The Maldives have long been an image of paradise – collections of untouched islands in the Indian Ocean, honeymoons of celebrities, places where influencers pos in the infinity pool, and tourists spend small fortunes. With its villa, white sandy beaches and sparkling blue waters, going to the Maldives is not a cheap challenge. Unless you book a last-minute deal or catch a flash sale, typical trips are costly, especially during the peak season from November to February.
But what if there was a place packed with equally beautiful, tropical and luxury hotels? Sri Lanka may not appear as quickly as the Maldives when you think of it as a “beach paradise,” but it should definitely be. This tiny, tear-shaped island off the southeast coast of India is a stunning blend of coastal beauty, rich heritage, jungle-filled hills, wildlife sanctuaries and ancient cities. While the Maldives are designed around relaxation and luxury, Sri Lanka focuses a bit on how to explore it beyond beach days. And for many travelers, that adventurous touch often makes all the difference.
In the Maldives, depending on the resort and season, water villas can easily cost between £500 and £2,000 per night. Pay premiums for everything, including seaplane transfers, drinks, meals, and snorkeling-like excursions.
However, in Sri Lanka, you can stay at a boutique beachfront resort for less than £100 per night. Breakfast is often included, and in some areas, even luxury hotels rarely exceed £250. And it's not a budget experience – we talk about private pools, spa treatments, fine dining and ocean views.
Even activities in Sri Lanka are affordable. From temple visits and wildlife safaris to traditional cooking classes and treadmilling through the tea country, there is a wealth of experiences and is affordable.
The Maldives involves flying to Male and then transfers to the island via domestic flights, seaplanes or speedboats, but the Sri Lankan setup is much more traveler-friendly.
You can fly to Colombo and then travel around the country easily by car, train or domestic flight. Sri Lanka's transportation network is extensive, has good scenery and is surprisingly comfortable. This means you can see more with time and money – and the journey itself is often part of the experience.
Sri Lanka also offers feasts for the senses. From ancient Buddhist temples and colonial fort towns to vibrant markets, food stall culinary scenes and local festivals, the island is deeply touched by its culture, encouraging tourists to engage in it.
Explore the sacred city of Anuradhapura, climb the dramatic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, visit the Kandy Tooth Temple, and catch a traditional Kandian dance performance.
When it comes to wildlife, Sri Lanka raises antes on safaris and rainforest trekking, as the Maldives focuses on marine life. There, you can find elephants, leopards, sloths, bears, crocodiles and hundreds of bird species in national parks such as Yara, Udawarawe and Wilpatu.
Finally, on the southern and east coasts of Sri Lanka, there are some of Asia's most beautiful beaches, with soft golden sand, shaking palm trees and a laid back tropical atmosphere. Resorts in Tangar, Mirissa, Hiriketiya and Pasikuda offer everything from Slav hostels to five-star luxury, to villas with private pools and beach access.
Additionally, you can usually find good weather throughout the year somewhere on the island thanks to two monsoon seasons that affect different aspects of the island at different times. This means that you often get great deals during the months of your peak trips elsewhere.
