The focus of many a tropical daydream (and with very good reason), Sri Lanka is one of our favourite Indian Ocean idylls. The best news? There is sunshine to be found at almost any time of the year, you’ve just got to know when to go – and that’s where we come in. This handy guide will help you with everything you need to know about the best time to visit Sri Lanka, whether you’re looking for cooler days in the hills or blasting heat for the beach. A key fact to bear in mind are the ‘Yala’ and ‘Maha’ monsoons, which sweep through different parts of the island at different times, holding certain areas hostage. It might sound complicated but read on to find the ideal season for you and the very best time to visit Sri Lanka…
December to April
If you’re looking to escape the northern hemisphere for a bit of winter sun, Sri Lanka’s got you covered and it’s the ideal time to hit the beaches of the southern coast. Weligama is a surfer’s paradise, especially if you’re a beginner or still finding your feet as the waves are perfect for learning on and nature lovers will be enthralled by the whales that pass by the southern coast from December onwards. Be sure to pack your binoculars! Culture vultures will be perfectly at home wandering the historic streets of Galle, soaking up the culture and exploring the many art galleries, cafes and restaurants, and book lovers, make a visit in February to enjoy the beloved Galle Literary Festival. It’s also starting to warm up in the beautiful Hill Country around this time (especially as it gets closer to March) so it’s great for exploring the famous spots of Ella and Hatton.
The north and east of the island are best avoided in these months as the Maha monsoon is sweeping through and you’ll find it all a little bit…damp.
May to September
Keen to spot some wildlife and nose around Sri Lanka’s many historical hotspots? This is the season for you. Whilst the Yala monsoon sets to work on the south coast, the Maha has moved on leaving behind blissful sunshine in the east. The Cultural Triangle is an ideal place to head when the rains descend on the southern beaches, offering ample opportunity to explore Sigiriya and Anuradhapura. From there, head north east to explore Trincomalee, a hidden, white-sand haven that the crowds have yet to stumble upon. Not only are there beaches and culture galore, now is also the best time to channel your inner Attenborough and go in search of the wondrous beasties that roam the island. The lakes of Yala National Park are filled to the brim from the previous wet season, luring out all manner of creatures including the elusive leopard, as well as wild peacocks, sloth bears and crocodiles. And whilst Yala might be the most famous of the national parks, Gal Oya is the quietest and one of our favourites for exactly that reason. At this time of year, it enjoys blissful weather and excellent animal sightings so add it to your list.
We’d say you should stay away from the southern beaches at this time of year and certainly out of the water as the Yala monsoon can make sea conditions quite treacherous.
October and November
October is Sri Lanka’s most unpredictable month. Technically it’s outside the monsoon seasons but that doesn’t mean clear blue skies and instead, you’re likely to experience unwieldy showers across the island. The temperature will still be lovely (that’s guaranteed almost year round with Sri Lanka’s position so close to the equator), and for the most part the wet weather will just be showers allowing you to ride out the rain and carry on holidaying. In November it starts to warm up in preparation for peak season and can be a good time to visit when famous spots aren’t quite so busy.
