6 Amazing Weekend Getaways Near Colombo (2024)
Adorned with sandy beaches, the tropical climate of Sri Lanka attracts thousands of visitors from different corners of the globe. Whether you want to rejuvenate your taste buds with incredible cuisine or simply want to spend a laid back vacation, Sri Lanka is definitely the place you want to go to. Better known as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, this island country is one of the best destinations that any holidaymaker can choose. If you are already in Colombo and looking for some of the amazing weekend getaways nearby, here are the 6 places that you should be visiting.
6 Amazing Weekend Getaways Near Colombo
1. Galle:
Located 145 km away from Colombo, Galle is one of the most widely visited cities in the country and is a great place for a weekend destination. Being the fourth largest city, this vacation destination is popular for being home to spectacular landmarks and top class eateries. During your visit here, you can’t miss places such as Galle Fort, Laksala, Japanese Peace Pagoda, Old Gate, Galle Fort, Historical Mansion Museum, Galle Fort Clock Tower, Sea Turtle Hatchery, Maritime Museum, and so on. Known for its surreal stories and historical establishments, Galle attracts a huge number of tourists every year.
Location: Galle, Southern Province, Sri Lanka
Best Time to Visit: December to April
2. Nuwara Eliya:
Situated 173 km away from Colombo, Nuwara Eliya is another popular and amazing weekend getaway that you must visit during your trip to Colombo, Sri Lanka. Embellishing itself with spellbinding beauty, this city in the Central Province unravels the best opportunity for you to get close to nature. Being home to popular attractions such as St. Clair’s Falls, Ramboda Falls, Laxapana Falls, Thotupola Kanda, Aberdeen Falls, Pidurutalagala, Bomburu Ella Falls, and so on, Nuwara Eliya is undoubtedly the place where you can soak in the natural beauty and rejuvenate your soul. During your stay here, don’t miss the Horton Plains National Park which is known for being home to a diverse range of wildlife and is also a UNESCO Heritage site.
Location: Nuwara Eliya, Central Province, Sri Lanka
Best Time to Visit: February to May
3. Dambulla:
Located 159 km away from Colombo, Dambulla is one of those weekend getaways that attract tourists who are looking for a spiritual rejuvenation amidst natural charm. Geographically situated in the central province of the island country, Dambulla adorns itself with breathtaking sculptures and paintings as well. During your visit to Dambulla, you must visit places such as Dambulla Cave Temple, Minneriya National Park, Pidurangala Rock, Sigiriya, Pophams Arboretum, Dambulla Dedicated Economic Centre, Buddhist Museum and Museum of Wall Paintings, and so on. Whether you want to take yourself to sky high rocks or simply want to know more about ancient temples, Dambulla is certainly the place to visit. If you are a thrill-seeker, you will definitely enjoy the Arangala Mountain Peak.
Location: Dambulla, Central Province, Matale District, Sri Lanka
Best Time to Visit: January to September
4. Ella:
Located 329 km away from Colombo, Ella is one of the most popular weekend getaways. Adorning itself with refreshing greenery, Ella in the Badulla District of Uva Province is known for being home to numerous tea plantations and stunning mountains. During your visit here, you shouldn’t miss popular attractions such as Little Adams Peak, Demodara Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Rock, Diyaluma Falls, Liptons Seat, Nuwara Eliya, and so on. Don’t forget to visit the Ceylon Tea Factory here which is known for offering an excellent tea tasting tour and a unique experience. Shall you desire to spend a few days away in a picture-perfect environment away from the urban hustle and bustle, this is undoubtedly the best place.
Photo By Amila Tennakoon Image Source
Location: Ella, Badulla District, Uva Province, Sri Lanka
Best Time to Visit: January to March
5. Trincomalee:
Located approximately 261 km away from Colombo, Trincomalee is one of the most popular historical weekend getaways that you will ever find in Sri Lanka. Embellished with ancient temples and spectacular beaches, this tourist destination is also home to numerous Hindu temples and Buddhist viharas. During your visit here, you should definitely visit places such as Koneswaram Temple, Fort Frederick, Pathirakali, Amman Temple, Velgam Vehera, Maritime and Naval History Museum, Uppuveli & Nilaveli Beaches, Pigeon Island National Park, Trincomalee War Cemetery, and so on. One of the best spots for the spiritually inclined travelers here is the Seruwila Mangala Raja Maha Vihara which was built by King Kavantissa and is home to the sacred frontal bone of Lord Buddha.
Location: Trincomalee, Trincomalee District, Eastern Province, Sri Lanka
Best Time to Visit: February to April
6. Sigiriya:
Located 177 km away from Colombo, Sigiriya is another popular weekend getaway that you simply can’t miss during your trip to Sri Lanka. Adorning itself with pristine beaches and ancient ruins, this destination attracts thousands of visitors every year because of its ancient rock fortress. Some of the best places to visit in the quaint town include Dambulla Cave Temple, Pidurangala Rock, Minneriya National Park, Ibbankatuwa Megalithic Tombs, etc. You should also visit the Sigiriya Museum here which is known for displaying artifacts from the prehistoric era. If you are someone keen to know more about the history of the place, this museum is the best place for you to learn more about the kingdom of Sigiriya.
Location: Sigiriya, Central Province, Sri Lanka
Best Time to Visit: January to April
Whether you are interested in visiting architectural buildings or simply exploring nature, there can’t be any place better than Sri Lanka. Unraveling the best opportunity for you to rejuvenate your soul, these weekend getaways near Colombo in Sri Lanka will definitely add to your memory.
