It depends on which part of Sri Lanka you’re heading to, but generally the best time to travel is February and March, when the weather is great, wildlife spotting is great, and there are fewer crowds across the country.
It’s a bit complicated, as the monsoon hits different parts of the country at different times. There are two monsoon seasons, hitting the southwest and hills of Sri Lanka in May and June, and the north and east in October and November. Don’t completely discount visiting during the monsoon; yes, it does rain, but it never lasts all day and the tropical storms are a spectacular sight. The tea plantations and rainforest are also at their lushest and there are fewer tourists, meaning there are more hotel vacancies and cheaper prices.
Which months should you avoid?
If you really want to avoid the rain, avoid monsoon season. Most people’s itineraries are focused on the southern half of the country, so don’t go during the southwest monsoon in May and June. July to September is in between the monsoon seasons, when occasional short showers can fall across the country. The south is drier and warmer, but December and January are very popular and you’re less likely to have the beach and safari jeep to yourself. It’s hard to get a bed unless you book in advance, and many hotels will increase their rates accordingly.
Baby Greenback Turtle (Alamy)
When is the best time for marine life?
December to April is the best time to spot whales and dolphins off the south coast, where the seas are calmest. The waters around Sri Lanka are home to 10 species of cetaceans, including sperm whales, minke whales and humpback whales. Visit in February and March to see blue whales, the largest living creatures on Earth, as they pass close to the coast on their annual migration. Green sea turtles are the most common of Sri Lanka’s five turtle species. November to May is hatching season, when thousands of tiny baby turtles frolic out of their nests and into the sea.
Asian Elephants of Minneriya (Alamy)
But what about wildlife on land?
Anytime from March to October. The dry season makes it easier to spot wildlife, including elephants, leopards and buffaloes, as they congregate at the dwindling water sources in the national park. May and June are the best months to spot the elusive sloth bear, which loves to climb the palu trees to eat seasonal fruits. August to September is the time to see the world’s largest herd of Asian elephants, with up to 300 elephants congregating at the waterholes of Minneriya National Park during the peak of the dry season.
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If I want to be active, what are my options?
January to March are ideal for most activities, with long days, warmth and dryness. In April, temperatures reach the mid-30s Fahrenheit, so avoid trekking in the Cultural Triangle – it’s too hot. Surfers can find breaks almost year-round, but the best months are November to April on the South and West Coast, and May to October on the East Coast. The sea on the South Coast is a bit too rough for swimming in May, June and October, and on the North and East Coast it’s October to December. Weather can be changeable all year round, so look out for red flags on beaches warning of dangerous waters.
Could religious holidays affect my plans?
In short, yes. There are religious holidays throughout the year that may affect your daily plans. Poya days are associated with the appearance of the full moon and occur 13-14 times a year. As these are national holidays, transport may be full and hotels and attractions may be closed. Alcohol is also not allowed to be served on Poya days, although some establishments may sneak in a cold beer for you. Check the annual calendar before deciding on your itinerary. Poya days can occur 1-2 days before or after the full moon.
Dutch Bay, Trincomalee Beach (Getty Images)
Sunshine and Rainfall
Galle in the south receives the least rainfall in March (70 mm) and the most in October (325 mm). Trincomalee in the northeast receives the least rainfall in June (25 mm) and the most in December (365 mm). The country has 365 days of sunshine per year.
Koneswaram Temple, Trincomalee (Getty Images)
Important dates on the calendar
July
For much of the year, the holy city of Kataragama is a peaceful place, its temples and pagodas offering quiet meditation. But during the annual festival dedicated to the god Kataragama, Sri Lankans travel from all over the country to pay their respects. The mainly Hindu festival sees beautifully lit streets filled with elephant processions and beating drums for two weeks of mayhem. Not for the faint of heart, more extreme rites of worship and penance are also held, including fire walking and flogging.
Adam’s Peak, Sri Pada (Getty Images)
August
The highlight of the Buddhist calendar takes place in Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka. The pretty lakeside city comes alive with the 10-day Esala Perahera, a procession honouring the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha, encased in a golden casket in a temple. Featuring acrobats, fire dancers, contortionists and drummers, they perform outside the temple and parade through the city every night. The final night culminates with a procession of up to 50 richly decorated elephants, one of which carries the casket on its back, taking to the streets. It’s best to book street-side seating and accommodation several months in advance.
Pussellawa tea plantation (Getty Images)
December to mid-April
December’s full moon signals the start of pilgrimage season to Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada), the country’s holiest mountain. For over 1,000 years, followers of all faiths have been climbing to the summit, where footprints of Adam, Buddha and Shiva are said to be found. The 7-km procession begins at midnight, with hundreds of pilgrims lighting their way with torches. It’s a tough climb up the 5,500 steps, but there are teahouses along the way to refuel your energy and spirits. Ring the bell at the peak to signal the completion of your pilgrimage, and wait for the most amazing sunrise of your life.
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