Cultural Wonders

Learning a new language or skill

To practice Sinhalese and Tamil, Sri Lanka’s two most popular languages visit local language faculties in Galle, Kandy, and Colombo. The dry season which runs from November to April is the most precise time of year to begin language classes. Become absolutely immersed in Sri Lankan lifestyle by studying a brand new ability like Kandyan dancing, traditional cooking or pottery in addition to gaining knowledge of the language.

Volunteering with local communities

Volunteering and taking part in community development projects in rural villages like Anuradhapura or Sigiriya will help the locals with sustainable tasks. Volunteering is most enjoyable during the dry season which runs from November to March. The weather is ideal for working with local businesses and engaging in outdoor activities.

Cultural festivals or events

The beautiful land of Sri Lanka offers the perfect conditions for a wide selection of festivals which delight both local people and international visitors because of its wonderful landscapes and various ancient cultural traditions. These majestic events hold great historical significance because they give island visitors an exclusive look into the history of Sri Lanka’s cultural roots. Both the Kandy Esala Perahera and Duruthu Perahera ceremonies attract hundreds of thousands of people during July, August and January, respectively through their divine celebrations. Sri Lanka celebrates two main festivities during April where people from diverse festivities honour age-old customs and participate in traditional games. The birth enlightenment and death celebration of Buddha during Vesak (May) transforms the country through the union of bright lanterns with acts of goodwill. In the fall season Deepavali Festival (October/November) brings lights and Hindu customs to both Jaffna and Colombo as people celebrate the triumph of good over evil. Among the many religious festivities in Sri Lanka, the Nallur Festival ranks as one of the most important Hindu festivals and occurs annually during August in Jaffna. During this celebration the Hindu community conducts grand parades to worship Lord Murugan by performing various colorful religious customs. Visitors may discover true island culture through taking part in or attending these festivals that show both the emotional essence and historic traditions of the island.

Visiting cultural places

The best way to discover Sri Lanka’s rich cultural legacy is to visit its historic cities, revered temples, and colonial sites. With its stunning climbs and murals Sigiriya and Dambulla Cave Temple are at their best during the dry season which runs from December to April. During this time it is best to visit the historic capitals of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa with the June Poson Festival adding a spiritual element. The Esala Perahera in July and August is when Kandy, the location of the Holy Temple of the Tooth Relic, is at its liveliest. The best months to visit the Coastal Galle Fort are November through April while Jaffna and the August Nallur Kovil Festival highlight Tamil culture. As a major Buddhist site, Mihintale is especially noteworthy during Poson in June, offering visitors a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s many customs.