The biggest astronomical wonder of this year will happen on the 14th of November. On this day the moon will be the closest to earth since January 1948 - a supermoon that will appear 14% bigger and 30% brighter than an average full moon. 

We decided to make a list of places for you to hang out, embrace and enjoy the day. A lot has happened this year - from Trump winning the election, Pokémon fans running around and Dicaprio winning an Oscar, Bob Dylan winning the Nobel Prize in Literature, Phelps and Bolt retiring to the UK leaving the EU (Brexit). It’s time to reflect on our lives. And what other day is better than one with a super moon! 

For all you dreamers, star gazers and even those who might be cynical about the entire thing, here’s the list so you can gather with your friends, loved ones or even by yourself and watch the supermoon whilst reflecting on your lives. 

Around Colombo (for all the lazy ones out there who have a busy schedule or can’t take the long weekend off) 

Galle Face Green, munching on isso vadei 

We are aware of the fact that it’s crowded as a beehive, but if you walk further down towards the old Lighthouse Galley, you will come across a not so large archaic square. A perfect spot to watch the supermoon with your loved ones. 

Beach and moonlight strolls 

Taking a moonlight stroll with your significant other is an old gesture of romance. We can all assume that gathering around to watch the supermoon will be more romantic since the moon will appear 14% larger than the average full moon. An ideal day to take your significant other on a moonlight stroll! 

Viharamahadevi Park and ice cream cones 

This does seem like a mainstream place for couples. But we can all agree that it’s not as crowded. Imagine walking from the entrance towards the museum and watching the supermoon. It will be astounding and breathtaking whilst the reflection of the moon on the pond might leave you mesmerised. 

Rooftops and drinks 

There's no place better than a rooftop to chill during a supermoon. It might be a restaurant where you can go on a fancy date or your own house or it can be the rooftop of your work place. Whichever you choose, we can assure you, with the right company, your night will be amazing. 

Independence Square 

Even though the security is quite tight (contrary to the name of the place), you can gather around to gaze at the supermoon which is affiliated with werewolves and their transformation. 

Around the country (for all those wanderlust junkies out there and those who are lucky enough to charm their bosses into taking the long weekend off) 

Trincomalee & road tripping 

Located in the east coast of the island overlooking the Trincomalee bay is one of the hot spots for tourism. But the unsaid beauty is in the road trip that you take to Trincomalee. The sky is as clear as sparkling wine and the night sky is as black as ink. It will be more poetic when you take a road trip to Trincomalee with your friends on the day of the supermoon.

Meemure and remoteness 

Meemure is one of the most remote villages in Sri Lanka with a population of about 400. The 8.7 mile trail leading to the village is a rocky one. But this place is ideal for stargazing and for observing the supermoon on the 14th. You can sing with your bongo next to you and have a chill session with the supermoon up above you while the photographers in your gang roam around to capture the perfect picture of the sky. 

Ussangoda - Southern coast and Ramayana 

Despite the fact that many Sri Lankans are oblivious to the beauty of this place, this place is said to contain legendary stories around it. An ideal place to camp and build up stories while the supermoon rises above you. 

Rumassala and folklore 

Identified as ‘Buona Vista’ during the colonial era, Rumassala is located towards the southern part of the country. The reason why we are suggesting this place to watch the supermoon is due to the historical significance and the folklore behind it. Beautiful as it is, if you spend your long weekend here, you will be filled with wanderlust. 

Horton Plains, rain and camping gear 

You might be interrupted by rain and fog and humidity around you. But there is no other place like Horton Plains to camp and enjoy nature and the seeni sambol bread you pack. You have to take extra precaution if you are thinking about camping during the supermoon, and always make sure to stay up to date with the weather forecast. 

World’s End Lodge - Ohiya and a relaxing session 

In the district of Badulla you will find this resort of pure tranquility. With a glorious landscape you will be able to enjoy the supermoon with your camera and tripod on the side. The perfect spot to escape from your busy lives. 

Pitawala Pathana and the mini World’s End 

Commonly known as the grassland in Sri Lanka, it can be found in the Knuckles conservation forest. The road to Pitawala Pathana and Riverston is an adventurous yet dangerous one. You will find this place an amazing weekend getaway.

Photographs by Satheesh Rathnaraj