November in Sri Lanka sees varied weather patterns across the island due to the transition from the southwest monsoon to the northeast monsoon. While the north and east coasts start receiving more rain, the southwest and southern coasts begin to dry out, paving the way for sunny days towards the end of the month. As November falls in the shoulder season, the crowds are fewer than in peak season, providing a peaceful travel experience. Let’s take a look at tourism in Sri Lanka in November.
Weather in Sri Lanka in November by Region
1. Southwest Sri Lanka (Colombo, Galle, Bentota)
Temperature: 28°C to 30°C (82°F to 86°F)
Rainfall: 150mm to 200mm, tapering off by the end of the month
Sunshine Hours: 7 to 8 hours per day
Humidity: Around 80%
Wind: Light to moderate (10-15 km/h), with occasional gusts during rainstorms
Conditions: This region begins to dry out as the month progresses, offering increasing opportunities for beach activities in Unawatuna, Hikkaduwa, and Bentota.
2. Central Highlands (Kandy, Ella, Nuwara Eliya)
Temperature: 15°C to 24°C (59°F to 75°F)
Rainfall: 200mm to 300mm
Sunshine Hours: 5 to 6 hours per day
Humidity: Moderate to high
Wind: Moderate breezes (10-12 km/h), with stronger gusts during rain showers
Conditions: Cool and rainy, the hill country is great for misty mornings and exploring tea plantations. Nuwara Eliya requires warmer clothing due to cooler evenings.
3. North and East Sri Lanka (Jaffna, Trincomalee, Batticaloa)
Temperature: 26°C to 31°C (79°F to 88°F)
Rainfall: 250mm to 350mm
Sunshine Hours: 5 to 6 hours per day
Humidity: High
Wind: Moderate winds (12-15 km/h), occasionally stronger during thunderstorms
Conditions: The northeast monsoon brings heavy rainfall, but the lush landscapes and serene beaches like Nilaveli and Passikudah have a unique charm during this time.
4. Cultural Triangle (Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya)
Temperature: 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F)
Rainfall: Around 200mm
Sunshine Hours: 6 to 7 hours per day
Humidity: High
Wind: Gentle breezes (10-12 km/h)
Conditions: Moderate rainfall allows visitors to explore the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Dambulla Cave Temple without the heavy crowds of peak season.
Festivals in Sri Lanka in November
1. Deepavali (Diwali)
Known as the Festival of Lights, Deepavali is marked by illuminated homes, firework displays, and offerings to Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. Hindu temples are especially lively during this festival.
Where: Nationwide, especially in Tamil-majority regions like Jaffna and Batticaloa
2. Ill Full Moon Poya Day
This Buddhist holiday commemorates the arrival of the first Buddhist missionaries to Sri Lanka. The Thuparamaya Stupa in Anuradhapura hosts special ceremonies.
Where: Nationwide, with major celebrations in Anuradhapura
3. World Spice Festival
A culinary celebration of Sri Lanka’s spice heritage, featuring cooking demonstrations, spice markets, and cultural performances. A must-visit for food enthusiasts.
Where: Colombo
