Dive trip Sri Lanka and Diving in Trincomalee
A diverse tour of Sri Lanka filled with culture, nature, and wildlife. You’ll explore the underwater world while diving near Trincomalee and Pigeon Island.
Travel period
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Tour of Sri Lanka and Scuba Diving in Trincomalee
Sri Lanka is a diverse destination where culture, nature, wildlife, and diving come together in a beautiful blend. During this tour, you’ll explore the island at a leisurely pace, traveling from the historic cities in the interior to the lush mountains and finally to the tropical east coast. Along the way, you’ll get a good sense of Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes and unique culture.
The journey begins in the cultural heart of the island, with visits to, among other places, the famous Lion Rock at Sigiriya, the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, and the impressive cave temples of Dambulla. In Kandy, you’ll visit the Temple of the Tooth and learn about the country’s Buddhist traditions. Afterward, the landscape changes as you travel on toward Nuwara Eliya and Ella. Here, vast tea plantations stretch out among green hills and mountains. You’ll visit a tea plantation, walk to the famous Nine Arches Bridge, and hike to Little Adam’s Peak.
Wildlife also takes center stage during the trip. In Udawalawe National Park, you’ll go on a jeep safari in search of wild elephants and other animals. On the east coast, an early-morning whale-watching excursion is also on the itinerary, where you’ll have the chance to see blue whales, sperm whales, and dolphins.
On the coast, there’s time for both relaxation and diving. From Nilaveli, you’ll go on four boat dives at various dive sites around Trincomalee and Pigeon Island National Marine Park. You’ll dive among colorful corals and tropical fish and may even encounter reef sharks and rays. After the dives, you’ll continue your journey along the south coast, visiting the historic Galle Fort and the vibrant capital, Colombo.
This trip lets you experience Sri Lanka from different perspectives, both above and below the water. From ancient temples and colonial cities to tea plantations, wild elephants, whales, and colorful coral reefs.
Best time to go on a diving trip to Sri Lanka
Average Temperatures
Wetsuit Recommendations for Diving in Sri Lanka
The water in Trincomalee is always a pleasant temperature. We recommend a 3mm or 5mm wetsuit here.
What will you experience on this diving vacation?
View the itinerary here
Days 1 & 2 | Trip to Sri Lanka
Today marks the start of your trip to Sri Lanka. You’ll depart on a night flight to Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka. Most flights have one layover, and the total travel time is about 13 hours.
The next day, you’ll arrive at the Colombo airport. A transfer will be waiting for you there, and you’ll travel directly to Sigiriya, in the heart of Sri Lanka. The drive takes about 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic. Along the way, you’ll get your first glimpse of the lush green landscape, the local villages, and daily life on the island.
Sigiriya is best known for the impressive Sigiriya Rock, also known as Lion Rock. This enormous rock towers high above the surrounding landscape and was once part of a royal citadel. The area around Sigiriya is also known for its many nature reserves and the opportunity to spot elephants and other wildlife along the way.
After arriving in Sigiriya, check in at the hotel. Spend the rest of the day relaxing after your trip or exploring the area. For example, you can take a walk around the area or relax at the hotel and enjoy your first evening in Sri Lanka.
Day 3 | Visiting Sigiriya Rock and the Polonnaruwa Ruins
After breakfast, you’ll set out for a special day filled with history and culture. First on the itinerary is a visit to the impressive Sigiriya Rock. This rock, nearly 200 meters high and also known as Lion Rock, was the site of a royal citadel in the fifth century. You’ll climb a series of stairs up the rock face. Along the way, you’ll pass centuries-old frescoes and the famous lion paws that mark the entrance to the former palace. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Sri Lanka’s lush green landscape.
After visiting Sigiriya, you’ll continue on to Polonnaruwa, one of Sri Lanka’s most important historic cities. The ancient city served as the country’s capital during the Middle Ages and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Among the ruins, you’ll find remnants of ancient palaces, temples, stupas, and impressive Buddha statues. The rock-cut statues of Gal Vihara, in particular, are among the highlights of Polonnaruwa.
After this introduction to historic Sri Lanka, you’ll return to Sigiriya. The rest of the day is yours to relax at the hotel or spend some more time exploring the surrounding area.
Day 4 | The Cave Temples of Dambulla
After breakfast, you’ll depart from Sigiriya and head to Dambulla. There, you’ll visit the impressive Dambulla Cave Temple, one of Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist temple complexes. The temples are carved into a rock and consist of five caves that have been used as sacred sites for centuries. The walls and ceilings are richly decorated with colorful Buddhist murals, and the caves contain more than 130 Buddha statues. A unique glimpse into Sri Lankan history and culture.
After visiting Dambulla, you’ll continue on to Sri Lanka’s east coast, heading toward Nilaveli. Nilaveli is located near the well-known coastal town of Trincomalee, but has a completely different character. While Trincomalee is a bit livelier and best known for its historic sights and harbor, Nilaveli is known for its wide sandy beach, clear water, and peaceful atmosphere. This makes it an ideal base for your diving adventures over the next few days.
Days 5–9 | Diving around Trincomalee
Over the next 5 days, you’ll be diving around Nilaveli and Trincomalee. You’ll do two boat dives per day. The dive sites around Trincomalee are quite varied, featuring shallow coral gardens, rock formations, reefs, and spots where you can search for smaller marine life. Visibility here is usually between 20 and 30 meters, so that’s already a great start!
One of the most famous diving spots is Pigeon Island National Marine Park. Colorful coral gardens surround this protected island, where you can dive among large schools of tropical fish. Reef sharks are also regularly spotted here. In addition, there are good chances of encountering rays and various species of reef fish. The combination of clear water, coral, and abundant fish makes Pigeon Island one of the highlights of diving near Nilaveli.
The other dive sites around Trincomalee also each have their own unique character. At Uppuveli Coral Bed, there are shallow coral gardens that are ideal for a leisurely first dive. The relatively shallow depth means you’ll have plenty of time to take a good look at the corals and smaller marine creatures. Dutch Bay Coral Gardens consists of colorful coral formations and is also an accessible dive site. Here, you can search for interesting details in the reef among various species of reef fish and other tropical marine life.
For a bit more variety, you can dive at Swami Rock, where rock formations, overhangs, and small caves create a completely different underwater landscape. This site is interesting for both enthusiasts of larger marine life and divers who like to use their cameras to search for smaller creatures.
During your dives, you may encounter various species of reef fish, schools of tropical fish, stingrays, and reef sharks, among other creatures. There’s also plenty to discover for macro enthusiasts, with smaller species hiding among the coral and rocks. Of course, exactly which animals you’ll see depends on the season, the conditions, and a good dose of luck.
Day 10 | Whale Watching
Today starts early. After an early breakfast at the hotel—or with a packed breakfast—you’ll depart around 6:00 a.m. for a whale-watching excursion. The waters off Sri Lanka’s east coast are among the best spots in the country for whale watching. With a little luck, you’ll spot the impressive blue whale, the largest whale species in the world. Sperm whales and various species of dolphins are also frequently spotted. Of course, since this involves wildlife, sightings are never guaranteed.
After the boat ride, you’ll continue on to Kandy, in the lush interior of Sri Lanka. Along the way, you’ll stop at a spice garden, where you’ll learn more about the spices that play an important role in Sri Lankan cuisine. You’ll see cinnamon, cardamom, and pepper growing, among other things, and you’ll have the chance to explore various local spice products.
Kandy is one of Sri Lanka’s most important cultural cities and is beautifully situated among the green hills of the interior. The city was Sri Lanka’s last royal capital and is best known for the Temple of the Tooth, the Sri Dalada Maligawa. According to tradition, this important Buddhist temple houses a tooth relic of the Buddha. The temple is one of the holiest sites in Sri Lanka and attracts many visitors and pilgrims every day.
A traditional cultural dance performance is on the program for the evening. With colorful costumes, music, and traditional dances, you’ll be introduced to another important aspect of Sri Lankan culture. At the end of the day, you’ll check in at a new hotel, where you’ll stay for one night.
Day 11 | Kandy & Nuwara Eliya
After breakfast, you’ll head to the Peradeniya Botanical Garden, just outside Kandy. This sprawling botanical garden is a wonderful place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a while. Stroll past tropical plants, colorful flowers, and impressive trees. The garden is known, among other things, for its grand palm-lined avenues and its enormous diversity of plants.
From there, you’ll continue your journey deeper into the mountains, toward Nuwara Eliya. Along the way, the landscape gradually changes from tropical greenery to green hills dotted with tea plantations. Sri Lanka is known worldwide for its Ceylon tea, and during a visit to a tea plantation and tea factory, you’ll get a glimpse into the process of picking and processing the tea leaves. You’ll learn how tea is produced, and of course, you’ll have the opportunity to finish off with a fresh cup of Ceylon tea.
At the end of the day, you’ll arrive in Nuwara Eliya. This charming mountain town is located at an elevation of about 1,800 meters and is known for its cool climate, green hills, and distinctive British colonial architecture. Because of its altitude, Nuwara Eliya feels very different from the warm coastal regions of Sri Lanka. You’ll spend the night in Nuwara Eliya.
Day 12 | Ella & Little Adams Peak
After breakfast, you’ll head to Ella, a charming mountain village nestled among green hills, tea plantations, and waterfalls. The area around Ella is known for its stunning natural beauty and is one of the most beautiful regions in Sri Lanka for hiking and enjoying the mountain scenery.
Along the way, you’ll stop at the impressive Ravana Waterfall. This wide, multi-tiered waterfall flows down from the surrounding mountains and is a lovely spot to stretch your legs and take some photos.
After arriving in Ella, take a walk to the famous Nine Arches Bridge. This historic railway bridge is nestled among the green hills and tea plantations and is one of Sri Lanka’s most recognizable landmarks. The bridge was built during the British colonial period and is constructed entirely of stone and brick, featuring nine large arches. With a little luck, you’ll see a train crossing the bridge during your visit.
Next on the itinerary is a hike to Little Adam’s Peak. The climb is manageable and winds through the lush green landscape around Ella. Once at the top, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and tea plantations. A wonderful way to wrap up an active day in the Sri Lankan highlands.
After the hike, you’ll return to Ella, where you can relax for the rest of the day and enjoy the cozy atmosphere of the mountain village.
Day 13 | Safari in Udawalawe National Park
After breakfast, you’ll head to Udawalawe National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s most famous wildlife parks. In the afternoon, you’ll hop into a jeep for a safari through the park. Udawalawe is best known for its large population of wild elephants. The animals can be seen here year-round, and with a little luck, you might even come across large herds along the way.
Of course, you won’t just be looking for elephants during the safari. The park is also home to various species of birds, reptiles, and other wildlife. The landscape consists of grasslands, forests, and bodies of water, so you’ll encounter a different setting at every turn during the safari.
After the safari, you’ll continue your journey to the south coast of Sri Lanka in the late afternoon. You’ll drive on to Hikkaduwa, a lively beach resort known for its wide sandy beaches, coral reefs, and tropical atmosphere. You can also go diving here, although the season on this side of the island runs from November through April. You’ll spend one night at a beachfront hotel.
Day 14 | Galle & Colombo
After breakfast, you’ll head to Galle, on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka. The city has a rich colonial history and is best known for the impressive Galle Fort. This historic fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been influenced over the centuries by the Portuguese, Dutch, and British.
Within the thick walls of the fort, you’ll stroll through a charming network of narrow streets, past old colonial buildings, small shops, cafés, and restaurants. Among other sights, you’ll visit the Dutch Reformed Church, built in 1755 and one of the most striking Dutch landmarks in Galle. You’ll also have time to visit the museum and learn more about the city’s colonial history.
After visiting Galle, you’ll continue on to Colombo, the bustling capital of Sri Lanka. During a city tour, you’ll get to know different sides of the city. Among other sights, you’ll visit the colorful Gangaramaya Temple, one of Colombo’s most famous Buddhist temples, and Independence Square, a significant site in the history of modern Sri Lanka. You’ll also take a stroll through Viharamahadevi Park, a green oasis in the heart of the city.
Later in the day, you’ll have time to take a leisurely look around Colombo. For example, you can take a stroll along Galle Face Green, a popular seaside promenade, or go shopping at one of the modern shopping malls, such as Odel or Colombo City Centre.
In the evening, you can relax and reflect on your diverse journey through Sri Lanka. You’ll spend the night in Colombo.
Day 15 | Back Home
Today marks the end of your journey through Sri Lanka. After breakfast, depending on your flight time, you’ll have some free time in Colombo. You can take it easy and enjoy your last few hours in the city, take one last stroll, or buy some souvenirs before your return trip begins.
At the agreed-upon time, your transfer will be ready to take you to Bandaranaike International Airport. From the airport, you’ll fly back home, with a suitcase full of memories of the varied landscapes, extraordinary nature, impressive temples, and historic cities you’ve discovered during this trip.
After arriving at the airport, you’ll check in for your return flight, bringing a diverse tour of Sri Lanka to a close.
Highlights of this trip
What can you expect from this trip to Sri Lanka?
Diving at Pigeon Island
Off the coast of Nilaveli lies Pigeon Island National Marine Park, a protected nature reserve featuring colorful coral gardens and crystal-clear tropical waters. While diving, you may encounter reef sharks, stingrays, large schools of tropical fish, and various species of coral fish. The dive sites are also varied, featuring shallow reefs and rock formations. Thanks to the excellent visibility, you can observe the underwater life clearly, and there’s plenty for underwater photographers to discover as well.
Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa
Sri Lanka has an impressive history, which really comes to life during this trip. At Sigiriya, you’ll climb the famous Lion’s Rock, where a royal citadel was built in the fifth century. From the top, you’ll look out over the lush green landscape. In Polonnaruwa, you’ll then stroll among ancient temples, ruins, and impressive Buddha statues. Both sites are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites and offer a unique glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich history and culture.
Wildlife of Sri Lanka
Accommodations
The lodging and the dive school
Accommodations in Sri Lanka
During this tour, you’ll stay in carefully selected 4-star hotels located throughout the island. At some destinations, you’ll stay for just one night, as you’ll be traveling on the next day to discover as much of Sri Lanka as possible. If you’d prefer a more luxurious stay, there’s also the option to stay at 5-star hotels.
You will stay in comfortable double rooms with private bathrooms so you can relax after a day of adventure. Accommodation is on a half-board basis, with both breakfast and dinner included. So you can enjoy delicious meals and local cuisine every day, while you are out and about during the day for cultural highlights, nature experiences and exciting safaris.
The Diving School
The boat and facilities
During this trip , you’ll dive with Poseidon Diving Center, an experienced dive center in Trincomalee that has been operating on Sri Lanka’s east coast for many years. The team knows the local dive sites well and organizes dives for divers of all skill levels. From the dive center, you’ll take a boat to various locations off the coast, including the reefs around Pigeon Island and other interesting dive sites near Trincomalee.
The dive center offers a wide selection of diving equipment. You can also enroll in various PADI courses and specialty courses here.
The diving season on the east coast runs from April through October. During this time, you can explore the underwater world of Trincomalee and Pigeon Island from Nilaveli. The dive shop also has a location on the other side of the island, in Hikkaduwa.
Travel Expenses
What’s included
This diving vacation to Sri Lanka is available starting at US$ 2.796 per person, based on two people sharing a room. The diving trip can be extended as desired. A number of items are included as standard in this travel package.
Prices are subject to change due to price adjustments, increases, or fluctuations in exchange rates. The price for the high season, in July and August, is slightly higher. Flights are always booked in the lowest available fare class.
Want to learn more about this diving vacation to Sri Lanka? Contact us!
Included in this diving trip, from US$ 2.796 p.p.
- 1 night in Dambulla in a Twin Room
- 6 nights in Nilaveli in a Twin Room
- 1 night in Kandy in a Twin Room
- 1 night in Nuwara Eliya in a twin room
- 1 night in Ella in a Twin Room
- 1 night in Hikkaduwa in a Twin Room
- 1 night in Colombo in a Twin Room
- Stay on a half-board basis
- All listed excursions in Sri Lanka
- Dive package with 10 dives
- All transfers listed
- VZR, Emergency Fund & Administrative Fees
Excluding
- Flight to Colombo from US$ 1.343 p.p.
- Visas for Sri Lanka
- Diving and Travel Insurance
- Pigeon Island Park Fee (approx. US$ 48 per person)
✈︎ The quoted (international) flight prices are indicative prices and based on departures from Europe. However, we can arrange flights from any location worldwide. Booking your own flights is of course also possible.
Optional
- Diving Equipment (US$ 145)
- Night Dive (US$ 145)
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Frequently Asked Questions About Sri Lanka
Tour of Sri Lanka
Yes, you need a visa. You can apply for one for free.
Sri Lanka is a great vacation destination all year round; there aren’t any times when it’s really not a good idea to go. However, you should keep the diving seasons in mind, since the diving schools aren’t open year-round.
There are roughly two diving seasons in Sri Lanka, and the best time to dive depends on which coast you want to dive at. On the east coast, near Nilaveli and Trincomalee, conditions are generally the best of April through October. During this period, the sea and weather are usually ideal for diving. Would you like to visit Sri Lanka outside of this period? That’s perfectly fine, too. In that case, we recommend planning your trip specifically for the south and west coasts to choose from. Around Hikkaduwa, the conditions are generally the best of November through April. However, the diving here is less interesting than in Trincomalee. You can definitely spend a day diving here, but this destination is less appealing for a diving trip. There are no coral reefs here like there are in Trincomalee, and there are far fewer fish underwater.
Absolutely. Trincomalee and Nilaveli are close to each other, but they have different characters. Trincomalee is a lively city with a rich history, local restaurants, and attractions such as Fort Frederick and the Koneswaram Temple. Here, you’re more immersed in local life and have a wider selection of restaurants and activities. Nilaveli, on the other hand, is much quieter and revolves mainly around the beach. Here, you’ll stay right on a long, wide stretch of sand and enjoy a relaxed vacation atmosphere.
For this trip, we typically choose Nilaveli because it offers a peaceful stay and is conveniently located near the dive sites. Prefer a bit more excitement and a taste of local life? In that case, we can also arrange your stay in Trincomalee.
Diving general
Sri Lanka is suitable for divers of all skill levels and offers a wide variety of diving experiences. Among other things, you can go reef diving, wreck diving, night diving, and deep diving. There are opportunities for beginner divers as well, while experienced divers can choose more challenging dive sites. All dives are done by boat.
The dive sites are close: about a 20-minute boat ride away.
Yes, it is possible to go on a night dive. There is a surcharge of USD 25 per night dive, in addition to the price of a regular dive. This amounts to a surcharge of approximately US$ 25 per night dive.
No, all dives are done by boat.
Absolutely, PADI courses are offered here.
Diving equipment
Both tanks are available.
Yes, 15-liter tanks are available.
Yes, you can. If you bring your own equipment it’s no problem at all.
No, there is no nitrox available.
Yes, renting a full set costs 150 USD for 10 dives, which is about US$ 145.
You can leave your diving gear at the dive shop.
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