Sri Lanka in June- Weather, Things to do, and Festivals

Sri Lanka in June is an excellent time to visit. As it marks the start of the southwest monsoon, the crowds are lesser, accommodations become budget-friendly, and you can enjoy the serene and quieter experience if you do not mind the occasional rain. Let's get to know more about Sri Lanka in June.

Weather in Sri Lanka in June

June marks the onset of the summer monsoon. The southwestern regions, including Colombo and Galle, experience heavy rainfall and increased humidity. Meanwhile, the northern and central regions, like Kandy and Sigiriya, experience warm temperatures with occasional rainfall. The daytime temperatures range from 25 to 30°C.

In June, the northeast coast of Sri Lanka, including areas like Trincomalee and Arugam Bay, experiences dry and warm weather with occasional rainfall, with temperatures ranging from 28 to 32°C. The beaches are bright and sunny, making it a perfect beach vacation.

Further north, the cultural triangle, including places like Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, experiences increased rainfall and higher humidity, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 30°C. You can still enjoy cultural sites and the lush green landscapes despite the rain.

Things To Do in Sri Lanka in June

1. Water Sports

Since the northeastern coast of Sri Lanka is relatively dry in June, it is a superb time for water sports. The beaches at Pasikuda, Trincomalee, and Arugam Bay are renowned for offering a multitude of water sports—surfing, scuba diving, whale watching, and snorkeling, to name a few. Arugam Bay, in particular, is known as a surfer’s paradise for its numerous surf points; it also has a vibrant nightlife. Spot blue whales, sperm whales, and dolphins at Trincomalee, which is undoubtedly the best place for whale watching on the East Coast.

2. Frequent Elephant Sightings

Elephant sightings are relatively numerous in Sri Lanka in June, which is one of the main draws of the country’s several national parks. Minneriya, Yala, and Udawalawe National Parks are home to hordes of Sri Lankan elephants, the largest among the Asian elephants. One can also watch baby elephants being fed at the Elephant Transit Home, adjacent to Udawalawe National Park. Combine a one-of-a-kind boat safari with a chance to see elephants swimming across a reservoir at the scenic Gal Oya National Park.

3. Visit the Cultural Triangle

A visit to the famed Cultural Triangle is a must if you plan to tour Sri Lanka in June; the ancient cities and towns of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Dambulla, and Mihintale experience warm and sunny weather, which enables tourists to languidly stroll amongst the fascinating ruins and visit the Buddhist temples. Also, one can catch glimpses of the religious ceremonies of Poson Poya at Anuradhapura and Mihintale; Anuradhapura is home to several famous stupas, and Mihintale is considered to be the birthplace of Buddhism in the country.

Festivals in Sri Lanka in June

Two major festivals are celebrated in Sri Lanka in June—Eid al-Fitr by the Muslims, and Poson Paya, a Buddhist festival. Poson Poya marks an immensely crucial occasion for Buddhism in Sri Lanka—the advent of Buddhism to the country by Mahinda, a Buddhist monk and the son of the Indian emperor Ashoka. As the most sacred Poya (full moon day) of the year, festivities are in full swing at all corners of the country, but Anuradhapura and Mihintale receive the highest number of pilgrims.

Sri Lanka in June—Off-Season

June is the off-season due to the southwest monsoons occurring at this time. However, tourists can still enjoy the rest of the attractions in Sri Lanka in June, with a bonus of comparatively lower prices for hotels and travel.