Sri Lanka is a tropical island with a pleasant weather all year around. This key fact helps choose the best time and Places to Visit in Sri Lanka by Month much easier.
The phrase “paradise on earth” frequently being used to promote Sri Lanka has managed to attract tourists from across the world including the UK, USA, Europe, Middle East and Asia. Sri Lankan tourism includes best places to explore from January to through out to December with notable historical events, cultural monuments, and biodiversity, as well as renowned spots that entice travellers.
What are the Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka by Month
Weather Overview
There are two distinct seasons in Sri Lanka, Yala season and Maha season. The temperature of Sri Lanka remains usually between 16 to 32 degree celsius. Therefore, Sri Lanka is counted among the beautiful tropical countries of the world and one of the best Places to Visit.
Continue reading to find out more about Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka by Month, When to Visit, Sri Lanka Itineraries by Month and much more.
Visiting Sri Lanka in Month of January
After New Year’s, you may decide to add the first trip to your list of vacations/holidays plans! Regardless of the weather, you can plan your holiday to Sri Lanka because you can nonetheless adjust your plans to go to the northeast or southwest of the country based on the conditions. Because it is a tropical environment, January in Sri Lanka is quite wet due to the east and north of the island.
Many travelers come to Sri Lanka in January because of the wonderful beach weather. January means that holidays in the north would be temporarily gone, and there’s a good probability that the south would see larger visitors. That’s why booking ahead is advised, especially for accommodation close to the island’s busiest beaches and best places to visit in January.
Best Places to visit in Sri Lanka in January:
- Colombo – Capital of Sri Lanka
- Adam’s peak | Sri Pada
- Yala National Park
- Galle
- Dambulla
Read our guide: Places to Visit in Sri Lanka in January
Sri Lanka in Month of February
February in Sri Lanka coincides with the busiest travel period. Since the northeast monsoon is ending, it is the perfect month to travel to the nation. The dry weather in the southwest is perfect for beach towns like Bentota, Mirissa, and Unawatuna. Let’s discover more about Sri Lanka in February, when there are plenty of people and pleasant weather.
In the month of February, Sri Lanka got independence in 1948. So, if you enter Sri Lanka, you can witness their celebration of independence and the Independence Square is one of the most popular places to visit in Colombo Sri Lanka.
Another significant holiday observed in February in Sri Lanka is called Navam Perahera, or Navam Full Moon Poya Day. One of the most active festivals in the country, this celebration is managed by Gangaramaya temple, situated near the peaceful Beira Lake. During the festival celebration, one may witness millions of people dressed in traditional attire, elephants strolling around in colorful costumes, kids holding posters, and men dancing and throwing fire.
What are the best places to visit in Sri Lanka in February?:
- Kandy
- Sri Dalada Maligawa also known as the Temple of the Tooth
- Dambulla Royal Cave Temple
- Little Adam’s Peak
- Sigiriya
- Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
Explore our guide: 11 Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka in February
Best Time To Visit Sri Lanka: March
According to the weather, March is the best time to visit Sri Lanka. During this month, the monsoon season is over and the temperature begins to rise. This rise in temperature provides beautiful sunlight and helps you to witness the bloom in the biodiversity of this island. In this month, tourists can enjoy a variety of activities and take adventures. As a travel and tour guide, here are the pros of choosing to visit Sri Lanka in March:
- Rich Biodiversity: Number one reason is its rich biodiversity. Blue whale, one of the majestic cetacea creatures resides in the water of this island. If you wish to see this creature, then you should visit the white sand beaches of Trincomalee city of Sri Lanka. This country has 26 national parks. You can visit them and see many endangered species which have been red listed by IUCN such as Sri Lankan sloth bears, slender loris and colobines.
- Weather: While most people may not think that nineteen days of rain a month is the finest bargain, in Sri Lanka, this is known as the dry season. This is the ideal time of year for leisurely hikes in the Sinharaja Forest, afternoons spent lounging at Arugam Bay, and tours of Colombo’s landmarks.
- Water activities: For those who enjoy windsurfing and surfing, March is also perfect. The southwest coast is home to the best waves this month, so you can hone your skills while traveling to a fascinating new nation.
- Festivals: You might also be able to see how Maha Shivaratri is celebrated. Held annually in February or March, this Hindu festival honors the deity Shiva and symbolizes the victory over ignorance and gloom. This particular occasion is marked by fasting, meditating, and prayer chant in remembrance of Shiva and Parvati’s marriage.
Fond out more about Top Rated Places to Visit in Sri Lanka in March
Sri Lanka in the Month of April
If you are looking for Best Places to Visiting in Sri Lanka by Month, April holds significant importance in the calendar and offers many things to do in Sri Lanka. Depending on the lucky times that astrologers determine, the entire island rejoices during this month, and Sri Lankan celebrations mark the start of the New Year. This typically occurs on April 13 and 14, but naturally, in accordance with Sinhala astrology.
Sri Lankans follow customs that are largely practiced at home. They also gather outside for occasions where activities inspired by their culture are played and neighbors and relatives get together for some sun-loving fun! By the way, we’re not talking about the beach here.
Things to Do in Sri Lanka in April!
- Local Beach Party:
Obviously, attending a local beach party is the first activity on anyone’s list of things to do in Sri Lanka in April. After all, what good is a trip to Sri Lanka in April if you can’t partake in one? With the growth of the party scene in Sri Lanka, social media has made it possible to see an astounding number of parties, raves, and music-inspired events. There’s no denying that Lankans enjoy singing and dancing!
The majority of these parties are held at well-known beach locations like Mount Lavinia and Dehiwala in the Colombo region. As one travels towards the south of the nation, Mirissa is another well-liked party destination that draws a lot of youthful residents and visitors.
- Pettah Market Shopping:
One of the places you would want to despise is Pettah Market, or simply Pettah in all its purity. However, Pettah is a place you just must visit if you’re looking for a deal on a plethora of different stores and booths, offering anything from food and drink to clothing and jewelry to electric equipment.
The neighborhood, known locally as “Pita Kotuwa,” is made up of a mix of high-end clothing boutiques and wholesale merchants. This open shopping district is essentially what the region is like, but with more hagglers and clogged roads. However, Pettah is iconic, so the sound should not be as horrible as it appears.
Explore more: Top 7 Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka in April 2025
Sri Lanka in the Month of May
May is regarded as Sri Lanka’s shoulder season because of the rainy weather that occurs in the most popular tourist spots in the South West of the country. There will probably be more travelers during this period because it is a public holiday in China, some areas of India, and several European countries.
May is a great month to travel around the country’s east and north due to the weather. The unspoiled beaches close to Trincomalee and the historical sites of Jaffna are great options for travelers seeking an experience off the usual road. Since it will be dry in May, it’s also an excellent time to visit:
- Cultural Triangle
- Kandy
- Sri Lanka’s Central Highlands
Visiting Sri Lanka in the Month of June
Beach days continue to be very much feasible in June, even with the monsoon. It is not uncommon to have several days without rain or only the occasional afternoon tropical shower (although the increased sea levels should be noted in some regions). The northern and central regions of the west coast, including Kalpitiya, usually continue to see dry weather, but the strong winds make it more of a kite-surfing time than a perfect time to lounge on the beach.
While the average temperature along the ocean is still warm (28 °C), the highlands can get quite cold, especially at night. On the south and south-west coasts of June, swimming in the sea is generally not advised. Red flags warning of potential dangers associated with sea bathing will be displayed by many hotels. Nevertheless, June usually brings pleasant weather, making outdoor and aquatic sports enjoyable.
In contrast, dry and sunny weather is predicted as beachgoers shift their focus to the east coast’s beaches in the north and along the coast. The Cultural Triangle, located further north, experiences minimal rainfall and hot heat (average temperature: 32 °C).
The best of Sri Lanka’s beaches in June:
- The south-west and the entire south coast: Monsoon season.
- The entire east coast: Peak season.
- The central and northern section of the west coast: Peak season.
Read more: Places to Visit in Sri Lanka in June
Sri Lanka in Month of July
The south-west monsoon affects the southwest region of the nation, which includes Galle and Colombo. Rainfall occurs in Sri Lanka’s southern and western regions, which increases the amount of cool spots to visit. Whereas the North-eastern areas are drier allowing access to warmer regions. The cultural triangle is drier, though, so you have more opportunities to view the sights and enjoy a dreamy lifestyle.
- Considering that there are alternating monsoons, planning beforehand is essential.
- In Trincomalee, get up and set sail on the catamaran.
- Ride through Yala National Park in a jeep.
- Try your hand at kitesurfing at Kalpitiya.
- Visit Nuwara Eliya Tea Estates to purchase tea.
- Snorkel to discover the marine creatures.
Explore more: Places to Visit in Sri Lanka in July
Sri Lanka in Month of August
With aquatic bodies all around it, Sri Lanka experiences year-round tropical weather. On the other hand, because of its close proximity to the Equator, the annual temperature remains relatively constant. However, April through September is ideal for seeing the best tourist spots in the East Coast, and December through March is the greatest time to visit the West Coast. However, the nation comes alive in August. You can take advantage of the greatest cities, beaches, and nightlife. Plan accordingly for your next vacation.
These are the top spots in Sri Lanka in August that, if you’re thinking about taking a vacation there, you really shouldn’t miss.
- Trincomalee Beaches
- Nuwara Eliya, Ella
- The Cultural Triangle
- Galle
- Arugam Bay
Bonus: See Kandy Perahera which is one of the most colourful festivals in the country.
Find out more about Places to Visit in Sri Lanka in August
Sri Lanka in Month of September
September is not so good. Early on, pleasant weather with highs in the upper 20s and sticky humidity is to be expected. By the end of the month, strong winds and torrential rain start. The east coast will have the clearest skies. However, more rainfall is predicted in the east toward the end of September.
Think strong gusts and heavy rain that tears through coastal areas, especially along the West Coast and in the middle of the country in Kandy, Sirigiya, and Ella. Because of the severe seas, swimming in the sea can be perilous, especially on the west and south coasts. Compared to other months, you should anticipate fewer visitors.
Therefore in Sri Lanka, September is a peaceful month. The monsoon rains in some of the island’s most well-liked beach regions discourage many guests, and the hordes of people who were there for their summer vacations have vanished. This is a terrific time to get benefit of off-season specials and discounts, and visit Sri Lanka’s less-touristed north and east coasts.
September rains may prevent visitors from seeing all of Sri Lanka’s tourism attractions. However, there are some that would still be fun to do in the rain.
- The Jaffna library is one of these locations. One of the nation’s most treasured assets is the library. At approximately 97,000 books and manuscripts, the Jaffna library is among the biggest in all of Asia.
- In addition to the library, tourists can visit Hindu and Buddhist temples on rainy days. Numerous temples, such the Buddha and Cave temples, allow tourists to do more than just pray there; they can also take in the intricate handcrafted decorations and gain greater insight into local customs and culture. Because the sea is just the right temperature for a beautiful beach day in September, tourists can visit beaches on days when it isn’t raining while visiting Sri Lanka.
- Additionally, students can go explore the mangroves in small boats and discover more about the lovely life that thrives within those dense mangroves.
- Visitors can visit the spice gardens and purchase pure spices. They can even sample the unique spices, such as tea, which is a highly favored regional treat in September when visiting Sri Lanka.
- In order to understand more about the history, customs, and culture of the nation under many monarchs and kingdoms, visitors will also tour museums and other important locations.
Find out more about Places to Visit in Sri Lanka in September
Sri Lanka in Month of October
There is a handoff between the monsoon seasons in October.So, it’s safe to anticipate some rain in October wherever in the nation, at any time. Average temperatures in the southwest linger around 28°C and gradually rise to 30°C elsewhere. Though some individuals love it, beaches may be silent places! Although it’s still not advised to swim, you can inquire about the most recent conditions by contacting hotel or beach flags.
Things to look for in Sri Lanka in October!
- Deepavali, festival of lights will undoubtedly brighten your travels.
- In Buddhism, the full moon day, or Poya day, has particular meaning and is celebrated as a holiday.
- Discover the soul of Sri Lankan culture and the art of vacationing in October.
- Take advantage of October’s ideal weather in Sri Lanka and remember to bring a piece of Sri Lanka with you.
Read our Popular guide: Best & Amazing Places to Visit in Sri Lanka in October
Sri Lanka in Month of November
Just getting started, but another rainy month! From the east and north coasts to the west and south, the pleasant weather alternates. The tea estates and mountainous areas surrounding Ella and Kandy will get rain at first, then clear skies by the end of the month. These places will have average temperatures between 27 and 28°C. By now, beaches in Mirissa, Unawatuna, and Hikkaduwa ought to receive a lot of sunshine. Average temps here will be 29-30°C.
With average temperatures of 27°C, there is a minor decrease in temperature and an increase in rainfall in the north and east in locations like Jaffa and Trincomalee. By the end of the month, there should be plenty of pleasant hiking weather, but be prepared for erratic circumstances.
See also: Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka in November
Sri Lanka in Month of December
The western and southern shores of Sri Lanka, as well as the gorgeous Sirigiya and the capital city of Colombo, are the best places to visit in Sri Lanka in December! At the breathtaking beaches that hug the south and southwest of the island, these are the ideal beach conditions. Days here should be sunny and dry. The expected temperature range is 28–29°C.
The number of tourists and crowds will increase, but that is to be expected given the excellent weather. On the other hand, because of the north-east monsoon, the north and east receive a lot of rain during this season. The southwest of Sri Lanka experiences the formal return of the dry season in December, so beach destinations like Negombo, Mirissa, and Bentota may expect clear sky and warm weather if you’re wanting to enjoy the sun.
December still brings a lot of rain to the hill area of Sri Lanka and the Cultural Triangle. But with the scenery at its most verdant, this can be a very lovely time of year to explore Ella and the nearby tea farms. While it can be more difficult to identify animals among the leaves, wildlife parks are still worth visiting during this time of year.
Worst Possible Time To Visit!
It’s reasonable to pose this question. October to early November, during the inter-monsoonal season, is the most variable time of year for the weather. However, there will be a negative correlation between the quantity of rainfall and the number of visitors.
This might be a good time to visit Sri Lanka if you enjoy less tourists, cheaper costs, and verdant scenery that abounds in nature. Simply be prepared for unpleasant, or at the very least, unexpected, weather.
Even though the “Teardrop of India” seems small on a map, this island is larger than Ireland and has a more varied topography. Together with the two separate monsoon seasons, Sri Lanka’s five towering mountain ranges contribute to the rapidly shifting weather patterns from one area to the next. Because of Sri Lanka’s variable weather, there’s always something interesting to discover!
Please contact us at any time or find us on Facebook if you have any concerns about our 15-day Sri Lanka tour, the weather, or anything else in general.
Custom Itinerary Service: 15-Day Sri Lanka Itinerary for January
Sri Lanka is beautiful in January, when there are less tourists and nice weather. This is a proposed itinerary that blends leisure, scenic views, and cultural exploration:
Days 1-2: Colombo
- Enter via Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), then make your way to your Colombo hotel.
- Visit the Buddhist complex known as Gangaramaya Temple.
- Investigate Fort Colombo’s Dutch colonial architecture.
- Take a Kelani River sunset sail.
Days 3-4: Sigiriya and Dambulla
- For sweeping views, visit Lion Rock in Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
- Admire the intricate Buddhist murals and statues that date from the ninth century that may be discovered in these caves.
- Grab some rice and curry and some real Sri Lankan curries at a nearby eatery.
Days 5-6: Kandy
- In the morning, see the Buddhist temple in Kandy, which houses the tooth relic of the Buddha.
- Pay a visit to Peradeniya Botanical Gardens.
- Get some delicious milk tea and string hoppers from a local tea shop.
Days 7-8: Nuwara Eliya
- Take a tour of a tea mill to discover how tea is made.
- Take a beautiful train trip to Nuwara Eliya.
- Explore World’s End, a striking cliff edge, and hike across the foggy grasslands of Horton grasslands National Park.
- Start with a steaming bowl of hot butter cuttlefish from Sri Lanka to warm up.
Days 9–10: Ella Ella Rock
- Climb to the summit for striking panoramas of the surrounding area.
- Little Adam’s Peak offers sweeping views of Ella and a shorter hiking route.
- Visit the lovely waterfall at Ravana Falls, which is encircled by thick vegetation.
- Eat some appams, or tasty pancakes from Sri Lanka, with coconut milk.
Days 11–12: National Park of Yala
- Go on a wildlife safari to see a range of bird species, elephants, and leopards.
- After your safari, savor a grilled meal outside beneath the stars.
Days 13-14: Mirissa
- Unwind while swimming and tanning on the lovely Mirissa beach.
- Take a whale watching excursion to see sperm and blue whales.
- At a restaurant by the shore, try the fresh fish.
Day 15: Departure
- Move to Bandaranaike International Airport to take your departure flight.
Conclusion
If you are planning to visit Sri Lanka, make sure to bring appropriate hiking attire and supportive footwear. Honor regional traditions and customs. Last but not least, do bargaining at local stores. In case you feel unsure about where to go or what to do? Then don’t worry! We are here to help you and we can customize Sri Lanka Itinerary by Month.