Best Time To Visit Colombo

The wet season in Colombo lasts from May to October, and the temperature fluctuates between 23 to 31 degrees Celsius. October and May experience precipitation of around 370mm, which is the most during the year. It rains for 15 to 20 days during these wettest months. June is the month with the highest level of humidity. During the wet season, various indoor activities can be enjoyed here, like exploring Colombo City Centre, Buddhist Temples and Casinos. While on your trip, do try out Colombo’s local cuisines and explore The National Museum of Colombo, along with Gangaramaya Temple. During July, you can enjoy the festivities of Kataragama Festival, wherein the elephants are adorned in bright colours and are accompanied by fire dancers and pompous drummers. If you happen to visit the place during August, do make it a point to witness grandest cultural procession in the world- Esala Perahera.

The dry season in Colombo keeps running from November to April. These months are exceptionally appreciated in the spot as individuals get a break from the standard precipitation. It is typically the principle fascination for travellers. In the dry season, the temperature ranges between 24 and 32 degrees Celsius. The humidity level is the least during February, and despite it being the dry season, occasional rainfalls can be experienced, with an average of 70mm of rain. April is the hottest month of the year for Colombo, experiencing an average temperature of 29 degrees Celsius. During this season, you can visit Mount Lavinia Beach and Colombo Fort, and explore various markets that are remarkable and you won’t go home without purchasing a souvenir! Dry months in Colombo consist of the months which make up to be the peak season here, therefore you may have to spend a little more on accommodation, but it will all be worth it as this period is the best to make the most out of your trip to Colombo! In February, Atman Festival and Galle Literary Festival are celebrated, so you may plan your trip to Colombo keeping these festivals in mind. One can also experience the Sinhala and Tamil New Year celebrations during April.

The months of November to December make up the shoulder season in Colombo. Amid these months, the atmosphere stays slightly wet and damp because of an unpredictable storm. Witnessing sunset at Galle Face Green, exploring beautiful colonial buildings, and visiting Gangaramaya Temple are a few activities to indulge in during this season. The temperature in the shoulder season is pleasant, running between 25 and 30 degrees Celsius. The city is comparatively less crowded, making it perfect for people who wish to investigate the magnificence of Colombo in solitude.

The long stretch of April to October comprise the offseason in Colombo. During these months, the spot encounters overwhelming precipitation and the atmosphere stays hot and humid. The temperature in this season range from 28 to 32 degrees Celsius, which can be uncomfortable sometimes. This period consists of the months of Yala monsoon season in Sri Lanka, so one can usually expect a lot of rain and hailstorms. All though, tourists who prefer indoor activities, like the spa and indoor sports, and wish to relax during their trip to Colombo, can choose to visit during these off-season months and avail great discounts on accommodation. Additionally, the National Museum, Independence Memorial Hall, and Pettah markets can be explored during this season.

Colombo’s peak tourism season is from January to March. Amid these months, the spot is comparatively drier, accounting to minimal downpours, accompanied by a cold and charming atmosphere. The temperature during this season stays agreeable at roughly 23 to 28 degrees Celsius. From January till March, the festive cheer is felt at Colombo, due to New Year and Independence Day of Sri Lanka. Tourists can indulge in various activities during this season, like exploring Beira Lake, wandering around the streets of Pettah, and witnessing grand temples like Temple of Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Kovil.