A luxurious spa retreat surrounded by lush green countryside with options for adventurous hiking to Sigiriya for some of the best views in Sri Lanka
Location: Nestled among lush paddy fields with uninterrupted views of Sigiriya (Lion Rock), Aliya Resort and Spa enjoys a unique setting in Sri Lanka’s cultural heartland. Surrounded by forests where wild elephants roam, it offers an authentic sense of place and easy access to some of the country’s most iconic landmarks.
Rooms: The resort features 96 spacious rooms designed in a contemporary minimalist style with traditional Sri Lankan touches. Options range from modern deluxe rooms to rustic wooden chalets, each offering comfort, simplicity, and all the modern amenities needed for a relaxing stay.
Amenities: Aliya is home to four restaurants, serving a wide variety of Sri Lankan and international dishes to suit every palate. Guests can enjoy spectacular views of Sigiriya while unwinding in the stunning infinity pool, or indulge in traditional wellness practices with Ayurvedic treatments from the in-house doctor. The resort’s warm service ensures a relaxed and seamless experience.
Activities: From Aliya, it’s a short and scenic walk through paddy fields to the base of Sigiriya for those keen to climb the iconic rock fortress. Guests can also head out on safari at Minneriya or Kaudulla National Parks, famous for elephants and birdlife, or visit the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, just an hour away.
Sustainability: Inspired by elephants, the resort’s design reflects harmony with its natural surroundings, while supporting local culture and communities in this historic region.
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Best places to stay in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka Trip Inspiration
When to visit Sri Lanka
Find out the best time to visit Sri Lanka with our month by month guide.
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
January
January is the perfect time to visit different regions in Sri Lanka, temperatures will be warm and basking in sunshine, meaning the cultural triangle, beaches, national parks and hill country could all be visited during January. However, the central hills will be cooler than other regions due to their altitude.
February
February is much like January, with long sunny days and calm seas. Visitors travelling during this month have a higher chance of spotting sperm and blue whales.
March
March is considered the best time to visit the central hills, although cooler than other regions in Sri Lanka there is less chance of rains in March.
April
Typically April, is the hottest and driest month of the year, with temperatures exceeding 35 degrees if you're travelling to Golden Triangle regions. It is a great month to head to Sri Lanka's beautiful beaches, with clear skies and long sunny days.
- Top Tip: when sightseeing visit in the mornings and evenings as you will avoid the hottest part of the day.
May
In May, the south is humid and increasingly hot whilst hill country is cooler with a higher chance of rainfall. We recommend travelling to the North and east of the island during May witnessing the unique history and culture of Sri Lanka.
- Vesak Poya, takes place during the first full moon, celebrating the birth, enlightenment and death of Buddha.
June
During June, temperatures in the south continue to be increasingly hot and humid as the southwest monsoon blows through the country. Southern regions will experience short sharp showers which tend to pass quite quickly.
July
As the summer holidays commence in July, Sri Lanka is in peak season, with temperatures staying around 30 degrees all month. If you're looking to explore Sri Lanka and visit different areas July is a great time to visit.
August
In August, the warm days continue with temperatures remaining in the high twenties. All in all it is a great month to travel especially if you want to witness culture, between August and September the Kandy Perahera festival takes place, a grand procession celebrating the 'sacred tooth' of Buddha.
September
All in all September is a great month to travel especially if you want to witness culture, between August and September the Kandy Perahera festival takes place, a grand procession celebrating the 'sacred tooth' of Buddha.
October
October brings with it the monsoon rains which affect the whole country, in saying this the weather remains warm and sunny. The monsoon can be unpredictable, rains can be heavy, sporadic or not come at all it is impossible to forecast.
November
In November the monsoon continues, with conditions affecting the whole country.
December
During December the monsoon rains can continue, however the southern and western coasts dry out and become warm and dry. The monsoon rains, means during December the landscapes become lush and full, meaning it is a beautiful time to explore the more rural areas of Sri Lanka.
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