Experiences
Blue Whales
See the Blue Whales in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is an island of endless beauty, offering an extraordinary mix of landscapes, rich culture, fascinating history and wildlife. But it’s not just about stunning beaches and ancient temples. This tiny island also offers magical experiences like whale watching!
Sri Lanka is fast emerging as a prime destination for spotting these gentle giants. And here’s the best part. You can get up close and personal with these gentle giants without embarking on treacherous expeditions to the ocean.
Types of Whales Around Sri Lanka
With five types of whales commonly spotted in the waters around Sri Lanka, you’re in for an absolute treat.
The Blue Whale
The largest of all known whale species, the blue whale is a giant of the sea. Weighing up to 173 tons and stretching up to 98 feet, these gentle giants have sadly been listed on the list of threatened species.
The Bryde’s Whale
Another common visitor in Sri Lankan waters, these whales tend to inhabit the warmer waters of the Indo-Pacific Ocean. Unique to this species are the three parallel ridges on their skulls.
The Sperm Whale
Ever heard of Moby Dick? That’s a sperm whale! They have massive heads and the biggest brains of any animal on earth. With 18-26 teeth on each side of its lower jaw, they are also the largest toothed whales and largest toothed predators.
The Humpback Whale
Not as common as others, but spotting a humpback whale is like winning a lottery. They have long pectoral fins, a knobbly head, and a dark grey body with white patches.
The Fin Whale
Second only to the blue whale in size, these whales can grow up to 89 feet. The fin whale's body is long and slender, coloured brownish-grey with a paler underside.
Where to Go Whale Watching in Sri Lanka?
Mirissa (South Coast)
If you’re serious about spotting whales, Mirissa is your go-to. It's got a 90% success rate during peak season, so you're practically guaranteed a chance of spotting these creatures. What’s more? Located between Galle and Matara on the southern coast, it’s easy to reach.
Kalpitiya (West Coast)
Looking for a more secluded experience? Kalpitiya's your spot! A whale excursion will allow you to witness Blue Whales, Byrde’s Whales and if you are lucky, Humpback Whales.
Trincomalee (East Coast)
Missed the whale watching season in the Southern and Western coasts? Don’t worry, the East Coast has you covered. Home to one of the world’s deepest natural harbours, Trincomalee is a great place to spot Blue Whales and Sperm Whales. You can even spot whales from Swami Rock (a cliff near the Koneswaram Temple).
When to Go Whale Watching in Sri Lanka?
Mirissa (South Coast)
Best time: December to April.
Kalpitiya (West Coast)
Best time: November to April.
Trincomalee (East Coast)
Best time: May to October.
Thanks to its unique location, Sri Lanka’s got a whale-watching season that’s practically year-round. You’ve got 9 months to catch these gentle giants in action. However, the whale-watching season varies depending on the coast:
See the Blue Whales in Sri Lanka
Booking a whale watching tour in Sri Lanka is a piece of cake. You can either ask your tour guide to arrange it or explore the options provided by local organisers.
Tours usually start early (around 6 AM) and last 4-5 hours, giving you plenty of time to soak in the experience. Prices are pretty reasonable, ranging from $20 to $40 per person, and most tours include a small snack and refreshments.
When selecting a tour operator, choose one that follows ethical and responsible practices. To ensure you’re a responsible traveller, choose a tour credited by organisations like the Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society (WDCS).
If you’ve been looking for more reasons to visit Sri Lanka, here you go. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Sri Lanka. It's time to tick "see a blue whale" off your bucket list!