Explore the best picnic places in Sri Lanka, where the country’s rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and diverse animals coexist in pristine peace. These locations provide a welcome respite from city life by providing chances for leisure, exploration, and relaxation. All these idyllic picnic spots in Sri Lanka help you relax, unwind, and take in the breathtaking scenery. You and your loved ones can reconnect in these picture-perfect settings while rediscovering the thrill of living life on vacation.
The best picnic places in Sri Lanka for some quality times
1. Royal Botanical Gardens, Kandy
You must picnic in the beautiful central Highlands’ place, where you will find the enchanting city of Kandy. The Department of National Botanic Gardens in Sri Lanka maintains the Royal Botanical Gardens with great care because of its status as a national asset. Spanning an enormous 147 acres, the Royal Botanic Gardens are home to more than 4,000 different varieties of plants, including the world-famous orchids housed there. The British chose to formally build the gardens when they successfully took over the Kandyan Kingdom. The kings of Kandy used to spend their weekends here in style.
A tranquil lake, colorful ferns, a fragrant spice garden, old ficus trees, gigantic palm avenues, well-kept paths, sheltered forests, towering bamboos, and an enchanting arboretum await you as you meander over the vast grounds. When put together, these components provide a magical ambiance that will charm you. At its side runs the Mahaweli River, Sri Lanka’s longest river. It’s the ideal spot for a relaxing stroll or quiet getaway, where you can soak in the sights and sounds of nature while making lasting memories. The Royal Botanical Gardens have long been recognized as one of the best picnic places in Sri Lanka.
2. The picture-perfect Kandy Lake
Kiri Muhuda, popularly known as the Sea of Mill, is another name for this spectacular construction that King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe built in 1807. The serene setting, complete with verdant foliage and scenic hills in the distance, is perfect for a picnic by the lake. The famous Temple of the Tooth, a relic of the Buddha, is located next to the lake. The spectacular Esala Perahera procession showcases it annually. There are ceremonial rituals happening every day at this place.
Explore the wonderful prospects for birdwatching that await you at Kandy Lake, conveniently located in the city center. The lake is home to many different kinds of birds, so keep an eye out for colorful kingfishers, graceful herons, and more.
3. Nuwara Eliya’s Victoria Park
Nuwara Eliya’s refreshing atmosphere is home to Victoria Park, which was renamed to honor Queen Victoria’s 60th Jubilee Coronation in 1897. The park is a sanctuary for uncommon bird species and unusual flora. In this magical spot, sightseers get a chance to meet some extraordinary bird species. While wandering around the park, you’ll come across the Nanu Oya River. This picturesque river meanders across the countryside, carving out picturesque lakes that enhance the area’s already stunning natural scenery.
With its peaceful lakes, lovely flower beds, well-kept grass, and gigantic trees, Victoria Park is surely one of the best picnic places in Sri Lanka. Wander around the park’s varied floral terrain and be amazed by the breathtaking variety of sights that appear at all times. As the seasons change, the scenery becomes a veritable rainbow of vibrant flowers, from the most magnificent orchids to the most spectacular roses. Plenty of entertainment alternatives are available for families with children. Part of this is a special playground where kids may play on swings, slides, and a miniature railroad.
4. Picnicing at the Gampaha Botanical Garden
Among the best picnic spots in Colombo is Gampaha Botanical Garden. A wide variety of trees, plants, butterflies, dragonflies, birds, and animals call this historic site, which dates back to 1876, home. The area is home to a magnificent rubber tree that reaches an astounding height of 40 meters.
Each portion of the park has a unique set of gardens and landscape elements. A center pond, two flower gardens, a medicinal garden, a glass house, and many more are all part of the grounds. Cruises on the scenic Attanagalu Oya River or strolls on the lovely bridge spanning the river are available to visitors at this site.
5. Galle Face Green in Colombo
Your picnic journey in Sri Lanka can begin in the lively metropolis of Colombo, where Galle Face Green stands out as an ideal spot for a fun outdoor get-together. Galle Face Green is a perfect spot to unwind, snack on some delicious food, and take in the breathtaking view of the blue waves lapping at the shoreline on the island. See world-famous attractions like the Old Parliament Building and the Galle Face Hotel up close and personal. A lively meeting spot for residents, the park comes alive as the day winds down. You will see people playing cricket, flying kites, and spending quality time with their family, among other things.
As the sun goes down, Galle Face Green comes to life with a plethora of street vendors selling a wide array of foods. Enjoy a variety of mouth-watering regional specialties. Be sure to stop by the kiosks to sample the tangy faluda, the sweet kottu roti, and the crunchy isso wade delicacies.
6. The top picnic spots in Sri Lanka: Gregory Lake
Sir William Gregory oversaw the construction of the beautiful man-made lake known as Lake Gregory in Sri Lanka in 1873. It is the ideal setting for a leisurely picnic. Renting a bike or taking a trip in a swan-shaped pedalo, speedboat, water scooter, or even a stallion ride are just a few of the ways that visitors may see the lake. Jet skiing and kayaking are among the water activities that are accessible. Exciting helicopter trips are available for individuals who want a view of the lake that no one else has. You will be amazed by the bird’s-eye perspective that these memorable events provide. It is necessary to make a reservation in advance.
Indulge your hunger at one of the many food stands or eateries on the site. This lovely environment makes it easy to get amazing shots. A trip to Gregory Lake is perfect if you need some time to yourself to relax and recharge.
7. Ella Gap, Ella
The breathtaking vistas! Ella is a charming little town in Sri Lanka’s stunning mountain range. In the middle of a patchwork of tea plantations, you may see hidden temples, waterfalls, and stunning vistas that spread out before you. View the magnificent southern plains in all their glory at Ella Gap, a scenic overlook that is sure to take your breath away.
If the weather is fine, you may be able to make out the gentle light of the Great Basses lighthouse on the southern shore. Ella Rock and Little Adam’s Peak provide a stunning backdrop, while Rawana Rock and a verdant forested ridge surround the gorgeous Ella Gap. Simply put, Ella Gap is truly one of the most breathtaking picnic places in Sri Lanka.
8. St. Clair’s Falls
St. Clair’s Falls is an impressive cascade in Sri Lanka’s Thalawakele region. People often call it the “Little Niagra of Sri Lanka.” In Sri Lanka, you’ll find two breathtaking waterfalls that combine to form St. Clair’s Falls. One of these, 80 meters high and called “Maha Ella” or “The Greater Fall,” is the first. Standing at 50 meters, the second one, “Kuda Ella,” or “The Lesser Fall,” is no less remarkable.
Tea plantations and verdant hills surround the waterfall. Stop at the picturesque St. Clair Tea Estate on your way to your picnic for a lovely cup of tea and stunning views. Those looking for day trip destinations in Sri Lanka can definitely check out the breathtaking St. Clair’s Falls.
9. Independence Square
Ponds, fountains, and the majestic Independence Memorial Hall surround the centrally located Independence Square in Colombo. Building Independence Square commemorates Sri Lanka’s independence from British colonial control. A monument to D.S. Senanayake, Sri Lanka’s first prime minister, is on the grounds. The Independence Memorial Museum, housed in the hall’s basement, provides an exhibition of Sri Lanka’s illustrious past.
A beautiful open park and a large field, once known as Torrington Square, make this location ideal for family picnics. Arcade Independence Square is a nearby retail mall with all its contemporary amenities. You may explore it after the picnic.
Plan your perfect picnic tour with our expert guidance
Sri Lanka is a fantastic vacation option for families, explorers, and wildlife enthusiasts because of its abundance of picnic areas. Experience the irresistible charm of this island country as you immerse yourself in its breathtaking scenery and many memorable experiences. We are proud to provide one-of-a-kind itineraries designed by professionals in the field of custom travel. Incorporate some of Sri Lanka’s most stunning picnic sites into your bespoke trip if you’re interested. Contact us for further details.
