Sri Lanka and the Maldives are both located in South Asia and are known for their tropical climates and stunning beaches. Sri Lanka is an island country located off the southern coast of India, while the Maldives is a chain of islands located southwest of India. Both destinations attract tourists from all over the world and offer unique experiences for travelers. Both are great destinations, but the main aspect of choosing the right destination is to choose the appropriate Maldives package or Maldives honeymoon package. The same goes for Sri Lanka as well.

Highlights  Sri Lanka Maldives
Average Cost  Rs 50,000 Rs 75,000
Number of Airports  22 12
Best  time to Visit  December – April  Dry season (December – April)
Distance from India  54.8 km 2044 km 
Duration  1 hour 30 min 5 hours
Visa on Arrival  Yes yes

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a country with a rich history and culture. The country is known for its ancient Buddhist temples, stunning beaches, and lush green landscapes. The capital city of Colombo is a bustling metropolis, while the ancient city of Anuradhapura is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Sri Lanka is also home to many national parks, where you can see elephants, leopards, and other wildlife.

The Maldives

The Maldives is a chain of islands known for its crystal-clear waters, stunning coral reefs, and luxurious resorts. The country is made up of 26 atolls, each with its own unique beauty. The capital city of Male is a bustling hub, but most tourists head to one of the many private islands where they can relax and enjoy the tropical paradise.

Climate

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has two monsoon seasons, which means that the weather can be unpredictable. The southwest monsoon brings rain to the southwestern part of the country from May to September, while the northeast monsoon brings rain to the northeastern part of the country from December to February. The best time to visit Sri Lanka is from December to March, when the weather is dry and sunny.

The Maldives

The Maldives has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons. The dry season runs from December to April, while the wet season runs from May to November. The temperature in the Maldives is consistent throughout the year, with average temperatures ranging from 25-30°C (77-86°F).

Beaches and Water Activities

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has a long coastline with many beautiful beaches. Some of the best beaches in Sri Lanka include Unawatuna, Mirissa, and Bentota. The beaches in Sri Lanka are perfect for surfing, snorkeling, and diving. Sri Lanka is also home to many coral reefs and shipwrecks, making it a popular destination for diving enthusiasts.

The Maldives

The Maldives is known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning coral reefs. The beaches in the Maldives are some of the most beautiful in the world, with white sand and turquoise waters. The Maldives is the perfect destination for snorkeling, diving, and water sports such as jet skiing and parasailing.

Cost Differences 

The cost difference between Sri Lanka and the Maldives can vary depending on various factors such as the time of year, accommodations, activities, and transportation. Generally, the Maldives is considered to be more expensive than Sri Lanka due to its reputation for luxury resorts and private islands.

In the Maldives, the cost of accommodations can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per night. Activities such as diving and water sports can also add to the overall cost. On the other hand, Sri Lanka offers a wider range of accommodations at more affordable prices. Budget hotels and hostels are readily available, and activities such as surfing and exploring ancient temples can be done at a lower cost.

However, it’s important to note that the cost of travel can also vary depending on where you are coming from. Flights to the Maldives tend to be more expensive than flights to Sri Lanka, but there are often deals and promotions available for both destinations. Ultimately, it’s important to consider your budget and travel preferences when deciding between Sri Lanka and the Maldives.