hall is a striking example of neo-classical architecture. The square’s impeccable landscaping combines lush green lawns, well-maintained flower beds, and tall trees, creating an inviting natural haven amidst the city’s hustle and bustle. The soothing shade under the trees provides respite from the sun, creating a pleasant picnic atmosphere.
Royal Botanical Gardens Kandy
Let’s travel to the enchanting city of Kandy in the central hills. Spread over an impressive 147 acres, the Royal Botanical Gardens contains over 4,000 plant species, including its famous collection of orchids. Once a royal pleasure garden for the Kandyan monarchs, the gardens were formally established by the British six years after the final conquest of the Kandyan Kingdom. Within its sprawling grounds, you’ll discover a tranquil lake, a lush fernery, a fragrant spice garden, towering palm avenues, ancient ficus trees, well-maintained pathways, shady groves, giant bamboos, and a captivating arboretum, contributing to the garden’s extraordinary charm. The longest river in Sri Lanka, Mahaweli, runs alongside it. It’s an idyllic setting for a stroll or a serene interlude to unwind, bask in nature’s beauty, and cherish quality moments.
Kandy Lake
Also known as Kiri Muhuda or the Sea of Mill, it was built in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe. Surrounded by lush greenery and framed by a backdrop of rolling hills, it provides a serene setting for a lakeside picnic. Next to the lake is the Temple of the Tooth, the most sacred relic of Buddha on the island, which gets paraded annually in the spectacular Esala Perahera. It is a place buzzing with ceremonial activities daily. Kandy Lake offers excellent bird-watching opportunities in an urban setting. Keep an eye out for colourful kingfishers, graceful herons, and other bird species that call the lake home.
Victoria Park, Nuwara Eliya
Rechristened in honour of Queen Victoria’s 60th Jubilee Coronation in 1897, Victoria Park in the cool climes of Nuwara Eliya is a sanctuary for rare avian species and unique floral specimens. Within its lush confines, visitors may glimpse extraordinary birds such as the Kashmir Flycatcher, Pied Thrush, Indian Blue Robin, Oriental Magpie-Robin, Yellow Eared-Bulbul, Cattle Egret, Brahminy Kite, and many more. Meandering across the park, the Nanu Oya River forms numerous petite lakes, enhancing the park’s natural allure.
Victoria Park presents an idyllic picnic setting amidst lakes, ornate flower beds, well-manicured lawns, and towering trees. The park’s floral diversity offers ever-changing visuals. Based on the time of year, it displays a kaleidoscope of blooms, from radiant roses to vibrant orchids. Families with children will find ample entertainment options, including a dedicated playground with swings, rides, and even a toy train.
Lake Gregory, Nuwara Eliya
Named after and built under the supervision of the then-British governor of Sri Lanka, Sir William Gregory, this scenic reservoir is a favourite picnic spot in the tea country. To fully experience the lake’s allure, visitors can opt for various activities, including renting a bicycle for leisurely exploration, gliding across its waters aboard swan-shaped pedalos or speedboats, embarking on an exhilarating water scooter ride, or horse riding along the lakeside. Thrill-seekers can engage in water sports like jet skiing and kayaking, while those with a penchant for panoramic views can take advantage of helicopter rides, subject to prior reservation. For culinary delights, the premises offer an array of food stalls and restaurants to appease your appetite.
Ella Gap, Ella
The views of views! Ella is a postcard-pretty village in the highlands of Sri Lanka. Covered in a quilt of tea plantations and dotted with hidden temples, waterfalls, & viewpoints, the panorama covers it end-to-end. The mesmerizing Ella Gap offers sweeping views across the southern plains. On a clear night, you may even get a glimpse of the subdued glow of the Great Basses lighthouse on the southern coast. Flanked by Little Adam’s Peak and Ella Rock, the Ella Gap sits framed by the cliff of the rock of Rawana and a wooded ridge.
St. Clair’s Falls
When you are in the tea country, don’t miss the chance to visit a tea estate. St. Clair’s Falls in the misty Thalawakele is one of the most thrilling waterfalls in Sri Lanka. Often referred to as the “Little Niagara of Sri Lanka,” this waterfall consists of two falls – “The Greater Fall,” boasting an impressive height of 80 meters, and “The Lesser Fall,” which stands at a still impressive 50 meters. Enveloped by lush greenery of rolling hills and verdant tea plantations, it is a picturesque setting to enjoy a picnic. Venture into the serene St. Clair Tea Estate to savour a cup of freshly brewed tea amidst its panoramic views.
Conclusion
Sri Lanka offers a cornucopia of picnic spots that cater to every nature lover, adventurer, and family seeking quality time together. From the promenade of Galle Face Green in Colombo to the scenic beauty of Gregory Lake in Nuwara Eliya and the captivating allure of Ella Gap, this island nation beckons with its diverse landscapes for the richness of experience. Tailor-made holiday by Blue Lanka Tours is all about realizing your dream travel. Whether it is indulgence, adventure, or unique experiences, we curate personalized itineraries with a touch of pleasant surprise. Where would you like to picnic in Sri Lanka?