Top Reasons to Book a Dive Trip to Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka might look tiny on a map but this country packs quite a punch when it comes to diving. There is truly something for every dive enthusiast in Sri Lanka, from exotic waters to a facsinating culture this country will leave you captivated. Here are some amazing reasons to book a dive package in Sri Lanka:

  • Warm Indian Ocean waters make ideal diving conditions
  • Over 1000 miles (1500km) of coast 
  • Unique culture
  • Less touristy than other dive destinations in Asia like Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam and the Philippines
  • Spectacular coral
  • Good visibility, around 8-25 metres/25-80 feet depending on the time of the year
  • Average water temperatures of around 27°C / 80°F almost all year round
  • Tropical warm climate
  • Diverse marine creatures from little fish to huge blue whales
  • Sri Lanka is one of the best places to go wreck diving, new wrecks are discovered every year
  • Combine experiences you can also help marine conservation by booking one of our volunteer programs in Sri Lanka

 

Popular Dive Locations / Places to Stay

  • Kalpitiya
  • Negombo
  • Colombo
  • Beruwala
  • Bentota
  • Hikkaduwa
  • Unawatuna
  • Weligama
  • Tangalla
  • Basses
  • Trincomalee
  • Batticaloa

 

Best Dive Sites in Sri Lanka

There are fantastic dive locations for begginers and more advanced levels, where you go depends on the dive shop you choose or where you stay in the country. We recommend trying to check out the following dive sites:

  • Barracuda Reef - one of the most popular in the country
  • Pecheur Breton Cargo Wreck 
  • Panadura Wreck
  • Taprobane Reefs 
  • Goda Gala Diyamba
  • HMS Hermes wreck
  • British Sergeant WWII wreck 
  • Boiler Wrecks 

 

Best Time of the Year to Go Diving in Sri Lanka

May to October is generally regarded as the best time to go diving on the north and east coasts whilst October to May is generally the most popular time of the year to go diving on the west and south coast.

 

Marine Life

You can expect to see:

  • Blue and sperm whales
  • whale sharks
  • Green, loggerhead, hawksbill and leatherback turtles
  • Parrot fish
  • Napoleon wrasse
  • barracuda
  • Macro invertebrates

 

FAQ

  • Language: In Sri Lanka the local languages include Sinhala and Tamil but English is widely spoken and most dive shops have international staff working who speak a number of languages. 
  • Money: The local currency if the Rupee (LKR) but dive centres will accept online/credit card payment in different worldwide currencies.
  • Getting there: the main international airport is Colombo-Bandaranayake International Airport (CMB)

 

Booking Help

If you need any help to book a dive course in Sri Lanka please get in touch.

 

Sri Lanka Scuba Diving Reviews

If you have ever been diving in Sri Lanka and would like to write about your experience, review a company or share any recommendations please contact us.

 

Advertise Here

If you represent a dive centre in the Sri Lanka and would like to be featured here please contact us.