It’s also affected by not one, but two monsoon seasons, so knowing the best time to visit Sri Lanka is definitely helpful. That’s where we come in, with this in-depth, month-by-month breakdown of Sri Lanka’s weather, as well as a seasonal guide to the Sri Lankan festivals that you should know about!

When is the Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka Weather in January

January in Sri Lanka is hot – 27°C in the capital, Colombo, sort of hot. The average temperature across the island is 31°C, and the sea itself has a temperature of 28°C. Pretty much the whole country is basking in sunshine, with high humidity to boot, though we’d say it’s a good time to visit Sri Lanka.

Head inland to Kandy for cooler temperatures; nearby Nuwara Eliya is 20°C, for example. It’s an area that sees a little rain too, even though the country is not yet in monsoon season (that’s later, from April to June).

Sri Lanka Weather in February

This is an excellent time of year to visit Sri Lanka in general. It’s between two different rainy seasons, so you can expect dry days and high temperatures – the average daily nationwide being 27°C, with highs hovering around the 31°C mark.

Humidity levels can be pretty high, but not so high that you’re going to be super uncomfortable. February is an awesome time of year to hit the beaches of Sri Lanka, like those at Negombo or Unawatuna, or explore the national parks, such as Yala National Park.

Sri Lanka Weather in March

A very popular time to go to Sri Lanka, March sees some pretty fantastic weather, we have to say. With nine hours of sunshine per day, it’s the last month before the rainy season starts – and it’s also the peak season for visitors. Humidity levels, however, begin to soar towards the end of the month as temperatures hit 30°C across the island. All in all, earlier in the month is one of the best times to visit Sri Lanka.

Another great month for hitting the beach, the sea is a pretty blissful 29°C. Kite surfing is good at this time of year, particularly on the northwest beaches of Kalpitiya. Want to escape the heat? Kandy is still pretty cool by comparison.

Sri Lanka Weather in April

The last month of “prime” tourist season, April is when Sri Lanka’s monsoon season starts, but it’s still a great time of year to visit Sri Lanka. Settling in towards the end of the month, rain increases and is pretty much a daily feature till June.

The first areas of Sri Lanka to see the increase in the rain are the southern and western coasts. Kandy gets temperatures around the mid-twenties and is prime for trekking: try out trails in the Knuckles Mountain Range. Most of April is generally pretty warm and sunny, with temperatures in the early 30s and around eight hours of sunshine per day.

Sri Lanka Weather in May

The monsoon season is here. It comes in from the Bay of Bengal and hits the west and south coast; these are the areas that will be affected first. However, there is still intermittent sunshine between the showers. Swimming in the sea in the affected areas is probably not a good idea.

On the other side of the mountains on the east coast, things are different; it’s about 29°C and mostly sunny, with a few showers that won’t last all day. Colombo, being in the southwest, will be pretty rainy, but hotel prices will be much lower at this time of year; it’s the best time to visit Sri Lanka if you like deals!

Sri Lanka Weather in June

The summer monsoon is still looming over the island. The south, west, and central tea country around Kandy see an increase in rainfall during June. If you’re in these regions, expect tropical downpours, usually in the afternoon.

Temperatures across Sri Lanka are about 28°C on average, but it will still be cooler up in the hills. It’s not all rain though. In the north and east on the opposite side of the island, days are dry and bright. Head to Nilaveli or the Arugam Bay area for days on the beach.

Sri Lanka Weather in July

At the start of July, the monsoon is still affecting the southern and western parts of Sri Lanka, but by the middle of the month, clearer days increase, and there will be less chance of rainfall.

Quick downpours are widespread during this time. However, temperatures for the whole of the island are, on average, 30°C. Northern and eastern areas, like the beachside locales of Passekudah and Trincomali, are suitable for beachgoers, with plenty of sunshine. Cheaper hotel rates are still in place across the island, too – useful if you’re on a budget.

Sri Lanka Weather in August

August is an awesome time to visit Sri Lanka. Room rates are still cheap, but it’s now much drier than the previous monsoon-influenced months. Even the south and western areas see a lot less rain and are now welcoming sunny days. In the northern “Cultural Triangle,” the temperatures are 32°C; there’s no rainfall and barely any wind.

Across the island nation, the temperature is around 28 to 30°C on average. August is full of sunshine and lands between the summer monsoon and the upcoming second monsoon (yes, that’s a thing), which is due in September.

Sri Lanka Weather in September

It’s time for another monsoon season to rear its head in September! About half the month, from the middle onwards, is rainy; in the north, you can even get tropical storms – think high winds and intense rain that rips through coastal areas.

Most of September is marked by high temperatures and high humidity, which can make it pretty uncomfortable. Swimming in the sea, especially on the south and west coasts, can be dangerous due to currents. Yala National Park is also closed in September. It’s no surprise that September gets fewer visitors than other months.

Sri Lanka Weather in October

The summer monsoon brought in bad weather from the southwest; now the northeast monsoon is bringing heavy downfalls in the north and east of Sri Lanka. It tends to affect more of the country than the summer monsoon, with high rainfall across the board; it’s the rainiest month for Colombo, for instance.

Temperatures are also still very high (around 30°C) with soaring humidity making it feel hotter. Swimming is still not recommended. Cyclones can occur in October too, which – if you hadn’t guessed already – is one of Sri Lanka’s wettest months, with 19 days of rainfall occurring.

Sri Lanka Weather in November

It’s still rainy. The north and east coast sees a lot of rain, but as November (the second wettest month of the year) continues, things do start to improve in certain parts of the country.

The southern coast sees better weather than much of the rest of the country; Kandy sees high rainfall, and so does the “Cultural Triangle.” In spite of the rain, the temperatures are still high, with the average being something like 29°C for most of the month. By the end of November, however, things start to improve as the high season for visitors inches closer.

Sri Lanka Weather in December

December is a good time of year to visit Sri Lanka, especially the west and southern coasts. The north and east are still getting lots of rainfall (thanks to that northeast monsoon still in play), but elsewhere, there’s lots of sunshine and dry days, as the beaches become a good idea once again.

Beaches such as Bentota and Galle are prime for beach days. Sea temperatures are 28°C, while the actual temperature hovers in the early thirties. Because of the sunny weather and the Holiday Season in December, tourists flock to Sri Lanka at this time of year. It’s a great month to visit Sri Lanka.

Festivals in Sri Lanka

Spring Festivals

In March, get prepared for Mendin Poya, a festival that marks Gautama Buddha’s return to his homeland to preach to his father. In the capital of Colombo, the festivities will be in full swing for this festival.

Avurudu (Sinhala & Tamil New Year) occurs either in March or April – it’s based on the lunar calendar. You can expect lots of games (one of which is basically a huge pillow fight), celebrations, firecrackers, and burning of sacred oils. It’s one of the biggest events in all of Sri Lanka; shops will be closed as people flock to the streets in new clothes to celebrate and eat traditional food. All singing, all dancing – it’s one of the top festivals to see in Sri Lanka.

The Vesak festival – or Poya (full moon festival) – in May is a celebration of Buddha’s life and death. There are a few different choices of where to see this festival, but if you’re in Colombo, you should head to Bhauddoloka Mawath – it’s the street to see this festival play out.

Summer Festivals

In early June, there’s Poson Poya, which commemorates the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka in the 3rd century BC by Arhantha Mahinda. Expect processions and celebrations, particularly in Anuradhapura, or in Mihintale, where thousands of pilgrims dressed in white climb up to the supposed meeting place of Mahinda and the King Devanampiyatissa. In terms of Poya, this one is second in importance only to Vesak.

For Sri Lanka’s Muslim population, there’s Id ul-Fitr. This June celebration marks the end of the fasting that was Ramadan, and people return to their hometowns for feasting and festivities.

In July (or August), there’s Adi-Vel, celebrating the Hindu god of war. At its best in Colombo and Jaffna, different versions of the chariot of Murugan (aka Skanda, the god of war), are paraded through the street.

Esala Perahera is a festival that takes place in August in the Kandy region. Honoring Kandy’s Sacred Tooth relic, this is a 10 to 15-day extravaganza of whip dances, processions, insane illuminations, and even lavishly adorned elephants.

Coinciding with Esala Perahera is the festival of Kataragama Esala; held in Kataragama, South Sri Lanka, this one is all about self-mutilation and skin-piercing, in what are pretty gruesome acts of penance to Hindu deities. This festival isn’t for you if you’re at all squeamish!

Fall Festivals

Though there aren’t too many fall festivals in Sri Lanka, it’s important to note that the Poya – full moon festivals – happen every single full moon. You’ve heard of the full moon parties of Thailand, right? Well, Poya aren’t those. Poya celebrates Uposatha, a monthly Buddhist observance of fasting and abstinence from meat and alcohol. Businesses often close on the Poya days.

Bottom line: festivities every 28 days. In fall, there’s Binara Poya (September), Vap Poya (October), and Il Poya (November).

For non-Poya events, there’s Id ul-Adha. It’s a three-day celebration for Muslims embarking on Hajj (pilgrimage to Mecca), and it takes place (mostly) in September. But it’s mainly an in-house, family affair.

Deepavali is the Hindu festival of light which takes place in October. As the name suggests, you’ll see a lot of oil lamps and other light sources (obviously), all in celebration of the return of Rama from rescuing Sita in the Hindu epic the Ramayana. Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, is honored on the third day of the festival.

Winter Festivals

In December, you can see the celebrations for Unduvap Poya. Another of Sri Lanka’s full moon festivals, this one commemorates Sangamitta, daughter of Emperor Ashoka, bringing back a cutting of the sacred bodhi tree (where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment) in 288 BC. You can still see the tree she brought back in Anuradhapura, thought to be one of the oldest trees planted by a human in the world. The celebrations bring out thousands of worshippers in their finery.

Also in December, there’s the Adam’s Peak Pilgrimage. Adam’s Peak, near Ella, is known for a mysterious “footprint” located at the top of the 7,359ft mountain. Buddhists say it’s Buddha’s footprint; Christian and Islamic tradition calls it Adam’s footprint (hence Adam’s Peak).

Speaking of Christians, you can expect Christmas decorations and seasonal feasting across Sri Lanka come December 25. Though mainly celebrated as a Christian holiday by the actual Christian population in Colombo, outside of the capital it is popular to “celebrate” – probably because of globalization and Hollywood.

Plan and Pack for Sri Lanka

Our Recommendation For Travel Insurance

We don’t travel without travel insurance, and neither should you. You never know what can happen in a foreign country, and it’s best to be prepared. HeyMondo offers excellent short and long-term travel insurance policies.

HeyMondo

Book a Tour

Sometimes it’s nice to let someone else do the work! 

Viator

Get Your Guide

Travel Water Bottle

Plastic pollution is a problem in Sri Lanka so it’s best not to contribute to the problem of buying plastic water bottles everywhere. However, we also love filtered water bottles in areas we’re uncertain about the water supply. Read more about our favorite water bottles for travel in this post.

Best Travel Waterbottles

Hiking Sandals

These were great to have! You’ll do a lot of walking around Sri Lanka in the extremely hot sun. Hiking sandals allow for your feet to breathe and they do not collect sand when trudging through the desert. You bet we’ve reviewed the best hiking sandals for travelers!

Teva’s and Chacos

Rainbow Sandals

Want to fit in in Sri Lanka? Get yourself some Rainbow brand sandals, seriously everyone around you will be wearing them – and for a good reason. They are uber comfortable once you break them in and last forever!

Rainbow Sandals

Travel Shoes

If you’re wondering what travel necessities to bring to Sri Lanka then good walking shoes should be your top concern.

Allbirds!

Adapter

Remember that Sri Lanka uses the Type D and G electrical outlet. Make sure you find a good universal adapter like the one I have to keep you charged. Otherwise, you may be paying for a cheap one once you land.

Get a Travel Adapter

Even if you are planning to travel around other parts of Sri Lanka the city is well worth at least a few days of exploration as there are many things to do in Colombo.

Things to do in Colombo, Sri Lanka

Explore & shop at the Pettah Market

Anyone particularly interested in seeing markets on their travels will want to remember this one. Of all the things to do in Colombo, this market is definitely a highlight. Look for the Khan Clock Tower, which marks the entrance to the market. Lively, bursting with sounds and colors, and a wonderful place to really feel part of the hustle and bustle of day-to-day Colombo life, Pettah Market is a must-visit.

This open market is located in the suburb of Pettah, east of the city center. Consisting of street after street of stalls, this is where the locals of the city come for their grocery shopping—everything from bagged spices and salted fish to unique produce like bitter melon gourds and wood apples. But aside from interesting food merchants, if you’re seeking more of a keepsake, you’ll find a rich assortment of gold jewelry sellers on Sea Street—one of the largest gold markets around.

Visit the Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple

This Buddhist temple is notable – not only for its mix of Thai, Chinese, Indian, and Sri Lankan design but for its particularly eclectic design and vibrancy; many of its walls are painted in bright colors. Gangaramaya is one of those places to see in Colombo that is good for everyone.

The temple is located on a plot of land not far from Beira Lake and comprises many of the individual elements that are essential to forming a place of Buddhist worship. The temple’s stupa – a place of meditation – sits behind an intricately carved stone mount, inside which is a white jade Buddha.

Further along is the Bodhiya – or the Bo Tree – the sacred fig tree under which Buddha achieved enlightenment. There is even an entire mini replica of Borobudur in Central Java, Indonesia, the world’s largest Buddhist temple. Plus, don’t miss the relic chamber, where an impressive collection of artifacts is housed.

Whether you’re here to pray, pay your respects, or just explore another culture’s impressive landmarks, you’re in for a fascinating visit.

Visit the National Museum of Colombo

As the largest museum in Sri Lanka, it’s pretty much a given that some of the most important historical artifacts are stored here. The museum itself, established in 1877 by the British governor at the time, was built in the Italian architectural style, giving it a vaguely European Renaissance appearance.

The museum’s displays are arranged across two floors. The ground floor contains exhibits from specific periods of Sri Lanka’s history, from the pre and protohistoric periods to the Kandy period, which lasted from the 15th to the 19th centuries.

The museum’s most attractive feature, however, is undoubtedly the country’s regalia across its history – most notably, the crown and throne of Kandyan monarchs. If you’re interested in Sri Lanka’s diverse history, the National Museum deserves a spot at the top of your list if you’re passing through Colombo.

See the Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque

This corner of the world is particularly diverse when it comes to spirituality, and Sri Lanka is much the same. As such, visiting temples and places of worship are among some of the most popular things to do in Colombo. Visitors can find many temples and other significant places of worship important in Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, and more.

The Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in the city and a popular place with travelers. When Arabic people began settling in what is now Colombo, being that it was located along a popular trade route, the Muslim population grew. But there was no mosque large enough for the growing Islam presence until the construction of Jami Ul-Alfar in 1908.

Especially noted for its unique design and coloring, the outside of the mosque includes many towers and minarets, and the entire exterior of the mosque is painted in a candy-like pattern of red and white. It is located in the neighborhood of Pettah, meaning you can easily pencil this into a day of shopping at the Pettah market.

Spend some time at Beira Lake

City centers are usually chock full of shops, restaurants, theatres, and cafés, but not many cities boast a lake in the middle of their city’s core. At the heart of Colombo lies Beira Lake, surrounded by many large businesses. Offering a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the city center makes Beira Lake a small oasis, and a good place to recharge your batteries during a busy day of exploring the city.

However, easily one of the most interesting attributes of the urban lake is what sits in its center. The above mentioned Gangaramaya Temple’s Seema Malaka rests calmly in the center of the lake. It is used primarily for meditative rest rather than prayer, making it an escape from the crowds.

Visit Wolvendaal Church

As a country once occupied by a strong Dutch presence, many vestiges of this influence remain – whether in cuisine, language, or architecture. Despite its architectural simplicity, Wolvendaal Church stands out among its surroundings, being constructed in a classic Doric style – a simple Ancient Greek style consisting of heavy columns with plain round tops.

As with many other popular spots worth seeing in Colombo, the church is located in the neighborhood of Pettah. It is one of the oldest Protestant churches in the country, dating as far back as 1757. Its ancient walls are lined with mural tablets and the floors with engraved tombstones plaques representing those buried within the church. The resting place of five Dutch Governors can also be found here.

Though the church is mainly a place of quiet reflection and prayer, it is a place of notable importance for Colombo’s history and a good way to press pause on a hectic day.

Fun fact: the church was thus named when European builders mistook the packs of jackals in the surrounding areas for wolves.

See the Temple of Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Kovil

The Temple of Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Kovil – often called Kapikaawatha Shivan Temple for short – is a Hindu temple located in the center of Colombo. It is the oldest Hindu temple in the city and worships the Hindu deities Ganesha and Shiva. As with many non-native practices still found in Sri Lanka today, the temple was built by Indian merchants who had settled in the region for trade purposes.

Due to its height, intricacy, and color, it is one of the most visually astounding structures in Colombo. The temple itself was constructed by architects and sculptors from India. Though the main sanctum remains dedicated to goddess Shiva, there are several smaller shrines that worship many other deities.

While this temple is open to the public, heads up: you’ll need to come prepared to wash your feet, remove your shoes, and stow your cameras away as no photographs are permitted inside the shrine.

Explore Galle Face Green

One of my all time favorite places to visit in Colombo is Galle Face Green. If you’ve been looking for something that still counts as sightseeing without needing to do too much moving around, we’ve got you covered. Galle Face Green is a long, 12-acre oceanside public park, forming a sort of promenade that follows the shoreline in the center of the city. Its size and location make it one of the more favored things to do in Colombo.

In its early days, it was used for a smorgasbord of outdoor spectator activities, like horse racing, cricket, golf, and rugby—all beginning in around 1820 once a British governor was appointed. Today, the area is popular for recreational activities; you can find other like-minded people keen to sit under the sun and enjoy the weather: vendors, kite-fliers, friends, families, picnickers, and more.

In particular, food vendors won’t disappoint; you will find all sorts of snacks from cooked shellfish to peppered mango. If you pass Nana’s, don’t keep walking; this beachside set up is considered some of the finest street food in the city.

Take a day trip to the Sigiriya rock formation

It would be a shame to visit Sri Lanka and not visit this formidable, prehistoric gem. The Sigiriya Rock Fortress is a must-see while in Sri Lanka. Though it’s a bit of a trek from Colombo (about a four-and-a-half hour drive, to be exact), it’s well worth a day trip to see this place, which is today a registered UNESCO Heritage Site.

Dating back from the first millennium, Sigiriya boasts an elaborate layout advanced for the time when it rose to prominence. It’s not just ruins – what remains are largely preserved pieces of what once was a place of worship and a fortress-like structure that even today is astounding. It was the site that an ancient king chose to become the new capital, and stands over 650 feet tall. Meaning “Lion Rock” in Sinhalese, it may come as no surprise that its gateway – built into the side of the enormous rock – was carved in the shape of a lion.

Along with its impressive size are ancient frescoes, a mirror wall once polished brightly enough to show the king’s reflection as he walked its length, and some of the oldest landscaped gardens in the world. You don’t need to be a history buff to enjoy what Sigiriya has to offer.

Visit Mount Lavinia Beach

Located just a short train ride down the coast from Colombo (about 20 minutes), Mount Lavinia Beach is a great spot to get out of the city and relax a little. The area is known as a beach retreat and is famous for its nightlife, but in the morning and afternoon becomes a relatively quiet spot to watch the sunrise and kick back with the locals.

The sunsets are worth seeing; before the sun has sunk beyond the horizon, be sure to snag a table at one of the restaurants that line the shore, as this makes for a wonderful vantage point for watching the stars come out at night.

If you’re looking for something a little more colorful, this is a highly liberal region and hosts the annual Gay Pride Parade as well as the Rainbow Kite Festival.

Spend the day at the Good Market

The Good Market is a weekly market that takes place Saturdays from 10 am to 8 pm and focuses on conscious offerings. Organizers believe in eco-friendly and socially responsible sellers, so this market appeals much more to the modern traveler, making it a top choice for unique things to do in Colombo.

Here, you can find everything from organic produce to artisans that sell fair trade handicrafts and eco-conscious healing and bodily products – along with everything in between. But it’s not just products that are offered in the market; live music, authentic cuisine, henna artists, and even portrait artists line the stalls to give this weekly market a vibe all its own.

For any vegan travelers struggling to find places in line with their beliefs (although vegan food can easily be found in Sri Lanka), this market has many options. There are multiple health food counters offer gluten-free and vegan options much like what you’d find in Western cruelty-free cafés.

Explore Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara

Located about seven miles outside of Colombo, Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara is a Buddhist temple built on the edge of the Kelaniya River. It is particularly sacred, and one of the most important Buddhist sites of worship in Sri Lanka, due to the spiritual belief that Buddha himself visited the location, resulting in the pacifying of an impending war.

The original temple was partly destroyed various times throughout history – whether from South Indian invaders or Portuguese forces during their occupancy – and the structure that stands today was erected in 1927 and still contains parts of the original building.

Full of rich carvings and impressions, beautiful architecture, and ancient and modern murals depicting life stories of the Buddha and the progression of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, this is a fascinating insight into Buddhist worship in the nation.

Viharamahadevi Park

Public parks are an often underrated class of things to do when traveling, but there’s something to be said for a lush open space where you can take some time, sit, picnic, and have a little me time.

Viharamahadevi Park is one such park. Located next to the Colombo National Museum, this is something you can tack on to your museum visit for maximum. The park was built during British rule, during which time it was named Victoria Park. As such, it was the primary place for first-class cricket matches until 1995.

Though lacking in activities, there is an amphitheater, fountains, and a few impressive Buddha statues, so it is a good spot to recharge your batteries before heading back into the city center.

Independence Memorial Hall

Of the many things to do in Colombo, it makes sense that many of them are in some way tied to Dutch, Portuguese, or British rule. For those interested in the historical and political past of Sri Lanka, the Independence Memorial Hall is a must-see.

Representing Sri Lanka’s independence from British rule, the hall is a national monument made of stone sitting upon a large stone foundation. The many pillars give this an almost temple-like feel.

It also houses the Independence Memorial Museum, which, through artwork, beautifully retells the story of Sri Lanka gaining its independence in 1948.

Watch a cricket match

Though Britain’s rule in the country ended before 1950, many influences of British culture still remain. In particular, the game of cricket is still widely played; catching a match or two while you’re exploring the city is a great way to really feel like a local.

There is an official website where you can purchase tickets, but if you really want the full experience, you can watch the match from a bar or café. In particular, the Australian-owned Cricket Club Café is dedicated to providing the full experience; they even have an impressive collection of antique cricket equipment.

Visa

Most visitors to Sri Lanka will need a visa. Visas should be sorted before arrival and can be done online here. The Electronic Visa costs $35 which can be paid via credit card. It only took us about an hour to receive our visa via email once we applied.

Where to Stay in Colombo

Cinnamon Grand Colombo

By far the best hotels in all of Colombo. We stayed here three nights and absolutely LOVED our stay with Cinnamon. Rooms were spacious and comfortable and the staff are absolutely delightful. We especially enjoyed the full service cafe in the lobby and the sushi on the buffet. Cinnamon Hotels have properties all over Sri Lanka so if you are traveling the country they are a great and affordable option!

Plan Your Travels to Colombo

• Need Transportation? See the best ways to get around Asia here. 
• Get to Sri Lanka: Sri Lankan Airlines operates out of Colombo and is connected all over the world. We flew them from Colombo to The Maldives and had a fantastic experience.
• Travel Insurance: We don’t travel without travel insurance and neither should you. You never know what can happen while traveling so it’s best to be prepared. HeyMondo provides excellent short-term and long-term travel insurance plans. 
• Water: The water in Sri Lanka is not drinkable.
• Adapter: Make sure you find a good universal adapter like the one I have to keep you charged. Otherwise, you may struggle to find one once you land.

We were invited to Sri Lanka as part of #TBCAsia with Cinnamon Hotels. All thoughts and opinions remain our own. We can’t wait to return to Sri Lanka!