Hambantota Holidays

A trip to Hambantota provides a spectacular overview of Sri Lankan culture, history and natural beauty, from its diverse national parks to its crumbling Buddhist monasteries.

Kick off your Hambantota adventure with a visit to Yala National Park, where a game drive will take you around the best parts of the park. Home to 55 species of animal and over 200 species of bird, the park is a great place to see Sri Lanka’s native wildlife and learn about their conservation and protection. Each of Hambantota’s national parks offers its own distinct characteristics, from the unusual red soil in Ussangoda National Park, to rare species of flamingo in Bundala National Park.

To relax, Mahapelessa Hot Springs provide a therapeutic place in which to sit back and bathe. The naturally warm waters that are thought to contain their own healing properties. The Mirijjawila Botanic Garden is another peaceful space to relax, showcasing an impressive collection of plants.

Buddhism is a hugely significant part of Sri Lankan culture, with Hambantota and its surrounding areas once playing a vital role in its early development. Evidence of its importance is best illustrated by the ancient Buddhist temples and monasteries that punctuate the landscape.

Ramba Viharaya is an extraordinary historical and archaeological site located on the banks of River Walawe. Approximately 30 kilometres from Hambantota city centre, the temple site is thought to have been part of the medieval capital of Sri Lanka more than 900 years ago and offers a fascinating insight into the country’s heritage.

Sithulpawwa Buddhist monastery is equally fascinating. It’s believed to have been built in the second century B.C. as a centre for the education of Buddhist monks. On your way to the site, keep a lookout for wild elephants that roam nearby. Other historically important locations worth visiting include the Mulkirigala Rock Temple and Kataragama, a sacred town for pilgrimage since the last centuries of B.C.

A holiday to Hambantota wouldn’t be complete without embarking on a wildlife safari, such is the rich biodiversity in the region. From leopards and elephants to deer and birds, ther’s a whole plethora of different species to look out for, and plenty of expert guides on hand to take you straight to the best parts of the national parks.

Ridiyagama Safari Park is just a 45-minute journey from the centre of Hambantota, yet it boasts over 500 acres of vibrant plants and unique wildlife. Since opening in 2016, it’s attracted wave upon wave of nature-lovers and is a must-see on any visit to Sri Lanka’s Southern Province.

For a safari on the water, meanwhile, Walawe River Safari offers an unrivalled experience for spotting a range of wildlife species. The tranquil setting also provides a haven for bird-watchers, from resident sea eagles and hawks to cheeky waterfowls and elegant cranes.

Located in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka, Hambantota is right in the heart of a tropical region, so the average temperature doesn’t vary much throughout the year. While the warmest time is generally from mid-May through to July – when temperatures rarely drop below 26°C even at night – peak tourist season tends to be between December and February, when the city is at its busiest.

To enjoy the city at its best – which means exploring national parks and ancient temples without getting caught in a downpour or being stifling hot – the best time to go on holiday to Hambantota is between November and April. Visiting Hambantota is all about being outside and discovering the natural surroundings, and these are undoubtedly the best months in which to do so. Plus, it’s the time when the city’s famous nightlife and traditional Sri Lankan restaurants have a real buzz about them.