It’s the perfect time to explore Sri Lanka’s rich traditions—from the Sinhala & Tamil New Year to colourful harvest festivals—while enjoying quieter game drives, peaceful beaches and cooler highland escapes. This season invites visitors to immerse themselves in the authentic charm of the island with peace and tranquillity.

During the Emerald Season, our resorts come alive with a range of unique cultural and wildlife experiences for guests of all ages.

Reasons to visit Sri Lanka during the Emerald Season

April

Every April, Sri Lanka celebrates the Sinhala & Tamil New Year with vibrant festivities. It’s a time for Sri Lankans to relive traditions, gather with loved ones, wear colourful attire, and enjoy traditional food, games, and more.

At Ceylon Tea Trails, Wild Coast Tented Lodge and Cape Weligama, experience the joy of traditional Avurudu (New Year) games this festive season.
 

May

In May, Sri Lanka celebrates Vesak, honouring Lord Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and attainment of nirvana. The island lights up with vibrant lanterns and decorations, embodying the spirit of Vesak.

At Ceylon Tea Trails, from the 3rd of May until the end of the month, join us to celebrate World Leopard Day with special awareness programs, highlighting the hill country leopard along with the Peak Ridge Forest Corridor.

At Wild Coast Tented Lodge, add eco-friendly touches to your Vesak lanterns, allowing you to create a unique, sustainable flair. Celebrate World Leopard Day with awareness programs focusing on Yala’s leopards.

At Cape Weligama, be a part of the festivities by crafting your own vibrant lantern to bring even more colour to our Vesak pavilion.
 

 

June

Poson, celebrated in June marks the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka in the 3rd Century. Throughout the month, the island unites to offer free food and essentials through roadside stalls.

At Ceylon Tea Trails, Wild Coast Tented Lodge and Cape Weligama, meaningful items will be distributed to local communities, and you’re welcome to join us or bring your own donations for those in need.
 

July

From May to July, Sri Lanka’s ‘Palu’ Season draws Sloth Bears to feast on the ripe fruits, often leading to amusing, intoxicated behaviour.

At Wild Coast Tented Lodge, celebrate the Sri Lankan Sloth Bear with daily educational programs and themed decor.
 

 

August

Celebrate the holiday season with specially curated kids’ activities at all our Resplendent Ceylon resorts.
At Ceylon Tea Trails, Wild Coast Tented Lodge and Cape Weligama, tailored activities are designed to create lasting memories for children. More information on the kids’ activities can be found here.
 

September

From July to September, witness one of the largest Asian elephant congregations – “The Gathering,” at the Minneriya National Park.

At Ceylon Tea Trails, Wild Coast Tented Lodge and Cape Weligama, in celebration of World Elephant Day on August 12th, daily educational programs will be featured throughout the rest of August and into September, honouring these majestic creatures. Additionally, Cape Weligama offers private game drives at Udawalawe National Park with a special supplement.

Further East…
Between July & September, in Gal Oya National Park, with the rise of elephant sightings, take a lake cruise for a chance to see swimming elephants and wildlife around the lake beds.
 

October

The month of October is known for Diwali, the festival of lights which symbolises the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. It is a time for families to come together to light oil lamps and decorate their homes with colourful rangolis.

At Ceylon Tea Trails, Wild Coast Tented Lodge and Cape Weligama, join us each evening to light oil lamps and enjoy delightful sweets in celebration of Diwali.
 

April to October

Sri Lanka is a year-round surf destination with waves for every season. While the south coast, including Weligama, offers ideal conditions throughout the year, the east coast, featuring destinations like Arugam Bay, takes centre stage from May to October.
 

November

November marks the start of the migratory bird season, with a variety of species flocking to the island for nesting. Experience exceptional bird watching opportunities across Sri Lanka.

At Ceylon Tea Trails, enjoy bird watching while hiking or kayaking on the Castlereagh Reservoir.
At Wild Coast Tented Lodge, the included game drive presents the perfect opportunity for birders, along with optional excursions to Bundala National Park or guided nature walks to observe local wildlife.
At Cape Weligama, the resort offers bird watching excursions and hiking adventures for guests looking to enjoy nature.

Contact Us

reservations@resplendentceylon.com | +94 11 7745730