When is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?

Visiting Sri Lanka in April

April brings the start of the southwest monsoon, so the best place to be is in the north of the country, Cultural Triangle or on the eastern coast. The south remains warm and sunny, but showers increase and the seas aren't so calm. April 14 is Sinhalese and Tamil New Year.

Events & Festivals

• Marine life (November to April): Head to the south coast during these months to try spotting many dolphin species, turtles, tuna, and even flying fish. You may also see blue, sperm, fin and Bryde's whales on a whale watching trip.

Visiting Sri Lanka in May - June

Whilst the south is humid and hot, the central hills are cooler but experience showers through May and June. The north and east is much more pleasant. In May, the Vesak Poya celebrates Buddha’s birth, enlightenment and death.

Visiting Sri Lanka in July

As the school vacations begin, it's a good time to explore the cultural cities and wildlife of the north as well as the beautiful stretches of beach on the east coast. It's important to plan in advance to ensure we can secure your first choice accommodation.

Events & Festivals

• Kandy Perahera (July or August): This is a fun spectacle, with colorful processions and traditional dancing taking over the city to celebrate the famous Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha, housed at the Sri Dalada Maligawa.

Visiting Sri Lanka in August - September

Weather continues to be at its best in the north and east of Sri Lanka between August and September. The Kandy Perahera is an elaborate festival and procession that celebrates the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha. The music, singing and dancing brings everyone together annually either in July or August, on the full moon 'Poya' day. 

Events & Festivals

• Kandy Perahera (July or August): This is a fun spectacle, with colorful processions and traditional dancing taking over the city to celebrate the famous Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha, housed at the Sri Dalada Maligawa.

Visiting Sri Lanka in October - November

October and November continue to be warm and sunny all across Sri Lanka, but between monsoons the weather is much less predictable and showers can occur frequently. However, it really does vary from year to year, so it's impossible to forecast.

Events & Festivals

• Marine life (November to April): Head to the south coast during these months to try spotting many dolphin species, turtles, tuna, and even flying fish. You may also see blue, sperm, fin and Bryde's whales on a whale watching trip.

Visiting Sri Lanka in December

Whilst the eastern coast and north starts to experience more rain, the south and west is beautifully warm and dry. Christmas and New Year are very popular times to travel, so it's important to plan well in advance.

Events & Festivals

• Marine life (November to April): Head to the south coast during these months to try spotting many dolphin species, turtles, tuna, and even flying fish. You may also see blue, sperm, fin and Bryde's whales on a whale watching trip.