Sri Lanka is becoming increasingly popular among couples from India and elsewhere who wish to have a dreamy wedding photoshoot.
This remarkable island nation is famous for its soft, sandy beaches, outstanding hospitality services, colonial buildings, beautiful tea gardens, and Sri Lanka’s multicultural society, making it an exquisite and economical substitute for standard wedding locations.
As one of the top wedding planning firms coordinating functions in multiple Indian states and abroad, we constantly get the question, What is the approximate amount of money a couple should budget for a wedding in Sri Lanka?
This island paradise is for couples who want glamour and beauty for their wedding photos, so I am bringing to you in this article a concise Sri Lanka wedding cost breakdown.
Why Choose Sri Lanka for Your Destination Wedding
Sri Lanka is a blend of culture, nature, and luxury all in one. If it’s a sunset beach wedding you envision, or a heritage villa ceremony, or perhaps a lush garden celebration, Sri Lanka has stunning backdrops for every theme.
Travel costs for Indian couples, as compared to Europe or the Caribbean, make Sri Lanka a highly desirable wedding destination. Its proximity and favourable cultural roots are added benefits.
Typical Cost of a Destination Wedding in Sri Lanka
Here is a detailed analysis of the expenses of a wedding in Sri Lanka, categorised by budget:
Budget-Friendly Weddings
Estimated Range: ₹15 lakhs onwards
Tailored perfectly for couples having an intimate gathering of 30-50 guests for 2-3 days.
What’s Usually Included
- Venue at a boutique hotel, small villa, or beachside guesthouse
- Local Sri Lankan or fusion cuisine buffet
- Basic floral decor and lighting
- Photography and music setup
- Wedding officiant or celebrant
- Assistance with ceremony planning and guest coordination
This option is ideal for a peaceful and personal celebration without heavy customisation or large-scale arrangements.
Mid-Range Weddings
Estimated Range: ₹30 lakhs onwards
Uses for celebrations with a guest list of 30-50 guests for 2-3 days. Mid-range weddings strike the best balance between fashion and function, style and cost, as the service offerings and options available are more refined.
What’s Usually Included
- Venue at a 4-star resort, heritage mansion or scenic garden
- Multi-cuisine catering with live counters
- Professional photography and videography
- Designer-level floral decor and event lighting
- Entertainment options like traditional Sri Lankan dancers or musicians
- Bridal makeup and styling services
- Event planning support, including mehendi or sangeet setup
This range allows for a memorable celebration with cultural richness and modern flair.
Luxury Weddings
Estimated Range: ₹75 lakhs Onwards.
Designed for couples who want a lavish celebration with 30-50 guests for 2-3 days, multiple events, and premium services.
What’s Usually Included
- Venue at high-end resorts like Shangri-La Hambantota, Cape Weligama, Amangalla or Anantara Peace Haven
- Full property or villa buyouts for exclusive use
- Gourmet food menus with Indian and international cuisines
- Custom decor with floral installations, chandeliers, lounges, and themed setups
- Fireworks, live bands, celebrity artists or international DJs
- Luxury guest experiences, including spa days, safaris, or cultural tours
- Coordination of all logistics from airport transfers to return gifts
- On-site wedding planner and team for complete event management
Luxury weddings in Sri Lanka offer world-class experiences with better value compared to destinations like Bali or Thailand.
Other Important Costs to Consider
Even with a flexible budget, here are a few essential add-ons that couples should plan for:
Travel and Accommodation
Flights from India to Colombo or Mattala airports are affordable, but group bookings and accommodation blocks should be arranged in advance. Many couples choose to subsidise guest stays or offer welcome hampers.
Legal Documentation
Marriage registration for Indian or foreign nationals in Sri Lanka requires valid documentation. Hiring a local legal coordinator typically costs between ₹25,000 to ₹50,000.
Wedding Planning Services
Hiring a professional wedding planner, whether based in India or Sri Lanka, helps ensure seamless execution. Planning fees typically range from 10% to 20% of the total budget, depending on the size and complexity of the wedding.
Best Time for a Wedding in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka has two monsoon seasons, so timing your wedding correctly is important:
- West and South Coast (Galle, Bentota, Colombo): The best time is from November to April
- East Coast (Trincomalee, Pasikudah): Best time is May to September
This makes Sri Lanka a year-round destination if you choose the right coast.
Planning a Wedding in Sri Lanka?
Let us help you craft the perfect destination wedding in Sri Lanka that fits your vision and budget. Connect with our team today for a customised proposal.
