when to go to sri lanka
Sri Lanka has a tropical climate with high temperatures throughout the year. As a tropical destination there are both dry and wet seasons, although even during the wetter months there are usually plenty of perfect and hot sunny days, and rainfall usually comes in heavy showers which clear quickly. Being close to the equator the temperature in Sri Lanka remains fairly constant year-round. However, there is some variation, with the hottest month of the year being April and the coolest month of the year being September.
Dry Season
The dry season falls between January and March when sunshine and temperatures are at their best and rainfall is lowest.
Wet Season
The main southwest (“Yala”) monsoon brings rain to the west and southwest coasts and the hill country from April/May to September. The wettest months in this region are April to June. The less severe northeast (“Maha”) monsoon hits the east coast from November to March and is wettest from November to December. During October to November heavy rainfall and thunderstorms can occur anywhere across the island.
The variations in the weather patterns mean that the best time to visit Sri Lanka is influenced by where you want to go.
Winter
December to February
The north of the island and the eastern coast are pretty wet at this time of year, for example Jaffna or historic Batticaloa aren’t great at this time of year. The south coast, or beaches at Unawatuna Bay and Mirissa are great to visit in winter. It’s also a good time for whale watching off the southern coast, and to visit Kandy and the hill country, such as Horton Plains National Park, and climb Adam’s Peak. Christmas is a busy time so be sure to book ahead.
Spring
March to May
March still has lovely weather in the south and southwest but by April the rains start to appear. It’s still a good time for whale watching though off the south coast. This is a good time to visit the north of Sri Lanka, such as the vibrant city of Jaffna, the eastern coast and the Cultural Triangle. The south gets very humid in May, so for cooler temperatures head for the hill country.
Summer
June to August
The hill country is pleasant, with cooler temperatures, possibly with the odd rain shower. It’s the ideal time for the Jaffna peninsula in the north. It’s also a good time for the lovely beaches on the east coast.
Autumn
September to November
October to November falls between the monsoons and the weather is a little unpredictable across the island – wherever you are, there's a chance of rain. The northern and eastern sides still experience favourable weather conditions in September.
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