March is an excellent time to visit Sri Lanka. It brings dry weather with a lot of sunshine, perfect for beachgoers and outdoor activities. It is one of the best months to visit Sri Lanka, thanks to its excellent weather and smaller crowds. The island enjoys warm, sunny days, lush greenery, and minimal rainfall, making it perfect for exploring beaches, ancient ruins, and vibrant cultural sites.
Weather in Sri Lanka in March
March marks the end of the northeast monsoon season and the beginning of the inter-monsoon period. This transition results in predominantly dry and sunny weather across most of the island. The occasional rain shower adds to the lush beauty of Sri Lanka without disrupting travel plans. With long daylight hours and moderate humidity, March is ideal for beach holidays and cultural exploration.
1. Southwest Coast (Colombo, Galle, Mirissa)
Weather: This region enjoys sunny days with occasional light showers. It's the best time for beach lovers to relax on the sandy shores of Mirissa, Bentota, or Unawatuna. Average Temperature: Highs around 30°C to 34°C (86°F to 93°F), with lows of 24°C to 26°C (75°F to 79°F). Rainfall: Low, with occasional brief showers. Activities: Beach lounging, snorkeling, and exploring historic Galle Fort.
2. Central Highlands (Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella)
Weather: The weather here is cooler and perfect for trekking and sightseeing. Mornings and evenings can be chilly, especially in Nuwara Eliya, so pack warm layers. Average Temperature: Highs of 22°C to 29°C (72°F to 84°F), with cooler nights at 11°C to 18°C (52°F to 64°F). Rainfall: Occasional light rain, especially in the afternoons. Activities: Tea plantation tours, hiking Horton Plains, and climbing Adam’s Peak.
3. Cultural Triangle (Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura)
Weather: The driest region in March, the Cultural Triangle is perfect for exploring ancient ruins and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Average Temperature: Highs around 32°C to 34°C (90°F to 93°F), with lows at 21°C to 23°C (70°F to 74°F). Rainfall: Minimal. Activities: Climbing Sigiriya Rock, exploring Polonnaruwa ruins, and visiting Dambulla Cave Temples.
4. Northern Region (Jaffna, Trincomalee)
Weather: The northern region remains warm and mostly dry, making it a great time to visit lesser-explored destinations. Average Temperature: Highs of 31°C to 34°C (88°F to 93°F), with lows of 24°C to 26°C (75°F to 79°F). Rainfall: Very low. Activities: Visiting temples in Jaffna, enjoying beaches in Trincomalee.
Pros of Visiting in Sri Lanka in March
Dry and sunny weather across most of the island.
Ideal for beaches on the southwest coast.
Perfect conditions for trekking in the central highlands.
Minimal rainfall in the Cultural Triangle, great for sightseeing.
Moderate crowds compared to the peak season (December to February).
Cons of Visiting in Sri Lanka in March
Humidity can be high, especially in coastal areas.
Occasional showers may disrupt outdoor plans.
Things to Do in March in Sri Lanka
1) Try Surfing in Sri Lanka
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Surfing in Sri Lanka in March is one of the best things that you can do in this tropical country. Instead, Sri Lanka is also known as the beginner surfer's paradise. Many expert surfers are also found riding the ocean waves in the country. Explore the south and southwest coasts of the country, which offers the ideal setting for surfing with almost zero rainfall. Hikkaduwa is one of the favorite spots on the south coast for surfing. The wave size is also plenty, which is mostly overhead with very little chance for an off day. The crowd is also not that much of a problem, since it is less crowded in March, especially towards the end weeks.
2) Explore the Underwaters- Go scuba diving!
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Sri Lanka has the advantage of being an island nation, which comes with a lot of options for scuba diving. Embark on an adventure of vibrant beauty, colorful coral reefs, and sea creatures of the deep waters. In Sri Lanka, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to scuba diving, and March is one of the best months to enjoy this thrilling experience.
3) Soak in the Aroma and the Taste of the Tea
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Sri Lanka is a land that boasts of its natural beauty through its tropical sandy beaches and lush green tree plantations. Sri Lanka is one of the biggest tea producers in the world, with a stunning hillside. One of the best places to sip tea is in Nuwara Eliya. With the lush green nature and the smell of fresh air, Sri Lanka in March is one of the best places to sip some authentic tea and get mesmerized by the aroma of the tea leaves. You can visit an old plantation, drink tea, and enjoy baked goods, ushering you with one of the most luxurious experiences that you will cherish forever.
4) Uncover the Explorer in You- Go trekking!
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March is one of the best months to go trekking because of its ideal weather conditions. Some of the best places to head out for a hike include Horton Plains National Park or Adam's Peak. Hiking to Adam's Peak also does not require any expert skill, but it will just be like a heavy workout. It is one of the most sacred sites, and legend says that it was the first place where Adam stepped foot on earth.
5) Get Amazed by the Wildlife
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The country offers a great variety of national parks, from Yala National Park in the south to the Wilpattu National Park in the north. Witness the animals in their natural habitat by planning a wildlife safari tour. You will not be able to witness the spectacle of flora and fauna in their natural habitat but also embark on a magical adventure through the bumpy paths.
6) Relax on the Beach
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A visit to Sri Lanka's magnificent beaches is a must-do. The southern coast offers some of the best beaches in March in Sri Lanka for one to pamper themselves, relax, take a cooling dip in the ocean, or sip some refreshing cocktails by the beach. Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna, and Kosgoda are some famous beaches, but you can still find secluded beaches all along Sri Lanka's coast.
Festivals in Sri Lanka in March
1. Maha Shivaratri Festival of Shiva
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The festival takes place throughout the country and is the celebration of the Hindu God Shiva. The devotees fast and take a filtration bath at dawn. They also participate in meditation rituals where they chant the mantra 'Om Namah Shivaya'. The statue is later bathed in milk and honey and covered in red vermillion to represent the purification of the soul.
2. Medin Poya
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Medin Poya is the festival which is celebrated when Gautama Buddha visited his father after he became the Enlightened One. Returning after many days, Buddha was able to preach Dhamma to the king, who later attained Sothapanna a few days before he died. The day is a National Holiday in Sri Lanka, where many devotees flock to the temples with flowers to meditate and listen to the teachings of Dhamma. The festival is sure to fill you with peace and warmth.
The weather in Sri Lanka in March offers an excellent mix of sunshine, warmth, and manageable rainfall, making it one of the best months to visit. From pristine beaches and ancient ruins to lush highlands and vibrant festivals, March is a month where Sri Lanka truly shines. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Sri Lanka in March is the perfect destination for a memorable getaway.
