Introduction
From misty mountains to luscious tea plantations, stunning sea views and one-on-one wildlife encounters, deliciously spiced cuisines and warmly welcoming citizens, Sri Lanka is an exciting travel destination. As newlyweds, do you want to visit a destination that makes your honeymoon days truly memorable? If so, don’t overlook Sri Lanka! It packs all of its cultural diversity, natural landscapes, and humble people into one country – making it hard to resist. Whether you are one for activities or just want to relax and pamper yourselves at luxurious world class resorts with your own private pool, there are plenty of options for all kinds of couples!
Here are some destinations (in no particular order) where you will find the best romantic retreats in Sri Lanka.
1. Kandy
Being the hill capital of Sri Lanka, Kandy has no shortage of secluded and serene mountainous views. Of course, the hospitality industry has made good use of nature, offering amazing romantic getaways with luxurious rooms, large pools, modern amenities and beautiful views. Enjoy a relaxed boat ride on the Kandy Lake, arrange a picnic at the Royal Botanical Gardens or dance with the locals at a cultural dance show in Kandy.
- When to Visit? December to April
- How to get there? 120kms from Colombo (3.5 hour drive). Trains are available.
- Attractions? Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Kandy view point, Botanical Gardens, National Museum
- Where to Stay? Cinnamon Citadel, OZO Kandy, Earl’s Regency, Queens Hotel
- Things to do? Hiking in the Knuckles Mountain Ranges, sightseeing
2. Ella
Ella is a small, beautiful town in Sri Lanka’s hill country, offering a scenic intimate getaway for couples to just relax amidst the cozy weather and gorgeous views. As far as your eyes can see, there are acres of tea plantations, cloud covers, and jungle canopies around you. In addition to being one of the most romantic destinations in Sri Lanka, Ella also has some interesting activities for the adventurous kind. Don’t miss the sunrise view from the top of Ella Rock, and the mesmerizing views from Ella Gap.
- When to visit? Anytime of the year. April is the best month.
- How to get there? The iconic Kandy to Ella train whilst enjoying the serene landscapes.
- Attractions? Nine Arches Bridge, Rawana Falls, Zip lining.
- Where to Stay? Misty Hills Ella, Ella Gap Hotel, Mountain Heavens Ella, 98 Acres Resort & Spa.
- Things to do? Climb Little Adam’s Peak and Ella Rock, Cycling.
3. Mirissa
Often referred to as a tropical paradise, Mirissa is a crescent shaped secluded beach that offers the peace and tranquility that honeymooners are looking for. Relax on the soft sands of the beach, give yourself a sun tan while sipping from a chilled coconut and try to catch the spectacular sunset while you’re at it! Oh, and you could surprise your loved one by arranging a romantic candle-lit private dining experience on the beach with no one to disturb you.
- When to Visit? November to April
- How to get there? 128kms (less than 3 hours) from Colombo
- Attractions? Mirissa Beach, Parrot Rock Bridge, Galle Fort
- Where to Stay? Mandara Resort Mirissa, Triple O Six Mirissa, Paradise Beach Club, Glamour Hotel.
- Things to do? Whale and Dolphin watching, water sports, diving, boat safari
4. Kandalama
Honeymoon couples are often looking for privacy, that comes with destinations that are not so crowded, making Kandalama the ideal location. It is a small village near Sigiriya which is known for hot air balloon rides. Don’t be surprised if you look towards the sky and find an array of dots in which other guests are enjoying a beautiful hot air balloon ride. In fact this activity is one of the most romantic getaway you can include in your honeymoon – ultimate privacy in the middle of the sky! Heritance Kandalama is an iconic secluded hotel with luxurious rooms and an amazing infinity pool that attracts newly-weds.
- When to Visit? January to April and July to September
- How to get there? Colombo to Sigiriya is about 180kms (4 hour drive) and from there, Kandalama is just about 10kms ahead.
- Attractions? Spice Garden, Kandalama Reservoir, Kaludiya Pokuna
- Where to Stay? Signature by Amaya, Heritance Kandalama, The Paradise Resort & Spa
- Things to do? Hot air ballooning and Jeep Safari
5. Sinharaja
Are you and your partner passionate about nature? Sinharaja Rain Forest Reserve is a World Heritage Site known for its rich biodiversity, and is an amazing destination for a honeymoon – within this forest, you are completely surrounded by Mother Nature, and not a soul in sight. You can walk on the nature trail hand in hand with your loved one and absorb the sound of birds chirping and if you are the adventurous kind, you could opt for a night of camping amidst the forest reserve.
- When to Visit? January to April and August to September
- How to get there? 160kms (3.5 hour drive) from Colombo
- Attractions? Patna Viewpoint, Kudawa Research Center, Gongala (Mountain)
- Things to do? Sightseeing and trekking
6. Hikkaduwa
Hikkaduwa is a beach destination known for its surf-friendly waves and pretty coral reefs, which attract the adventurous couples. This stretch also boasts of some exclusive holiday resorts where you can pamper yourselves with delicious sea food besides stunning views of the exotic Indian Ocean, and relax amidst luxury accommodation.
- When to Visit? November to March
- How to get there? Train rides are convenient, 2 hours by car from Colombo.
- Attractions? Hikkaduwa Coral Reef, Narigama Beach
- Where to Stay? Citrus Hikkaduwa, Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon, Hikkaduwa Beach Hotel
- Things to do? Snorkeling, scuba diving and surfing
7. Bentota
Looking for a picture-perfect ocean view close to Colombo city? Bentota is a quick access, picturesque beach destination for honeymoon couples to immerse themselves. The Bentota River merges with the sea to create a gorgeous union, offering several frame-worthy locations that are popular for destination weddings. The lagoon is a popular location for water sports activities that couples can enjoy, while palm-fringed beaches on the other side offer couples the much-needed privacy. From exclusive boutique hotels to budgeted luxury hotels, Bentota has no shortage of accommodation options to select from.
- When to Visit? November to April
- How to get there? Bus and rail network is great. 1.5 hours’ drive from Colombo.
- Attractions? Ventura Beach, Lunuganga Estate, Turtle Hatcheries
- Where to Stay? Cinnamon Bentota Beach, Taj Bentota Resort and Spa, Eden Resort and Spa.
- Things to do? Madu River Boat Safari and a plethora of water sports
8. Tangalle
Bordering the jungles of Yala, Tangalle is an ideal hotspot for lovers. Tucked amidst the perfectly secluded coves and bays are a line of exclusive honeymoon hotels in Sri Lanka with swimming pools and beach access. The smooth and sandy beaches of Tangalle are lined with mangroves on the other side, providing a beautifully green finishing to the panoramas of the coast.
- When to Visit? November to April
- How to get there? Land at the Hambantota airport, or its about 3 hours from BIA, 2.5 hours from Colombo.
- Attractions? Tangalle Beach, Goyambokka, Rekawa Turtle Hatchery, Silent Beach
- Where to Stay? Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort, Villa Tanderra, Lagoon Paradise Beach Resort.
- Things To Do: National Park Safari, Turtle watching
9. Trincomalee
Whether you are looking for a quiet swim safe beach, or to laze around and sunbathe, or to indulge in water activities, or to enjoy the night life, Trincomalee fits the bill. Uppuveli and Nilaveli are the quieter beaches and Pigeon Island, off the coast of Nilaveli is where the activities of snorkeling and diving takes place. Another interesting attraction here are the deer roaming the streets without being mindful about visitors around staring at them!
- When to Visit? May to October
- How to get there? About 270kms from Colombo – approximately 5.5 hours drive. Trains are available too.
- Attractions? Fort Fedrick, British War Cemetry, Koneswaram Temple
- Where to Stay? Amaranthe Bay Resort and Spa, Jungle Beach, Trinco Blu
- Things To Do? Whale watching, sightseeing, snorkeling
10. Habarana
Habarana is the starting point of wildlife in Sri Lanka, thereby offering the best of intimacy and mother nature for honeymoon couples. Explore the nearby villages and learn about rural lives of Sri Lankans or enjoy a peaceful kayaking activity on the Habarana Lake.
- When to Visit? May to October
- How to get there? Trains are available. 200kms from Colombo, approximately 4 hour drive.
- Attractions? Habarana Lake, Habarana Jeep Safari, Minneriya National Park, Hurulu Eco-park
- Where to Stay? Cinnamon Lodge, Habarana Village
- Things to do? Hot air ballooning, bird watching, kayaking, wildlife safari, village tour