Top 5 things to do in Sri Lanka during the monsoon

by Shrutee K/DNS

India : Monsoons are on their way in and most of you who did not take a summer break must be craving for one.  Take a trip down south and explore the best of Sri Lanka during this time of the year. Listed below are a number of things you can do during this season.

Head to Trincomalee in the North Eastern Coast for a blissful almost rain-free experience. TrincoBlu by Cinnamon offers snorkeling trips to Pigeon Island. They also offer whale watching experiences where one can spot dolphins, sperm whales, and the mighty serene blue whale. For those who are history and culture buffs, a visit to the Swami Rock and Konneshwaram Temple is a must.

Halfway between Colombo and the hills of central Sri Lanka, is situated the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage which also doubles up as a nursery and breeding ground for Asian elephants. Be there on time to help feed the baby elephants in the morning and afternoons with large feeding bottles or you can watch them as they bathe themselves and play in the water.

As the rains keep pouring, kick back and relax at HikkaTranz by Cinnamon, located in Sri Lanka’s most happening beach town. Breathe in that spectacular view of the ocean and unwind with a specially mixed SriLankan cocktail. For those who would like to venture out, the Galle Fort is an ideal spot to visit. While there, sip on tea in the tea lounges as you enjoy the sound of the rain.

The best time to visit the Yala National Park is between June and September to spot the stealthy feline. The largest density of leopards in the world are found here and they are quite easily spotted when on a safari, unless they don’t want to be spotted. A variety of exotic birds, elephants and other wild animals can also be spotted at the park. 

For a truly wild experience, Cinnamon Wild Yala which is situated within the buffer zone of the national park is an ideal stay option. Many a deer, rabbit, monkeys and even elephants stroll into the property like it’s their own. The well trained staff ensures that all guests are safe at all times. Fancy something wild? This is a must stay at property.

Love surfing? The best beach in Sri Lanka for surfing is the Arugam Bay on the eastern coast and the best time in the year is between June to November when the predominant wind is offshore.