Sri Lanka—an island paradise boasting stunning beaches, lush jungles, and rich culture—has become one of the top spots for couples looking to get married in an exotic, unforgettable setting. If you’re dreaming of a wedding by the beach or amidst tropical greenery, you might be wondering: How much does a wedding in Sri Lanka actually cost? 😅 Well, don’t worry—we’ve got all the details to help you plan your perfect destination wedding in Sri Lanka without any surprises!
In this guide, we’ll take you through the costs of getting married in Sri Lanka—from wedding venues to vendors, so you know exactly what to expect while planning your dream wedding in paradise. Let’s dive in and get ready for your magical day! 🌺
1. The Best Wedding Venues in Sri Lanka: Where Will You Say “I Do”? 🌊🌿
Sri Lanka is known for its variety of wedding venues, from breathtaking beaches to lush gardens and luxury resorts. Whether you’re after a serene beach ceremony or a grand hotel celebration, you’ll find the perfect spot.
Beach Weddings: Picture-Perfect Moments 🌅
Sri Lanka’s coastline is a wedding photographer’s dream. Imagine walking down the aisle on soft, golden sand, with turquoise waters gently crashing nearby. It doesn’t get more romantic than that! 💑
Top Beach Wedding Venues:
- AVANI Kalutara Resort: A charming resort on a private beach, offering a beach or garden wedding. Packages start around $2,000 USD, but can vary depending on your needs
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- Cinnamon Bey Beruwala: A luxury beachfront venue that offers both traditional and western-style ceremonies. Wedding packages range from $3,000 to $7,000 USD
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Resort Weddings: Ultimate Comfort & Elegance 🏨✨
For a more luxurious experience, Sri Lanka is home to some stunning resorts where you can say your vows with a view of the Indian Ocean or a lush tropical garden. Resorts like Jetwing Blue in Negombo are ideal for large weddings with up to 500 guests. Prices here generally range from $4,000 to $12,000 USD
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Want something more intimate? Smaller boutique hotels like The Fortress Resort & Spa offer more customized wedding packages for smaller groups.
2. Wedding Planner: Do You Really Need One? 🤔
If you’re planning a destination wedding in Sri Lanka, working with a local wedding planner is a great idea! 🌟 While it’s possible to plan everything yourself, a wedding planner will save you a lot of stress. They’ll take care of the nitty-gritty details like venue bookings, vendor coordination, and logistics, so you can focus on enjoying your big day. 🌸
Wedding Planner Costs: Expect to pay anywhere from $750 to $2,000 USD depending on the services they offer. A planner’s help is worth every penny, especially if you’re planning a big wedding or have specific requirements
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3. Vendors: From Photography to Catering 🍽️📸
Every wedding requires a few key vendors to make your dream day come true. In Sri Lanka, the cost of vendors can vary depending on your preferences and the scale of your wedding.
Photography & Videography: Capture the Magic 📷🎥
You’ll want to remember every detail of your special day, from the first kiss to the last dance. Professional wedding photography in Sri Lanka ranges from $1,000 to $3,000 USD for a full-day package. Videography, if added, can cost another $1,500 to $2,500 USD
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Need a photographer who knows Sri Lanka inside and out? Check out my portfolio for some dreamy wedding shots in tropical locations.
Catering: A Feast for Your Guests 🍤🍍
Sri Lankan weddings are known for their epic spreads! Expect delicious rice and curry, seafood, and tropical fruits that will wow your guests. Catering prices generally range from $30 to $100 USD per person, depending on the complexity of the menu and the number of guests
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Entertainment: Music to Your Ears 🎶🎉
Whether it’s live traditional music, a DJ, or a full band, Sri Lanka offers a range of entertainment options. A DJ will cost around $500 to $2,000 USD, while live bands can go for $1,000 to $4,000 USD, depending on the number of performers and their experience
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4. Legal Requirements: What You Need to Know 📝
Getting married in Sri Lanka as a foreign couple is relatively straightforward, but there are a few legal steps you need to follow. You’ll need to submit a marriage application and wait for a 14-day period before you can marry. Make sure to bring the right documents: passports, proof of single status, and translations if necessary.
The cost of the marriage license itself is around $50 to $100 USD, and there may be small additional costs for document translations and notarization
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5. What’s the Total Cost of a Wedding in Sri Lanka? 💰
So, how much should you expect to spend in total for a wedding in Sri Lanka? Let’s break it down:
- Budget Weddings: A small, intimate wedding with around 20 guests, basic services, and a modest venue will cost between $3,000 to $5,000 USD
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- Mid-Range Weddings: A larger wedding with around 50 guests, including professional photography, catering, and entertainment, will cost between $6,000 to $12,000 USD.
- Luxury Weddings: For an extravagant celebration with 100+ guests, a luxury resort, and a complete package, expect to pay between $15,000 to $30,000 USD
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6. Best Time to Get Married in Sri Lanka 🌞🌴
The best time to tie the knot in Sri Lanka is between November and April, when the weather is sunny and dry. If you’re dreaming of a beach wedding, this is the perfect window to avoid the rainy monsoon season that lasts from May to September
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Why Choose Sri Lanka for Your Wedding? 🌍
Sri Lanka isn’t just a place—it’s a magical experience that adds extra sparkle to your wedding day. With its perfect weather, stunning venues, and rich culture, Sri Lanka offers everything you need to create a wedding that’s uniquely yours. Whether you’re after a simple beach ceremony or a grand celebration at a five-star resort, this island paradise has it all.
As a destination wedding photographer, I specialize in capturing the essence of your wedding day, from intimate moments to big celebrations. Explore my portfolio for some inspiration and feel free to reach out through my contact page to discuss how I can make your wedding photos as magical as your love story.
Check out my photo packages and let’s make your dream wedding a reality!
Final Thoughts 🌟
Planning a wedding in Sri Lanka is an unforgettable journey that combines the beauty of nature with the magic of love. From choosing your venue to selecting your vendors, Sri Lanka offers the flexibility to create your perfect wedding day without the hefty price tag of other tropical destinations. With a little planning and some local expertise, you can have the wedding of your dreams in one of the most beautiful places in the world. 🌴💕
