Sri Lanka in December

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.

Suggested Itineraries

Classic Sri Lanka

Spend 10-days exploring the best of Sri Lanka from the cultural triangle, to tea country, and down to its sandy southern coast. You’ll stay in some of Sri Lanka’s most luxury hotels, as you explore Sigiriya Rock Fortress in Dambulla, spot wild elephants on a safari, travel tea country by railway, and learn about turtles at a sanctuary.

Duration
10 days / 9 nights
Price Per Person
From $14,500
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An Unforgettable Honeymoon: Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Qatar

Get away on an exciting honeymoon to the magical destinations of Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Qatar. From lush tea plantations and wildlife safaris on the island of Sri Lanka to idyllic days on white sandy beaches and turquoise waters of Maldives to Qatar’s unique landscape of heady traditional culture fused with modern metropolis. This 15-day journey promises romance, relaxation, and a dose of adventure.

Duration
15 days / 14 nights
Price Per Person
From $19,500
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Family Sri Lanka: Colombo to Kandy with Kids

Play with elephants, relax as the kids swim in the Indian Ocean and fall asleep to the calming ocean lull while staying in a floating house on this 13-day luxurious Sri Lankan holiday. With hiking, elephant trekking and rafting in store, there’s plenty of action to keep the kids busy and still time for you to relax.

Duration
13 days / 12 nights
Price Per Person
From $13,400
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Family Sri Lanka: Trincomalee to Colombo with Kids

Sri Lanka is the perfect setting for the family vacation of your dreams. Explore the vibrant coral reefs, hike archaeological ruins and catch a stunning tangerine sunset with loved ones. This is 12-day luxury journey will create special, lasting family memories.

Duration
12 days / 11 nights
Price Per Person
From $12,100
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Historic Sri Lanka Odyssey

Step back in time without leaving any luxury behind on this 14-day journey through Sri Lanka’s most important heritage sites. Picnic atop an ancient rock fortress, take an exciting safari through Yala National Park and visit the revered UNESCO site, Anuradhapura. This adventure offers insight into ancient cultures.

Duration
14 days / 13 nights
Price Per Person
From $13,100
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Into the Wild: National Parks of Sri Lanka

Experience Sri Lanka’s natural beauty on this luxurious 17-day adventure. Observe wild elephant herds in their natural habitat, trek in the lush Sinharaja Rainforest, explore multiple UNESCO sites, hike through an ancient monastery and still have plenty of time to unwind by the turquoise sea in stunning Galle.

Duration
17 days / 16 nights
Price Per Person
From $15,900
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Sri Lanka through Geoffrey Bawa's Eyes

Imaginative architect Geoffrey Bawa inspires this 13-day itinerary just as beautiful Sri Lanka inspired his creative works. In addition to seeing Bawa’s final creation and other beautiful buildings, you will bike through the lush Ceylon Tea fields and see one of Buddha’s actual teeth on this luxurious tour.

Duration
13 days / 12 nights
Price Per Person
From $15,200
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Wildlife Exploration in Sri Lanka and Abu Dhabi

This 14-day itinerary is a wildlife adventure for the whole family, from the plains and coastlines of Sri Lanka to the open grasslands of Abu Dhabi's Sir Bani Yas island. Discover rich cultural heritage and unwind at luxurious hotels while getting up close and personal with the flora and fauna of these two completely different and fascinating countries.

Duration
14 days / 13 nights
Price Per Person
From $23,200
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Cycle Sri Lanka: From Highlands to Coast

Explore Sri Lanka by bike on this exhilarating 13-day quest through its most picturesque, fascinating sites and cities. You’ll stop at ancient Buddhist temples, cycle past wild animals, take a safari ride through a national park, and make friends with tea workers, all while staying at the country’s most luxury hotels.

Duration
13 days / 12 nights
Price Per Person
From $10,800
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Trekking Exotic Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is paradise for trekkers. On this 10-day trip, you’ll trek through the rainforest, tea plantations and even along the famous pilgrimage route to Adam’s Peak to catch the tangerine sun climbing above the mountaintops. Encounter diverse wildlife, birdlife and friendly locals on this luxury trekking adventure.

Duration
10 days / 9 nights
Price Per Person
From $5,800
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Recommended Festivals For Sri Lanka in December

Adam’s Peak Pilgrimage

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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