The beautiful island of Sri Lanka has warm tropical weather moderated by ocean breezes. Mean temperatures range from 17 °C (63 °F) in the central highlands, where frost may occur for several days in the winter, to a maximum of 33 °C (91 °F) in more low-altitude areas. The climate is defined by two monsoon seasons, May to July in the southwest, and October to February in the north and east.
In the north and east, October to February is monsoon season with up to 250 mm of rainfall per month and highs of 32°C ( 90°F), with many preferring to head inland to the country’s cultural triangle. The less culturally inclined can simply head to the stunning beaches and dives sites of the south, thus skipping the wettest of the northern monsoon.
The country’s west and southwest is dry and hot September through April, with temperatures between 25 and 31°C (77-88°F). The central hills and southwest coast are best between December and April, which is also fine for whale and dolphin watching. January to March is the time to be in the central hills or southwest Sri Lanka, as days are sunny and dry and the sea is usually calm. February to April are ideal for visiting Yala National Park as the water tables are low and animals, such as the Sri Lankan elephant, come out to the exposed lakes to drink. Lovers of marine life should head to the south coast during these months to spot blue, sperm, fin and Bryde's whales, as well as many dolphin species, turtles, and tuna.
April
Aluth Avurudda festival marks Sinhalese New Year, and is celebrated throughout Sri Lanka by both Sinhalese and non-believers. It coincides with many New Year events across Asia, falling on the 13th or 14th of April. On the first day of the new year, there are mass housecleaning sessions along with fire lighting, dancing and music.
Location Countrywide, Sri Lanka
April
During the Sinhalese and Tamil New Year period, when the heat is at its worst, many of Colombo’s residents head to the hills for a break. This tradition, stretching back to the British colonial times, is comprised of two fun-filled weeks of sport, car rallies, flower exhibitions, music and parties that go on well into the night.
Location Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka
December-May
Every year, thousands of pilgrims make the lofty journey to the summit of Adam’s Peak, or Samanalakande (Butterfly Mountain). Starting from Poya Day (in December) and running all the through to Vesak Festival in May the following year, worshippers don their walking boots for the grueling 7,000-foot climb to the peak’s Buddhist temple.
Location Adam’s Peak, Sri Lanka
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