Aerial view of a curved golden beach lined with palm trees beside turquoise sea
Trip planning

When is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka is affected by two monsoons at different times of year, which means one side of the island is often drier while the other is wetter. Weather varies from year to year, so treat this as a general guide.

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South and west coast, and the hills

The south-west monsoon generally brings rain to the west and south coasts and the hill country from around May to September. These areas are usually at their best from about December to April.

East coast and the north

The north-east monsoon generally affects the east and north from around October to January. The east coast is usually at its best from about May to September.

The in-between months

Inter-monsoon periods, roughly April and October to November, can bring afternoon thunderstorms across the island. Mornings are often still clear, and it can be a quieter time to travel.

Planning around the weather

Tell us when you hope to travel and we can suggest a route that makes the most of the season. Rain in the tropics is often short and heavy rather than all-day.

Make it your journey.

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