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Nine Arches Bridge Sri Lanka

The Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka

When is the best time to visit Sri Lanka? Sri Lanka is a destination gem, offering everything from beautiful beaches to lush rainforests, tea plantations, wildlife safaris, and ancient cultural sites. However, figuring out the best time to visit Sri Lanka can be tricky due to its two monsoon seasons, which impact different parts of the island at different times of the year. If you time it right, you’ll be rewarded with perfect weather, fewer crowds, and incredible experiences.

Let’s break down the best time to visit Sri Lanka based on its seasons, covering everything from the pros and cons of each season, the best places to go, the weather you can expect, and what kind of wildlife you’ll see. That way, you’ll know exactly when to plan your trip and what to expect when you get there.

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Table of Contents

Winter (December to February): Peak Season, Great Weather

Winter in Sri Lanka is when the island really shines, especially if you’re heading to the southern and western coasts or the central highlands. It’s also the busiest time for tourists, but for good reason – the weather is absolutely gorgeous, and it’s ideal for pretty much any activity, whether you’re lounging on a beach, trekking in the hills, or exploring ancient temples.

Pros
  • Great weather for beach vacations on the southwest coast.
  • Perfect time for visiting historical sites and exploring the countryside.
  • Festivals like Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and Duruthu Perahera add cultural vibrance.
  • December to April is prime whale-watching season off the southern coast.
Cons
  • Accommodation prices are higher because it’s peak season.
  • Tourist hotspots can get crowded.
  • The northeast of the country is still experiencing monsoon rains.
What’s the Weather Like?

Temperatures stay warm and comfortable, between 23°C and 30°C (73°F to 86°F). It’s cooler in the hill country (Kandy, Ella, Nuwara Eliya), where temperatures can drop to 10°C (50°F) at night. Rainfall is minimal in the southwest and central areas, but the northeast is still getting hit by the tail end of the Maha monsoon.

December:

  • West & South Coasts:
    • Average temperature: 27-30°C (81-86°F).
    • Rainfall: ~150 mm.
    • Humidity: ~75-80%.
  • Northeast:
    • Average temperature: 24-28°C (75-82°F).
    • Rainfall: ~200 mm.
    • Humidity: ~85%.

January:

  • West & South Coasts:
    • Average temperature: 27-31°C (81-88°F).
    • Rainfall: ~70 mm.
    • Humidity: ~75%.
  • Northeast:
    • Average temperature: 23-27°C (73-81°F).
    • Rainfall: ~100 mm.
    • Humidity: ~80%.

February:

  • West & South Coasts:
    • Average temperature: 28-32°C (82-90°F).
    • Rainfall: ~40 mm.
    • Humidity: ~70%.
  • Northeast:
    • Average temperature: 24-28°C (75-82°F).
    • Rainfall: ~50 mm.
    • Humidity: ~75%.
Sri Lanka's iconic Gal Vihara Reclining Buddha
Sri Lanka's iconic Gal Vihara Reclining Buddha
Best Places to Visit
  • Southwest Coast (Galle, Mirissa, Bentota): The beaches here are pristine, and the weather is perfect for sunbathing, surfing, or snorkelling. Galle offers a mix of beach and history with its charming Dutch colonial architecture.
  • Cultural Triangle (Sigiriya, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa): December through February is ideal for exploring Sri Lanka’s ancient temples and ruins without the sweltering heat.
  • Hill Country (Ella, Nuwara Eliya, Kandy): If you prefer cooler temperatures and scenic landscapes, the highlands are perfect for hiking and tea plantation tours.
Best Food to Try
  • Kottu Roti: A quintessential Sri Lankan street food, Kottu Roti is perfect during the winter months as it’s warm, filling, and full of flavour. It’s the perfect comfort food made from shredded roti and stir-fried with vegetables, meat, and spices.
  • Fish Ambul Thiyal: This tangy, sour fish curry from south Sri Lanka is a must-try, especially if you’re by the coast.
  • Sri Lankan Christmas Cake: If you’re there during Christmas, try the delicious Sri Lankan version of a Christmas fruit cake packed with tropical fruits and spices.
Wildlife to Spot
  • Whales in Mirissa: December to April is the peak time for whale-watching in southern Sri Lanka. You might spot blue whales, sperm whales, and dolphins.
  • Leopards and Elephants in Yala National Park: Winter is a great time for wildlife safaris in the south. Yala National Park offers a chance to see leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and a wide variety of birds.
Elephant, Yala National Park
Elephant, Yala National Park
Leopard, Yala National Park
Leopard, Yala National Park
Festivals and Events
  • Christmas and New Year’s Eve Celebrations: While Sri Lanka is predominantly Buddhist, there are grand celebrations for Christmas and New Year’s, particularly in Colombo and major tourist towns.
  • Thai Pongal (January): A Tamil harvest festival celebrated mostly in the north and east. It’s a thanksgiving celebration to the sun god, marked by cooking Pongal – a sweet rice dish with milk and jaggery.

Spring (March to May): Warm Weather, Fewer Crowds

As winter fades into spring, the weather stays warm, and while some regions begin to heat up, it’s still a great time to visit. Fewer tourists mean cheaper accommodation, and you’ll find the island less crowded, which is always a bonus.

Pros
  • Ideal for those looking to avoid peak season crowds and high prices.
  • The weather is warm, especially in March and April, before the monsoon season kicks in.
  • The Sinhala and Tamil New Year is celebrated in April, a great cultural experience.
Cons
  • Temperatures begin to rise, and it can get quite hot, especially in lowland areas.
  • By late May, the southwest monsoon starts, bringing rain to the southern and western regions.
  • Humidity increases, particularly along the coast.
What’s the Weather Like?

Daytime temperatures in coastal areas range from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F), with cooler temperatures in the hill country. Rainfall increases toward the end of May as the Yala monsoon arrives in the southwest, but March and April are mostly dry and warm.

March:

  • West & South Coasts:
    • Average temperature: 29-33°C (84-91°F).
    • Rainfall: ~70 mm.
    • Humidity: ~75%.
  • Central Highlands:
    • Average temperature: 20-25°C (68-77°F).
    • Rainfall: ~100 mm.
    • Humidity: ~80%.
  • Northeast: Average temperature: 26-30°C (79-86°F). Rainfall: ~30 mm. Humidity: ~70%.

April:

  • West & South Coasts:
    • Average temperature: 30-34°C (86-93°F).
    • Rainfall: ~130 mm.
    • Humidity: ~80%.
  • Central Highlands:
    • Average temperature: 21-26°C (70-79°F).
    • Rainfall: ~200 mm.
    • Humidity: ~85%.
  • Northeast:
    • Average temperature: 27-31°C (81-88°F).
    • Rainfall: ~60 mm.
    • Humidity: ~75%.

May:

  • West & South Coasts:
    • Average temperature: 29-32°C (84-90°F).
    • Rainfall: ~300 mm.
    • Humidity: ~85%.
  • Central Highlands:
    • Average temperature: 21-25°C (70-77°F).
    • Rainfall: ~250 mm.
    • Humidity: ~85%.
  • Northeast:
    • Average temperature: 27-32°C (81-90°F).
    • Rainfall: ~80 mm.
    • Humidity: ~80%.
We had permission to fly over the Nine Arch Bridge but not under the bridge due to the possible provocation of wasps.
Nine Arches Bridge, Ella
Best Places to Visit
  • Hill Country (Nuwara Eliya, Kandy, Ella): The hill country is still cool and comfortable during spring, perfect for hiking and exploring tea estates. With its colonial charm, Nuwara Eliya is a great place to escape the heat.
  • East Coast (Arugam Bay, Trincomalee, Passikudah): By late April, the east coast starts gearing up for its dry season, making it an excellent time to hit the beach or surf at Arugam Bay before the crowds arrive.
  • Cultural Triangle: The ancient cities and ruins of the Cultural Triangle are still hot but manageable, and you won’t face the sweltering heat that summer brings.
Best Food to Try
  • Kiribath (Milk Rice): A traditional dish eaten during the Sinhala and Tamil New Year. It’s made with rice cooked in coconut milk and is often served with spicy sambal or sweet treats like jaggery.
  • Coconut Roti: Paired with spicy sambal or dhal curry, coconut roti is a simple but delicious staple, especially popular in rural areas.
  • Aluwa: A traditional Sri Lankan sweet made with rice flour, coconut milk, and sugar, typically served during the New Year celebrations.
Wildlife to Spot
  • Elephants in Minneriya and Kaudulla National Park: March and April are prime months to see elephants in Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks as they gather around water sources.
  • Whales off the South Coast: Whale watching continues until April, but the focus shifts to the east coast around Trincomalee by May.

Festivals and Events

  • Sinhala and Tamil New Year (April): This is the biggest event of the year, marking the Solar New Year and celebrated across the island. Expect fireworks, traditional games, rituals, and feasts.
  • Vesak Festival (May): Vesak is a Buddhist festival celebrating the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha. The entire country is adorned with lanterns, lights, and colourful decorations, and many temples host special events.
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Summer (June to August): Head East for Beach Fun

Summer in Sri Lanka can be a bit tricky. The Yala monsoon hits the southwestern part of the island hard, but the east coast is in its prime season, offering sunshine, surf, and fewer tourists than the winter months.

Pros
  • The east coast is perfect for beach holidays, with dry weather and calm seas.
  • Arugam Bay is world-famous for surfing, with ideal waves from June to August.
  • The Kandy Esala Perahera, one of Sri Lanka’s biggest cultural festivals, takes place in July or August.
Cons
  • The southwest coast and the central highlands get heavy rain from the Yala monsoon.
  • Wildlife spotting can be more difficult in the southern national parks due to the rain.
  • Coastal areas in the southwest might not be great for water sports during the monsoon.
What’s the Weather Like?

On the east coast, you’ll find warm temperatures between 28°C and 32°C (82°F to 90°F) with dry, sunny days. Meanwhile, the southwest and central highlands experience heavy rainfall, making those areas less appealing for outdoor activities.

June:

  • West & South Coasts:
    • Average temperature: 28-30°C (82-86°F).
    • Rainfall: ~300 mm.
    • Humidity: ~85%.
  • Central Highlands:
    • Average temperature: 19-23°C (66-73°F).
    • Rainfall: ~400 mm.
    • Humidity: ~90%.
  • Northeast:
    • Average temperature: 29-33°C (84-91°F).
    • Rainfall: ~20 mm.
    • Humidity: ~70%.

July:

  • West & South Coasts:
    • Average temperature: 27-30°C (81-86°F).
    • Rainfall: ~250 mm.
    • Humidity: ~85%.
  • Central Highlands:
    • Average temperature: 18-22°C (64-72°F).
    • Rainfall: ~350 mm.
    • Humidity: ~90%.
  • Northeast:
    • Average temperature: 28-32°C (82-90°F).
    • Rainfall: ~10 mm.
    • Humidity: ~70%.

August:

  • West & South Coasts:
    • Average temperature: 28-31°C (82-88°F).
    • Rainfall: ~200 mm.
    • Humidity: ~80%.
  • Central Highlands:
    • Average temperature: 19-23°C (66-73°F).
    • Rainfall: ~250 mm.
    • Humidity: ~85%.
  • Northeast:
    • Average temperature: 29-33°C (84-91°F).
    • Rainfall: ~10 mm.
    • Humidity: ~70%.
Best Places to Visit
  • East Coast (Arugam Bay, Trincomalee, Passikudah): The East Coast is the place to be in summer. Arugam Bay is a top destination for surfers, while Trincomalee offers calm beaches and great snorkelling or diving.
  • Kandy: The Kandy Esala Perahera is a must-see event if you’re visiting during summer. This Buddhist festival features a grand procession of traditional dancers, and musicians.
  • Jaffna: If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, head to the northern city of Jaffna. It’s rich in Tamil culture, with beautiful temples and islands to explore.
Kandy From Lookout
Kandy From Lookout
Best Food to Try
  • Lamprais: A Dutch-influenced dish, Lamprais is a rice and curry meal steamed in banana leaves. It’s particularly comforting during the cooler days of the monsoon season.
  • Crab Curry: The eastern coastal towns are famous for their seafood, especially crab. Trincomalee is the best place to enjoy a spicy crab curry fresh from the ocean.
  • Mango Achcharu: A seasonal favourite, this spicy and tangy raw mango pickle is perfect during the hotter months.
Wildlife to Spot
  • Leopards in Wilpattu National Park: While Yala experiences heavy rains, Wilpattu National Park in the north is a quieter alternative for wildlife safaris. You might catch sight of leopards, elephants, and sloth bears.

Festivals and Events

  • Kandy Esala Perahera (July/August): One of the grandest Buddhist festivals in Sri Lanka, featuring traditional dancers, and torchbearers parading through the streets of Kandy. 
  • Poson Poya (June): A significant Buddhist festival commemorating the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka. The temples and streets are decorated, and religious rituals are observed.
  • Vel Festival (August): Celebrated in Colombo, this Hindu festival honours the war god Murugan with processions and rituals involving chariots and devotees.

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Autumn (September to November): Lush Landscapes, Quiet Escapes

Autumn in Sri Lanka is a bit of a mixed bag weather-wise, as the southwest monsoon ends and the northeast monsoon begins. It’s a quieter time to visit, with fewer tourists and vibrant green landscapes after the rains.

Pros
  • Fewer tourists, so it’s a great time to find deals on accommodation.
  • The landscapes are lush and green after the monsoon rains, perfect for photography and nature lovers.
  • The southwest coast begins to dry up by late November, marking the start of beach season.
Cons
  • The weather can be unpredictable, with showers across the island.
  • Roads in some rural areas might be difficult to navigate due to the rains.
  • Heavy rains hit the northern and eastern parts of the island as the Maha monsoon begins in October.
What’s the Weather Like?

Temperatures are warm, generally between 25°C and 30°C (77°F to 86°F), but the rain can be hit or miss depending on where you are. The northeast monsoon starts affecting the northern and eastern regions by late October, but the southwest begins to clear up in November.

September:

  • West & South Coasts:
    • Average temperature: 28-31°C (82-88°F).
    • Rainfall: ~250 mm.
    • Humidity: ~85%.
  • Central Highlands:
    • Average temperature: 19-24°C (66-75°F).
    • Rainfall: ~300 mm.
    • Humidity: ~90%.
  • Northeast:
    • Average temperature: 28-32°C (82-90°F).
    • Rainfall: ~30 mm.
    • Humidity: ~75%.

October:

  • West & South Coasts:
    • Average temperature: 27-30°C (81-86°F).
    • Rainfall: ~350 mm.
    • Humidity: ~85%.
  • Central Highlands:
    • Average temperature: 18-22°C (64-72°F).
    • Rainfall: ~400 mm.
    • Humidity: ~90%.
  • Northeast:
    • Average temperature: 27-31°C (81-88°F).
    • Rainfall: ~150 mm.
    • Humidity: ~80%.

November:

  • West & South Coasts:
    • Average temperature: 27-30°C (81-86°F).
    • Rainfall: ~300 mm.
    • Humidity: ~85%.
  • Central Highlands:
    • Average temperature: 18-23°C (64-73°F).
    • Rainfall: ~350 mm.
    • Humidity: ~90%.
  • Northeast:
    • Average temperature: 26-30°C (79-86°F).
    • Rainfall: ~250 mm.
    • Humidity: ~85%.
View from the train from Kandy to Ella
View from the train from Kandy to Ella
Best Places to Visit
  • Hill Country (Ella, Nuwara Eliya, Kandy): The hill country is still cool and scenic, with plenty of opportunities for hiking and tea plantation tours. The post-monsoon greenery makes the landscape even more beautiful.
  • Southwest Coast (Galle, Bentota, Hikkaduwa): The southwest beaches begin their dry season by late November. You can enjoy the beaches with fewer crowds and perfect weather.
  • Cultural Triangle: With fewer tourists around, this is a great time to explore ancient cities like Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Anuradhapura.
Best Food to Try
  • Hoppers (Appa): A beloved Sri Lankan breakfast dish, hoppers are crispy, bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk. They are served with spicy sambal or a fried egg.
  • Jaggery and Curd: A traditional Sri Lankan dessert made with buffalo curd and kithul jaggery, which is a rich, dark palm sugar.
  • Jackfruit Curry: Jackfruit is in season during the rainy months, and Sri Lankan-style jackfruit curry, known as “polos,” is a deliciously spiced vegetarian option.
Wildlife to Spot
  • Leopards in Yala: Early autumn is still a good time for spotting leopards in Yala National Park, though the weather can be unpredictable. Safaris are less crowded than during peak season.
  • Birdwatching in Bundala National Park: As the rains bring life to the wetlands, autumn is prime time for birdwatchers. Bundala National Park is home to a variety of migratory and endemic bird species.
Leopard, Yala National Park
A leopard chilling out in Yala National Park
Festivals and Events
  • Deepavali (October/November): Known as the festival of lights, Deepavali is a Hindu celebration observed mainly in the north of Sri Lanka. It features beautiful light displays, fireworks, and festive meals.
  • Il Full Moon Poya (November): Another important Buddhist holiday, marking the return of Buddha to Sri Lanka after his enlightenment. Expect temples to be bustling with activity and prayer.

So, When’s the Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka?

When is the best time to visit Sri Lanka? The answer depends on what you’re after. For beach lovers, December to February is perfect for the southwest coast, while June to August is ideal for the east coast. Wildlife enthusiasts should visit southern national parks during the dry season (December to April). Spring and autumn are fantastic for quieter travel experiences, offering lush landscapes and fewer crowds.

Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, Sri Lanka offers something for everyone year-round. By timing your trip right, you’ll ensure you get the most out of this tropical paradise, no matter what kind of experience you’re after!

Picture of About the Author: Lisa Bundesen

About the Author: Lisa Bundesen

Hi, I’m Lisa, a retired chartered accountant. My husband, Darren, and I explore the world as much as possible. Staying fit is key to our adventures, from hiking the Inca Trail to scuba diving. We call Australia home but travel overseas often, always eager to discover new cultures, bustling cities, cuisines, nature and wildlife.

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The Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka
The Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka: A Complete Guide
The Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka: A Complete Guide

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