Weather in Sri Lanka
The weather in Sri Lanka is warm and tropical year-round, making it a great destination in any month — but knowing when and where to go can make your trip even better. The island has two monsoon seasons that affect different regions at different times, so while one coast is rainy, the other is sunny and dry. This guide explains the climate patterns, best times to visit each region, and what to pack for your holiday.
Sri Lanka’s Climate at a Glance
- Tropical Climate: Warm temperatures year-round, averaging 27–32°C (81–89°F) in coastal areas and 15–20°C (59–68°F) in the hill country.
- Two Monsoon Seasons: Affect different coasts at different times.
- Year-Round Travel: You can always find a sunny spot on the island.
Monsoon Seasons in Sri Lanka
Southwest Monsoon (Yala Season):
- When: May to September
- Affects: Southwest, west, and central hill country (Colombo, Galle, Bentota, Nuwara Eliya)
- Dry Season for: East coast and north
Northeast Monsoon (Maha Season):
- When: November to March
- Affects: East coast and north (Trincomalee, Batticaloa, Jaffna)
- Dry Season for: South and west coasts, hill country
Best Time to Visit by Region
- West & South Coasts + Hill Country: December to April
- East Coast & North: May to September
- Cultural Triangle (Sigiriya, Dambulla, Anuradhapura): Generally dry year-round, hottest from April to September
Monthly Weather in Sri Lanka
- January–March: Dry and sunny on the south/west coasts and hill country; occasional showers in the north/east.
- April: Hot across the island; good beach weather before the Yala monsoon starts.
- May–June: Yala monsoon brings rain to south/west; east coast beaches are sunny.
- July–August: Sunny on the east coast; occasional short showers in the south/west.
- September: Transition month — still good in the east; rains begin increasing in the southwest.
- October–November: Inter-monsoon period with showers possible across the island.
- December: South/west coasts and hill country are sunny; northeast coast gets monsoon rains.
What to Pack for Sri Lanka’s Weather
- Light, breathable clothing for warm temperatures
- A light jacket or sweater for cooler hill country nights
- Rain jacket or umbrella if visiting during monsoon season
- Swimwear and sun protection (hat, sunglasses, SPF) year-round
- Comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing and nature walks
Weather Tips for Travelers
- Always check the Sri Lanka Meteorological Department for updated forecasts: www.meteo.gov.lk
- If traveling during monsoon season, plan activities in dry regions for that time of year.
- Expect occasional short tropical showers even in dry season — they usually pass quickly.
What to Expect
- Sunny mornings and occasional afternoon showers in many regions.
- Cooler, fresher air in the hill country, especially at night.
- High humidity along the coasts — stay hydrated and wear light clothing.
FAQs
Is Sri Lanka hot all year?
Yes — coastal regions stay warm year-round; the hill country is cooler.
When is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?
It depends on the region: December–April for south/west coasts; May–September for east coast.
Does it rain all day during the monsoon?
No — showers are often heavy but short, with sunny periods in between.
Can I travel during monsoon season?
Yes — simply focus on the regions that are dry during your visit.
What is the coldest month in Sri Lanka?
January is coolest in the hill country, but still mild compared to many countries.
Contact Us
Customize This in Your Tour
We design itineraries around the best weather in Sri Lanka for your travel dates — whether you’re chasing sunny beaches, hiking in the hill country, or exploring ancient cities.
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