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Top Tips for Spotting Whales in Sri Lanka

Whale Watching in Sri Lanka:
Where to Go, When to Visit
& What to Expect

2 July 2025
By Teardrop Hotels
For several decades, the Indian Ocean has been a hot spot for its unique population of blue whales (Balaenoptera Musculus). This species, which is unique to other blue whale populations, spends all year in warm waters, making the once-in-a-lifetime encounter of seeing them not only possible in Sri Lanka, but also remarkably easy.
Thanks to the island’s deep waters that lie close to shore, Sri Lanka offers almost year-round opportunities to spot a variety of whales, dolphins, and other marine life from three key coastal regions around the island: Kalpitiya in the northwest, Mirissa in the south, and Trincomalee in the east. These waters are bountiful feeding grounds for several species of whales and dolphins, so their numbers – and the chances of viewing them – are high. Here’s a complete guide to the best whale watching places in Sri Lanka, including when to go, what you'll see, and how to plan an unforgettable experience.

South Coast

For many travellers, Mirissa (2.5-hour drive from Colombo, or 1 hour from Galle Fort) is the poster child of blue whales in Sri Lanka. Think surfboards, smoothie bowls, and an endless stretch of beach lined with cafés and bars – perfect for first timers and families. Whale species that have been spotted in these waters include sperm whales, blue whales, minke whales, melon-headed whales, dwarf sperm whales and orcas (or killer whales) although they are less frequently sighted.

When to go: Blue whales begin to congregate off the southern coast from late November through to mid-April, drawn by nutrient-rich waters. Join an early morning cruise, and in addition to blue whales, you might also see large pods of bottlenose dolphins riding the wake of your boat, as well as sea turtles (Sri Lanka has 5 species).

Combine it with: Sri Lanka is the only place on Earth where you can see the world’s largest land mammal (elephant) and marine mammal (blue whale) in a single day. An afternoon game drive at Udawalawe or Yala National Park, will give you the opportunity to see Asian elephants and other wildlife up close. Other highlights nearby include surfing in nearby Weligama, sampling virgin white tea at Handungoda Tea Estate, yoga by the beach, scuba diving in Hikkaduwa, and exploring the charming UNESCO Galle Fort.

East Coast

The deep waters off Trincomalee are among the best places in Sri Lanka for whale watching. Trincomalee is approximately 6 hours from Colombo, and 2.5 hours from both Kalkudah and Polonnaruwa. A morning boat trip into the calm Indian Ocean offers a rare opportunity to witness majestic blue whales, sperm whales, and spinner dolphins in their natural habitat.

When to go: Between March to October, whales migrate from the southern to the eastern coast of Sri Lanka. While sightings are possible throughout this period, the best months for spotting blue whales are from April to July.

Combine it with: A visit to the ancient Koneswaran Temple perched above Trincomalee’s stunning naval harbour, Thiriyaya Girihandu Seya, believed to be the island’s first Buddhist temple or Seruwila Mangala Raja Maha Viharaya, which dates to the 2nd century BC. For marine life lovers, take a snorkelling trip to Pigeon Island, home to stunning coral reefs and chance sightings of reef sharks. You can also enjoy a sunset cruise off Kalkudah Bay or pair your whale-watching adventure with a visit to Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Cultural Triangle, 2 hours away.

West Coast

Raw, wild, and windswept, Kalpitiya whale watching is ideal for off-the-beaten-path travellers and dolphin lovers. Located about 4 hours north of Colombo, this remote stretch along the Alankuda-Kalpitiya coast on Sri Lanka’s west coast offers a more intimate, less crowded whale watching experience. With fewer boats and vast open seas, you’ll find yourself watching hundreds of spinner dolphins leaping, spinning, and playing in peaceful solitude. There’s also a chance to spot blue whales and mike whales, especially later in the season.

When to go: Whale watching season in Kalpitiya runs from November to April, with peak sightings between March and April. Combine it with: Snorkelling or diving at Bar Reef, kayaking through tranquil mangroves, kite surfing, or a game drive in Wilpattu National Park. For a cultural experience, the sacred city of Anuradhapura is also within easy reach.

Aerial Whale Watching

If you’re after a more exclusive experience, aerial whale watching is an option in Kalpitiya, Mirissa and Trincomalee with Cinnamon Air. Taking to the skies offers a unique vantage point – and minimises disturbance to the animals. Scenic flights usually last around 45 minutes to an hour and provide a bird’s-eye view of whales and dolphins moving gracefully through the Indian Ocean. The experience is a great alternative to the crowds and offers stunning panoramic views.

When to go: Cinnamon Air operates aerial whale watching in Mirissa between December to April, in Trincomalee during March/April and August/September, and in Kalpitiya from November to March and April.

WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE DAY

WHALE WATCHING FAQS

 

What marine mammals are found in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka’s nutrient-rich waters attract over 25 cetacean species, including blue whales, sperm whales, Bryde’s whales, orcas, false killer whales, and beaked whales. among dolphin species, spinner, bottlenose, and Risso’s dolphins are common, while Fraser’s dolphins, Pantropical spotted dolphins, striped dolphins, and finless porpoises are also found in Sri Lankan waters.

 

Is whale watching suitable for children?

Whale watching is generally suitable for children of the age 4 years and above, especially when done with licensed operators who follow safety guidelines. However, the long hours at sea and early starts may not suit very young children. Children below 12 years must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

 

What can I do about motion sickness?

We recommend taking motion sickness tablets 30 minutes prior to getting on board the boat, or airplane, if you choose to do whale watching by air.

 

Can I swim with whales?

Swimming with whales is illegal in Sri Lanka and we advise against booking with any operator that promotes whale swimming. While the allure of getting closer may be tempting, responsible tourism means respecting these boundaries that are in place to protect endangered species and supporting ethical operators who prioritise your safety and marine welfare.

 

How long is a whale watching tour?

The duration of a whale watching tour is usually 4-7 hours. Durations can vary based on the transfer times to and from your hotel to the departure point, the location of marine mammals and time spent on the sighting (with a group, you’ll spend less time compared to a chartered trip) and the speed of the vessel concerned (speed boats are much faster than larger vessels or catamarans).

 

Who should I book with?

Choose ethical and licensed companies that follow wildlife guidelines. An ethical operator will be diligently trained to maintain a safe distance from the whales and carry safety gear and life jackets for passengers.