When to go to Sri Lanka Best times and travel tips
Do you dream of heavenly beaches, high-altitude tea plantations, ancient temples and jungle safaris? Sri Lanka has it all... but you still need to know when to go to make the most of it!
In this guide, our local team shares with you the best times to travel in Sri Lanka, according to weather, regions, festivals... and your desires.
Understanding the climate in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka enjoys a pleasant tropical climate all year round, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C on average.
But this little paradise is influenced by two monsoons which do not affect the same regions at the same time.
A table summarizing the weather by region and month in Sri Lanka
Advice from the Ceyloners team
If you're looking to combine dream beaches, culture and lush nature, February to April is the ideal period. This is when you'll have the most flexibility in choosing your itinerary around the island!
Perfect climate for :
Enjoy the beaches (Mirissa, Tangalle, Nilaveli)
Discover the tea plantations
Explore UNESCO sites such as Sigiriya and Anuradhapura
Festivals and events not to be missed 🎉
Sinhalese and Tamil New Year (Aluth Avurudu) (April)
It's one of the most joyous times of the year in Sri Lanka! The Sinhalese and Tamil New Year, known as Aluth Avurudu, combines spirituality and festivities. It begins with a sacred pause at home or at the temple, followed by laughter, firecrackers, traditional games and gourmet dishes. A fine blend of tradition and good humor, ideal for discovering the local, festive version of Sri Lanka.
Poya Days: the magic of full moons in Sri Lanka (every full moon)
Every month, the full moon is sacred in Sri Lanka. These special days, known as Poya Days, are marked by Buddhist rituals, temple visits and a peaceful atmosphere. It's the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in Sri Lankan spirituality, observe local traditions and experience a timeless moment in a deeply authentic atmosphere.
Esala Perahera in Kandy (July/August)
One of Asia's most spectacular festivals. Every summer in Kandy, the city lights up to celebrate the Sacred Tooth of Buddha. Processions march past with majestic, ornate elephants, traditional dancers, drums and torches. A grandiose, spiritual and magical moment not to be missed if you travel to Sri Lanka in July or August.