Looking for something different, Sri Lanka could be the answer. How do you fancy introducing a little culture into your day? Imagine exchanging your vows on a beach surrounded by traditional Sri Lankan drummers, dancers & singers.

This teardrop shaped Island lays just off the point of India. With its beaches, temples and wildlife, Sri Lanka has something for everyone. You can simply enjoy the sunshine and laze on the beach or for those wanting to be more active, why not visit the many ancient ruins in the area, explore the lush landscape or the diverse selection of towns.

Travelling to Sri Lanka is best during the Winter months (Jan-March) worst times are between (Sept – December)

Although we have recommended the following recommended vaccinations, we strongly advise that you contact your GP/Doctor for further advice

• Hepatitis A
• Malaria
• Polio
• Tetanus
• Typhoid

It is required you spend a minimum of 4 working days before you wedding.

You will need to bring the following documents with you to Sri Lanka to obtain your wedding licence:

• Original birth certificates
• Valid UK passport with at least 6 months validity on your return
• Affidavit confirming your single status (not required if previously married)
• Decree absolute if previously married
• Change of name deed – if required
• Deed poll notice – if required
• Adoption papers – if required

The minimum age to marry in Sri Lanka is 18
You will receive your wedding certificate approx. 2/3 months after your wedding

You will be required also to have copies of all the above documents sent to us no later than 4 weeks before your departure

There are many extras available in most resorts and we have listed some examples and prices for guidance only.  The price for optional extras offered will vary from hotel to hotel or resort to resort and are payable in resort.  Price are subject to change locally without notice.

The thought of marrying in a different country can make couples apprehensive, what are expected of us, what vows are exchanged etc, so we have described some examples of the ceremonies that may be used during a traditional wedding celebration in Sri Lanka.  Depending on local traditions to the area and the people involved on your day, some of these may be included in your wedding ceremony.   We hope this will give you a feel for the exciting and exotic nature of your celebration.  The staff organising your wedding will be pleased to go into further detail if needed during your meeting at your hotel.

The decorated wedding location is called a ‘Poruwa’.  The Poruwa is a decorated marriage platform which is used for the Bride & Groom to stand in during the wedding ceremony.  In accordance with ancient Sinhala rites and customs, the platform `is prepared by covered with a clean white cloth and often placings such as rice, medicinal herbs, a coconut so some coins on it to bring blessings and prosperity to the couple.  On the corners of the Poruwa are decorated pots upon which oil lamps are lit, to give protection and to invoke blessings upon the couple by the Gods.

The traditonal Sri Lankan ceremony is often officiated by a ‘Gurunnanse’ or the Master Of Ceremonies.  The following are some of the ceremonies that may be conducted during the wedding.  While on the Poruwa you will often be asked to cast seven sets of Beetle leaves to the ground, which symbolises happiness, joy and good luck for seven generations to come.  The couple’s fingers are joined together and water is poured over the fingers to depict anointment of the union together.  The splitting of a coconut is the indication of the start of a new life together and indicated the blessing and prosperity to the marriage.

Lighting an oil lamp brings light to a new life.  If you have the Kandyan dancers & drummers playing at your wedding, the playing of a ‘Raban’ is to inform the public that a special occasion is taking place.

Beach weddings may not be possible for all the hotels in Sri Lanka as many of the ceremonies are performed in the grounds of the hotels.