Escape the Ordinary: Explore These Top Islands in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is more than lush tea plantations and ancient temples, it’s also home to a stunning array of islands that offer raw beauty, cultural depth, and peaceful escapes. Islands in Sri Lanka

reveals a distinct side of this tropical paradise, from the wild horses of Delft Island to the soft sands of Kayts and the coral-rich waters around Kalpitiya.

12 Beautiful Islands in Sri Lanka Worth Exploring 

Whether you’re looking to snorkel, explore heritage villages, or just unwind by the sea, Sri Lanka’s islands offer experiences that are both authentic and unforgettable. Let’s dive into the hidden gems scattered around this island nation.

Also Read: How To Check Sri Lanka Visa Status In India?

1.Delft Island (Neduntheevu)

If you’re looking for one of the most offbeat Sri Lanka islands for tourists, Delft Island offers wild ponies, colonial ruins, and coral walls. It stands out on the Sri Lanka islands map for its raw, untamed charm. Yes, it’s open to the public and perfect for a peaceful, history-filled escape.

• Weather: Hot and dry most of the year, with temperatures ranging between 28°C and 35°C. Best visited between December and March.
• Location: Situated off the coast of Jaffna, Northern Sri Lanka. Accessible by boat from Kurikattuwan Jetty.
• Timings: Open daily; day visits recommended as overnight facilities are limited.
• Entry Fee: Free entry. Boat ride costs approximately ₹200–₹300 per person.

What to do: Explore colonial-era ruins, coral walls, and ancient Baobab trees. Spot wild ponies, a rare feature in Sri Lanka. Ideal for offbeat travelers looking for unique experiences on the Sri Lankan islands map.

Must read: How to Book a Visa Appointment for Sri Lanka

2. Mannar Island

Mannar Island is a scenic blend of lagoons, historic forts, and migratory birds. This is one of the most culturally significant locations among Sri Lanka’s islands for tourists. It’s accessible by road, open to the public, and ideal for exploring both nature and heritage.

• Weather: Hot and dry; average temperatures range from 30°C–34°C year-round. The best travel months are January to April.
• Location: Located in the northwest, connected to the mainland by a causeway. Reachable by road from Medawachchiya or Anuradhapura.
• Timings: Open all year. Most sites are accessible between 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
• Entry Fee: Free access. Local transport costs approximately ₹300–₹500 per day.

What to do: Visit the ancient Mannar Fort, Adam’s Bridge viewpoint, and birdwatch at Vankalai Sanctuary. A must-see if you’re exploring how many islands are in Sri Lanka with cultural and historical value.

3. Pigeon Island

Pigeon Island is a must-visit marine sanctuary marked clearly on every Sri Lanka island’s map. It’s one of the few islands in Sri Lanka open to the public for snorkeling among coral reefs and reef sharks. Ideal for nature lovers and underwater explorers seeking raw marine beauty.

• Weather: Tropical and humid; best snorkeling conditions between March and October. Avoid during monsoon season (Nov–Jan).
• Location: Located 1 km off Nilaveli Beach, Trincomalee. Reachable via a 10-minute boat ride.
• Timings: Open 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily. Marine park entry is controlled.
• Entry Fee: Approx. ₹500 per person; boat ride ₹1,000–₹1,500 round trip.

What to do: Snorkel in coral reefs, observe reef sharks and marine life, and enjoy white sand beaches. A top pick among Sri Lanka’s islands for marine adventure lovers.

Also Read: Sri Lanka Visa for United Kingdom Citizens

4. Nainativu Island

One of the most spiritual Sri Lanka for tourists, Nainativu Island offers both Buddhist and Hindu temple experiences. It’s fully open to the public and easily reached by boat from Jaffna. If you’re mapping out how many islands are in Sri Lanka with cultural depth, this one is essential.

• Weather: Hot with occasional sea breeze; the ideal travel season is December to March.
• Location: Off the coast of the Jaffna Peninsula. Access by boat from Kurikattuwan.
• Timings: Open daily from 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Early visits are best to avoid the heat.
• Entry Fee: Free entry. Boat ride ₹150–₹250 per person.

What to do: Visit Nagadeepa Purana Viharaya (Buddhist temple) and Nagapooshani Amman Kovil (Hindu temple). A spiritually significant stop for pilgrims and cultural tourists.

5. Velanai Island

Velanai Island is a calm and authentic northern destination marked on the Sri Lanka islands map. It’s ideal for travelers looking for low-key, culturally rich places that are open and accessible. While there’s no nightlife on the Sri Lanka islands here, the peaceful ambiance more than makes up for it.

• Weather: Warm and sunny throughout the year. Peak visiting months are January to April.
• Location: Near Kayts, in the Jaffna district. Connected via causeway to the mainland.
• Timings: Open all day; day visits recommended.
• Entry Fee: Free access. Local buses and tuk-tuks cost ₹100–₹300.

What to do: Explore beaches, rural villages, and local markets. Experience authentic Tamil culture and serene coastal life. One of the lesser-known yet peaceful Sri Lanka islands for tourists.

Also Read: Sri Lanka Visa Appeal for Indians

6. Baththalangunduwa Island

If you’re after camping, sunset views, and simplicity, Baththalangunduwa is one of the top hidden Sri Lanka islands for tourists. Open to the public, it offers rustic beach stays and boat access from Kalpitiya. It’s a reminder of how diverse and raw Sri Lanka’s island experiences can be.

• Weather: Tropical and windy, especially from December to April. Avoid during monsoon (May–October).
• Location: Located off the Kalpitiya coast. Boat access from Kalpitiya Jetty (2.5–3 hours).
• Timings: Day visits and overnight camping are available. Depart in the early morning.
• Entry Fee: Free access. Boat transfer approx. ₹1,000–₹1,500.

What to do: Camp under the stars, enjoy fresh seafood, and watch vibrant sunsets. Ideal for eco-tourists and backpackers seeking remote island getaways.

Must Read: Sri Lanka Visa Rejection for Indians

7. Pungudutivu Island

Pungudutivu Island is a serene cultural retreat, quietly featured on the Sri Lanka islands map near Jaffna. This island is open to the public and connected by a causeway, making it easy to explore. While nightlife is minimal, it’s perfect if you seek spiritual depth and quiet coastal life.

• Weather: Hot and humid, with a mild coastal breeze. Best time to visit: January–April.
• Location: Southwest of Jaffna, accessible via a series of causeways from the mainland.
• Timings: Open daily. Travel before sunset for safety and ease.
• Entry Fee: Free entry. Local transport approx. ₹100–₹200.

What to do: Visit ancient Hindu temples, quiet lagoons, and local fishing villages. Offers a peaceful, non-commercial island experience.

8. Katchatheevu Island

Katchatheevu Island is a small but significant island on the Sri Lanka islands map, known for the annual St. Anthony’s feast. While its access is restricted, it holds religious and cultural importance..

• Weather: Hot and dry most of the year, averaging 28–34°C. Best visited during the St. Anthony’s Festival in February.
• Location: Situated in the Palk Strait between India and Sri Lanka. Accessible only during special religious events.
• Timings: Open to pilgrims only during the annual St. Anthony’s feast. No daily public access.
• Entry Fee: No official fee. Pilgrimage trips are organized and often free.

What to do: Attend the St. Anthony’s Church festival, a major cross-border religious event. The island is politically significant and spiritually rich, but not generally open for tourism. It’s rarely accessible, yet it holds a unique place on Sri Lanka’s map.

Must Read: Sri Lanka Visa for USA Citizens

9. Madol Duwa

Madol Duwa is one of the most iconic Sri Lanka for tourists, thanks to its fame from local literature. Located in the Koggala Lake, it’s open to the public and perfect for eco-travelers or literature lovers. While not known for nightlife, it offers serene views and kayaking options.

• Weather: Warm and humid year-round. The ideal time to visit is from December to April.
• Location: Located in Koggala Lake, Southern Sri Lanka, near Galle. Reachable by a short boat ride.
• Timings: Open from 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Best visited during daylight hours.
• Entry Fee: Approx. ₹100–₹200 per person for boat transport.

What to do: Explore the island’s greenery, take a boat ride around Koggala Lake, and relive the tale from the classic Sri Lankan novel Madol Duwa. It’s one of the most culturally resonant Sri Lanka for tourists, especially for literature lovers.

10. Kirala Island

Kirala Island is a peaceful retreat rich in mangroves and birdlife, ideal for those exploring the Sri Lanka islands for tourists who value biodiversity. You won’t find nightlife here, but the island is fully open to the public and is perfect for quiet, nature-based getaways.

• Weather: Tropical climate; hot and humid with frequent rains from May to September.
• Location: Near the southern coast, in the Hambantota district. Accessible by road and boat, depending on the location.
• Timings: Open daily from sunrise to sunset.
• Entry Fee: Free to enter; boat rides cost ₹200–₹400 depending on location.

What to do: Go birdwatching, explore mangrove forests, or take a canoe ride. Perfect for eco-tourism and nature photography. While not known for nightlife on the Sri Lankan islands, its biodiversity makes it a peaceful retreat.

Must Read: Sri Lanka Visa for Italian Citizens

11. Kayts Island (Uruththirapuram)

Kayts Island is marked clearly on the Sri Lanka islands map, just west of Jaffna, and is known for its local culture and scenic coastline. It’s accessible by road and fully open to tourists. If you’re mapping out how many islands are in Sri Lanka that mix convenience with local charm, this is one to visit.

• Weather: Dry and hot climate with moderate breezes; temperatures range from 27°C to 34°C.
• Location: Connected to the Jaffna Peninsula via a causeway. Easily accessible by road.
• Timings: Open to the public 24/7; best visited from morning to evening.
• Entry Fee: Free entry. Local transport (tuk-tuk or bus) costs ₹100–₹300.

What to do: Visit old colonial structures, stroll along quiet beaches, and experience local Tamil culture. Kitts Island is among the more accessible and historically rich entries on the Sri Lanka islands map.

Also Read: Sri Lanka Visa for German Citizens

12. Karaitivu Island

Karaitivu Island is famous for Casuarina Beach, one of the calmest on the northern coast. It’s a popular stop for those exploring the Sri Lanka islands for tourists with easy access and natural beauty. While nightlife is minimal, it’s a great day-trip spot that’s open year-round.

• Weather: Warm and dry climate year-round. Best travel months: December to March.
• Location: West of Jaffna, connected by a causeway from the mainland.
• Timings: Open to the public at all times. Day trips are most common.
• Entry Fee: Free access. Transport within the island may cost ₹100–₹250.

What to do: Relax at Casuarina Beach, enjoy a picnic, or walk along the calm shores. Though not known for nightlife on the Sri Lankan islands, Karaitivu is peaceful and perfect for a laid-back beach experience.

Also Read: Honeymoon in Sri Lanka – Top Romantic Places & Experiences for Couples

Why Choose OneVasco?

OneVasco makes visa applications effortless. Our expert team manages the entire process, allowing you to focus on your journey. 

Enjoy stress-free travel with fast visa approvals.

• Expert and Personalized Support 
• Efficient and Hassle-Free Process 
• Real-Time Tracking and Updates 
• Transparent Communication 
• Trusted by Millions

FAQs

How many islands are there in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka has over 60 offshore islands, scattered mainly around the northern and northwestern coasts. These islands vary in size and are known for their unique wildlife, culture, and marine life.

What are the most famous islands in Sri Lanka?

Delft Island, Mannar Island, Kayts Island, and the Kalpitiya Islands are among the most famous. They offer history, wildlife, and snorkeling, and are easily accessible to tourists.

Are the Sri Lanka islands open to tourists?

Yes, many islands in Sri Lanka are open to tourists and accessible via ferries or guided tours. Some are inhabited and offer facilities, while others remain untouched and peaceful.

Are there any free islands to visit in Sri Lanka?

Yes, several islands like Crow Island, Delft Island, and Eluvaitivu can be visited for free. You only pay for transport, like ferry tickets or boat rides.

Which Sri Lanka is best for families?

Crow Island near Colombo is best for families, with safe walking paths, cycling trails, and eco-friendly activities. It’s easily reachable and ideal for a day trip with children.

What is the cost of staying in Sri Lanka?

Accommodation costs vary widely, from ₹1,500 per night on basic islands to ₹35,000+ on private luxury islands like Taprobane. Budget, mid-range, and premium options are available.

Which is the most luxurious island in Sri Lanka?

Taprobane Island is the most luxurious, featuring a private villa on a secluded island off Weligama. It caters to upscale travelers seeking privacy and exclusivity.