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There is a tropical climate in Sri Lanka. It is hot and humid, with alternating rainy seasons and dry seasons that divide the island into two parts.
When the rains fall on the south-west coast, the north-east part of the island is spared. The temperature is around 28 degrees on an average. Irrespective of the month of the year, a part of the island always enjoys a beautiful climate in Sri Lanka at all times, without a jacket or sweater but of course with your swimsuit. Here are some tips on this climatic puzzle to help you prepare your itinerary.
From December to April: the climate in Sri Lanka is dry, and the most pleasant season in the Western and Southern coasts as well as in the mountains. The high season is relatively short and it is the best time to visit a large part of the country and its emblematic sites.
From May to September: the climate in Sri lanka is such that its called, “The Great Monsoon" season and it waters the western and the southern coast of the country, along with the mountainous area of the island. This is the best time to visit the East Coast Sri Lanka and enjoy the natural beaches of this well-preserved coastline.
From October to January: the climate in Sri Lanka at this time allows one to experience a "little monsoon" in the north-east region of the country. The rains became widespread during the months of October and November and the weather becomes very unstable over most of the island. This low tourist season ends with the arrival of December and Christmas holidays. It is advisable to book your trip well in advance for this period of peak season!
Best time to visit Sri Lanka - West Coast: from Negombo to Galle, the coast stretches and offers its best beaches to the travelers. From December to March, the high season is in full swing on this part of the island paradise. From a dip on Unawatuna Beach to the exquisite dinner in Galle Fort: Get thrilled by Sri Lanka!
Best time to visit Sri Lanka - South Coast: Apart from the rice fields and the wildlife, the Southern part of the country offers charming beaches such as Mirissa or Tangalle. The sea is very calm during the months of February-March. This period also coincides with the turtle nesting season. It is also a good time to go on a safari in Yala or Udawalawe National Parks.
Best time to visit Sri Lanka - The mountainous region: as soon as there is a relief, the weather is even more unstable. The best season to explore the area is between December and April. The nights are little cold in Nuwara Eliya! The city is stormed in April during the Sinhala and Tamil New Year because the sky is clear and sunny and the temperatures are less than that in the plain. Try to climb the Adam's Peak between December and April, avoiding altogether the monsoon for this kind of excursion!
Best time to visit Sri Lanka - Ancient cities: the Cultural Triangle enjoys a dry season from December to March. The visits are always more pleasant early in the morning as you avoid the crowd and the hot weather of the afternoon.
Best time to visit Sri Lanka - North and East: The northern region is very hot and arid from the month of April. When the dry season ends on the Southwest coast, it is the time to enjoy the pristine beaches of Trincomalee, Pasikuda and Arugam Bay; ideal for family summer holidays!
Avoid the months of October-November and May-June, if you do not have an umbrella! The climate in Sri lanka is very humid and wet, but, trips during monsoon periods also have their advantages in terms of price, crowd and sunlight.
Remember that even though it rains almost every day, it does not rain all day.
