Sri Lanka Pearl of the Indian Ocean

The climate in Sri Lanka can be described as tropical, with high temperatures and high humidity. The average annual temperature is between 28 and 30°C (82 and 86°F), with the exception of the central highlands around Nuwara Eliya which experience much cooler temperatures.

Despite its small size and year-round warm climate, Sri Lanka is subject to two different monsoon seasons. So the perfect travel time depends strongly on which part of the island you want to visit.

The North and the East

On the north and east sides of the island, the rainy season runs from December to March. The best months for these parts of the country are therefore between May and October.

The Southwest & the Central Highlands

In the southwest and the central highlands, the rainy season is roughly between May and October. This part of the island with its popular beaches around Galle (including Unawatuna, Mirissa, Weligama, and Hikkaduwa) is the driest during the months of December and March.

Our Tip

Visit Sri Lanka between the two monsoon periods in April or in September if you want to visit the whole island. March and November are also good times to visit the country, as prices have not yet reached the high season level. You can also enjoy the weather on the popular beaches in the south, but avoid most of the crowds. March is also an ideal time for animal encounters, when the animals gather in the national parks at the waterholes and whales also pass the coast.