Christmas & New Year Tours in Sri Lanka
Picture yourself climbing the ancient Sigiriya Rock Fortress, then exploring Dambulla's cave temples filled with Buddhist art. You'll watch cultural dance performances in Kandy, ride through stunning tea plantations heading to Ella, and honestly, the safari through Udawalawe National Park is where you might spot elephants roaming freely. Sri Lanka's got that magical mix of culture and wildlife.
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Auriel • traveled in November, 2025
excellent in depth tour of Sri Lanka
Depth Touch Of Sri Lanka - K
Kathrin • traveled in November, 2025
We had a lovely time during our 8 days tour through Sri Lanka. Everything was very well organized and our driver and guide took good care of us, was always on time and adapted the tour every day to manage the rainy hours so that we could enjoy every highlight. We chose the cheapest accommodations but where positively surprised by all the hotels and lodges. They were are super clean and the staff was very polite and friendly. We recommend Mango Vacations as they were engaged, trustful and we always felt safe an welcomed.
Timeless Trails: Unveiling Sri Lanka's Rich History - G
Glanville • traveled in April, 2026
Amazing trip, perfect coordination and answer every question.
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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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Timeless Trails: Unveiling Sri Lanka's Rich History
31 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“We really enjoyed all the wonderful sights and knowledgeable information given. We can't recommend Mango enough.”
Sandra, traveled in January
Sri Lankan traditions shine from Christmas markets in Kandy to beachside New Year celebrations. The illuminated Temple of the Sacred Tooth welcomes visitors, while Nuwara Eliya's tea country serves seasonal feasts before New Year arrives in coastal Mirissa.
Duration 8 days Destinations Negombo, Dambulla, Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Yala National Park, Tissamaharama, MirissaSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian Operator Mango Vacations From
- US$750
Depth Touch Of Sri Lanka
23 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The itinerary was so well-crafted that every day brought new discoveries and unforgettable experiences.”
Michel, traveled in April
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
Sri Lanka Intro Tour
76 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Temple and city tour was amazing. The safari was the absolute highlight - saw elephants and deer up close.”
Eugene, traveled in November
Colombo's illuminated Gangaramaya Temple and Kandy's festive performances usher in the season. Gregory Lake in Nuwara Eliya radiates holiday magic before New Year celebrations amid tea plantations. December departures feature special seasonal activities.
Duration 8 days Destinations Colombo, Dambulla, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Matale, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Udawalawe National Park Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Dutch, Russian Operator Passage Holidays From $1,645
50% Off- US$823You save $823
Cultural Treasures and Natural wonders, Sri Lanka's Splendorous path
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“We were able to encounter a lot of small extras and adhoc specials. A 100% recommendation for all who wish to explore Sri Lanka in a few days.”
Nicole, traveled in November
Duration 6 days Destinations Negombo, Dambulla, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Udawalawe National Park, Galle Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Chinese, Dutch, Russian Operator Apple Vacations Pvt Ltd From
50% Off- US$570
Splendours of Sri Lanka
73 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“We enjoyed the safari at Minneriya National Park. This is the best way to experience the stunning history and beauty of Sri Lanka.”
James, traveled in January
Sri Lanka's cultural treasures come alive during holidays, from Anuradhapura's ancient stupas to Kandy's Temple of the Tooth. Nuwara Eliya's hill country hosts seasonal festivities before New Year's beachside celebrations in Bentota.
Duration 12 days Destinations Colombo, Negombo, Pinnawala, Peradeniya, Sigiriya, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Dambulla, Matale, KandySee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Dutch, Russian Operator Passage Holidays From $3,174
50% Off- US$1,587You save $1,587
Discover Sri Lanka Beauty - Small Group Tour 12 Days
60 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Sri Lanka is beautiful and so diverse. The itinerary was excellent and we were looked after.”
sarah, traveled in January
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 $1,290
9% Off- US$1,174You save $116
Sri Lanka Highlights – 11 Days Small Group Comfort Tour
168 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“That was a great deal!”
Byrne, 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, Dambulla, Sigiriya, Matale, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Nanu Oya, Ella, Udawalawe National Park, MirissaSee all destinations Age Range Ages 10+ Operated in English, German, Italian, French, Spanish Operator Panoramic Tour & Travels From
9% Off- US$2,166
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."