Sri Lanka offers some of the best whale-watching opportunities in the world, with different regions of the island offering prime sightings during specific times of the year. The island’s unique positioning allows for year-round whale watching, depending on the location and the season.
Sri Lanka’s whale watching seasons vary by coast, but with proper planning, you can experience the awe-inspiring sight of these majestic creatures at different times of the year. Whether you’re in the south, east, or northwest, there’s always a perfect time to witness the giants of the ocean in Sri Lanka.
Plan Your Whale Watching Tour
1. Southern and Southwestern Coasts (Mirissa, Galle, Bentota)
- Best Time: November to April
- Highlights: This period is ideal for spotting blue whales, sperm whales, and occasionally, orcas. The seas are generally calm, making it easier for boats to navigate and for whales to be spotted near the surface.
- Peak Season: December to March, with the highest chances of blue whale sightings.
2. Eastern Coast (Trincomalee)
- Best Time: March to August
- Highlights: The northeastern monsoon makes the seas around Trincomalee calmer during this time, attracting sperm whales, blue whales, and dolphins. This is also a good time for snorkeling and diving in the area.
- Peak Season: May to July, when the waters are clearest and offer the best visibility for whale watching.
3. Northwestern Coast (Kalpitiya)
- Best Time: November to March
- Highlights: Kalpitiya is known for its large pods of dolphins and occasional sightings of blue whales and sperm whales. The calm seas during these months are perfect for a combined whale and dolphin watching tour.
- Peak Season: January to March, with the highest chance of spotting both whales and dolphins.
Whale Watching Tips
Booking: It’s advisable to book tours in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure a spot on a reputable and responsible tour.
Timing: Early morning tours are often the best, as the seas are typically calmer, and there’s a higher likelihood of sightings.
Day Tour Price
- Transport Cost : USD 95 per private tour in an A/C car with an English speaking chauffeur-guide
Vehicle Options:
Car (up to 2 persons): Toyota Axio, Prius Hybrid, Premio/Honda Fit Shuttle or similar
Van (3 to 6 persons): Toyota KDH/Nissan Caravan or similar - Entrance ticket fee for Dolphin Watching Mirissa : US$ 70 / EUR 64 / GBP 55) per foreign adult and US$ 35 / EUR 32 / GBP 28 per foreign child of age 03 – 10 years are applicable.
Whale Season in Sri Lanka Photo Gallery
