Sri Lanka in January

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

Duration
10 days / 9 nights
Price Per Person
From $14,500
See Itinerary

An Unforgettable Honeymoon: Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Qatar

Duration
15 days / 14 nights
Price Per Person
From $19,500
See Itinerary

Family Sri Lanka: Colombo to Kandy with Kids

Duration
13 days / 12 nights
Price Per Person
From $13,400
See Itinerary

Family Sri Lanka: Trincomalee to Colombo with Kids

Duration
12 days / 11 nights
Price Per Person
From $12,100
See Itinerary

Historic Sri Lanka Odyssey

Duration
14 days / 13 nights
Price Per Person
From $13,100
See Itinerary

Into the Wild: National Parks of Sri Lanka

Duration
17 days / 16 nights
Price Per Person
From $15,900
See Itinerary

Sri Lanka through Geoffrey Bawa's Eyes

Duration
13 days / 12 nights
Price Per Person
From $15,200
See Itinerary

Wildlife Exploration in Sri Lanka and Abu Dhabi

Duration
14 days / 13 nights
Price Per Person
From $23,200
See Itinerary

Cycle Sri Lanka: From Highlands to Coast

Duration
13 days / 12 nights
Price Per Person
From $10,800
See Itinerary

Recommended Festivals For Sri Lanka in January

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

Thai Pongal Festival

January

This four-day Tamil harvest festival, known as ‘Thai Pongal’ or simply ‘Pongal’ is held annually in order to give thanks to the sun and appreciate it as an invaluable source of energy. Tamils across both India and Sri Lanka decorate their homes with banana and mango leaves, and use flour to draw beautiful patterns on the floor.

Location Countrywide, Sri Lanka

Duruthu Perahera

January

Duruthu Perahera is an important day for Sri Lankan Buddhism, as it is said that this was when the Buddha made a visit to the island country. Head to Colombo for the best taste of celebrations, where you’ll find locals performing rituals at Buddhist temples alongside lively parades in the streets creating a carnival atmosphere.

Location Countrywide, Sri Lanka

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