Whether you shoot for Instagram, YouTube, a client or yourself, Sri Lanka gives you a lot of variety within a few hours' travel. This guide is organized by region so you can build shoots around your route, with the best time of day for each spot and the etiquette that keeps you welcome.
// Plan around light
When to shoot where
- South and west coasts: clearest from November to April.
- East coast: best from about May to September, when the south gets the monsoon.
- Hill country: usually driest from January to April; always shoot early before the clouds roll in.
- Ancient cities: go at opening time for soft light, cooler air and fewer people.
// Hill country
The hill country
Mist, tea estates and railway curves. Go early: clouds often roll in by late morning. Base yourself in Ella or Nuwara Eliya.
// South coast
The south coast
Palms, surf and old forts, at their best from November to April. Explore Galle, Mirissa, Weligama and Hiriketiya.
// Ancient cities
The Cultural Triangle
Rock fortresses and ancient stupas, best photographed in early light. Base in Sigiriya or Anuradhapura.
// Cities and coasts
Colombo, the east and wildlife
From city sunsets to leopards. See Colombo, Trincomalee, Arugam Bay and Yala.
// Etiquette
Photograph respectfully
Never pose with your back to a Buddha statue or take selfies with one, cover shoulders and knees at temples, and remove shoes and hats where asked. Disrespecting Buddha images is taken seriously in Sri Lanka.
- Ask before portraits, and agree on any tip before you shoot at tourist spots.
- Stay off railway tracks at Nine Arches Bridge and elsewhere; trains run on them.
- Drones need permission. Temples, archaeological sites and national parks are restricted. Read our drone rules guide before you fly.
- Leave no trace at viewpoints and on hiking trails.
Planning a longer shoot? Our Kandy to Ella train guide covers the hill country rail route, and our SIM card guide helps you upload from the road.
In Sri Lanka, the early start is the shot.
Match the coast to the season, reach the hills before the clouds, and treat temples and people with respect. The island will give you more variety in a week than many countries do in a month.
// Common questions
Photography in Sri Lanka: frequently asked questions
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What is the best time of day to photograph Sri Lanka?
Early morning. Hill country views such as World's End and Lipton's Seat are often clouded in by late morning, and sunrise light is softest on the rock fortresses and beaches. Late afternoon is best for the west and south coasts.
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Can I photograph Buddha statues in Sri Lanka?
Photography is often allowed at temples, but never pose with your back to a Buddha statue or take selfies with one, and dress respectfully. Some sites restrict photography inside shrines, so follow the signs and ask if unsure.
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When is the best season for photography in Sri Lanka?
It depends on the region. The south and west coasts are clearest from November to April, the east coast from about May to September, and the hill country usually from January to April.
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Can I fly a drone at Sri Lanka's photography spots?
Only with Civil Aviation Authority approval, and many famous spots need extra permission or are no-fly zones, including temples, archaeological sites and national parks. Read our drone rules guide before you fly.
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Do I need to ask before photographing people in Sri Lanka?
Yes, ask first, especially for close portraits. Some fishermen and performers at popular spots expect a small tip for photos, so agree before you shoot.
