Christmas & New Year Tours in Sri Lanka
Imagine celebrating the festive season in Sri Lanka over Christmas and New Year's Eve! With 402 Christmas and New Year adventures to choose from lasting 2 days up to 26 days, you're sure to find that enchanting Sri Lanka Christmas tour you have always dreamt of.
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Shannon • traveled in November, 2025
We had an excellent 4-day tour with Danesh, who made the entire experience smooth, safe, and stress-free. He was friendly, patient, flexible, and always willing to adjust plans or add stops along the way. He coordinated local guides, so we never had to think about logistics. He consistently went above and beyond and made sure every part of the itinerary ran smoothly. Highly recommend Danesh to anyone visiting Sri Lanka—professional, kind, and truly committed to making your trip memorable. The tour was amazing, and we saw so much in 4 days, going from about 8a-6p (earlier on the first day and later the last day). Overall, the hotel and meals worked well for a fast-paced itinerary. The accommodations throughout the tour were spacious, comfortable, clean, friendly service, and generally well-matched to each stop, the overall quality is mid-range (3-star). Meals at the hotels were convenient and plentiful, more about practicality than standout dining. Only complaint is the last night at the hotel in Colombo, music in the area is extremely loud and can hear it clearly in your room when you're trying to sleep after a packed 4-days before traveling home.
Serene Sri Lanka: A Magical 5-days Journey - BM
Byrne • traveled in November, 2025
Travelled with them during the 11.11 offers. That was a great deal!
Hello Sri Lanka: 11 Days of Wonder - Semi-Luxury | 3 - 4 Star Hotels - PM
Pollyanna • traveled in September, 2025
We enjoyed so much of this tour. Being older and vulnerable in health, some parts were abandoned as too onerous. Our wonderful guide, Nalin Jayalath, suggested excellent substitute activities. He made sure we also experienced Sri Lankan daily culture and was always concerned for our requests and needs as well as the tour inclusions . The cultural dance night was a mesmerising highlight.
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10 best Christmas & New Year Sri Lanka tour packages
Compiled by
NinaSri Lanka travel expert at TourRadar
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- Hello Sri Lanka: 11 Days of Wonder - Semi-Luxury | 3 - 4 Star Hotels
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Serene Sri Lanka: A Magical 5-days Journey
4 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The tour was amazing, and we saw so much in 4 days, going from about 8a-6p.”
Shannon, traveled in November
Cultural performances light up Kandy and holiday celebrations at Temple of the Tooth. Dambulla Cave Temple and Sigiriya Rock Fortress don seasonal decorations. Special Christmas and New Year's Eve dinners available with hotel supplements.
Duration 5 days Destinations Colombo, Dambulla, Sigiriya, Kandy, Ella, Udawalawe National Park Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Apple Vacations Pvt Ltd From
- US$580
Hello Sri Lanka: 11 Days of Wonder - Semi-Luxury | 3 - 4 Star Hotels
152 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The tour provided deep, detailed historical context at every site. A culturally enriching and well-structured trip.”
Nadine, traveled in November
Holiday spirit fills the air with festive BBQ dinners at Udawalawe camp and seasonal celebrations in colonial Nuwara Eliya. The waters of Mirissa offer Christmas whale watching, while Coconut Tree Hill provides a stunning New Year's sunset backdrop. Seasonal decorations add charm to each stop.
Duration 11 days Destinations Negombo, Sigiriya, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Udawalawe National Park, Mirissa, Colombo Age Range Ages 10+ Operated in English, German, Spanish Operator Panoramic Tour & Travels From
- US$1,808
Depth Touch Of Sri Lanka
22 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“This tour was truly remarkable, showcasing the diverse landscapes of Sri Lanka.”
Emeilia, traveled in January
From Christmas Eve at colonial churches in Nuwara Eliya to New Year's celebrations on Mirissa's beachfront, holiday magic fills the air. UNESCO sites like Temple of Tooth Relic and Yala National Park safaris round out the festivities.
Duration 9 days Destinations Negombo, Sigiriya, Dambulla, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Yala, Mirissa, Galle, BentotaSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Spanish Operator Capital Lanka Tours From $1,630
25% Off- US$1,223You save $408
"Serenade of Sri Lanka: Nature, Culture, and Wildlife Odyssey" All inclusive
22 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“We've had a super fun journey throughout our tour in Sri Lanka and Thili was very knowledgeable about the places to see and visit which was super helpful.”
Hanna, traveled in May
Holiday magic comes alive at Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, festive markets in Nuwara Eliya's Little England, and beachside New Year's Eve in Mirissa. Cultural shows and traditional ceremonies add special touches.
Duration 11 days Destinations Colombo, Negombo, Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Yala, Mirissa, GalleSee all destinations Age Range Ages 10+ Operated in English, German, Italian Operator Mango Vacations From
25% Off- US$1,700
Discover Sri Lanka Beauty
54 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“This was a fantastic trip and it was amazing to see so many different places in Sri Lanka.”
Charlotte, traveled in December
Sri Lanka's holiday season stretches from Negombo to Colombo with special festivities. Seasonal dinners, Mirissa beach fireworks, and UNESCO sites like Sigiriya Rock complement traditional village celebrations.
Duration 12 days Destinations Negombo, Sigiriya, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Yala, Tangalle, Mirissa, Galle, Colombo Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator ASY Tours Sri Lanka From
25% Off- US$1,290
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169 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“We appreciated the reliable schedules and the professionalism of the drivers, even on a budget tour.”
Eva, traveled in November
Duration 12 days Destinations Negombo, Sigiriya, Kandy, Ella, Udawalawe National Park, Mirissa, Colombo Age Range Ages 18-45 Operated in English, German, Spanish Operator Panoramic Tour & Travels From
25% Off- US$1,407
Golden Sri Lanka 8 Days
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“ASY tours are affordable and provide a fantastic package which allows you to see so many different aspects of Sri Lankan culture and nature.”
beth, traveled in August
Sri Lanka's cultural triangle dazzles with festive charm. Traditional dance shows in Kandy, Christmas dinner in colonial Galle Fort, and New Year's celebrations on Bentota's golden beaches create lasting memories.
Duration 8 days Destinations Negombo, Sigiriya, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Yala, Mirissa, Galle, Bentota, Colombo Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator ASY Tours Sri Lanka From
25% Off- US$765
Best of Sri Lanka (12 destinations)
68 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Good group, passionate and informative guide who went out of his way to show us the country he loves.”
Carol, traveled in September
UNESCO sites from Lion Rock fortress to Temple of the Tooth in Kandy shine during the holidays. Spice garden visits, traditional performances, and festive meals with local families lead to year-end relaxation on Mirissa's beaches and colonial Galle.
Duration 15 days Destinations Negombo, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Dambulla, Sigiriya, Kandy, Bandarawela, Haputale, Udawalawe National Park, MirissaSee all destinations Age Range Ages 15+ Operator Intrepid Travel From $3,195
25% Off- US$2,396You save $799
Dream Path Of Sri Lanka
29 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The stops were amazing and we got a Great overview on the Culture and everyday-Life in Sri Lanka.”
gisela, traveled in September
Beachfront resorts in Mirissa provide the perfect New Year setting after touring Sri Lanka's cultural triangle. Festive meals at Temple of the Sacred Tooth, traditional dance performances in Kandy, and holiday safaris at Yala National Park create unforgettable memories.
Duration 10 days Destinations Negombo, Kurunegala, Dambulla, Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Yala, MirissaSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Spanish, Dutch Operator BH Lanka Tours From
25% Off- US$1,340
Beyond Boundaries Experiencing the Best of Sri Lanka : 11 Days
5 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The beauty of the island, combined with its rich culture and the kindness of its people, made for an unforgettable adventure.”
Dillon, traveled in August
Festive celebrations fill Sri Lanka's cultural triangle, with 4-star hotel festivities in Kandy and Colombo. The Sacred Tooth Temple, Dambulla Cave complex, and seasonal activities await. Holiday supplements apply for December 24th and 31st celebrations at selected properties.
Duration 11 days Destinations Negombo, Dambulla, Sigiriya, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Yala, Bentota, Colombo Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Apple Vacations Pvt Ltd From
25% Off- US$1,120
What our customers ask about Christmas & New Year Tours in Sri Lanka
When is the best time to book a Christmas & New Year tour in Sri Lanka?
Book your Sri Lanka Christmas and New Year tour 4-6 months ahead. December draws large crowds and popular accommodations like Amaya Lake Resort in Dambulla and Coral Rock Resort in Hikkaduwa fill up quickly. A TourRadar traveler noted: "The Christmas period had perfect weather and festive celebrations but booking early was essential as hotels were fully booked."
What special Christmas & New Year activities are included in Sri Lanka tours?
Tours during the holiday season combine traditional celebrations with local culture. Expect festive gala dinners cultural shows and hotel celebrations. Cinnamon Wild Yala puts on traditional Sri Lankan New Year's Eve events complete with local dance and fireworks. Visitors can browse Christmas markets in Colombo or attend midnight mass at historic churches. A TourRadar traveler shared: "The New Year's celebration at our beach resort in Bentota was magical with traditional dancers fireworks over the ocean and an incredible feast."
What cultural experiences are unique to Christmas & New Year tours?
The holiday season brings special access to cultural events across Sri Lanka. Visitors can attend midnight mass at Kandy's Temple of the Tooth join New Year celebrations in local villages and explore festive markets in Colombo. Places like Sigiriya Village Hotel blend Sri Lankan traditions with holiday festivities. A TourRadar traveler noted: "Experiencing both Buddhist temples and Christian churches during Christmas time gave us a unique perspective on Sri Lankan culture."
How much do Christmas & New Year tours in Sri Lanka typically cost?
Standard 8-10 day holiday packages run USD 1000-2000 while luxury options including stays at properties like Cinnamon Lodge Habarana reach USD 2500. Budget about USD 295 extra for entrance fees and activities. As one TourRadar traveler shared: "The Christmas/New Year period was more expensive but worth it for the special celebrations and experiences."
What is the weather like during Christmas & New Year in Sri Lanka?
December and January offer reliable weather across Sri Lanka. The central hills near Nuwara Eliya stay cool at 15-20°C making them perfect for exploring tea plantations. Coast areas like Bentota and Mirissa see temperatures of 27-30°C ideal for beach time. According to TourRadar travelers: "The weather during Christmas week was perfect - sunny days for safaris and cool evenings in the hills."
What type of accommodation can I expect on a Christmas & New Year tour?
Hotels embrace the holiday spirit with special decorations and events. Notable options include Heritance Kandalama in Dambulla which pairs mountain views with Christmas festivities and Araliya Green Hills in Nuwara Eliya known for its New Year's celebrations. A TourRadar traveler shared: "Our hotel in Kandy was beautifully decorated for Christmas with local touches blending with traditional decorations."