Christmas & New Year Tours & Trips 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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Daniel • traveled in March, 2026
Guides were experienced, ensuring we had the best chances to spot wildlife. The accommodations were comfortable, with some offering views of the surrounding nature. The overall experience was a perfect adventure.
Splendours of Sri Lanka - B
Ben • traveled in May, 2026
We had a great time touring through Sri Lanka with our guide Prasanna ! Prior to the trip, we upgraded the rooms , and the hotels for all 14d were fantastic - bit of adventurous activities, but lots of optional activities which we subbed out for relaxation. Days by the Sri Lankan beaches were a highlight. Prasanna was great and was happy to move at our slow pace, he showed us much of the culture of Sri Lanka, as well as a few great traditional food spots. Would recommend, both the tour and our guide were fantastic!
Semi-Luxury Travel Sri Lanka - M
Marina • traveled in April, 2026
We completed a 10-day tour throughout Sri Lanka, we had ann incredible experience . This beautiful country truly has it all—culture, history, art, stunning beaches, and amazing wildlife. We had the absolute pleasure of having Nishantha Rathnayaka as our guide for the entire time, Nishantha made us feel welcomed, and completely at ease, he has a great passion for Nothing was ever too much trouble—he was always happy to adapt plans, accommodate our requests, and ensure we got the most out of every day. We feel incredibly fortunate to have had Nishantha as our guide, and we would wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone planning a trip to Sri Lanka. He played a huge part in making our journey
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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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Splendours of Sri Lanka
73 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“I particularly enjoyed the visit to Minneriya National Park where we saw wild elephants. Hotels were comfortable and the food was delicious.”
Nabila, traveled in December
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
Semi-Luxury Travel Sri Lanka
41 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The pace is so well thought out, never rushed with some relaxing stops but also many good things to do and see.”
Jazzy, traveled in September
Luxury resorts from Negombo to Colombo host festive celebrations. Christmas markets, Temple of the Tooth ceremonies, and beachside New Year's Eve at Pasikuda complement stays at premium properties like Club Dolphine Resort.
Duration 14 days Destinations Negombo, Kurunegala, Dambulla, Pasikuda, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Mahiyanganaya, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, EllaSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Spanish, Dutch Operator BH Lanka Tours From $2,510
18% Off- US$2,058You save $452
Sri Lanka Deluxe Travels
31 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“This beautiful country truly has it all—culture, history, art, stunning beaches, and amazing wildlife.”
Marina, traveled in March
Holiday festivities await at Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy, with cultural performances and celebrations at luxury resorts. Welcome the New Year at beachfront Cinnamon Beach Resort after visiting tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya and watching whales off Mirissa coast.
Duration 8 days Destinations Negombo, Sigiriya, Dambulla, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Udawalawe National Park, Matara, Mirissa, GalleSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Spanish Operator BH Lanka Tours From $1,440
15% Off- US$1,224You save $216
Glamour Of Sri Lanka - Deluxe
23 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“From Sigiriya to Mirissa, the hospitality everywhere was outstanding—hotels were spotless, and the food was consistently excellent.”
Jackson, traveled in December
Festive dinners at Club Palm Bay Resort, Kandy's cultural performances, and New Year's events mark the season. Decorated temples like Gangarama in Colombo and holiday shopping at Galle Fort's boutiques add to the charm.
Duration 11 days Destinations Colombo, Pasikuda, Sigiriya, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Mirissa Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Spanish, Dutch Operator BH Lanka Tours From $2,210
18% Off- US$1,812You save $398
Serenade of Sri Lanka: Nature, Culture, and Wildlife Odyssey All inclusive
24 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“We had a great experience with them. Reliable and kind, you can always trust them!”
Dario, traveled in July
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, French Operator Mango Vacations From $1,850
10% Off- US$1,665You save $185
Cultural Essence Of Sri Lanka
19 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“It was everything we hoped for and our guide made sure that it was a genuinely breathtaking Sri Lankan experience.”
Tracey, traveled in January
UNESCO sites like Sigiriya Rock and Temple of Tooth Relic shine during the festive season. Premium resorts including Amaya Lake Dambulla and The Clam Resort Passikudah serve festive meals, while beachside celebrations mark the New Year.
Duration 9 days Destinations Colombo, Negombo, Anuradhapura, Sigiriya, Dambulla, Polonnaruwa, Kaudulla National Park, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Bentota Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Spanish, Dutch Operator BH Lanka Tours From $1,345
12% Off- US$1,184You save $161
Sri Lanka Highlights Express
17 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The days were action packed with stunning scenery, wild animals and experiences we will never forget.”
Susie, traveled in July
Ring in the New Year at UNESCO-listed Sigiriya Lion Rock Fortress, where you'll see ancient frescoes and the Mirror Wall, then have a festive dinner at Hotel Topaz Kandy. The Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy hosts special holiday celebrations during your visit. Travel through emerald tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya on one of the world's most scenic train rides from Nanu Oya to Ella. Christmas morning brings a safari in Yala National Park where you can spot elephants and leopards. Unwind at 22 Weligambay beachfront resort in Mirissa and try traditional Sri Lankan holiday cuisine.
Duration 6 days Destinations Negombo, Dambulla, Sigiriya, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Yala, Mirissa, Galle, BentotaSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Spanish Operator BH Lanka Tours From $1,110
10% Off- US$999You save $111
What our customers ask about Christmas & New Year Tours & Trips 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."