Sri Lanka Vs Maldives: The Differences & Similarities Between The Two Jewels Of Indian Ocean!

Surrounded by impeccable beauty, the Maldives and Sri Lanka are two of the most popular tropical destinations in the world. Offering two distinct geographic, cultural and economic conditions, both of the destinations are seen sharing similar lifestyles in past and present. The two neighboring countries are both surrounded by water and render a true sense of beauty that is difficult to ignore. Serving as the ideal destination for a relaxing getaway, Maldives and Sri Lanka is the perfect escape from the chaos of the city and its bustling crowd. Although they offer a similar lifestyle, they are still different in their own ways. Let us compare Sri Lanks vs Maldives and see how they differ.

Natural Landscape

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Although both countries are tropical, however, the landscape of Maldives is typically composed of lagoons along with beautiful beaches. The pristine blue beaches are dominated by breadfruit trees and coconut palms. The Maldivian beaches are picture-perfect surrounded with white sand, shallow turquoise waters, palm trees, and tropical fish under the pristine beaches. Rendering blue landscapes everywhere the eyes reach, the country offers the perfect romantic getaway for couples.

An island nestled on the Indian Ocean; Sri Lanka is situated on the southeast of the southernmost tip of the country. The country takes you through the picturesque landscape surrounded by crystal clear beaches, ancient historic ruins, and the natural beauty of the legendary temples. Sri Lanka is a lot more diverse as compared to the Maldives when it comes to its landscapes, nature, flora, fauna, and architecture. Celebrating a multitude of cultural traditions and customs, Sri Lanka is the perfect place to experience the urban center along with the best of nature.

Best Time To Visit Sri Lanka Vs Maldives

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The climate of Sri Lanka is mainly tropical and comprises a distinctively dry and wet season. The average temperature usually ranges from 28-32 degrees Celsius that might differ from one season to the other. The areas surrounding the coastline usually remain cool as a result of serene cool breeze from the ocean. The months of April and August experience the warmest months, whereas December and January are the coolest months. Hence, the best time to visit is during winter that includes the months of November to February.

The Maldives, on the other hand, offers a year-round tropical climate which is rather hot. The country experiences two distinct monsoons, the southwest that is experienced from the months of May to October along with the northeast that takes place from November to April. The southwest usually brings more rain and wind from June to July. While the hottest months are March, April, and May, where the temperature rises to 30 or 31 degrees Celsius, January is the coldest month experienced in the country.

Duration

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The Maldives can be ideally explored for a duration of 4 to 5 days. Unless you are into specific activities that demand time such as deep-sea fishing and diving, Maldives is a perfect short stay as compared to a long one.
Sri Lanka tour itinerary will be ideal for 6 nights and 7 days. The country and its beauty can be rightly explored within this period.

Must Read: 28 Best Islands In Maldives For Honeymoon To Have A Secluded Vacation With Your Bae

Currency

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The currency of Maldives is Maldivian Rufiyaa. On your trip to the tropical island, you would need the local currency, especially when you are visiting the local shops and using local services in the surroundings.

On the other hand, the currency of Sri Lanka entails is the Sri Lanka Rupee. The currency that Central Bank Of Sri Lanka issues is useful for shopping in the local shops and places.

Suggested Read: 27 Best Beaches In Maldives For A Relaxing Time With Your Partner

Budget

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In the Maldives, per day budget can be as little as INR 3,500 a day. You can expect to spend around INR 2,100 a day in a private room, along with INR 700 a day on several activities. There are ways to go even cheaper with the help of affordable budget exploration solutions.

In Sri Lanka, you can expect a daily budget of INR 2100-3500 per person on drinks, food, accommodation, and transport. The basis of this cost includes staying in homestays, guesthouses, going to local restaurants or in your accommodation.

Suggested Read: 4 Best Resorts in Katunayake For A Fulfilling Experience In Sri Lanka

Visa

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For traveling to the Maldives, you need a valid passport in addition to an onward/return ticket in addition to sufficient funds is important for entry. A visitor visa is valid for a period of 30 days and is rightly issued post-arrival. Travelers can visit the Republic of the Maldives, Department of Emigration and Immigration for availing the most recent visa information.

Before visiting Sri Lanka, you need to acquire a 30-day visa. You need to follow the application process while paying using a debit or credit card for your e-Visa. You can print the visa confirmation once it has been approved.

Suggested Read: 3 Top Restaurants in Katunayake With The Best Food In Sri Lanka

Places To Visit Sri Lanka Vs Maldives

Offering a number of breathtaking places, both Maldives and Sri Lanka are a traveler’s paradise. Let us explore a few of the most popular places to visit in both Maldives and Sri Lanka.

Maldives

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Here is a list of all the places that one can visit on their trip to the Maldives.

COMO Cocoa Island: Amongst the several islands, COMO Cocoa is one of the most popular sought after places to visit on the island of Maldives. Housing a varied number of resorts, the water villas present on the island offers a mesmerizing experience. Surrounded with white sand, the island offers top-notch activities, restaurants and relaxation opportunities.
Baros Island: A traveler looking for a place away from the bustling crowd, Varos Island is a popular island situated amidst sun-kissed beaches and luxury resorts. Infamous for the natural elegance and pristine corals, Baros Island offers a number of luxury amenities.
Male: The capital of the country offers beautifully lit buildings, bars, restaurants and special other tourist attractions that will take more than a day to explore. Offering a number of sightseeing places, Male is a must-visit.

Suggested Read: Maldives Honeymoon: An Exquisite Guide For Your Romantic Escapade

Sri Lanka

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Sri Lanka offers a plethora of places that one can visit. Here is a list of all the top spots that one should not miss out on!

Sigiriya: A must visit place in Sri Lanka; Sigiriya is an ancient city that is built on a steep slope and is topped by a plateau, as high as 190 meters. Popularly known as Lion’s Rock, the plateau oversees jungles underneath. The site offers gardens, ponds, and beautiful mountains.
Galle: One of the most popular attractions since the 17th century, Galle was originally a fort built by the Dutch colonists. The fort renders a beautiful architectural style and overlooks the majestic Indian Ocean.
Kandy: The second-largest city in the country, Kandy is the eminent gateway to Central Highlands along with tropical plantations growing tea and rubber. Home to Tooth Relic temple, the place offers one of the most scenic views of the country.

Suggested Read: 5 Things To Do In Moratuwa In Winter To Soak In THe Sun In Sri Lanka!

Shopping Sri Lanka Vs Maldives

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At the Maldives, travelers usually are seen flocking around Male to shop craft products, jewelry, handmade t-shirts, and a few more items. Some of the popular market places in Male are Male Local Market, Le Cute, Centro Mall, Island Bazaar, Majeedhee Magu and so on.

Offering a wide array of shopping places, Sri Lanka is popular for its gems, tea, and batik along with intricate handicrafts. Some of the most popular items among travelers include leather products, handloom fabrics. Jewelry, ceramics and reproduction antiques. A few of the popular places to shop are Bentota, Beruwela, Colombo, and Galle and so on.

Further Read: 15 Exciting Water Sports In Maldives For Your Adrenaline Fix

We hope that the article offers you a clear idea about the similarities and the differences offered by the two countries, Sri Lanka vs Maldives. Known for their beauty and charm, the tropical destinations offer a unique flavor of their own. We assure you a fulfilling experience while either on your tour to Sri Lanka or trip to Maldives , both of which emancipate an impeccable beauty.

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Astha Maheshwari