The Indian Ocean surrounding Sri Lanka is a hotspot for catching a glimpse of the giant mammals of the deep. Whale watching in Sri Lanka is fast becoming one of the most popular attractions the island has to offer. Just off the southern coast near Dondra Point is the main meeting spot of these magnificent creatures. Anytime during December to April, each year would be ideal for whale watching in Sri Lanka as they make their migration path between the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea. The months of December/ January and March/ April however have the highest number of sightings recorded.
Home to the largest animal on earth, the blue whale, the waters around about Sri Lanka are home to 26 of the 80 species of cetaceans in the world. This includes the humpback whale, sperm whale, Byrde’s whale, baleen whale, and toothed whale. As much as a sighting of blue whales is considered a once in a lifetime experience, spotting blue whales in Sri Lanka during the season is by no means a rarity. It in fact boasts one of the largest blue whale colonies the world has ever known.
Mirissa is the best place for whale watching in Sri Lanka while Trincomalee in the eastern coast too is a haven for these amazing species. Whale watching tours can be organized from almost any resort in the area and usually includes a spectacular boat ride of about 3 to 4 hours, giving you the rare chance of a lifetime.
