Want to go whale-watching? Sri Lanka is an island nation that offers the world’s unforgettable whale watching opportunities. You will get the best view of the whales. Sri Lanka has been a formal geographical option for the whales. The whales are not just available on one location in the island of Sri Lanka, but also on multiple locations with multiple species.
In this blog, we provide detailed information on the places to visit for whale watching, when to visit, and many other things. Stay connected.
What is the Whale’s Migratory Pattern?
As everyone knows, whales are not used to living in only one place; they often change places according to their comfort. That’s why it is said that whales are migratory creatures. They decide to live in a place according to some factors like water temperature, availability of food, and also depending on the species of the whales. In Sri Lanka, some seasons are perfect for whale watching and their different coasts. Species of Whales Available in Sri Lanka
As we know, Sri Lanka is well known for whale watching in the world. But do you know which species are available in Sri Lanka for watching? No, don’t worry, we will provide you with the list of top whales of Sri Lanka:
Blue Whales
The blue whale, is the largest whale species found in the waters around Sri Lanka. Scientifically named Balaenoptera musculus, is listed as a threatened species on the IUCN Red List. These incredible creatures can grow up to 98 feet long and weigh as much as 173 tons. They have a bluish-gray body with a yellowish underside often referred to as a “sulphur bottom.
Sperm Whale
The sperm whales are also attractive in looks and can be easily noticed due to its massive skull and rounded forehead, Sperm whale has the biggest brain out of all the living mamals. It has 18 to 26 teeth on each side of its lower jaw, which fit into sockets in the upper jaw making it the biggest toothed whale and the largest predator.
Bryde’s Whale
They are very beautiful whales, living in deep water in the ocean. They are a greyish whale with minimal black color The Bryde’s whale has between 40 and 70 throat pleats which allow it to open the mouth wide during feeding. Bryde’s Whales are usually found in Mirissa.
Omura’s Whale
Omura’s whale, aka the dwarf fin whale, is a type of rorqual that scientists still know very little about. These whales are usually seen alone or in pairs, and they mainly feed on krill and small fish that swim in groups
Spinner Dolphins
Spinner dolphins are small in nature and found along tropical waters.Spinner dolphins are well know for acrobatic discplays where they spin while jumping through mid air. They can be seen in kalpitiya
Key Information about the Best Season for Watching Whales in Sri Lanka
In Sri Lanka, multiple coasts offer whale watching. Let’s see:
Southern & South Western Coasts
In southern & south western areas, some cities include Mirissa, Galle, and Bentota, which offer whale watching.
Best Time to Visit: November to April
Peak Season: December to March
Species you will see: You will get the opportunity to see some beautiful and attractive species of whale, which are:
- Blue Whale
- Sperm Whales
- Bryde’s whale
- Dolphins
Top Locations: Three locations are the top locations that offer multiple whale watching opportunities:
- Mirissa: Famous for the blue whale sighting
- Galle: Perfect for a closer view of whales and deep water close to shore.
- Bentota: Offers a serene whale watching experience.
Eastern Coasts
On the Eastern coast, you will get a beautiful view of whales, if you get lost in the view. Let’s see their key info:
Best Time to Visit: March to August
Peak Seasons: May to July
Species you will see: you will get the chance to see the three species:
- Blue Whales
- Sperm whales
- Dolphins
Top Location: There are two top locations on the Eastern coasts:
- Trincomalee: An Attractive place for deep water whale watching
- Pigeon Island: A Comfortable whale watching facility.
Northwestern Coast
On the Northwestern coast, you will get the best-rated experience of whale watching compared to other coasts due to the calm and scenic view. Key info:
Best Time: November to March
Peak time: January to March
Specious, you will see: On these coasts, you will get the chance to see different species, including:
- Large pods of dolphins
- Blue Whales
- Sperm Whales
- Orcas
- Bryde’s whales
Top Location: Kalpitiya is the top location for whale watching on the northwestern coast, which offers you a peaceful environment in some seasons.
Things to Keep in Mind while Visiting for Whale Watching in Sri Lanka
Here we are providing some essential tips for the best visit to whale watching in Sri Lanka:
- Choose the best season to visit.
- Always hire the responsible operator.
- Start in the early morning.
- Keep the sickness medicine with you.
- Bring all the sea essentials like hats, glasses, clothes, and other items
- Always check the weather before going
Conclusion
Whale watching is not possible for everyone because they are not found everywhere and every time. There is always a specific time, place, and temperature that affects the presence of whales. As we know, most of the whales prefer to live in deep water, and it seems impossible to see them, but multiple places offer deep water whale watching opportunities, including Sri Lanka. You can grab the opportunity for deep-water whale watching. If you have never seen a whale, then you should see one once in your life because it is a very beautiful and attractive sight.
Q&A for the Spot Whales in Sri Lanka
Q. What is the duration of a Whale watching trip in Sri Lanka?
Answer: Whale watching takes only 3-4 hours a day. You can increase or decrease the duration of the trip according to you. If you start your trip early in the morning, then it will be beneficial for you to see the whales effectively.
Q. How to ensure the trip is Safe & Secure?
Answer: The trip is always secure & successful if you hire the right operator. He will help you on one trip. He always ensures eco-friendly whale watching.
Q. Can we enjoy diving with whales?
Answer: No, it is not allowed to dive with whales because it is not secure. You can just see the whales, they also do beautiful performances. As we know, whales can harm anyone if we go near them. Only expert people can go around them.
Q. Are Whales dangerous?
Answer: Generally, whales are not dangerous. In Sri Lanka, whales are usually calm and nonaggressive. They do not attack humans or show aggressive behaviour. It is only harmful if anyone goes closer and disturbs them. At that time, they can show their aggressiveness.
Call Us 
Whatsapp 