The short answer
- Mirissa
- November to April
- Trincomalee
- About May to October
- Main species
- Blue whales, sperm whales, dolphins
- Trip length
- About 3 to 5 hours, from early morning
Blue whales, the largest animals that have ever lived, feed off Sri Lanka's coasts close to shore. Because the two monsoons move the calm seas around the island, the whale watching follows: the south coast in the northern winter, the east coast in the northern summer.
When and where
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| Region | J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mirissasouth coast | Best | Best | Best | Best | Wet or difficult | Wet or difficult | Wet or difficult | Wet or difficult | Wet or difficult | Wet or difficult | Mixed | Best |
| Trincomaleeeast coast | Wet or difficult | Wet or difficult | Wet or difficult | Mixed | Best | Best | Best | Best | Best | Mixed | Wet or difficult | Wet or difficult |
| Kalpitiyawest coast, dolphins | Mixed | Best | Best | Best | Wet or difficult | Wet or difficult | Wet or difficult | Wet or difficult | Wet or difficult | Wet or difficult | Mixed | Mixed |
Mirissa or Trincomalee?
| Mirissa | Trincomalee | |
|---|---|---|
| Season | November to April | About May to October |
| Species | Blue whales most common; sperm and Bryde's whales; dolphins | Blue and sperm whales; occasional orcas |
| Boats | Many operators, busy in peak season | Fewer boats, quieter |
| Fits with | The south coast, Galle and Yala | The Cultural Triangle and east coast beaches |
Tips and responsible watching
- Trips leave around 6 to 7 am and last 3 to 5 hours. Prices start around US$50 per person.
- Choose a licensed operator that keeps its distance and limits boats around each whale. Larger boats are more stable and some have toilets.
- Take seasickness tablets beforehand if you need them; the swell can be big even on calm days.
- Sightings are likely in season but never guaranteed. Some operators offer a free second trip if you see nothing.
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Frequently asked questions
When is the best time for whale watching in Sri Lanka?
December to April in Mirissa, and about May to October in Trincomalee.
Are blue whales guaranteed in Mirissa?
No, but sightings are frequent in season. Mornings with calm seas are best.
Sources we checked
Sri Lanka month by month
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