Hambantota is the capital town of its district, located in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka. Known for its beautiful coastline, the town is developing fast with an aim to be a major urban hub of the country. With an international airport already in operation just 18 kms from Hambantota, the town is also in the process of constructing a sea port to be launched in the near future. Choosing to come for a holiday in Hambantota is an amazing idea because there are many things you can enjoy in this area:
The climate of Sri Lanka is tropical all year round due to its location being close to the equator. As a result, the country is affected mostly by two monsoons: Northeast and Southwest. The southwest monsoon usually strikes from May – September and this is the season that affects Hambantota with rainy days. However, if you still plan to travel during this season, you will most likely not be disappointed because the rain does not continue all day long and you will probably find a few days in between the monsoon where there is no rain at all. Sunshine is expected on most days, despite the monsoon season so you can still complete most of the items on your “things to do in Hambantota” list.
Apart from May – September, other months are absolutely perfect for visiting Hambantota. The northeast monsoon does not affect this region at all hence there is nothing to worry about there. Sunshine and holiday-perfect weather is guaranteed almost every day from November – April.
Driving to Hambantota from Colombo is approximately 240kms and would take about 2-3 hours via the Southern expressway. Driving on the alternative Galle Road will take about 4-5 hours to reach Hambantota from Colombo.
If you are arriving at the Bandaranaike International Airport in Katunayake and want to drive straight to Hambantota from there, you would have to add another 40kms in terms of distance and one hour in terms of travel time (via highways).
An easier option would be to fly direct to Mattala Rajapakse International Airport for your holiday in Hambantota because this airport is located just 18kms from Hambantota.
As for getting around to complete your list of things to do in Hambantota, hiring a car is the most convenient option. Public transport such as buses and trains will not get you to the exact locations and will require a combination of transport modes.
This is a Buddhist temple built at a height on the beach in memory of where the princess of Kelaniya was supposed to be brought ashore by the tsunami. The temple is built on top of rocks and it has a story house in which the inner circular walls are embedded with the story of Vihara Maha Devi and King Dutugemunu.
Tissamaharama Temple holds a lot of historical significance and is classified as one of the most important temples in the country. In addition to plenty of ruins that you can see in its vicinity, the temple is a beautiful sight at day time as well as with the night time lighting.
When it comes to exploring Hambantota, there are several breathtaking attractions that you simply cannot miss. From national parks and wildlife to historical sites, here’s a list of best places to visit in Hambantota.
One of the top tourist spots in Hambantota is the Yala National Park. Known for its incredible diversity of wildlife, this park is a haven for nature lovers. Visitors can go on thrilling safaris to spot leopards, elephants, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. Yala is often regarded as the ultimate destination for wildlife in Hambantota, making it a must-visit attraction.
For those seeking the perfect beach getaway, Sri Lanka beach destinations like Hambantota’s pristine shores are ideal. The coastline is dotted with golden sand beaches that are perfect for relaxation, sunbathing, and swimming. Popular beaches like Ruhunu and Buthuwa offer stunning views and peaceful environments that make them one of the most appealing beaches in Hambantota.
This park is along the eastern coast of the town and is a popular bird watching destination because it is home to several species of migratory birds. Lagoons, salterns and marshes in this park are able to give shelter to more than 20,000 birds at any given time. Elephants and other animals migrating from the neighbouring Yala National Park also reside here.
This is the only discovered blowhole in Sri Lanka, and is the second largest out of six blowholes in the world. The southwest monsoon brings in spectacular displays of the Hummanaya blowhole, and this can be seen particularly in June. The outlet of the blowhole lies at a cliff 20 meters above sea level. The fountain explodes every 10-15 minutes as a result of water pressure build up and the spring can shoot up as high as 18 meters, depending on how strong the waves are.
Mortello Tower is an acient tower built in the late 18th century, during the British rule. This tower was built as a replica of the Mortello Tower in Corsia, in defence of the coastal areas, when the Kandyan Empire was attacking. A two storied tower, 25 feet in height, 40 feet in diameter, and is situated close to a lighthouse, bungalow and gallows.
You will come across a turtle watch activity on the rekawa beach (Tangalle – a town close to Hambantota). Because the main aim here is to protect the turtles, lights such as camera flashes are not allowed. Usually in the months between April – September, visit this beach at nights and you can see hawksbill turtles, green turtles and sometimes leatherback turtles laying eggs on the shores. The eggs are left undisturbed as a part of the turtle conservation project. You can take a tour to the visitor centre for better displays.
Pilgrims from several religious faiths visit the city of Kataragama, particularly in the month of July. ‘Pada Yatra’ is the event where pilgrims walk the distance from their district to the temple. This journey begins weeks and months in advance so that pilgrims are able to make it in time to this temple for their festival. Due to severe crowd during the festival, you could opt to visit this temple during non-festival days.
Spread over 300 acres of land, this dry zone botanic gardens conserves trees and medical herbs. The exhibition of its unique bio diversity makes this garden a popular tourist attraction.
Approximately 50kms from Hambantota (an hour’s drive), in Tangalle, you will be entertained with a scuba diving activity in the glamorous ocean. This location is ideal for scuba diving due to its calm seas and high visibility for beautiful corals and a wide variety of sea creatures. In addition to that, this area remains relatively unexplored so the adventurous kind will be thrilled to discover several shipwrecks, coral tunnels and caves during your holiday in Hambantota!
At the heart of Hambantota is the newly built Shangri La hotel which hosts a massive, top notch golf course for the golf lovers to indulge in their passion as a part of relaxation and enjoyment during their holiday in Hambantota.
In Hambantota, you will find both mid-range and exclusive hotels for you to stay at. Most of the hotels are either located on the amazing beaches of Hambantota or have a beautiful view of the natural greenery that Hambantota has to offer. Browse around online and pick a suitable hotel based on your budget and preferences for your holidays in Hambantota.
There are many things to do in Hambantota that reflect the area’s blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Here are some top tourist spots to check out:
A trip to Hambantota wouldn’t be complete without exploring its historical sites. From Buddhist temples to ancient monuments, Hambantota’s rich culture shines through in its architecture and landmarks. The Kirinda Temple and Tissamaharama Raja Maha Vihara are not only places of spiritual importance but also offer incredible insight into Sri Lanka’s religious and cultural history.
While Hambantota is known for its natural beauty, it also boasts modern landmarks such as the Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport, one of the most unique airports in Sri Lanka. The city’s Port of Hambantota, a bustling trade and shipping hub, is another modern feature worth visiting.
One of the major reasons travelers flock to Hambantota sightseeing is its abundance of natural beauty. The area is home to lush forests, pristine beaches, and scenic landscapes, making it a top destination for nature lovers.
Apart from Yala National Park, Hambantota is surrounded by several other nature parks like Bundala National Park, famous for its migratory birds. These parks play a significant role in conservation efforts and are home to many endangered species.
If you’re keen to experience wildlife in Hambantota, you’ll be delighted by the diversity of species that inhabit the area. From crocodiles basking by the riverbanks to flocks of flamingos in Bundala, the region offers unparalleled opportunities to get up close and personal with nature.
Looking for the ultimate Sri Lanka vacation spots? Hambantota should be on your list. It offers a perfect mix of nature, culture, and adventure. Here are some vacation ideas for your next trip:
Whether you are a solo traveler, a family, or a honeymooning couple, Hambantota vacation ideas can be tailored to suit your needs. Explore wildlife on a safari, unwind on the beach, or enjoy a romantic sunset at the lighthouse—there is something for every traveler.
Sustainable tourism is becoming more important, and Hambantota is leading the way with eco-friendly accommodations and activities. From green hotels to eco-safaris, you can enjoy a guilt-free vacation while preserving the natural beauty of the area.
Getting around Hambantota is relatively easy. You can use taxis, hire a private driver, or rent a bicycle. For the more adventurous, exploring the region by tuk-tuk can be an exciting way to see all the sights.
When planning your trip to visit Hambantota Sri Lanka, here are a few tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable vacation:
The best time to visit Hambantota is during the dry season, from November to April. This is when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities and enjoying the beaches.
Make sure to pack light and comfortable clothing for the warm, tropical climate. Also, carry sun protection and insect repellent to make your stay more enjoyable.
From luxury resorts to budget accommodations, Hambantota has a variety of places to stay. For a truly immersive experience, book a stay at a beachfront hotel or eco-lodge for an unforgettable view of the sea.
As one of Sri Lanka’s beach destinations, Hambantota boasts some of the most pristine and peaceful beaches in the country. Whether you want to relax, engage in water activities, or enjoy a beachside dinner, the charm of Hambantota’s shores is undeniable.
With its unspoiled beaches, Hambantota is considered one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka for beach lovers. Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, you’ll be sure to find a spot to unwind.
Some of the must-visit beaches include Ruhunu, Rama’s Beach, and Ruhunu National Park Beach—all ideal for relaxation and water sports.
Apart from the main attractions, Hambantota also has hidden gems worth discovering. Take time to visit less-explored areas such as Kataragama Temple or embark on a boat ride through Walawe River to see the lush greenery and stunning views.
In conclusion, Hambantota is truly a remarkable destination that combines nature, wildlife, culture, and beaches to create a vacation that suits everyone’s interests. Whether you’re exploring top tourist spots in Hambantota or indulging in a peaceful beach holiday, this destination is sure to offer unforgettable memories.
