When to visit Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka has two monsoons, so there is always a dry coast.
Best months by region
| Region | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| South & west coast | Best | Best | Best | Fine | Wetter | Wetter | Wetter | Wetter | Wetter | Fine | Fine | Best |
| East coast | Wetter | Fine | Fine | Best | Best | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fine | Wetter | Wetter |
| Hills & culture | Best | Best | Best | Fine | Fine | Fine | Fine | Fine | Fine | Wetter | Wetter | Best |
Best = driest and sunniest. Fine = some showers. Wetter = more rain.
What to expect
- December to March: the south and west coasts and the hill country are at their best, and whale watching off Mirissa and Weligama runs roughly November to April. The east coast tends to be wetter from about November to January.
- April to September: the east coast (Trincomalee, Pasikudah, Arugam Bay) is at its best, and the drier weather suits the cultural sites and safaris. The south-west coast gets monsoon showers, so lean towards the east or inland.
- October and November: an in-between season with afternoon showers across much of the island, but quieter and good value. The south coast and hills improve from late November, so a flexible plan works well.
Tell us your month and we will plan around the weather. See our tours or the whale watching tour.
Ready to plan your trip?
Tell us your dates, group size and interests. We reply within one working day, and no payment is needed to send a request.