Climate in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka's tropical climate features distinct wet and dry seasons, though temperatures remain consistently hot and humid throughout the year. The weather in Sri Lanka is affected by two separate monsoon systems.

The southwest of the island is affected by the Yala Monsoon, which brings heavy rainfall between May and August. Its dry season typically runs from December to March. Meanwhile, the Maha Monsoon impacts the northern and eastern regions from October to January, with drier conditions from May to September. The southwest tends to receive significantly more annual rainfall than the north and east. Additionally, an inter-monsoonal period in October and November can lead to showers across the entire island.

Temperatures are relatively constant throughout the year, with coastal areas such as Colombo averaging around 81°F (27°C) year-round.

For travellers, the best time to visit depends on which part of the island they're heading to. The ideal months for exploring the west and south coasts, as well as the Hill Country, are from December to March. If travellers are planning to visit the east coast or the ancient cities, April to September offers the best weather. Sri Lanka's peak tourist season runs from December to March, when many visitors arrive to escape the cold European winter.

Colombo