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The North Coast

Sri Lanka’s north and east coast region are alive with a newfound buoyancy and electric vibrancy which is drawing in increasing numbers of travellers seeking to explore this dynamic area.

This side of the island is relatively undisturbed by the tourist footprint. Peaceful and slow-paced – the east coast is one of the most restful areas of the island.

Visitors to Sri Lanka head to the north-east coast for their beach holiday during the summer months when the climate is at its best. This region is well-known for excellent dolphin and whale watching experiences.

Experiences

It’s all here. Things to see and do, places to explore and moments to discover.

Coastal Adventures

Swim from the clear, calm east coast beaches near Trincomalee or Passekudah.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Whale Watching

Go whale and dolphin spotting off the coast at Trincomalee.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Gal Oya National Park

Watch elephants swimming across the lake at Gal Oya National Park.

Suggested lodge stay

Passekudah

The palm-fringed beaches on the north-east coast are blissfully quiet with calm waters and golden sands as far as the eye can see.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Kantharoda Ancient Vihara, Jaffna, Sri Lanka

Jaffna Town

Experience the fascinating mix of Tamil cultural and colonial charm of Jaffna while exploring its Dutch fort and colourful markets.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Dambakola Patuna Sri Sangamitta Viharaya Temple, Jafffna, Sri Lanka

Buddhist Temples

Attend a morning Buddhist blessing at a local temple with chanting and drumming.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Idea

Sri Lanka

Family Sri Lanka

This 12-day family holiday in Sri Lanka offers a wonderful overview of the whole island, from the wildlife of Wilpattu National Park to the culture of Anuradhapura and Sigiriya Rock Fortress, ending with a beach escape on the islands tropical coast.

12 days from £5,495pp

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Idea

Sri Lanka

Wildlife of Sri Lanka

Embark on a wildlife journey of Sri Lanka’s varied national parks seeing the landscape through the eyes of expert guides. Spot leopard in lush jungles, whales breaching off the coast and lake swimming elephants – Sri Lanka is a perfect destination for…

12 days from £6,995pp

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Need Inspiration?
Browse our Sri Lanka holiday ideas.

Our Sri Lanka experts have created and curated these holiday ideas to get you started. Take the time to search through them and find something to spark ideas for a unique adventure.

Idea

Sri Lanka

Family Sri Lanka

12 days from £5,495pp

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Idea

Sri Lanka

Wildlife of Sri Lanka

12 days from £6,995pp

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View all holiday ideas

Where to stay

Some of the wonderful places to stay that we frequently recommended.

Uga Jungle Beach £££££

Sri Lanka
Beach and Island Escapes

Uga Jungle Beach has the feeling of a luxury tree house. With 48 villas facing the beach, lagoon or jungle, thatched with Illuk grass and set around pathways through gardens, there is an air of seclusion. Most villas have private decks and tropical style outdoor rain showers and the beach cabins have their own walkway to the seashore.

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Maalu Maalu £££££

Sri Lanka
Beach and Island Escapes

Maalu Maalu is located on a beautiful stretch of coast in the north east of Sri Lanka. The resort is dominated by a huge infinity pool which looks straight out to sea and the sea shanty beach huts that surround it are perfectly designed with rustic and colourful interiors. It is easy to get drawn into the laid-back vibe but if you feel like being more active, there are opportunities to cycle, try out watersports and wander through the on site coral museum.

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Uga Bay £££££

Sri Lanka
Beach and Island Escapes

Uga Bay is a luxurious hotel with beautiful views of the unspoiled beaches. A combination of lavish surroundings and a peaceful setting, the hotel provides a breathtakingly serene ambience to its guests.

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Meet our experts

A passion for travel runs right through every one of our experts - meaning they're always ready with first-hand insight about their specialist countries.

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Kate Hitchen

After more than 20 years in travel, I still find joy in creating journeys that can’t be replicated. My clients return time and time again for trips that are original, imaginative and deeply personal, shaped by my first-hand knowledge and the close partnerships I’ve built around the world. I understand that each holiday is special to them and feel privileged to help create something that will stay in their memories forever.

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The North Coast