South & Southwest Colombo Matara Central Hill Country Kandy Nuwara Eliya Northeast Trincomalee

Sri Lanka is affected by two monsoons that sweep over parts of the country at different times. In general, there are two seasons Monsoon and Dry, with the climate remaining hot, humid and wet throughout the year. Rain is common all year round and an umbrella is useful whatever time you visit. Southwest Monsoon - arrives in May bringing heavy rains to south and central areas. During this time, temperatures can soar above 35oC in the coastal regions of the south. Northeast Monsoon - arrives in October and lasts until January. The wet season turns the northern countryside lush green with tropical vegetation and the vibrant colours can make this a wonderful time to visit despite the rain. Inter-Monsoon - heavy rain and thunderstorms are commonplace in south and central areas during September and November. It is advisable to carry a lightweight jumper as it can be chillingly cold inside air-conditioned buildings.     The South & Southwest Colombo   Average temperature     Average rainfall   Dry Season December - April 22 - 30oC 136mm Monsoon Season May - August 25 - 29oC 210mm Inter-Monsoon Season September - November 24 - 29oC 224mm Monsoon Season - the Southwest Monsoon brings heavy rain, which tends to fall in short bursts and usually at night. Swimming in the sea may not be possible in some areas during the Monsoon Season, as the Indian Ocean can become extremely rough. However, if you do choose to visit Sri Lanka at this time, the countryside is at its most lush, the seascapes are most dramatic and the reef actually protects certain beaches such as at Hikkaduwa. The hottest temperatures tend to be recorded from March to June straddling both the Dry and Monsoon Seasons. Best time to visit: During the Dry Season as humidity levels do not rise until the monsoon months.   The Central Hill Country Nuwara Eliya   Average temperature     Average rainfall   Dry Season December - April 8 - 21oC 92mm Monsoon Season May - August 13 - 19oC 210mm Inter-Monsoon Season September - November 11 - 20oC 240mm The moderate climate here provides the perfect weather for the surrounding tea plantations that are famous around the world. The weather feels cool and damp all year, which can be a pleasant change after the heat of the lower lying lands and the coastal regions. Kandy - which lies at the foot of the hill country, is only slightly cooler and wetter than the coastal areas but once you ascend into the lush hill country, you will definitely need a warm sweater and thicker clothes, especially at night. Best time to visit: During the Dry Season when there is less rainfall and cooler temperatures.   The Northeast Trincomalee   Average temperature     Average rainfall   Dry Season February - September 26 - 33oC 63mm Monsoon Season October - January 25 - 28oC 278mm Dry Season - in the northeast is longer and temperatures are marginally higher on average. Monsoon Season - this area of Sri Lanka suffers from a different, shorter monsoon to other parts, namely the Northeast Monsoon, which brings wet and humid weather to the area. Again, the scenery is lush and vibrant but views can be hampered by the intense downpours that occur. Best time to visit: Although temperatures remain high throughout, there is less rainfall during the Dry Season.