Best time to visit Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka Weather
Sri Lanka's Seasons
Sri Lanka is a year-round tropical paradise, blessed with sunshine and diverse experiences throughout the seasons. The island’s unique weather patterns are shaped by two distinct monsoons, allowing travellers to explore different regions at any time of year.
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​From May to September, the southwest monsoon brings rain to the southern and western coasts, while the north and east remain warm and dry. This makes it the perfect season to enjoy beach escapes in Trincomalee or Arugam Bay, ideal for swimming, surfing, and relaxing under clear skies.
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Between December and March, the northeast monsoon moves in, refreshing the eastern and northern regions. During this period, the southwest coast shines, offering ideal conditions to explore Sri Lanka’s luxury beach resorts in Bentota, Unawatuna, or Mirissa. These months are also perfect for tailor-made holidays combining the coast with scenic hill country escapes.​​
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While Sri Lanka’s climate has become more unpredictable in recent years, every region offers something special no matter the season.
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December to March - Sri Lanka’s west, south, and hill country. ​
February to August - wildlife enthusiasts should visit dry zones like Yala and Udawalawe
April to September - East coast is ideal
May to September -Cultural and archaeological sites are best explored
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First Inter-Monsoon Season
(March – April)
Characterized with thunderstorm-type rain, particularly during the afternoon or evening. During this period shows the South-western sector at the hill country receiving rainfall.
Second Inter-Monsoon Season
(October – November)
Marked by frequent afternoon and evening thunderstorms. Strong winds and widespread rain, sometimes causing floods and landslides. Rainfall is more evenly distributed across the country, with the highest amounts in the Southwestern slopes.
South West-Monsoon Season
(May – September)
Windy conditions brings relief from the earlier season's warmth. Rainfall occurs mainly in the Southwestern region, with the heaviest rains in mid-elevation western slopes. Rainfall decreases toward higher elevations and the coast, while the Northern and South eastern regions receive the least rain.
North East-Monsoon Season
(December - February)
Cool, dry winds create pleasant weather with sunny days and cool nights, though mornings can be quite cold. Rainfall is highest in the Northern and Eastern slopes of the hill country and the Knuckles/Rangala range, while the Western coastal areas receive the least.
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