Best time to visit Sri Lanka

Choose the coast before choosing your dates

The best time to come depends on where you want to go. The east and southwest coasts have different rainy seasons, so choose your beach stay with your travel month in mind.

A seasonal starting point

These are the usual seasonal patterns. Use them to start planning, but check the forecast closer to your trip.

• December to February: a popular period for the southwest coast.
• March to April: warm conditions with possible afternoon thunderstorms.
• May to September: consider the east coast while southwest areas experience monsoon rain.
• October to November: allow flexibility for showers across the island.

Combine beaches with the hill country

Tell us when you plan to travel and what you want to see. We can work out a route that includes the hills and a suitable coast. Bring something warm for hill-country evenings and leave room to change plans if the weather turns.

Check conditions before you leave

Check the forecast and official weather warnings before you leave. Sea conditions and access to outdoor activities can change, even at a time of year that is usually good.

Destinations and private holiday ideas

Explore our Sri Lanka destination guide to compare culture, hills, wildlife and coast. For a week focused on your preferred stays, see the private luxury itinerary for seven days.

Plan your Sri Lanka journey.

Compare our Sri Lanka itineraries, explore tour packages and experiences, or share your travel dates and interests.