If you’re looking for tropical island getaways in South Asia, it usually comes down to two choices – the Maldives and Sri Lanka. So, if you’re planning your vacation, where should you go? Well, here are some of the ways these two dream destinations differ – hopefully, it’ll make this tough choice a little easier.
The Timings
So, to start off with, what are the best times to visit these locations? Although both destinations are located relatively close to each other, the weather they experience can be quite varied. Sri Lanka has distinct wet and dry seasons, with April to August generally being the warmest time and December to January being the coolest. As such, these winter months are the best time to visit the island. The Maldives on the other hand, tend to be quite hot throughout the year – you’ll still want to avoid the monsoons that last from May to October and again from November to April.
Budgets
The Maldives is renowned for its luxurious resorts and some of the most premier Maldives villas – such as the Baros Maldives – tend to be on the higher end of the price scale, however, offering the best experiences. Sri Lankan accommodation options tend to be less expensive and there is a more varied selection for different budgets.
The Attractions
Both Maldives and Sri Lanka are equally matched when it comes to attraction and sights to see. The Maldives is, of course, famous for its beaches but there’s quite a lot to see inland as well – from lush forests to lively marketplaces. Sri Lanka has its fair share of pristine coasts as well, and also, the island has a number of spectacular national parks – perfect for an epic safari adventure!
Shopping Opportunities
Finally, what about shopping? Well, the streets of Maldives cities are packed with stalls, shops, and bazaars that all offer a variety of island memorabilia – in short, it’s a great place to pick up some charming souvenirs. Sri Lanka will have its own share of vendors – but what they sell depends on which part of the island you’re vacationing in. Head down south and you can pick up some sparkling gems, head up to the hills to grab some delicious Ceylon tea, or hit the beach for some handicrafts.
