travel to sri lanka in august

Visiting Sri Lanka in August. Weather in Sri Lanka in August!

Categories Asia , Sri Lanka

When researching the best places in Asia to visit in August , Sri Lanka in August came up a number of times because it’s said that there’s never a bad time to visit Sri Lanka as it’s an all year round destination! You just have to be flexible with where you visit in Sri Lanka and work around the two monsoon seasons!

I decided to go for it and decided on visiting Sri Lanka in August! I arrived in Sri Lanka on 12th August and stayed until 2nd September totalling 3 weeks in Sri Lanka in August exactly.

I noticed a lot of Europeans and North American’s visiting Sri Lanka in August because of the School Holidays so if you’re wondering – is August a good time to visit Sri Lanka? Here’s what the weather in Sri Lanka in August was like based on my experience and the places I visited so you can decide ‘Is August a good time to visit Sri Lanka?’

Sri Lanka in August

Keep Reading for my experience in Sri Lanka in August!

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Best Time of Year to Visit Sri Lanka.

Before we get into the weather in Sri Lanka in August, let’s be clear that although Sri Lanka is a good country to visit all year round weather-wise, technically the best time to visit Sri Lanka is December to April which is Sri Lanka’s peak season and when the country experiences the best weather, aka no rain and clear sky, sunny days.

So by going in August, you are visiting Sri Lanka in low season and off-season, but that comes with some positives too!

Sri Lanka’s Monsoon Seasons.

Generally speaking, Sri Lanka has two main monsoon seasons:

The South-Western Monsoon which hits the South and West side of the island from about May to September.

The North-Eastern Monsoon which hits the North and East side of the island from October to January.

Related Post:  A Guide on Where To Visit in Sri Lanka on Your First Trip!

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Have you got travel insurance for Sri Lanka yet? Make sure you take insurance out before you go! I am insured with World Nomad’s who I really like because they designed by travellers, for travellers, you can even purchase insurance with them once you have left for your trip.

Where to Visit in Sri Lanka in August.

Even the quickest bit of research will tell you that in August, the best places to visit in Sri Lanka in August are along the East Coast   and in the North because this is where the South-Western monsoon in Sri Lanka isn’t as strong or focused on. Whereas during the winter months, these parts of the country become quite wet.

East Coast of Sri Lanka

Trincomalee and Arugam Bay are the most popular places to visit on the East Coast, I visited them both and both have their own charm.  

Trincomalee is a city so as a tourist you need to head up the coast a bit to the two main beaches in Trincomalee – Uppuveli and Nilaveli. I decided to stay in Nilaveli as I read the beach is much nicer and cleaner in Nilaveli. Both are pretty quiet but Nilaveli particularly is very quiet made up of a few dusty roads with guesthouses and restaurants a long them, and a long stretch of beach with the odd beach bar on it.

I spent two days in Trincomalee in August and although the journey was pretty long to get there from Sigiriya by bus, and it took me 7 hours to get from Trincomalee to Arugam Bay by bus I am glad I went. Whilst I was in Trincomalee I went to Pigeon Island, one of only two marine reserves in Sri Lanka, on a snorkelling trip and I went out Dolphin Watching where we spotted a Whale too!

Trincomalee is popular for its Whale Watching, just like Mirissa in the South of Sri Lanka is but only in the right season. In August the chances of seeing Whales in Trincomalee are slim and it’s more and most likely earlier on in the year.

Although the weather was nice on one of my days in Trincomalee we did have a torrential downpour one day too for an hour or so showing that the monsoon is not exempt to this area in Sri Lanka in August.

You can see the weather in Trincomalee in my YouTube video here of the day I went snorkelling !

Trincomalee should have had sunny days in August but it was cloudy and did rain quite a bit!

  Arugam Bay is a lot busier than Trincomalee and June- August is the best times to visit Arugam Bay as it’s buzzing with people and everything is open!

You can read my full travel guide to Arugam Bay here . If you want to find out where the best place to surf in Sri Lanka in August is, then Arugam Bay is the answer! Just be prepared that if you book for 2 nights you might end up extending for a week because you love it so much!

The weather in Arugam Bay in August for me was pretty good, it was very windy when on the beach, but I guess that’s why the surf is so good, and it was generally hot and sunny with just one downpour of rain.

Arugam Bay Blue Skies in the middle of August.. Bliss!

Middle of Sri Lanka

Moving onto the middle of the country, from my trip to Sri Lanka in August I found Sigiriya and Dambulla to be good places to visit because the weather was good with blue skies, hot but not too hot, and only the odd cloud and rainstorm.

Sigirya should be on every Sri Lanka itinerary so you can see the famous Sigiriya Rock, although my recommendation is to go up Pidurangala Rock to see Sigirya Rock ( see my youtube video here on this! ).

August is also an amazing time to see lots of Elephants on a  Safari in Minneriya National Park near Sigiriya as they migrate at this time of year.

Sunrise opposite Sigiriya Rock in the middle of August, the weather was perfect!

Highlands of Sri Lanka

The Highlands of Sri Lanka like Ella, Nuwara Eliya and Kandy and also on everyone’s Sri Lanka bucket  list and August is a good time to visit them. Being so high these areas get rain all year round, especially Nuwara Eliya which is often referred to as being like Britain and can get pretty chilly and wet.

I found the weather to be great in Ella when I was there in August, it was dry, sunny and warm. Towards the end of August in Sri Lanka when I was in Kandy I did experience about 3 downpours of rain per day but they came and passed quickly.

Ella was cloudy and sunny towards the end of August which made for a nice temperature, but it was still hot.

It did rain a lot in Kandy when I was there at the end of August but when it stopped it cleared quickly.

North of Sri Lanka

I didn’t make it to North Sri Lanka and to Jaffna but certainly, along with the East Coast, the Northern part of Sri Lanka is a great place to visit during the summer months when the South Western Monsoon hits.

The weather in Jaffna in August is pretty dry and sunny. It’s also less visited by tourists so if you want a quieter and more authentic look at Sri Lanka, heading up North to Jaffna is a good idea when visiting Sri Lanka in August.

South Coast of Sri Lanka

Finally, the South Coast of Sri Lanka is possibly the most popular part of Sri Lanka, the beaches of Mirissa, Unawatuna and Tangalle are what a lot of people think of when they think of Sri Lanka. In August the South Coast of Sri Lanka is in the middle of the South Western Monsoon.

I thought I’d take a risk in heading from Arugam Bay to Mirissa to check out what it was really like and I won’t lie to you, it was pretty wet, I’m glad I went as I enjoyed my days in Mirissa chilling out in cafes and catching up with work and I was surprised with the amount of tourists there. The surf is great on the South Coast of Sri Lanka and the best thing is is that you can do this in the rain!

However after I left and as early September approached I saw via Instagram that these beaches brightened up a lot and were a lot nicer to visit so I guess I just got unlucky in Southern Sri Lanka in August.

Mirissa with a lot of cloud in August and not much of a sunset to be seen!

How Much Does it Rain in Sri Lanka in August?

Without a doubt, if you are visiting Sri Lanka in August you need to be prepared for rain, either way, no matter where you go, you will have rain!

Even when I was on the East Coast which is in high season from May to September, I had pretty bad rain in August! And when it rained on the East Coast, it really rained too, I really experienced this monsoon season!

Talking of monsoon rain, if you’re going to visit the South Coast or West Coast of Sri Lanka in August, you’re going to experience the monsoon- monsoon rain and cloudy days! Oh and the mosquitos were out in full force in August on the South Coast too because of the weather, whereas luckily, the East Coast didn’t have many mosquitos!

What to Pack for Sri Lanka in August?

To ensure that the rain doesn’t disrupt your trip to Sri Lanka in August I would recommend taking the following waterproof items:

Packable Thin Rain Jacket

Travel Umbrella

Dry Bag to store your phone and technology in safety

Rain Cover for your backpack, because I do think it’s best to take a backpack to Sri Lanka over a suitcase!

Related Post:  20 Backpacking Essential Items That Will Save You Space, Time & Money!

Overall, I still enjoyed my time in Sri Lanka in August. I had a pretty different experience to many people who visit Sri Lanka and stick mainly do the South Coast beaches like Mirissa, Weligama, Tangalle and Unawatuna during the winter months when it’s high season and very sunny there. But I felt lucky to be able to visit the East Coast because I loved Arugam Bay, it’s such a gem and for example, in January Arugam Bay is totally dead because it’s low season then.

So if August, or September, or June or July, are the only times you can visit Sri Lanka, you should go but be prepared to be flexible with where you visit, be prepared for some rain and take some waterproofs.

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•   To read more of my Sri Lanka posts see:
• How to see the Nine Arch Bridge and Little Adam’s Peak in Ella together!
• The Best Cafes in Mirissa to Visit.
• Is Sri Lanka Safe For Female Solo Travellers?
• ALL SRI LANKA POSTS

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Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka: Month by Month Breakdown

In recent years, Sri Lanka has emerged as one of the best tourist destinations in Asia, because this small island nation off the southern edge of India has an incredible wealth of diversity.

You can explore biodiverse forests and wetlands, go on safari in search of elephants or leopards, or whale watching along the extensive coastline.

There are glorious beaches, colonial ruins and ancient cities waiting to be explored.

But it’s important to know the best time to visit Sri Lanka because while the country’s southern location near the equator ensures that it enjoys warm temperatures all year round, you need to be wary of the monsoons. 

Different parts of the country are hit at different times of the war by prevailing monsoons that bring with them wind and rain.

The north and eastern coast is hit between November and March, while the south and west coast are hit between April and September.

Luckily though, that means that there’s always a great place to visit any time of the year in Sri Lanka. To help you plan your trip, here’s our month by month breakdown on the best time to visit Sri Lanka. 

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Sri Lanka (Travel Guide)

Table of Contents

January in Sri Lanka 

January is a great time to be in the southwest of Sri Lanka because this part of the country is dry and the weather is wonderfully pleasant – it’s not humid and it’s not too hot. 

The days are remarkably sunny and there are few clouds in the sky, but of course, with optimal temperatures, comes peak tourist season. 

Those temperatures range between 20 and 30 degrees depending on your location, which draws in many winter sun-seekers from across the northern hemisphere too. 

January might be the best time to visit Sri Lanka, but everyone else will have the same idea too, especially in the southwest which is the tourist hot spot. 

Yaks National Park is one d the most popular destinations in January, and it’s worth the higher costs and busier tracks because you’ll be able to see a wealth of wildlife in the wilderness. 

The animals are easy to spot in the dry season, and you’ll be able to find elephants, leopards and perhaps even a sloth. 

February in Sri Lanka

February is also the best time to visit Sri Lanka to explore the south and west coasts too, but these sides of the island are rain-free. 

The north and east coasts, on the other hand, are right now being lashed with heavy rain and storms from the prevailing monsoon. 

February is busy in the south though, but the weather is beautiful. Head to Marissa, along the coast, where you can enjoy fantastic white sand beaches and sit under swaying palm trees in a tropical idyll. 

Mirissa is a great destination for whale watching and dolphin spotting and February is the perfect time to be there.

This is the middle of the whale watching season here, which runs from November through to April, and concludes with the dry season.

March in Sri Lanka

March is the last month of the dry season in the southwest before the monsoon winds arrive bringing with them rainstorms for the next half of the year. 

This is your last opportunity to enjoy the southwest at its best because the weather is hot but the humidity has yet to arrive. 

Again, head to Mirissa for the whale and dolphin tours, or explore Yala National Park to see the flora and fauna.

While Yala might be dry, and the scenery isn’t that great to look at, the wildlife is easy to spot because of the lack of greenery.

As watering holes empty, the animals will congregate around particular areas where they can find water and hence they’ll be easier to find when on safari.

April in Sri Lanka

April is still a good time to visit the southwest beaches, even as the monsoon begins to arrive along the coast. 

It’s still sunny and temperatures are climbing ever higher, so you can spend your days lazing on the beaches. 

It’s a good time for wildlife spotting too, so head to the national parks for some safari adventures. 

Temperatures can be high in April though, so you might want to consider heading inland and into the more mountainous regions.

This is the best time to visit Sri Lanka to see iconic highland destinations such as Ella or Kandy and to rise the famous picturesque terrain into the Central Highlands.

At higher elevations, you’ll escape the worst of the April heat, and did some great hiking spots and tea plantations to visit.

May in Sri Lanka

May is when the southwest monsoon really begins to hit home and this is a month when the low season begins in Sri Lanka. 

But while the tourist destinations in the south and west might be rainy and wet, it’s a different story in the north.

In fact, this is the best time to visit Sri Lanka to explore the northeast coast, where you’ll find a dry climate and hot and sunny days as the monsoon ended weeks ago here.

Visit Trincomalee to enjoy the beaches of the east coast and to see the whales as they migrate here.

If you want to escape the heat, then head into the highlands, although be prepared for a few rain showers here too.

June in Sri Lanka

June is still low season across Sri Lanka because the monsoon is ravaging the south and west and temperatures across the country are at their highest. 

If you visit in June, you’ll get some bargains on flights and accommodation, but you’ll want to stay as far north as you can to escape the rains and the heat. 

July in Sri Lanka

The low season trend continues through July, as the rain cause havoc along the southwest coastlines. 

Again, head north and get off the beaten track as you’ll find a wealth of intriguing destinations to discover in the dry and sunny parts of the country.

Explore ancient cities or go whale watching along the coast and see a part of Sri Lanka that few tourists ever make the effort to visit, at a time when there are few tourists anywhere in the country.

August in Sri Lanka

August is still low season across Sri Lanka however the extremely high summer temperatures are starting to lower and actually, the monsoon in the southwest begins to calm down. 

While there will be rain, it’s not quite so fierce, and the northeast still remains totally dry. 

This is a great month for safari, because in Minneriya National Park the animals are all gathered at the watering holes, and it’s a famed time to see the herds of elephants as they move across the plains. 

In Yala National Park in the youth, the lighter rains make the park more accessible while the flora is at its most extant and green, after the heavy monsoons.

It’s a lovely time to explore this part of Sri Lanka, as most tourists will only ever experience safaris in the dry season.

September in Sri Lanka

The east coast is on top form in September, because while the southwest still experiences rainfall and the north is beginning to be hit by the monsoon too, places like Trincomalee and Arugam Bay at their best. 

The sun is out in force here and you can explore the long coastline and enjoy the spectacular beaches.

You’ll even catch the whales in action too, so take a tour out in search of these beautiful marine mammals. 

The east coast is still developing in terms of tourism, but now is the best time to visit Sri Lanka to see this part of the country while it’s still rustic and authentic. 

October in Sri Lanka

The southwest monsoon will be ending now, so it’s a good time to visit the more touristy parts of Sri Lanka before the high season crowds arrive. 

The weather is still hot and muggy but it’s mostly dry, and you’ll see Yala National Park as it’s resplendent with green scenery. 

The east coast is also beautiful in October and it’s the last chance to experience the beaches before the northeast monsoon hits. 

November in Sri Lanka

November is the tentative start to the high season in Sri Lanka because temperatures are lower and the climate is cooler. 

The southwest is now dry and sunny and attracting tourists, but it’s still a good time to explore before the December rush begins during the Christmas holidays. 

December in Sri Lanka

December is peak season in Sri Lanka, because Christmas and New Year holidays bring in travelers and vacation-goers from across the world, especially those looking for winter sun.

This is the best time to visit Sri Lanka to explore the southwest coast, as temperatures are hovering between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius.

It’s incredibly dry and sunny and the perfect time to be relaxing on the beaches. 

Along the southwest coast, you’ll find whales and dolphins and it’s a great time to take a boat tour.

Equally, you can just take the chance to relax and unwind in the glorious weather as you spend Christmas Day in the sunshine.

More on Sri Lanka:

• Ultimate Sri Lanka Itinerary: 2 Weeks to 4 Weeks
• The Most Spectacular Places to Visit in Sri Lanka
• Ultimate Guide to Sigiriya Lion Rock in Sri Lanka
• Polonnaruwa in Sri Lanka: Best Sights & Travel Tips
• Best Sri Lanka Safari: 8 Park Comparison guide
• 10 Epic Things to do in Ella, Sri Lanka
• 9 Epic Reasons to Visit Mirissa, Sri Lanka
• Safari Guide to Kaudulla National Park
• Yala National Park Safari: Only Guide You Need
• Kumana National Park-The Only Safari Guide You Need
• 10 Sri Lanka Beaches You’d Be Foolish to Miss
• 11 Epic Reasons to Visit Arugam Bay (Spoiler: Epic Breaches!)
• Boogie Boarding in Sri Lanka

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Travel planning resources, about david stock.

I have always been an outdoorsman so becoming an adventure traveler was just the next natural step. I love nature, I love to get off the beaten path and I like to explore. I enjoy scuba diving and cars. And yes, Lina and I have a naked dog.

2 thoughts on “Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka: Month by Month Breakdown”

This is a very helpful guide. I would love to visit Sri Lanka (once all this craziness is over) and had no idea when to go. It seems there’s really pros/cons to every month, but I think August would be a perfect time for me to visit because I’d looove to see animals at the watering hole! Thanks for the guide!

Glad to hear you found our information helpful for planning your trip to Sri Lanka! You’re exactly right, the best time really depends on what your travel goals are. August is a great time for viewing wildlife! Hoping you can go this year(fingers crossed). Cheers.

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Tips for visiting Sri Lanka in August

Sri Lanka weather & when to go: August

Sri lanka august weather overview.

Despite the summer monsoon still blowing in from the Indian Ocean and Bay of Bengal, the south and west coast regions usually experience a significant dip in rainfall during August compared with the months either side....a little sunshine sandwich! Temperatures remain high on the coast (avg temp: 29 °C) whilst up in the hills it can be chilly, especially at night.

Good weather is also expected in the north and along the east coast, making August one of the few months that beach lovers can have their pick of Sri Lanka’s beaches. Further north in the Cultural Triangle temperatures remain high and rainfall is at a minimum.

Sri Lanka weather & when to go

Pick a month below, august’s weather in detail.

Good weather is expected in the north and along the east coast, making August one of the few months that beach lovers can have their pick of Sri Lanka ’s beaches. The north-west coast, from Negombo northwards, can also be promising.

Swimming in the sea on the south and west coasts during August is often not recommended. Many hotels will have their red flags out to indicate that sea bathing can be dangerous. Having said this, it is generally a month with good weather and water sports and outdoor activities are OK.

Further north in the Cultural Triangle temperatures remain high and rainfall is at a minimum (avg temp: 32 °C), whilst the dry winds of the previous two months have subsided.

The best of Sri Lanka’s beaches in August:

The south-west (the section south of Negombo & Colombo) and the entire south coast: Monsoon season but less rain than in previous months

The entire east coast: Peak season.

The central and northern section of the west coast (from Negombo northwards): Peak season (sunshine expected but with high winds and sea’s).

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When is the best time to visit Sri Lanka? 

By Sophie Prideaux

While it’s a popular holiday destination year-round, deciding on the best time to visit Sri Lanka can depend on several factors, from the areas you plan to visit to the activities you want to enjoy. The country’s position in the Indian Ocean means it experiences several different weather systems, so travellers seeking sunny climes should be able to find what they are looking for at most times of the year.

Sri Lanka’s weather

Sri Lanka ’s climate is tropical, which means it experiences distinct wet and dry seasons. However, temperatures stay hot and humid throughout the year and, even during the rainy season, there is often still a good amount of sunshine each day, especially in the country’s coastal areas.

Nine Arch Bridge in Demodara, Sri Lanka

When is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?

Like all tropical countries, Sri Lanka’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s always wise to expect the unexpected and prepare for all eventualities. However, generally speaking, the best weather in Sri Lanka is experienced in the period between December and mid- April . These months are considered peak season, and as such, visitor numbers spike, which means prices can go up as well.

The country’s most unpredictable weather is experienced during its two monsoon seasons – the south-west (yala) monsoon, which hits the south and west coasts between May and August , and the north-east (maha) which affects the east coat and cultural triangle between November and January. An inter-monsoon period also occurs in October , which brings heavy rainfall to the whole island.

However, to really understand the best time to plan your visit, you need to take into account how the different areas of the country experience each season.

Northeast coast

In the northeast coastal areas of Jaffna and Mullativu , conditions are influenced by the northeast monsoon, which brings heavy rains between October and December. The driest conditions are enjoyed between May and September , although the summer months are more likely to bring cloudy, overcast conditions. For the best of the weather here, March to May offers average temperatures sitting around the mid-twenties and low levels of rainfall, averaging 37 millimetres per day.

Best month: April

The east coastal regions of Passekudah, Trincomalee, Arugam Bay, Batticaloa, Nilaveli and Kuchchaveli experience the full force of the north-eastern monsoon, so the months between October and December are best avoided. However, while the rest of the country experiences rains from the southwest monsoon between May and September, these are the months when the east coast comes into its own. During these months, there is plenty of sunshine and humidity levels drop to around 60 per cent – which is comparable with western Europe . These months bring very little rain and average temperatures sit in the mid-30s, making it a good summer holiday destination.

Best month: August

Northwest coast

Areas of the northwest coast such as Kalipiya, Puttalam and Mannar escape the brunt of the southwest monsoon, but still feel its effects during the summer months, when high winds occur. Much of the rain here is brought about by the northeast monsoon between October and December, although it does enjoy some partial protection from neighbouring India . The best of the weather here is enjoyed between January and March when temperatures rise to an average of 31°C and the average rainfall is around 37mm per day.

Best month: February

The Cultural Triangle

Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites including Dambulla, Anuradhapura and Sigiriya, is dry for much of the year, only experiencing rainfall between October and December. For the rest of the year, conditions here are generally hot and dry, with plenty of sunshine and less humidity than other parts of the county. May and April are particularly hot, with average temperatures sitting around 32°C. February and March are slightly cooler, averaging around 29°C – slightly more favourable for exploring these cultural sites.

Best month: March

Sri Lanka's Tea Country

Tea Country

Sri Lanka’s Tea Country sits at an altitude of around 2,000 metres above sea level, so naturally experiences much cooler temperatures than other parts of the country, which is great for those hoping to hike Adam’s Peak . The hiking season begins in December and runs until May, when this region experiences the driest conditions. In nearby Kandy , which sits at a lower altitude, temperatures are hotter, averaging in the low thirties during these months.

Flora Vesterberg

Erin Florio

CNT Editors

Maddalena Fossati

Best month: January

Southwest coast

As expected, the weather on Sri Lanka’s southwest coast, home to the capital Colombo , is dictated by the south-western monsoon, which brings heavy rains between May and September. The dry season here runs from December to March, when temperatures stay in the low thirties, and there is often plenty of sunshine to be found. However, this is also one of Sri Lanka’s busiest spots, so during peak season, expect it to be crowded, especially in January, when the Duruthu Perahera Festival takes place.

Galle, Sri Lanka

South coast

Many of Sri Lanka’s best beaches are found on the south coast, in Galle, Mirissa, Unawatuna and Mawella , so many travellers want to factor a visit south into their itineraries. This region often experiences heavy rain during October, with the best of the beach weather often occurring between late November and April. During the early months of the year, temperatures sit in the mid- to high-twenties, and rainfall is at its lowest.

Weather in Sri Lanka in August

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Preparing for your Sri Lanka adventure in August? Brace yourself for a one-of-a-kind journey where tropical allure meets revitalizing showers. As August rolls in, so does the peak of the monsoon season, transforming the island into a canvas of vivid colors and enchanting vistas. Despite the occasional rain, this month presents abundant chances for delving into culture and unraveling history. Here's our guide to the weather in Sri Lanka in August.

What is the weather like in Sri Lanka in August?

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The weather in Sri Lanka in August tends to be a bit of a mixed bag. Generally, you'll experience both sunny days and occasional showers, especially in the central and northern regions. 

August falls into the shoulder season for tourism in Sri Lanka. It's not as jam-packed as the high season months from December to February, but you'll notice a gradual uptick in tourist arrivals compared to the monsoon season. Expect moderate crowds and reasonable prices for accommodations and activities 

August typically brings around 300-400mm of rainfall, with the southern and western regions getting hit the hardest. These rains are indeed heavy, but the silver lining is that they're often brief.

Overall, August can be a good time to visit Sri Lanka. If you're okay with rain and love the lush greenery it brings, you're in for a treat. Plus, with fewer tourists around, you'll have more breathing room to explore those must-see attractions. However, if you're dead set on dry weather for your outdoor adventures, you might want to consider a different time of year. 

Rough Guides tip: Planning a trip to Sri Lanka could be a lengthy process. Delegate the planning and booking to our skilled local experts for a smoother experience.

Fruits market, Sri Lanka © Shutterstock

August typically brings warm to hot temperatures across the country. In the northern parts, you can expect slightly warmer weather with minimal rainfall. However, in the southwest and southeast regions , temperatures are similar but with more frequent rain showers. Despite the occasional rain, overall, August signifies a warm climate throughout Sri Lanka.

North Sri Lanka

In August, North Sri Lanka experiences average high temperatures ranging from 31°C to 33°C (88°F to 91°F) and lows from 24°C to 26°C (75°F to 79°F). Rainfall during this period is minimal, with occasional brief showers. Major cities in this region include Jaffna and Kilinochchi.

Southwest Sri Lanka

August brings average highs of 29°C to 31°C (84°F to 88°F) and lows of 24°C to 26°C (75°F to 79°F) in the southwest region. Rainfall is more prevalent compared to the north, with intermittent heavy showers contributing to the greenery. Major cities in this area include Colombo and Galle .

Southeast Sri Lanka

In August, temperatures in the southeast region of Sri Lanka range from 28°C to 30°C (82°F to 86°F) for highs and 23°C to 25°C (73°F to 77°F) for lows. Rainfall is relatively low, with occasional showers. Major cities in this area include Batticaloa and Trincomalee

Learn more and compare the weather in different months with our guide to the weather in Sri Lanka .

Kandy Temple of the Tooth, Sri Lanka © Shutterstock

August in Sri Lanka is heavily influenced by the tail end of the southwest monsoon. This means the weather can be a bit of a mixed bag depending on the timing of your trip. As the country moves away from the southwest monsoon, you'll find things getting drier and warmer across most parts of the country compared to the previous months. 

That said, you're still in for some serious rainfall and high humidity levels, especially in the central and southern regions. Sunny days happen more often, but it’s hard to plan for them. 

A bonus of visiting Sri Lanka in August is that it is a fantastic festival season. From religious celebrations to traditional dances and performances, this month can be great for exploring Sri Lankan culture. 

Ready to take your trip without the hassle of planning and booking? See our tailor-made trip service .

In August, Sri Lanka continues to experience its low tourist season, following the peak of the monsoon season in the previous months. That means you're in luck if you're after some peace and quiet at the popular spots and beaches . Accommodation and activity prices typically remain affordable during this period, making August an appealing option for those looking to stick to a budget.

Although the weather generally remains warm and pleasant, particularly in the eastern regions, it's important to note that rainfall may persist. This is especially true in the southwestern and central regions. 

So, if you're all about snagging some deals and enjoying the sights without the crowds, August is a great time to plan your trip.  If you are hoping to experience better weather, you might want to try booking your trip during the high season (December through March). 

Still planning your trip? Browse our Sri Lanka itineraries for inspiration. 

Pidurangala Rock Sri Lanka © Shutterstock

When planning your trip to Sri Lanka, don't forget to see if your visit lines up with any of the country's fantastic festivals or events. It's crucial to book your accommodation as early as possible to ensure you have a place to stay, especially during busy times. And for further inspiration for your Sri Lankan journey, check out our selection of the best things to do in the country.

Pada Yatra Pilgrimage

The Pada Yatra is a sacred pilgrimage that follows the footsteps of Buddhist monk Arahat Mahinda, who introduced Buddhism to Sri Lanka. Travelers can join pilgrims as they trek through picturesque landscapes, visiting ancient temples and sacred sites along the way. 

The pilgrimage offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature, spirituality, and local communities. Due to its popularity among pilgrims and travelers seeking spiritual experiences, booking accommodations along the pilgrimage route in advance is recommended to ensure a comfortable stay.

Kandy Esala Perahera 

Regarded as one of Asia's most spectacular cultural pageants, the Kandy Esala Perahera is held in the hill capital of Kandy to honor the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha. 

The grand procession features beautifully adorned elephants, traditional dancers, fire performers, and drummers. You can witness the mesmerizing spectacle of religious rituals, cultural performances, and pageantry that unfolds over ten days. 

Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil Temple Festival

Held in Jaffna, the Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil Temple Festival is one of the most significant Hindu festivals in Sri Lanka. This vibrant festival features colorful processions, traditional music and dance performances, and rituals dedicated to Lord Murugan. 

Get ready to immerse yourself in the festivities, witness the lighting of traditional oil lamps, and experience the fervent devotion of devotees. To ensure a seamless and unforgettable experience, it's wise to book accommodations in Jaffna ahead of time, as this festival draws both locals and tourists alike.

Kukul mas curry, Sri Lankan Chicken Curry © Shutterstock

Ready to experience Sri Lanka? With our tailor-made trip service, you can skip the hours of research required for your dream vacation. Trust us with the planning and booking. Our journeys are meticulously designed by local travel experts and can be entirely adapted to your preferences. 

• Sri Lanka deluxe (12 days):  Experience the Central Province's tea plantations and waterfalls, then unwind on the golden beaches of Sri Lanka's south coast. 
• Sri Lanka wildlife discovery (10 days):  Experience Sri Lanka's untamed beauty: observe elephants at Yala and Udawalawe National Parks, enjoy a sunrise hot air balloon ride, and admire stunning cave drawings at Dambulla Cave Temple.
• Luxury yoga (15 days): Indulge in a restorative holiday in Sri Lanka, with yoga, meditation, and Ayurvedic treatments for a perfect digital detox and inner balance.

Planning your trip to Sri Lanka? See what the weather is like in Sri Lanka in other months: 

• January :  Enjoy pleasant temperatures and moderate crowds, ideal for beach outings and cultural exploration in Sri Lanka.
• February :  Sunny weather attracts increasing numbers of tourists seeking outdoor activities and pleasant climates.
• March : Experience dry conditions and rising temperatures amidst moderate crowds, perfect for exploring Sri Lanka's diverse attractions.
• April : Embrace the hot and humid climate alongside bustling crowds drawn by Easter and New Year celebrations.
• May : Encounter sporadic rainfall and reduced tourist numbers, providing a quieter ambiance for discovering Sri Lanka's treasures.
• June : : Monsoon rains commence, leading to fewer crowds and offering an off-peak period for cultural immersion.
• July : Heavy rainfall persists, resulting in lower crowds and opportunities for indoor cultural experiences.
• September :  With decreased rainfall and fewer tourists, it's an ideal time for budget-friendly exploration of Sri Lanka's wonders.
• October : Post-monsoon clear skies welcome moderate crowds, creating optimal conditions for outdoor adventures and cultural discoveries.
• November :  Dry weather and moderate crowds make it an ideal time to explore Sri Lanka's landscapes and cultural heritage.
• December :  Peak tourist season brings warm temperatures and bustling crowds, perfect for beach vacations and festive cultural experiences.

The Rough Guides to Sri Lanka and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

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• Crime and personal safety tips Sri Lanka
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• Getting around Sri Lanka: Transportation Tips
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• Best time to visit Sri Lanka

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written by Dre Roelandt

updated 21.03.2024

Dre Roelandt is originally from the United States but lives and works in Berlin, Germany. Dre is a freelance writer and artist with a passion for travelling. They are an in-house Content Editor at Rough Guides.

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Sri lanka in august – everything you need to know.

Are you planning a trip to Sri Lanka in August? Well, you’ve chosen a wonderful time to visit this beautiful island nation. August is considered one of the best months to explore Sri Lanka, as it offers a unique blend of favorable weather conditions, vibrant festivals, and exciting outdoor activities. So, here is a step by step guide for indulging in best experiences in Sri Lanka in August.

Quick Links To Explore

Weather in Sri Lanka in August

August marks the transition between the southwest and northeast monsoons in Sri Lanka. The weather during this time is generally pleasant, with sunny days and occasional showers. The average temperature ranges from 27°C to 30°C (81°F to 86°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities. The coastal areas, such as Colombo, Galle, and Trincomalee, experience a moderate climate, while the hill country offers a cooler escape from the heat.

Cultural Festivals In Sri Lanka In August

August is a month filled with vibrant cultural festivals in Sri Lanka. One of the most prominent festivals celebrated during this time is the Kandy Esala Perahera . This grand procession showcases the rich cultural heritage of the country, featuring traditional dancers, drummers, beautifully adorned elephants, and religious rituals. It is a spectacular sight that attracts both locals and tourists from around the world.

Wildlife Exploration In Sri Lanka In August

Sri Lanka is renowned for its diverse wildlife, and August presents an excellent opportunity to witness some of the country’s fascinating creatures. National parks like Yala, Wilpattu, and Udawalawe are home to majestic elephants, elusive leopards, sloth bears , colorful birds, and a variety of other wildlife species. Embark on an exciting safari adventure and get up close and personal with nature’s wonders.

Related Reading: Yala National Park Safari

Beach Bliss In Sri Lanka In August

With its pristine coastline stretching over 1,300 kilometers (807 miles), Sri Lanka is a paradise for beach lovers. August offers favorable conditions for beach activities, with calm seas and gentle breezes. Head to popular beach destinations like Bentota, Mirissa, or Unawatuna , and indulge in sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, or simply strolling along the golden sands while savoring breathtaking sunsets.

Adventure Sports In Sri Lanka In August

If you’re an adrenaline junkie, Sri Lanka has a wide range of adventure sports to get your heart racing. Try your hand at surfing in Arugam Bay , which boasts some of the best waves in the world. Explore the lush rainforests of Kitulgala and engage in thrilling activities like white-water rafting, canyoning, and jungle trekking. For a bird’s-eye view of the stunning landscapes, embark on a hot air balloon ride in Dambulla.

Visiting Historical Sites in August

Sri Lanka’s history dates back thousands of years, and the country is dotted with ancient ruins and sacred sites. In August, you can explore iconic landmarks such as the ancient city of Sigiriya , known for its impressive rock fortress and stunning frescoes. Discover the architectural marvels of Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites , which provide a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich historical past .

Hill Country Escapes in August

Escape the heat of the lowlands and immerse yourself in the refreshing beauty of Sri Lanka’s hill country. In August, the mist-covered mountains of Nuwara Eliya and Ella offer a cool retreat and breathtaking views. Take a scenic train ride through tea plantations, visit picturesque waterfalls, and hike to the top of Adam’s Peak for a memorable sunrise experience. The hill country is a haven for nature enthusiasts and provides ample opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Traditional Cuisine in August

No visit to Sri Lanka is complete without savoring its delectable cuisine . August allows you to indulge in a variety of culinary delights, ranging from fiery curries to mouthwatering seafood. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste traditional dishes like hoppers, string hoppers, kottu roti, and a wide array of tropical fruits. The blend of flavors and spices will surely tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

Shopping Delights in Sri Lanka in August

August is an excellent time for shopping enthusiasts to explore the bustling markets and bazaars of Sri Lanka. Colombo, the capital city, offers a vibrant shopping experience with modern malls and boutique stores. Visit Pettah, the bustling neighborhood known for its vibrant street markets, where you can find everything from colorful textiles to intricate handicrafts. Don’t forget to haggle and bargain to secure the best deals!

Tips for Travelers who are planning a trip to Sri Lanka in August

• Carry lightweight and breathable clothing to cope with the warm weather.
• Pack a waterproof jacket or umbrella for occasional showers.
• Apply sunscreen and use insect repellent to protect yourself from the sun and insects.
• Stay hydrated by drinking bottled water or fresh coconut water.
• Respect local customs and traditions when visiting religious sites.
• Use reliable transportation services or hire a local guide for hassle-free travel.
• Exchange currency at authorized outlets or withdraw money from ATMs.
• Ensure you have valid travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances.

In conclusion, Sri Lanka in August offers a delightful mix of favorable weather, cultural festivities, and diverse experiences. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a cultural immersion, this tropical paradise has it all. From exploring ancient ruins to lounging on pristine beaches, Sri Lanka will captivate your senses and create lasting memories.

Related Reading: Weather in Sri Lanka in September

Sri Lanka Tour Packages

Our Sri Lanka tour packages offer the perfect way to explore this beautiful island. We have a variety of packages to choose from, so you can find one that fits your interests and budget. We can also create a custom itinerary for you.

Q1: Is August a good time to visit Sri Lanka?

A1: Yes, August is a great time to visit Sri Lanka. The weather is pleasant, and you can experience vibrant festivals and engage in various outdoor activities.

Q2: What is the average temperature in Sri Lanka in August?

A2: The average temperature in Sri Lanka in August ranges from 27°C to 30°C (81°F to 86°F).

Q3: What are the popular beach destinations in Sri Lanka during August?

A3: Some popular beach destinations in Sri Lanka during August include Bentota, Mirissa, and Unawatuna.

Q4: Can I engage in adventure sports in Sri Lanka in August?

A4: Absolutely!August is a great time to indulge in adventure sports in Sri Lanka. You can try surfing in Arugam Bay, white-water rafting in Kitulgala, and even enjoy a hot air balloon ride in Dambulla.

Q5: Are there any cultural festivals in Sri Lanka in August?

A5: Yes, August is a month filled with cultural festivals in Sri Lanka. The most notable one is the Kandy Esala Perahera, which showcases the country’s rich cultural heritage.

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• Sri Lanka In August 2024: A Guide To Treat Yourself With The Magic Of Monsoon!

26 Jun 2023

Surrounded by the Indian Ocean, Bay of Bengal, and the Arabian Sea, this beautiful island nation is a worth the time, money, and effort for all travelers. And for those looking forward to a monsoon getaway, a trip to Sri Lanka in August would just be the perfect choice. Sri Lanka enjoys a tropical climate throughout the year and the month of August is no exception. With an abundance of landscapes and beautiful beaches from the west coast to the eastern end, here is a step by step guide for indulging in best experiences in Sri Lanka in August.

Quick Links To Explore Sri Lanka In August

Weather in sri lanka during august, places to visit in sri lanka in august, things to do in sri lanka in august, festivals in sri lanka in august, seasonal delicacies in sri lanka in august, getting around in sri lanka in august, tips for visiting sri lanka in august, frequently asked questions about sri lanka in monsoon.

Being surrounded by water bodies on all sides, Sri Lanka enjoys a tropical climate throughout the year. However, its close proximity to the Equator keeps the temperature almost consistent on an annual basis. Nonetheless, December to March happens to be the best time to visit the West Coast while April to September is perfect to explore the East Coast. But in August the country comes alive. You can enjoy the best of beaches, city life and nightlife. So, plan your next trip accordingly.

Must Read: Wasgamuwa National Park: A Pocket Guide To Have A Splendid Wildlife Encounter In Sri Lanka!

Here are the best places to go in Sri Lanka in August that you should absolutely not miss if you are planning a holiday in the tropical island.

1. Trincomalee Beaches

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Located on the far east coast, you can enjoy on the secluded beaches of Trincomalee during the summer monsoons. Soft sand, palm trees, and clear waters are the major attractions at this beach for all kind of travelers. This beach is one of the top 5 places to visit in Sri Lanka in August as the arrival of monsoon makes it all the more beautiful to explore. The best beaches in Sri Lanka in august are found here.

Suggested Read: 10 Places To Visit In Bentota On Your Sri Lanka Trip

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2. Nuwara Eliya, Ella

This will be an unforgettable trip when you take a train ride through the luscious green countryside of Nuwara Eliya. It is the best place in Sri Lanka in August that you ought not to miss. Without any second thoughts on the weather in Sri Lanka, stay amidst the greenery of Ella to relish the best of this paradise. Walk through the tea plantations, stroll along the train bridges, and hike towards the remote villages to feel the authentic vibe of Nuwara Eliya which is one of the top 10 places to visit in Sri Lanka.

Suggested Read: 11 Places To Visit In Hambantota That Are Going To Amaze You

3. The Cultural Triangle

In search of historical places in Sri Lanka- Then the hilly capital of Kandy, the Sinhalese capital of Anuradhapura, and the medieval capital of Polonnaruwa are a must on your itinerary during monsoon. The most amazing places to visit in Sri Lanka are the rock fortress of Sigiriya, the cave monastery of Dambulla, and the Buddhist Centre of Mihintale. With such magnificent ruins and religious monuments on your list, you are sure to enjoy Sri Lanka in August weather.

Suggested Read: 8 Awesome Places To Visit In Ella To Make The Most Of Your Sri Lankan Vacation!

This 16th century Portuguese colony is a reminder of the time gone by. A number of important sights are mandatory to visit here such as the Galle Fort, Galle Lighthouse, and the Unawatuna Beach. The remarkable Dutch sea fort houses a number of museums, shops, and cafes for all the travelers during August. The presence of beautiful churches also makes Galle one of the top 5 places to visit in Sri Lanka in August.

5. Arugam Bay

On the south-east corner of this island nation lies the the Arugam Bay where surf tourism is considered to be at its peak. Since the monsoon does affect this side of the country much, Arugam is one of the top 5 places to visit in Sri Lanka in August. The locals are friendly and quite chilled out which makes your trip to this part of the country worth it. If surfing is not your cup of tea, relaxing on a hammock with a book in hand can also be quite enjoyable here on your next trip to Sri Lanka in August.

Suggested Read: Galle Fort: A Complete Guide To Know Everything About This Historical Gem In Sri Lanka

Here is a list of some of the best things to do in Sri Lanka during august for a heartwarming holiday.

1. Exploring Kandy Perahera

At the lakeside city in Sri Lanka, the most spectacular festival takes place where the sacred relic of the Buddha’s tooth is paraded down the streets for at least 10 days. A number of dancers as well as the iconic elephants participate in this one-of-a-kind parade, which you should not miss. Built around the Kandy lake, this city is one of the top 5 places to visit in Sri Lanka in August.

2. Taste Some Homegrown Tea

If youre a tea lover, a tour of the tea plantations would be one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka. At Sri Lankas Hill Country, you will experience a variety of adventures. The famous Haputale Mountains is where Sir Thomas Lipton began his tea expedition, and witnessing a beauty like that in Sri Lanka in August weather is surely an out-of-the-world experience!

Suggested Read: Sri Lanka In May: A Little Guide To Travelling During Monsoon

3. Local Sightseeing At Colombo

The commercial capital is a must visit as there are a lot of things to do in Sri Lanka in August. Enjoy the colonial British era structures across the city as well as the old antique shops, and eateries. To enjoy the local experience, do visit the open-air market in Pettah and spend some time at the Beira Lake which is known for its scenic island and lakefront paths.

4. Interact With The Elephants

One of the most unique sights that you will witness is the elephant gathering at Minneriya, which happens in August. It is a rare sight to see as the herd of elephants gathers at this place, and it is an incredible phenomenon that you must include in your itinerary for Sri Lanka in August. Have fun experiencing the sight in Sri Lanka in August.

Learning about the culture is one of the best things to do while you visit a destination and what better than experiencing and being a part of some of the festivals in the country in August. Here is a festival you can be a part of if you plan to visit the island in August.

Nallur Festival

The 25-day long Nallur Festival celebrated to honour Lord Murugan is another affair which is all about glory and grandeur. There are different festivities for different days and devotees from all around the place come to Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil for the celebrations. On the final day of the Chariot(Nallur) Festival a glittering deity seated on a silver throne is carried around the town.

Dates: 5th August-1st September Where: Jaffna

If you are visiting a place in a particular month there naturally would be things that would just be available at that time. These seasonal delicacies or rather fruits just happen to be some of them.

1. Try Mangosteen

Said to be the queen of fruits, Mangosteen is a fruit which has a sour-sweet taste and is very juicy. Known for its excellent nutritional value, ‘Kaluthara’, an evergreen tree bears this fruit. Very juicy and rich in vitamin B and C, calcium and even carbohydrates you should definitely try Mangosteen in Sri Lanka.

2. Taste Rambutans

Sri Lankans proudly call it the sexiest fruit ever and no kidding if you see it you too would. Somewhat similar to strawberries, Rambutans grow in Colombo and Gampaha. Another place famous for its rambutan orchards is ‘Kelani’ river valley. July to August is the best season to taste this fruit as an outer covering of hair develops around the surface and it looks very pretty.

Sri Lanka undoubtedly is the best example of having a lot to offer in such a small space. With no dearth of mesmerising landscapes and scenic views Sri Lanka also offers great connectivity and getting around in Sri Lanka is very convenient. Here’s how.

By Car: The most comfortable and convenient way to roam around and explore Sri Lanka is by hiring a car with a driver. The drivers often have a great knowledge about the local tourist spots and the things you can do at the various destinations.

By Train: Exploring Sri Lanka on train is another way you can opt for. The scenic beauty and the routes especially Kandy to Ella and Nuwara Eliya to Colombo and many others are worth it all.

Bike: Cycling around like a local is a great experience to have and the good news is that you can do it at your convenience in Sri Lanka. You can hire simple mountain bikes which you can easily find at guesthouses. These places also rent out bikes to non-guests.

By Bus: 90,000 Kilometres is how long the roads stretch in Sri Lanka. Buses cover almost 80% of these and getting around Sri Lanka in a bus is the most economical and feasible option. You can choose from Central Transport Buses and Private Buses.

By Tuk Tuk: If you want to feel the closest to what a local feels like in Sri Lanka then exploring the island on a tuk-tuk is what you should be doing. You can use your bargaining skills to get the driver agree on a fare that works best for both sides.

• Always start early to avoid the scorching heat and the hustle and bustle of the crowd
• Many of the sites open from 6 AM to 7 PM every day
• Be ready for showers at any time of the year while you keep an umbrella handy and wear light clothes.
• Wearing suitable clothes is recommended before visiting the places of worship.
• Do not miss out on the local food, handmade clothes, etc.

Further Read: 8 Romantic Things To Do In Sri Lanka For Newlywed Couples

Even though Sri Lanka is a small island in the middle of the Indian Ocean, it has a vast area that still remains undiscovered by travelers. With a number of forests and natural landscapes still yearning to be explored in Sri Lanka in August, let that monsoon adventure kick-in as you gear up for an amazing trip to Sri Lanka!

How is the weather in Sri Lanka in August?

The weather in August is dry and one might experience some rainfall towards the end of the month.

What is the best time of the year to visit Sri Lanka?

December to March is the best time to visit Sri Lanka.

When is the rainy season in Sri Lanka?

May to September is the rainy season in Sri Lanka.

Where are the best beaches in Sri Lanka?

The best beaches are in Unawatuna and Hikkaduwa.

Can you drink alcohol in Sri Lanka?

Yes, you can drink alcohol in Sri Lanka. In fact, try Lion Beer which is a famous beer brew in the tropical country.

Can I carry Indian rupees to Sri Lanka?

Sure you can carry Indian rupees in Sri Lanka. However, you won;t be able to use it as it only accepts Sri Lanka currency which is Sri Lankan rupee.

Is Sri Lanka cheaper than India?

No, Sri Lanka is 2.2 times more expensive than India.

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Sri Lanka in August: The Last of the Yala Monsoon

• ~ mins read

Monsoon has largely subsided in Sri Lanka by August. Rains lose their ferocity and sunny days multiply in the country's south and west. With a consistent temperature throughout the island, Sri Lanka in August offers a rare treat of uninhibited access anywhere in the country. And with cultural events like Esala Perahera Festival in Kandy and gorgeous wildlife phenomena like the Minneriya Elephant gathering, traveling to Sri Lanka offers plenty of excursion opportunities in August.

• Donald MacDonald
• From Scotland

Sri Lanka Weather in August

Though seasonal variation stays unchanged in Sri Lanka due to its location near the equator, visitors will experience the change in mercury depending on the region they are visiting. Colombo, on the country's west coast, sees the temperatures climb to a maximum of 29°C. With an overall rainfall of 109 mm, August allows plenty of opportunities to explore Colombo. For some cool weather, head to the cooler climes of the Hill Country. Nuwara Eliya is pretty wet in August, with 161 mm of rain. Here, the mercury maxes at 19°C during the daytime, and nights are cozy at 12°C. If you want to beat the Yala monsoon, head to the east coast for a rain-free beach experience. Coastal cities like Trincomalee have a maximum high of 33°C and a minimum low of 25°C.

For a seasonal overview, check out our guide on the best time to visit Sri Lanka .

Weather in Sri Lanka in August - Rainfall and Temperatures

Why visit sri lanka in august.

Due to its monsoon status, mainstream tourists steer clear of Sri Lanka in August. What they miss are the perfect seasonal benefits this month offers. Here are some reasons why you should take a trip to Sri Lanka in August :

• Low Season Perks: Travelers looking for a peaceful and serene holiday without the rush of other tourists can travel to Sri Lanka in August. Travel slowly and save up your travel budget, as discounts will be available at most places. The weather in Sri Lanka in August might not be the best, but it still offers enough good bits to make traveling here worth your while.
• Festival: For a cultural dose go to Kandy to attend the grand festival of Esala Perahera or The Festival of the Tooth. This annual procession, which pays homage to the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha, consists of traditionally costumed musicians, dancers, singers, and other performing artists. The sights and sounds are gorgeous, with decked-up elephants participating in the parade.
• Wildlife Spectacle: Around 300 Asian elephants congregate in Minneriya National Park every year between July and October. Due to its location on the plains, visitors will get a sweeping view of this great gathering of giants.

Where to go and what to do

August is a perfect month to temper your travels with a variety of experiences. Explore the urban expanse of Colombo , along with its colonial history and its cultural melange. Pristine wilderness awaits in Yala National Park, as August is one of the best times to track the elusive leopards.

Sunlit beaches of Bentota and Mirissa, Tangalle, and Trincomalee are tempting to spread your beach towels or take a leisurely dip in the warm waters. For an off-the-radar experience, travel to Delft Island, off the coast of Jaffna, in the northernmost tip of Sri Lanka. Check out its Dutch history and its curious connection to an Indian epic—the giant footprint of Lord Hanuman from Ramayana.

Food fanatics can take a trip to Galle , where they can learn how to cook local cuisine. Here, they can also check out this erstwhile Portuguese colony and the famed Unawatuna Beach.

Syncing your trip with Sri Lanka's tricky weather in August might seem difficult. However, planning your travel can open doors for abundant experiences. Remember, August is still monsoon in Sri Lanka, so prepare for the Yala showers. Keep your attire light and breezy, as non-rainy days can get hot and humid.

If you want better insights, you can contact our local travel experts for a customized trip to Sri Lanka , or you can check our guide on how many days to spend in Sri Lanka for an in-depth itinerary. For instant inspiration, check out our Sri Lanka tours in August .

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TRAVEL to SRI LANKA – Tips and Information Guide (2024)

Everything you need to know about travel to Sri Lanka, with tips, information and travel guides for 2024!

There’s a certain reason why Sri Lanka is known as the ‘pearl’ of the Indian Ocean and to experience Sri Lanka, you’ll probably have to just go and check it out for yourself, but before you go you might want to read this article for a bit of inspiration before jetting off to one of the most stunning tropical paradises in the world. Sri Lanka!

From Colombo’s bright lights and wafts of fragrant spices, Colombo clashes with the warm waves of the Indian Ocean making it the perfect place to begin exploring the formerly known country of ‘Ceylon’.

Whether you have 1, 2 or 3 weeks to explore Sri Lanka, the amount of activities you can do within a short space of time is crazy!

Don’t miss our brand new article on the  best things to do in Sri Lanka!

Sri Lanka Travel Guide

Here’s the basic information about travelling to Sri Lanka that will give you a general idea about the country.

General Information

• Capital:  Colombo
• Other Main Cities: Kandy, Galle, Trincomalee
• Currency:  Sri Lankan Rupee
• Language:  Sinhalese and Tamil
• Population: 22 million
• Area:  65’610 sq. km
• Electricity Voltage:  230 Volt at 50Hz. If you have 110 volt appliances, you need an voltage adaptor otherwise you’ll burn out the item you are using.
• Electricity Sockets:  Plug type D (three round pins) or G (three rectangular pins)

How to Get to Sri Lanka

Sri Lankan Air offers daily flights from Melbourne to Colombo which takes around 11 hours. Be sure to check out the article on my experience with Sri Lankan Air !

By air is the only way at the moment for how to get to Sri Lanka. The main international airport Bandaranaike is a major international hub therefore flights come from all over the world.

Visa Requirements for Sri Lanka

Visas are required on entry to Sri Lanka and can be obtained at Bandaranaike International Airport or through https://www.eta.gov.lk/slvisa/visainfo/center.jsp?locale=en_US which is the Electronic Travel Authorisation System.

Visa prices vary depending on what purpose you are visiting the country by i.e. leisure, business, conference.

Why Go to Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka has had a very rough past, which has only in the recent 10 years halted giving the country a complete fresh start. Today most of the country has become accessible to foreigners.

Sri Lanka is well known for its surf breaks with pristine beaches and coconut palms, and the fame is for good reason.

That’s why most people go there, but to truly understand what Sri Lanka is about, you’re going to need to get a vehicle and head to the countries heart.

Colombo wasn’t Sri Lanka’s first capital, in fact it was Anuradhapura (Anu-rad-ha-pura) back in 380 BC located in the Northern Central region where Buddhist culture is the strongest.

There are 2 good reasons to go to Sri Lanka and I could probably name a whole lot more, but there are 2 particular things that revolve around one another and that is food and a smile.

No matter where you are in Sri Lanka, you are bound to get a wave and smile from the locals and if you are lucky enough, sitting down and enjoying a spicy meal with an extra serve of sambol you are bound to crack a smile.

I have been to a lot of countries throughout the world but the people of Sri Lanka are by far the friendliest you will ever come across on your travels.

What to Expect in Sri Lanka?

When you travel to Sri Lanka for the first time you probably won’t know what to expect. Well there’s a million things that may be different to what you are used to at home, but ultimately there’s just two big things you need to know about.

Weather – Anywhere near the equator you can expect high humidity, monsoon rains and frequent thunderstorms and you’re not wrong, these are very common in Sri Lanka almost everywhere you go.

The country has 3 monsoon seasons so picking the right time to go travelling in Sri Lanka may prove to be slightly difficult.

Rain can be your best friend cooling you down when humidity peaks but if you get too much roads frequently get cut off due to swelling creeks, rivers and paddy fields.

Roads – Having travelled extensively in a whole bunch of Asian countries, Sri Lanka by far has the best roads I’ve encountered, especially from Colombo through Negombo, Kurunegala to Anuradhapura.

Travel Itineraries Suggestions for Colombo in Sri Lanka

Colombo serves as the gateway to the rest of Sri Lanka as it’s the only port where you can enter and exit the country.

Colombo has a certain charm about it with its mix of old and new architecture which pushes right to the edge of the Indian Ocean. As soon as you cross the shore, it happens before your eyes with trains full of commuters zooming up and down the coastline as wave’s crash precariously below the train tracks.

The closer you are to the shores of the Indian Ocean, the more you are going to witness newer infrastructure so why not opt for the opposite and grab a trishaw to Fort where colonial infrastructure becomes the main attraction.

If you are truly looking to experience Colombo, Pettah is the place to go. Pettah bazaar is a bustling 24 hour market where literally everything is bought, sold and repaired.

Cinnamon Gardens are located a few kilometres in land from Colombo’s centre where things are a bit more stylish compared to places such as Pettah. Cinnamon Gardens was once as the name suggests, an orchard of cinnamon however today there are more buildings than cinnamon plants.

If you are in the gardens be sure to visit the National Museum to gain some insight into the country’s history before heading off on an adventure, it will help you understand what Sri Lanka is all about.  

One of the most interesting places in Colombo is Galle Face Green,  which is a long patch of grass running parallel to the ocean shore.

This is where games of cricket are constantly happening with the occasional ball being hit for 6 into the sea as the sun sets low over the Indian Ocean.

Galle Face Green is also a great place to sample some of Sri Lanka’s best street food such as Kotthu .

A little bit further south, trains frequently zip along a narrow section of coastline with local commuters hustling for a spot by the trains doors.

Transport in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is quite easy to get around in terms of transport available, however if you are considering driving yourself or hiring a trishaw, you may want to think again.

Roads in Sri Lanka are relatively quiet in comparison to places such as India and Nepal but the road rules are still quite hectic.

Trains are a good way of getting around especially if you are heading from Colombo to Kandy or down south to Galle but expect the trains to be packed to the doors.

If you are travelling around Colombo, taxis are cheap but be sure to agree on a price before leaving.

Top Places to Visit in Northern Central Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is known for its epic surf break and pristine beaches but to truly discover Sri Lanka’s rich heritage, you’re going to need to head to the Northern Central Region which is some 6 hours away.

Northern Central’s history extends right from the time that the first people crossed from India to what is now known as ‘the pearl’ of the Indian Ocean.

With multiple capital cities being formed in the Northern part of Sri Lanka, a strong history has developed with many of these ruins becoming World Heritage Sites.

The Northern Central is known for its ancient cities and if you haven’t been to Sri Lanka before, you may want to continue reading this article!

Despite what publications like Lonely Planet say about Dambulla being a ‘town of no interest, cursed by heavy traffic’, they would be very wrong to judge such a diverse and wonderful place by calling it so.

Dambulla is surrounded by massive granite formations which are covered in lush vegetation creating a unique backdrop.

Dambulla is the epicenter to surrounding temples such as the Cave Temple but it is also home to one of the busiest fruit and vegetable trade centres at the Dambulla Produce Market which is so crucial to the local economy.

Everything from bananas, mangoes and potatoes to imported onions from Pakistan are sold at wholesale prices here with businesses bargaining for the best prices before carting off the produce to Colombo.

Locals in Dambulla are some of the friendliest people you will meet even those who are hauling bags of potatoes, they are more than happy to stop and have a chat!

Habarana is only a very small town that stretches north to south along a stretch of road but it has proven to be a lot more than that.

Habarana is the place to base yourself if you plan to go on safari to Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park.

One of the best places to stay in Habarana, is Cinnamon Lodge which is a widespread hotel bordering a large lake home to over 100 different species of birds and the odd cute but pesky monkey(s)!

Cinnamon Lodge is all about sustainability as it is located in a fragile environment therefore everything you eat comes directly from Dambulla market or is grown on the grounds of the hotel.

Dambulla Cave Temple

Dating back to the first century BC, one of the coolest places to visit in Sri Lanka is the incredible structures inside the Rocky Temple of Dambulla.

Filled with a huge number of Buddha statues, the caves you can wander through will be sure to impress you. Don’t miss the peculiar reclining Buddha, which is claimed to be in parinirvana, or nirvana after death, and is a massive 14 metres long!

Yapahuwa Rock Fortress

Yapahuwa is a beautiful granite geological feature that used to be used as a fortress. Stretching 200m from the fertile ground beneath it, it was in use as far back as the 13th century.

It’s a lot more than simply an old, historic ruin though. Yapahuwa offers an insight in how the kingdom of King Buvenekabahu’s home would have looked like all those years ago.

No matter whether you are ascending or descending Yapahuwa, a trip to the summit can be quite difficult. The steps are steep and there’s water flowing down the rock, making the granite slippery.

It’s completely worth the effort of climbing though, and the panoramic views of the Sri Lankan countryside will leave you in awe.

Plus Yapahuwa isn’t as popular as some of the other main attractions in the country like Sigiriya, so there’s a good chance you’ll have the views all to yourself.

Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa, the former 11th century capital city when King Vijayabahu 1 was ruler, is only a 45-minute drive from Habarana, so there’s really no reason not to visit it when you travel to Sri Lanka.

Today it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its popularity grows every year with people who come to this beautiful country from overseas.

It’s quite a large site, spread out over a vast expanse of land, so the best way to explore it all is to rent a bicycle rather than trying to walk everywhere.

The 5 sections of Polonnaruwa are separated into the Royal Palace, the Northern Group, the small Southern Group, the Quadrangle and the small Island Park, with a bunch of other ruins found elsewhere on the site.

Don’t miss exploring the Polonnaruwa Quadrangle, which is one of the highlights of this place thanks to the way the structures are built around each other.

Vatadage is the one not to be skipped, and is arguably the most impressive feature with its dilapidated walls, circular relic house and two terraces that surround the Buddha.

Anuradhapura

One of the country’s many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the famous Anuradhapura is best known for being home to   a relic of the sacred Buddha’s tooth, which is encircled deep within the city.

The  Abhayagiri Dagoba  (dagoba means stupa) used to stand over 100m tall, but it has fallen apart over the years to be much lower than this today.

Another of the main dagobas here is  Jetavanarama,  which is quite similar to  Abhayagiri.  Jetavanarama was made with over 90 million bricks, which makes it one of the largest man-made structures on earth from its era, with only the Great Pyramids of Egypt beating it out.

While you’re here don’t miss out on  Sri Maha Bodhi,  the most sacred of all Buddhist monuments in Sri Lanka. This is the oldest Bodhi tree in all of Asia, with estimates putting it at over 2000 years old.

It’s found in the centre of the temple so nobody can touch it, but the branches spread right out over the temple walls so if you’re really lucky you might see one of the sacred leaves falling from the sky.

Sigiriya Rock

By far the most popular place to visit in all of Sri Lanka’s northern central region is Sigiriya Rock, also known as Lion Rock.

Here you’ll find busloads of visitors heading to the old stronghold of Sigiriya, which used to be under the rule of King Kassapa in the 5th century.

Don’t let the sheer number of tourists put you off – it’s well worth dealing with the crowds for as it is seriously of of the most impressive sites in the entire country.

There’s a cool stairway that takes you right to the top of the rock, so if you’re scared of heights at all maybe sit this one out.

You definitely can’t miss the two giant lion’s feet at the base of Sigiriya, and the feet act as a passage to the top of the fortress.

The views from the summit are, as expected, awesome.

Ritigala Ancient Monastery

Ritigala is a very special place in Sri Lanka, and its location makes it even more so, with the 4th century ruins being in the heart of the Ritigala Nature Reserve and boasting a number of turquoise creeks flowing right by.

The reason most people visit this monastery is to hike to the Ritigala Peak, but before you start you need to take a 30-minute Jeep ride from the main road and deep into the forest.

Today this is where monks of all ages and levels come and live during their practice.

A track flows from ruin to ruin, and eventually finishes up in a dead end which is a wonderful place to simply kick back and soak up the ambiance of Ritigala.

Accommodation in Northern Central Sri Lanka

Cinnamon Hotels based in Habarana is the perfect place to relax all while being closely positioned to all of the main attractions in this part of Sri Lanka.

Be sure to read my review of the Lodge in Habarana !

Staying Safe in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka endured a terrible past but don’t let that put you off going to truly one of the most beautiful places in Asia.

The people of Sri Lanka are so friendly and will offer to feed you and put you up for a night. However if you do run into trouble, embassies and consulates are located in Colombo so be sure to know their location and contact number if you do encounter problems.

Always keep your belongings close including your passport, camera gear and money.

Travel Packing List

Sri Lanka is a very hot and humid place which endures a daily down pour of rain almost everywhere. If you have forgotten an item, it will be easy to purchase once in Sri Lanka.

Here are a few items I highly recommend:

• Breathable shirts
• Shorts that cover the knees (especially good for visiting temples)
• Swim shorts
• Hiking shoes
• Sarong (always comes in handy)

Tips for Travelling in Sri Lanka

Here are some of my best tips when it comes to travelling in Sri Lanka, and especially in the Northern Central region.

Etiquette When Visiting Temples in Sri Lanka

One of the things that we as visitors need to respect when visiting a foreign country is local law. Temples and stupas in Sri Lanka require both men and women to have covered shoulders and covered knees so make sure to bring long pants and a t-shirt.

When walking inside a temple, please remove your shoes and your hat before entering and refrain from speaking loudly.

When visiting a stupa it is customary to walk in a clockwise direction otherwise known as circumbulation.

Visiting Rock Formations

Visiting rock formations such as Ritigala, Yapahuwa and Sigiriya are to some locals considered to be a sacred place, so please respect that by wearing appropriate clothing and avoid such gestures like “celebrating when getting to the top of the rock”.

You are not there to ‘conquer’, you are there to respect that place’s cultural values. Please be respectful toward the people of this beautiful country.

Get Familiar with the Local Currency

I can never stress how important it is to be accustomed with the local currency. I always take a small writing book with me with currency conversions to ensure I know how much I am spending.

Don’t Drink Tap Water

Tap water in Sri Lanka can make you quite sick so be sure to stick to bottled water. Another good tip to save using bottled water is to ask if the hotel has purified water to which your bottle can be refilled.

Carry Toilet Paper

Northern Central areas especially when visiting places such as Ritigala, toilet paper is one thing that you will not find. Carry a spare roll just to be safe.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance will save you big time and your pockets if you find yourself in a hospital. Get insurance before you leave your home country and know how to contact your insurance provider in the case of an emergency. Read our guide all about travel insurance here.

Always ask permission when taking photos of people. If they say ‘no’ please respect that. If you see a military checkpoint, bridge or dam DO NOT take a photo unless you want your camera smashed on the ground. Places like Sigiriya have photo sensitive sites and if you are told not to take photos, I’d advise not to.

Here’s our tips for travel photography.

Read Our Sri Lanka Posts

The 10 best things to do in sri lanka (and what not to do), cinnamon hotels review – sri lanka, sri lankan airlines review – melbourne to colombo.

Sri Lanka in August: Weather, Things to Do, Places To Visit

Things to do in sri lanka in august.

Festivals in Sri Lanka in August

1. Esala Perahera

2. nikini poya, 3. vel festival.

This post was published by Pranati Bhatt

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Sri Lanka, an enchanting island nestled in the Indian Ocean, offers a mesmerising vacation destination for travellers seeking a tropical monsoon getaway. Sri Lanka is a must-visit for every wanderlust with its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and pristine beaches. August, in particular, presents a unique opportunity to experience the island's beauty as it transitions from the southwest monsoon season to milder weather. This comprehensive guide will explore the best places to visit and things to do in Sri Lanka in August, allowing you to make the most of your monsoon adventure.

• Sri Lanka weather in August
• Crowds & Costs in August
• Where to Go in Sri Lanka in August
• Things to Do in Sri Lanka in August
• Festivals in Sri Lanka in August

Seasonal Delicacies in Sri Lanka in August

• Getting Around in Sri Lanka in August
• Tips for Visiting Sri Lanka in August

1. Sri Lanka's weather in August

Sri Lanka enjoys a tropical climate throughout the year, with August no exception. Although the southwest monsoon season typically runs from May to September, August is a month of reduced rainfall in certain regions, particularly near the capital city of Colombo and the west coast. The temperatures in most parts of Sri Lanka remain fairly stable year-round, with a cooling off slightly during the monsoon. In August, Colombo experienced highs of around 86°F and lows of 79°F, while Kandy, a popular tourist destination, saw highs of around 84°F. The hill station of Nuwara Eliya, known for its cooler climate, can have temperatures as low as 55°F. On the northeastern coast, cities like Jaffna, Trincomalee, and Anuradhapura enjoy sunny and hot weather, with temperatures reaching an average of 90°F to 95°F.

2. Crowds & Costs in August

August is a popular month for travellers in Sri Lanka due to reduced rainfall around the capital and summer vacations in the Northern Hemisphere. Many European tourists choose to visit Sri Lanka in August, resulting in increased crowds and higher prices in certain areas. Events like the renowned Kandy Perahera, which sometimes falls during August, can further contribute to the influx of visitors and elevated costs. To ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip, it is advisable to make your travel arrangements in advance and book accommodations and activities by checking the best time to visit Sri Lanka in August.

Read More : Places To Visit In Sri Lanka  

3. Where to Go in Sri Lanka in August

The southwest monsoon brings wet conditions to the western and southern parts of the island, while the eastern and northern regions tend to be drier. Here are some recommended places to visit in Sri Lanka in August, considering the weather patterns:

• Trincomalee's Beaches: August is an ideal time to visit the secluded beaches of Trincomalee on the far eastern coast of Sri Lanka. With soft sands, swaying palm trees, and crystal-clear waters, these beaches offer a tranquil paradise for beach lovers.
• Nuwara Eliya and Ella: Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Nuwara Eliya and Ella, nestled amidst lush green hills. Take a train ride through the picturesque countryside, visit tea plantations, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Sri Lanka's Hill Country.
• Kandy and the Kandy Perahera: If you can witness the grand Kandy Perahera festival, held in honour of the sacred tooth relic of Buddha, Kandy is a must-visit destination in August. This vibrant festival features a magnificent parade of elephants, dancers, and traditional performances.
• The Cultural Triangle: Embark on a journey through Sri Lanka's rich history by visiting the ancient cities of Kandy, Anuradhapura, and Polonnaruwa. Explore iconic sites such as Sigiriya's rock fortress, Dambulla's cave temple, and the Buddhist centre of Mihintale.
• Galle: Explore the historic city of Galle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its 16th-century Portuguese fort. Visit the Galle Fort, Galle Lighthouse, and Unawatuna Beach while immersing yourself in the charming colonial architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
• Arugam Bay: For avid surfers and beach enthusiasts, Arugam Bay on the southeast coast is a top destination in August. This surfing hotspot offers excellent waves and a laid-back atmosphere, making it an ideal place to unwind and enjoy the beach life.
• Wildlife-spotting at Yala National Park: August's dry weather makes it an excellent time to visit Yala National Park. The park is known for its diverse wildlife, including leopards, elephants, and various bird species. Book Sri Lanka wildlife tours in August to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
• Jaffna: Head north to Jaffna to immerse yourself in the vibrant Tamil culture of Sri Lanka. Visit the Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, a magnificent temple that hosts a 25-day-long festival celebrating the god Skanda. Experience the colourful processions, traditional music, and dance performances that highlight the rich cultural heritage of Jaffna.

4. Things to Do in Sri Lanka in August

In August, despite the varying weather conditions in different parts of Sri Lanka due to the monsoon season, you can still enjoy plenty of activities and experiences. Here are some things to do in Sri Lanka in August:

• Celebrate the Kandy Perahera: If you find yourself in Kandy during the Kandy Perahera festival, make sure to immerse yourself in the festivities. Witness the grand parade of elephants, dancers, and fire performers as they showcase the rich cultural traditions of Sri Lan
• Indulge in Water Activities: With the monsoon season in full swing, August is a perfect time for Sri Lanka beach vacations in August, allowing you to engage in water activities on the east coast. Swim, snorkel, or dive in the pristine waters of Trincomalee or explore the vibrant marine life at Pigeon Island National Park.
• Explore Tea Plantations: Take a tour of the lush tea plantations in Sri Lanka's Hill Country, particularly in Nuwara Eliya and Ella. Learn about the tea-making process, savour freshly brewed tea, and enjoy the serene beauty of the rolling hills covered in emerald green tea bushes.
• Visit Ancient Temples: Sri Lanka is renowned for its ancient temples and religious sites. Explore the cave temples of Dambulla, where intricate murals and statues depict Buddhist mythology. Pay a visit to the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, a sacred site that houses the relic of Buddha's tooth.
• Embark on a Wildlife Safari: Discover the incredible biodiversity of Sri Lanka by embarking on a wildlife safari in Yala National Park. Spot leopards, elephants, crocodiles, and a myriad of bird species as you venture through the park's diverse ecosystems.
• Discover Colonial Architecture: Wander through the streets of Galle and immerse yourself in the city's colonial charm. Admire the Dutch and Portuguese architecture, visit the Galle Fort, and explore the vibrant art scene and boutique shops within the fort walls.
• Experience Tamil Culture in Jaffna: Immerse yourself in the vibrant Tamil culture of Jaffna by attending the Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil Festival. Witness colourful processions, traditional music, and dance performances that showcase the rich heritage of the Tamil community.
• Enjoy Water Sports: If you're seeking adventure, head to Arugam Bay, one of the world's best surfing destinations. Catch the perfect wave, learn to surf, or simply relax on the golden sands and soak up the laid-back atmosphere.

5. Festivals in Sri Lanka in August

In Sri Lanka, August is a month that hosts a significant cultural and religious festival known as the Kandy Esala Perahera. However, it's important to note that the exact dates of these festivals can vary based on the lunar calendar, so it's advisable to double-check the dates closer to your travel time. You can enjoy these Sri Lanka August festivals and events:

• Kandy Perahera: The Kandy Perahera, a grand festival held in Kandy, celebrates the sacred tooth relic of Buddha. Join the procession of beautifully adorned elephants, dancers, and drummers as they pay homage to this revered religious artefact.
• Nikini Poya: Nikini Poya is a significant Buddhist festival observed during the full moon in August. Devotees engage in fasting and religious ceremonies to commemorate important events in Buddhism.
• The Festival of Vel: The Festival of Vel is a vibrant celebration of the Hindu god Lord Muruga. Join the chariot parades, witness traditional dances, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of this religious festival.

While exploring Sri Lanka in August, be sure to indulge in the seasonal delicacies that the island has to offer. During this time, various fruits are in season, including mangosteen and rambutans. Try these juicy and flavoursome fruits, which are known for their nutritional value and unique taste. Additionally, savour the aromatic Ceylon tea, Sri Lanka's most famous export, and immerse yourself in the rich flavours of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine.

Read More : Street Food Of Sri Lanka 

7. Getting Around in Sri Lanka in August

Sri Lanka offers various transportation options for travellers to navigate the island. Renting a car with a driver is a comfortable and convenient way to explore the country, as drivers often have extensive knowledge of local tourist spots. Alternatively, you can embark on scenic train journeys, such as the iconic Kandy to Ella route, which takes you through the stunning landscapes of Sri Lanka's Hill Country. Cycling is another popular option for exploring Sri Lanka like a local, with mountain bikes available for rent at guesthouses. Buses and tuk-tuks provide affordable and authentic transportation experiences, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture.

8. Tips for Visiting Sri Lanka in August

Visiting Sri Lanka in August can be a rewarding experience, but it's essential to be prepared for the varying weather conditions and plan your trip accordingly. Here are some Sri Lanka August travel tips to make the most of your visit:

• Start early: To beat the heat and avoid crowds, start your day early and make the most of the cooler morning hours.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially during outdoor activities and excursions.
• Apply sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun's rays by applying sunscreen with a high SPF, even on cloudy days.
• Plan and book in advance: Due to increased tourist activity in August, it is advisable to plan and book your accommodations, activities, and transportation in advance to secure the best options and avoid any last-minute hassles.
• Respect local customs: When visiting temples and religious sites, dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering. Respect local customs and traditions to ensure a positive cultural experience.
• Pack light and breathable clothing: It is important to know what to pack for Sri Lanka in August. As August in Sri Lanka can be hot and humid, pack light, loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabrics to stay comfortable throughout the day.

With its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant festivals, Sri Lanka in August offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. Whether you're exploring tranquil beaches, delving into ancient history, or immersing yourself in the vibrant local culture, Sri Lanka has something to offer every traveller. Plan your monsoon getaway to this tropical paradise with Adotrip to get the best offers and deals on bookings, flight tickets, tours and hotels and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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Frequently asked questions related to sri lanka in august.

Q1. What is the weather like in Sri Lanka during August? A1. In August, Sri Lanka experiences its southwest monsoon season. The weather is characterised by heavy rainfall and strong winds in many parts of the country. Temperatures remain warm, with average highs around 28-30°C (82-86°F) and humid conditions.

Q2. Can visitors enjoy water sports and beach vacations during this month? A2. August might not be the best time for water sports and beach vacations due to the monsoon season. The sea can be rough, and many popular beach destinations might have limited water-related activities available.

Q3. Are there any cultural or religious events celebrated in August? A3. One of the significant cultural events in August is the Nikini Poya, a full moon day that holds religious significance for Buddhists in Sri Lanka. However, the cultural events during this month might be limited due to the monsoon season.

Q4. What are the popular destinations for wildlife safaris and nature tours? A4. Sri Lanka offers several popular destinations for wildlife safaris and nature tours, such as Yala National Park, Wilpattu National Park, and Udawalawe National Park. These parks are known for their diverse flora and fauna.

Q5. Can visitors witness any unique wildlife behaviours or animal migrations? A5. While August might not be the best time for wildlife observation due to the rainy conditions, Sri Lanka does have unique wildlife behaviours and migrations throughout the year. For instance, the Minneriya Elephant Gathering usually occurs in August and September, where a large number of elephants gather near the Minneriya reservoir.

Q6. Are there any eco-friendly initiatives or events held in August? A6. Sri Lanka has been promoting eco-friendly initiatives and sustainable tourism practises. While specific events in August might vary, it's recommended to enquire locally or with tour operators about any ongoing eco-friendly initiatives during your visit.

Q7. Can visitors participate in any outdoor adventure activities in August? A7. The monsoon season in August might limit certain outdoor adventure activities, but there could still be opportunities for activities like trekking and exploring rainforests, provided you are prepared for rainy conditions.

Q8. What are the recommended locations for rainforest exploration? A8. For rainforest exploration, Sinharaja Forest Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its biodiversity. Keep in mind that August falls within the monsoon season, so trails might be muddy and conditions wet.

Q9. Are there any special monsoon-related precautions for travellers in August? A9. Travellers should be prepared for heavy rainfall and pack appropriate rain gear, waterproof footwear, and protective covers for their belongings. Keep an eye on weather forecasts, as some areas might experience flooding or landslides during the monsoon.

Q10. What are the recommended clothing and packing essentials for August travellers? A10. For August travel, pack lightweight and breathable clothing that dries quickly, as humidity and rain are likely. Also, include rain jackets, umbrellas, waterproof bags, insect repellent, sturdy footwear, and any necessary medications or first aid supplies. It's important to be prepared for both warm and wet conditions.

--- Published By  Adotrip

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Sri Lanka In August: 5 Best Places To Visit in 2021

Planning to visit Sri Lanka in August? Sri Lanka, a relatively small island in the Indian Ocean, is well known for its varied weather patterns and the influence of both northeastern and southwestern monsoons throughout the year.

For foreign visitors, the most popular period to visit Sri Lanka is the inter-monsoon period which runs from July through September. And we would like to present to you 5 best places to visit in Sri Lanka in August.

Sri Lanka Itinerary in August 2021

When travelers arrive in Sri Lanka they most often do so through Bandaranaike International Airport.

And if arriving late in the day opt to spend the night in the city of Negombo before continuing on with a vacation. But, Negombo has what to offer to its visitors beyond a warm bed.

Often called Little Rome, Negombo is a city with the largest Christian population in Sri Lanka and the highest number of churches. One of the most prominent is the St. Mary’s Church.

Its construction was started in 1874 and was built in a peculiar neoclassical style that represents an amalgamation of European and Sri Lankan art.

Another very popular attraction of Negombo is its fish market. Originally started as a fishing village, Negombo is still very tied to this industry.

If you get to it early you might catch local fishmongers and fishermen haggling, but also purchase the freshest fish in the world.

And if you are so inclined, you can book a fishing trip around the lagoon or even at the open seas.

Suggested Read: Sri Lanka In January: Best 7 Places To Visit

It is a place known for the turtle population and as an effort of conservation of these magnificent animals a hatchery exists.

Here you can learn a lot about conservation efforts, but also about the life of turtles. And off the shore, you can enjoy swimming and snorkeling with turtles at Hikkaduwa coral reef.

If you would prefer to stay dry while watching turtles in their natural habitat, you can book a glass-bottom boat trip.

Nearby waters are a place of several shipwrecks and a very popular diving spot. If you are an experienced adventurer and diver, you can even book a night dive.

This is one of best beaches in Sri Lanka in August to visit.

Suggested Read: Sri Lanka or Thailand: The Best Holiday Destination for You

Horton Plains

Horton Plains National Park is one of the main attractions in Sri Lanka for nature and adventure lovers. It is one of the biodiversity hotspots in Sri Lanka, and most of the endemic species of flora and fauna can be found here.

This park contains the largest continuous area of cloud forests in Sri Lanka, owing to the fact that most of it is situated on a plain which altitude ranges between 2,100 and 2,300 meters.

The two most popular natural attractions of Horton Plains are Worlds’ End and Baker Falls. World’s End is a precipice with 1,200 meters sheer drop, which is the main attraction of the Nuwara Eliya district.

Baker’s Falls, named after British explorer Sir Samuel Baker, this 20 meters cascading waterfall is widely considered as one of the most picturesque waterfalls in Sri Lanka.

Suggested Tour: 5 Days Sri Lanka Tour Packages

A city best known as the capital of the eponymous Jaffna Kingdom, which existed from early 13th till the first half of the 17th century AD, is one of the places you must visit if you are exploring the ancient roots of Sri Lankan culture.

Some of the oldest radiocarbon dated ceramics provide evidence of the existence of a city as far back as the 14th century BC. While archeological finds of 4th-century BC Roman coins and kohl make-up sticks similar to the ones used by Egyptians provide evidence of very active transoceanic trade.

And according to several hypotheses, this city on the northernmost corner of the island throughout history was one of the most important trading ports.

One of two must-visit places in Jaffna is Nallur Kandaswamy kovil. This temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan, a guardian deity of Sri Lanka.

Originally founded in 948 AD, the temple was destroyed and rebuilt four times.

The current structures date from 1734 AD. The second place is Nagadeepa Purana Vihara, one of the sixteen holiest Buddhist shrines in Sri Lanka.

According to ancient chronicles, it is a place that Gautama Buddha has visited five years after attaining enlightenment.

A small town sprawling over the hills that surround the waters of the Kelani River, Kutilgala is the place to visit for every rafting and white water enthusiast.

White-water rafting over the many rapids of various levels is bound to make any adrenaline junkie’s pulse race with excitement.

But, this town also offers some attractions for visitors more inclined toward less energetic activities.

The slow and serene stretch of the Kelani river was a set of the Academy-awarded 1957 epic war movie, The Bridge on the River Kwai. And the eponymous railway bridge was built and blown up on this stretch of the river.

Near Kitulgala is the Belilena cave, one of the most important archeological sites in Sri Lanka.

With various tools and materials, dating from some 32,000 years ago, found in the cave this is one of the oldest human settlements discovered on the island.

The month of August is the most popular month for visiting Sri Lanka. With the inter-monsoon period in full swing, the whole of the country is easily accessible to visitors.

And there is no better time of year to travel the whole island from one to the other end.

And to traverse Sri Lanka from the northern to the southern tip, book a Sri Lanka package with T2 Travels Sri Lanka to visit Sri Lanka in August.

About the Author: Editorial Staff

• Travel Guide

The Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka in 2024: A Month-by-Month Guide

Whether you’re seeking golden beaches, lush jungles, ancient temples, or vibrant festivals, Sri Lanka beckons travellers with its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and experiences. Sri Lanka offers an enchanting blend of all these and more. But the question that often lingers in the minds of wanderers is: When is the best time to visit Sri Lanka ? The answer is as diverse as the country itself. From January to December, each month unveils a different facet of Sri Lanka’s beauty, ensuring that there’s no single “perfect” time to visit but rather a range of experiences to choose from.

Best time to visit Sri Lanka

In this article, we’ll guide you through the annual cycle of Sri Lanka’s climate and events, helping you decide when it is the best time to visit Sri Lanka , a stunning island nation.

Sri Lanka in January – The Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka for Tranquil Beaches

Start your year on a relaxing note by visiting Sri Lanka in January . As the best time to visit Sri Lanka , this month promises tranquil beaches, perfect for unwinding after the holiday season . With clear skies and gentle sea breezes, it’s an ideal time to explore the coastal wonders.

When it comes to planning a tropical getaway, Sri Lanka in January is a top-notch choice. This stunning island nation offers an abundance of natural beauty, cultural richness, and pristine beaches .

In this part of the article, we’ll explore why January is the best time to visit Sri Lanka for tranquil beaches , making it a paradise for beach lovers. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey to the pearl of the Indian Ocean.

1. Blissful Weather in January

Sri Lanka in January welcomes visitors with ideal weather conditions. As the rest of the world shivers in winter, Sri Lanka experiences a dry season, ensuring you’ll bask in warm, sunny days.

2. Unrivalled Beach Serenity

The combination of pleasant weather and tranquil waters creates a serene atmosphere on Sri Lanka’s beaches. Whether you choose to unwind on the soft, golden sands of Mirissa, Hikkaduwa, or Tangalle, you’ll find yourself in beachside bliss.

3. Season for Whale Watching

January in Sri Lanka is synonymous with whale-watching season, particularly along the southern coast. Mirissa, a charming coastal town, is renowned for its whale-watching tours. Witness the majestic blue whales and spinner dolphins as they breach the surface.

4. Fewer Crowds, More Tranquillity

One of the greatest advantages of visiting Sri Lanka in January is the reduced tourist crowds. With most travellers flocking to popular destinations during the Christmas and New Year period, you can relish the tranquillity and intimacy of the pristine beaches. Find your own secluded spot, sip on a coconut, and listen to the gentle waves – it’s a dream come true.

Sri Lanka in February – The Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka for Cultural Festivals

In February, Sri Lanka comes alive with vibrant cultural festivals. It is the best time to visit Sri Lanka to immerse yourself in its rich traditions and join the locals in celebrating their heritage.

Sri Lanka in February is a vibrant and captivating destination that offers an array of cultural festivals and events that will leave you awe-inspired.

This magical island nation boasts a rich tapestry of traditions, and February is the perfect time to witness the essence of Sri Lankan culture come to life. We will explore the best cultural festivals to experience during your visit to Sri Lanka in February .

1. Navam Perahera Festival

Sri Lanka in February welcomes you with the grandeur of the Navam Perahera Festival. Taking place in Colombo, this magnificent procession gathers thousands of participants and spectators. It features beautifully adorned elephants, traditional dancers, and musicians parading through the streets.

2. Cultural Dance Performances

While in Sri Lanka in February , be sure to attend cultural dance performances. You can catch these shows in various cities, and they showcase the graceful and rhythmic movements of traditional Kandyan and Low Country dances.

Transitioning between these festivals and events during your stay in Sri Lanka in February is made easy by the island’s excellent transportation network. You can choose from various modes of transportation, such as trains, buses, and tuk-tuks, to navigate the island.

Sri Lanka in March – The Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka for Wildlife Adventures

As the dry season begins, March offers the best time to visit Sri Lanka’ s national parks. Embark on thrilling wildlife adventures, spot leopards and elephants, and experience the incredible biodiversity. Transition from the cultural to the natural wonders of the island.

When it comes to exploring the mesmerising wildlife of Sri Lanka, March is an optimal time to embark on your adventure .

The island nation, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” is known for its rich biodiversity and stunning natural landscapes. Let’s delve into why Sri Lanka in March is the ideal period for wildlife enthusiasts and how you can make the most of your journey.

1. Perfect Weather and Wildlife Sighting

Sri Lanka in March offers a unique climate advantage. The monsoon season is yet to hit most parts of the country, which means you’ll enjoy sunny days and pleasant temperatures. These comfortable conditions make it easier to explore Sri Lanka’s diverse ecosystems and observe its incredible wildlife.

2. A Thrilling Experience

One of the must-do activities during your visit to Sri Lanka in March is exploring the country’s renowned national parks. Yala National Park, Wilpattu National Park, and Udawalawe National Park are just a few examples of the incredible destinations that await you. These parks are home to diverse wildlife species, including elephants, leopards, and numerous bird species.

3. Witnessing the Majestic Elephants

Sri Lanka is famous for its elephant population, and March is an excellent time to spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Head to Minneriya National Park to witness “The Gathering,” where hundreds of elephants congregate around the Minneriya Tank to feed and socialize. It’s a breathtaking spectacle that you won’t want to miss.

4. Birdwatching Paradise

Sri Lanka in March is a birdwatcher’s paradise. The country’s various habitats provide a home for over 430 bird species, making it a perfect destination for bird enthusiasts. The Sinharaja Rainforest, Horton Plains National Park, and Bundala National Park are just a few places where you can spot colourful and unique bird species.

5. Reptiles and Marine Life

Sri Lanka’s coastal areas offer opportunities to explore marine life and witness incredible reptiles. Visit Rekawa Beach for a chance to witness sea turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs. For a marine adventure, head to Mirissa or Trincomalee, where you can go on whale watching tours and snorkel with vibrant coral reefs.

Sri Lanka in April – The Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka for New Year Celebrations

Sri Lanka in April is a magical destination that welcomes travellers with open arms, offering an unforgettable experience filled with vibrant celebrations, beautiful weather, and unique cultural traditions. It’s the best time to visit Sri Lanka for a taste of its unique cultural heritage.

Firstly, Sri Lanka in April marks the beginning of the Sinhala and Tamil New Year, a significant cultural event celebrated by both communities. This festive atmosphere permeates the entire country, making it an ideal time to immerse yourself in local traditions and customs.

Moreover, April is the month when the weather is at its best, with warm temperatures and minimal rainfall. This creates a perfect backdrop for exploring the stunning landscapes and cultural heritage that Sri Lanka has to offer.

New Year Celebrations in Sri Lanka

The Sinhala and Tamil New Year, known locally as “Aluth Avurudda,” is celebrated with great enthusiasm across the island. Here are some key highlights of this vibrant celebration.

• First and foremost, it’s essential to understand that the Sinhala and Tamil New Year in Sri Lanka is not celebrated on the 1st of January, as in most parts of the world. Instead, it falls on the 13th or 14th of April, depending on astrological calculations. The date may vary slightly each year.
• One of the most anticipated customs during the New Year is the preparation of traditional sweets and dishes. Families come together to prepare delicious treats like kiribath (milk rice), kokis (crispy rice flour biscuits), and kevum (sweetmeats).
• Homes are adorned with colourful decorations, and the sound of firecrackers fills the air, signifying the end of the old year and the beginning of the new one. The atmosphere is filled with joy and togetherness.
• Families and friends gather to play traditional New Year games, such as pillow fights, tug-of-war, and various board games. These activities create a sense of unity and fun during the celebrations.

Apart from the New Year festivities, Sri Lanka in April offers an array of experiences and attractions.

1. Diverse landscape

Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes beckon travellers with opportunities for hiking, wildlife safaris, and beach vacations . Whether you’re exploring the lush rainforests of Sinharaja or lounging on the pristine beaches of the southern coast, you’ll be spoiled for choice.

2. Cultural significance

The cultural triangle, encompassing ancient cities like Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Sigiriya, is a must when visiting Sri Lanka in April . The pleasant weather ensures you can explore these UNESCO World Heritage Sites without sweltering heat.

3. Cool weather

Venture into Sri Lanka’s hill country, where towns like Nuwara Eliya and Ella offer breathtaking scenery. April is the perfect time to visit tea plantations and indulge in freshly brewed Ceylon tea.

Sri Lanka in May – The Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka for Hill Country Hiking

Transitioning into May , head to Sri Lanka’s scenic hill country. The best time to visit Sri Lanka and its elevated regions. This month offers excellent hiking opportunities. Explore the lush tea plantations and cool, misty mountains.

When it comes to exploring the breathtaking landscapes and lush hill country, May is undoubtedly the best time to visit Sri Lanka . With temperate weather, blooming flora, and numerous outdoor activities to enjoy, Sri Lanka in May offers a unique experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

1. A Weather Delight

As you plan your visit to Sri Lanka in May , you’ll be greeted with pleasantly cool and temperate weather. This is a stark contrast to the warmer months in other parts of the country, making it an ideal time for hill country hiking. The hill stations of Sri Lanka, including Ella, Nuwara Eliya, and Kandy, offer an inviting escape from the scorching heat found in many other tropical destinations.

2. Blossoming Beauty in the Hill Country

Sri Lanka in May marks the peak of the blooming season in the hill country. The picturesque landscapes are awash with colourful flowers, including vibrant rhododendrons and fragrant eucalyptus, creating a mesmerizing backdrop for your hikes. The lush greenery is at its prime, painting an enchanting scene that’s perfect for nature photographers and enthusiasts.

3. Traverse the Tea Plantations

A quintessential experience of the hill country in Sri Lanka is exploring the sprawling tea plantations. Sri Lanka in May offers the perfect climate for walking through the neatly manicured tea estates, with temperatures allowing you to enjoy the refreshing breeze and scenic vistas. Sri Lanka is renowned for its world-class Ceylon tea, and hiking through these plantations provides a unique opportunity to witness the tea-making process up close.

4. Visit the Scenic Hill Stations

In May, the hill stations of Sri Lanka are at their most inviting. Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as “Little England,” offers picturesque landscapes with its colonial charm, well-maintained gardens, and serene lakes. Ella, another gem in the hill country, presents breathtaking views from Ella Rock and the famous Nine Arch Bridge. Kandy, known for its lush botanical gardens and rich culture, is also a must-visit destination.

5. Enjoy Adventure Activities

Apart from hiking, Sri Lanka in May offers a variety of adventure activities. You can try your hand at rock climbing, zip-lining, and trekking to waterfalls. The hill country is a paradise for birdwatchers as well, with many exotic species to be spotted. The diverse terrain provides a range of options for travellers seeking an adrenaline rush.

Sri Lanka in June – The Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka for Whale Watching

As the southwest monsoon arrives, the seas off the southern coast become serene. June is the best time to visit Sri Lanka for whale watching . Experience the thrill of spotting majestic whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.

Sri Lanka is a tropical paradise known for its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and abundant wildlife. While this island nation offers something special for every traveller throughout the year, Sri Lanka in June stands out as one of the best times to visit Sri Lanka.

In this part of the article, we’ll explore why Sri Lanka in June is the ideal month for a thrilling whale-watching adventure.

1. Abundance of Marine Life

The southwestern coast, especially Mirissa and Trincomalee, is home to a remarkable variety of marine life. Sri Lanka in June , the waters are teeming with whales, including the majestic blue whales, the largest creatures on Earth. With Sri Lanka’s coastal areas being prime feeding grounds for these gentle giants, you’re in for an unforgettable experience.

2. Optimal Weather Conditions

The weather in Sri Lanka in June is relatively dry and sunny, making it the perfect time to venture out to sea. The seas are usually calm, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride for your whale-watching expedition. This is particularly crucial for those prone to seasickness or looking for a more enjoyable experience.

3. The Gathering of Whales

Sri Lanka in June marks the beginning of the southwest monsoon season, creating a unique phenomenon known as “The Gathering.” During this time, numerous blue whales and sperm whales congregate in the warm waters off Sri Lanka’s coast. It’s a spectacular event that provides the best chance to witness these incredible creatures up close.

4. A Thriving Marine Ecosystem

The Indian Ocean around Sri Lanka is a thriving marine ecosystem with an abundance of marine species. In addition to blue whales, you can also spot humpback whales, spinner dolphins, and a variety of other sea creatures. The sheer biodiversity of the region ensures that every trip is filled with surprises and excitement.

Sri Lanka in July – The Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka for Surfing Adventures

For surf enthusiasts, Sri Lanka in July presents the best time to visit Sri Lanka ‘s east coast. With the east coast now enjoying dry and sunny weather, catch some waves and explore the lesser-visited side of the island.

Sri Lanka in July is an absolute paradise for surfers. With consistent waves, warm waters, and stunning coastal landscapes, this island nation has become a haven for surfers seeking the ultimate riding experience.

Before delving into the joys of surfing in July , let’s start with a brief overview of the conditions that lay the foundation for this summer surf fest.

Sri Lanka in July marks the Southwestern monsoon winds begin to taper off, ushering in the transition to an idyllic surf season. The wind, the tides, and the waves all harmonise, creating the perfect surf conditions.

Best Surf Spots

Sri Lanka offers a plethora of surf spots, each with its unique charm and wave quality. When you visit Sri Lanka in July, be sure to explore these renowned locations:

• Arugam Bay : The undisputed surfing Mecca of Sri Lanka, Arugam Bay boasts consistent waves during this time, with Point and Main Point being popular spots.
• Mirissa : Known for its beginner-friendly waves, Mirissa is a great place to hone your skills.
• Hikkaduwa : This coastal town offers a mix of reef and beach breaks, making it suitable for surfers of all levels.

Surfing Tips :

If you’re planning a surfing adventure in Sri Lanka in July , here are some crucial tips to enhance your experience:

• Bring your own gear or rent from reputable surf schools.
• Stay hydrated and protect your skin from the sun.
• Respect the local surf etiquette and fellow surfers.
• Learn about the tides and currents to ensure safety in the water.
• Consider taking lessons if you’re a beginner to make the most of your experience.

Going Beyond Surfing

While surfing is the highlight of a trip to Sri Lanka in July , there’s more to explore. The lush tropical landscapes, wildlife sanctuaries, and cultural experiences offer a perfect balance to your surf adventure.

Sri Lanka in August – The Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka for Ancient Sites

August is the best time to visit Sri Lanka for its cultural and historical sites, explore the ancient cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, and marvel at their architectural marvels.

Sri Lanka in August – a time when the island nation showcases its ancient glory under the warm embrace of the sun.

This month is truly a special time for history enthusiasts and travellers seeking a unique cultural experience. Let’s explore the reasons why August is the best time to visit Sri Lanka for ancient sites.

1. Perfect Weather for Exploring Ancient Sites

Sri Lanka in August ushers in a delightful balance between the southwest and northeast monsoons. This results in a moderate and pleasant climate, making it the ideal time to explore ancient sites. The relatively dry and sunny weather ensures that you can comfortably traverse the historical wonders without the hindrance of heavy rains.

Top Ancient Sites

• Anuradhapura
• Polonnaruwa
• Dambulla Cave Temples
• Ancient City of Kandy

2. Cultural Festivals and Events:

Sri Lanka in August is not only about exploring ancient sites but also about immersing yourself in the rich culture of the island. Many cultural festivals and events take place during this month, offering you a chance to witness traditional dances, music, and rituals.

Sri Lanka in August is an excellent time to visit, as you can witness the Esala Perahera, a grand festival that showcases the sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha.

Sri Lanka in September – The Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka for Kite Flying

With the kite festivals, Sri Lanka in September offers the best time to visit Sri Lanka for unique cultural experiences. Witness grand processions and join the locals in flying colourful kites.

Sri Lanka in September offers a magical experience for kite-flying enthusiasts. With its favourable weather, this South Asian paradise becomes a haven for kite flyers during this time of the year.

Places such as Galle Face Green, Colombo, Negombo and many other coastal areas are your best options for flying kites.

Apart from flying kites, Sri Lanka in September offers many more experiences and activities you’re bound to enjoy!

Just like the experiences offered in Sri Lanka in September , October is equally the best time to visit Sri Lanka .

Sri Lanka in October – The Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka for Eco Adventures

As the weather improves, Sri Lanka in October proves that it’s the best time to visit Sri Lanka for eco-adventures. Explore lush rainforests, go birdwatching, and immerse yourself in the island’s natural beauty.

Sri Lanka in October is a paradise for eco enthusiasts and adventure seekers. With its diverse landscapes, lush greenery, and pleasant weather, this island nation offers a wide range of eco-adventures that will leave you spellbound.

1. Perfect Weather

Sri Lanka in October welcomes visitors with ideal weather conditions. The island nation experiences its inter-monsoon period during this month, resulting in mild temperatures, reduced rainfall, and refreshing breezes. These conditions make outdoor adventures more enjoyable and comfortable, setting the stage for your eco-friendly escapades.

2. Breathtaking Biodiversity

One of the key reasons to visit Sri Lanka in October is its rich biodiversity. The island boasts an incredible variety of flora and fauna, with many species’ endemic to the region. The lush rainforests, serene wetlands, and pristine beaches provide an ideal habitat for diverse wildlife. This biodiversity hotspot offers nature enthusiasts a chance to witness exotic creatures in their natural environment.

Other activities you can include on your itinerary:

• Birdwatching
• Whale Watching
• Deep dive into culture & heritage

Sri Lanka in November – The Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka for Scenic Train Rides

Experience the enchanting train journey from Kandy to Ella. November is the best time to visit Sri Lanka for scenic train rides, where you’ll pass through picturesque landscapes and tea plantations.

When it comes to experiencing the natural beauty and diverse landscapes, Sri Lanka in November stands out as one of the best times to visit this breathtaking island nation.

With pleasant weather, lush greenery, and a variety of scenic train rides, Sri Lanka in November is a paradise for travellers seeking unforgettable adventures.

• Ella to Kandy – A picturesque ride through the Hill Country
• Colombo to Galle – Coastal wonders await.
• Nuwara Eliya to Badulla – A journey to remember.
• Jaffna to Colombo – A Taste of Northern Sri Lanka
• Nanu Oya to Hatton – Tea plantations galore

Don’t forget, as you plan your trip to Sri Lanka in November , make sure to book your train tickets in advance, especially for popular routes, as they tend to fill up quickly during this peak season. Oh, and bring your camera to capture the stunning scenery along the way.

As we transition from visiting Sri Lanka in November , let’s take a peek at what’s on offer in December.

Sri Lanka in December – The Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka for Year-End Festivities

End your year on a high note with Sri Lanka’s vibrant festivities in December . This month sure is the best time to visit Sri Lanka for year-end celebrations.

Sri Lanka in December is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of cultural celebrations and natural beauty.

As the year draws to a close, this tropical paradise comes alive with a vibrant array of festivals and events.

1. Sri Lanka in December is a perfect escape

December is a fantastic time to visit Sri Lanka as the island nation experiences its northeast monsoon, bringing clear skies, sunshine, and pleasant temperatures. It’s the ideal weather to explore the rich cultural heritage and lush landscapes of this remarkable country.

2. Christmas in the Tropics

Celebrating Christmas in Sri Lanka is a unique experience. The streets of Colombo and other major cities are adorned with sparkling lights, and hotels and restaurants offer special Christmas feasts . The fusion of Sri Lankan and Western traditions creates a festive atmosphere like no other.

3. New Year’s Eve on the Beach

Welcoming the new year on a Sri Lankan beach is an unforgettable experience. Many beachfront resorts and hotels host lively parties and fireworks displays, allowing you to revel in the beauty of the ocean while celebrating the beginning of a new year during your visit to Sri Lanka in December .

4. Escape the Cold

For those escaping the cold winter in other parts of the world, Sri Lanka in December is a warm and welcoming destination. With its pristine beaches and lush hill country, it’s the perfect place to soak up the sun and rejuvenate your spirits.

Ready to embark on your Sri Lankan adventure? Now that you’ve uncovered our month-wise guide to the ‘ Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka ,’ it’s time to pack your bags, embrace the vibrant culture, and explore this paradise island. Whether you’re a sunseeker, an adventurer, or a culture enthusiast, there’s a perfect season waiting for you. So, why wait any longer? Plan your journey and make unforgettable memories in this tropical haven.

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Sri Lanka in August – A delightful tale in your favourite island!

Rightly called the gem of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is indeed a favourite island to most of the Indians. Sri Lanka in general expresses a tropical climate luring tourists from all over the world, all round the year. Being embedded into the water of 3 seas, rightly represents the amalgamation of culture, tradition and heritage in Sri Lanka. Visiting this island anytime the year is an ideal thing to do. Right from the warmth of the locals to the generously coconut sprinkled dishes – Sri Lanka is an awe factor! Visiting Sri Lanka in August could be the right thing to do and let us explore the reasons behind.

Read through: Do’s and Dont’s during Sri Lanka vacation

Weather in Sri Lanka in August

Being surrounded by oceans and mountains, not just the weather in Sri Lanka in August, but throughout the year, Sri Lanka experiences tropical climate all round the year. Sri Lanka has two types of monsoons – South West monsoon from May to August and North East monsoon – from November to February. And Sri Lanka in August weather obviously is South West monsoon. However, August happens to be that month which receives minimum rainfall as it is the end of season.

• Temperature : Temperature this month is around 30 degrees Celsius. Average high is 30 degree celsius and average low is 25 degree celsius.
• Humidity : High humidity throughout the month with an average of 71%.
• Sea Temperature : The average sea temperature in Sri Lanka is around 28 degrees Celsius this month.
• Rainfall : Rainfall 11 day in this month and a total of 114 mm precipitation is experienced in August.
• Sunshine Hours : On average, Sri Lanka experiences 7 hours of daily sunshine this month.

Also read: Sri Lanka in November

What to wear in Sri Lanka in August

When planning to pack for a Sri Lanka trip, choose lighter and breathable clothes to heavier ones. Also be ready to face some South-west monsoon showers. Light wool and cotton clothes will be your greater saviour at Sri Lanka catching up both the weather and the trend. Never forget your sunscreens and coolers – they could make your skin and stories interesting. However, while visiting Buddhist and Hindu temples, it important to wear conservative clothes that exposes minimum of your skin.

Top 5 things to do in Sri Lanka in August

Here are our top picks for your Sri Lanka in August visit .

• Embrace the beach life at Trincomalee.
• Sip some best tea at tea gardens.
• Enjoy the chik-bhuk from Kandy from Nuwara Eliya.
• Ask elephants for a ride at Minneriya.
• Explore your love for wildness at Yala National park.

Also read: 8 day itinerary to Sri Lanka

Top 4 Places to Visit in Sri Lanka in August

1. nuwara eliya.

This is one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka in August. The best factor starts right from starting to journey to Nuwara Eliya by train. The train journey is made amazing by the climate and the vegetation Nuwara Eliya has is just jaw dropping. This is one of the places in Sri Lanka not to be missed. Be it from walking through the greenery what tree plantations are not all about to tasting the best tea – this place happens to be that delight a coffee lover shouldn’t be missing. An absolutely delightful forest frost this is. Trees are more beautiful than human beings and witness this at Hakgala Botanical Gardens. The average temperature here is 19 °C. Enjoy the present and dissolve yourself into the pleasantness of the weather at Nuwara Eliya.

Also read: Things to do in Sri Lanka

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2. Yala National Park

Yala National Park is second largest national park in Sri Lanka. Watching these animals comfortable in their natural houses is an excellent site to view. This park is located along the border of Indian Ocean. There are about 5 blocks in this national park and only 2 of them are open for the visitors.This park covers an area of about 979 square kilometres. This park has the highest leopard density in this planet. And Yala Safari Camping is one of the most favourite activity opted here.

Also Read: Best water sports in Sri Lanka

3. Trincomalee Beaches

Trincomalee is located on the eastern side of the compass and hence enjoys a dry climate during summer monsoons. This place has the perfect beach holiday weather pattern. This is a port city located on the north-eastern part of Sri Lanka. The Grand Koneswaram Temple is located on the Swami Rock cliff, this place is popular for blue-whale watching. The average weather here is about 31 °C. A snorkelling trip to Pigeon Island is a must here.

Early morning sunrises, beach walks and crawling cute little turtles – is sure to ignite that fancy beach mood to vibe at. Light blue sky reflecting over clear waters makes it appear cool everywhere. With Kosgoda turtle hatchery being just 10km away, this place definitely should definitely make into your list. Galle from Bentota is just an hour of travel and this place celebrates art in every form. Love forts and architecture definitely has a place at Galle. We are here to customize your Sri lanka honeymoon packages and make your journey a memorable one.

Frequently Asked Question in Sri Lanka in August

Yes, with the south-west monsoon coming to an end, visiting Sri Lanka in August is a very good idea.

Visit the Trincomalee and Yala National park which is the best part of vacationing to Sri Lanka in August.

Here is handful number of reasons for you to visit Sri Lanka in August. Visit pickyourtrail website to get some amazing Sri Lanka tour packages or let us do some exciting planning with customise option at our website.

Aiswarya Giridharan

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23 things you need to know before going to Sri Lanka

Oct 14, 2023 • 11 min read

Get to grips with Sri Lanka's complex culture with these top tips on health, safety and etiquette © Cavan Images / Getty Images

Floating in tropical waters off the southern tip of India, Sri Lanka is defined by its gentle Buddhist culture, friendly people and laid-back way of life despite its troubled recent history.

A little knowledge goes a long way when it comes to having an easy trip to this Indian Ocean island. For such a small nation, Sri Lanka is hugely diverse. Surf-pounded coastlines rise to forested national parks , temple-studded plains and jungle-covered highlands - with the added perk that nowhere is that far from a  beach .

Most visitors start on the coast and duck inland to tea gardens, ancient cities and national parks, but navigating Sri Lanka 's frenetic public transport system and cultural sensitivities can be confusing for new arrivals. To help you out, here are some of the things you need to know before traveling to Sri Lanka.

1. Apply for a visa in advance

As a first step, check the latest visa requirements for Sri Lanka. Most nationalities need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) in advance of travel, but fortunately, they're not hard to get.

2. Check your travel vaccinations

Sri Lanka is a tropical destination, so check with your doctor to make sure you're up to date with your travel vaccinations. Recommended vaccinations for Sri Lanka include diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B and polio. Long stayers might also consider getting vaccinated against typhoid and rabies (although rare, rabies can be fatal, and it's carried by dogs, cats and monkeys in Sri Lanka).

3. Plan your trip according to the monsoons

Between May and September , the south coast and west coast of Sri Lanka are lashed by the southwest monsoon, which brings plenty of rainfall and choppy seas, while northern and eastern parts of the island are fine and dry. When the northeast monsoon hits Sri Lanka between November and March, the south and west are at their best, and it's the northern and eastern parts of Sri Lanka that see the showers.

In fact, monsoon rainfall in Sri Lanka is quite sporadic – expect short, sharp downpours interspersed with long, hot sunny spells. Traveling to different parts of Sri Lanka during their rainy "off-seasons" has its rewards – visitor numbers fall and hotel rates drop quite significantly.

4. There's no alcohol for sale on full moon days and religious events

Sri Lanka has a huge number of bank holidays, and almost half of these are poya days, marking the arrival of the full moon, an auspicious event in Sri Lankan Buddhism. All poya days are dry days – alcohol is not sold in shops, restaurants or bars (though you can still access your hotel room’s minibar). The ban on alcohol also extends to other religious events such as the Buddhist festival of Vesak in May.

5. Carry cash: the currency is the Sri Lankan rupee

Stock up on rupees on arrival in Sri Lanka, not before, and don't change more than you need. Sri Lankan rupees are hard to exchange outside of Sri Lanka. ATMs are widespread all over the country – stick to Bank of Ceylon ATMs where possible as they don't charge a fee. Card machines are common in larger hotels, restaurants and tourist-oriented shops.

Try to build up a stash of lower denomination notes wherever possible (for example, withdraw LKR5900 rather than LKR6000). You'll need small bills to pay for tuk-tuks and buy things from local shops and markets and for tipping. Carrying some cash in dollars, euros or pounds sterling is also useful – all are widely accepted in tourist areas.

6. Be realistic about how much ground you can cover

It takes a surprising amount of time to travel around Sri Lanka thanks to winding routes and the limited number of roads crossing the interior of the island. Traffic also has to navigate a variety of hazards including badly surfaced roads and roaming wildlife (buffaloes, cows, feral dogs and even elephants). To do the island justice, don’t rush. You’ll need at least a month for a circuit of the island with detours to national parks, ancient cities and tea plantations inland.

Thanks to Sri Lanka’s improving expressway network, road travel from Colombo to southern towns such as Galle ,  Matara and  Tangalla is fairly rapid. With its twisting, congested roads, the  Hill Country is the most time-consuming region to navigate (consider taking trains to explore instead).

7. Pack the right gear for Sri Lanka’s hills and religious sites

Sri Lanka’s mountains reach elevations of over 2,000m (6,560ft) and temperatures are lower in the highlands than on the coast. Pack a light jumper for cooler nights and early morning starts (particularly between December and March). Also bring a sarong – you can use it as a beach blanket or towel, as a shawl or skirt to cover your shoulders or knees when visiting temples, and as a warm layer when traveling on air-conditioned buses or for pre-dawn safari jeep drives.

8. Plan ahead for the hill country trains

Sri Lanka Railways runs the nation's trains, including services on the spectacular Main Line, which slices east from Colombo  through the island’s highest mountains, cloud forests and tea estates. It’s a stunning journey and hugely popular with tourists and locals alike, particularly the section between Kandy and Ella .

Book tickets in air-conditioned first class or fan-cooled second class well ahead to guarantee a seat, either in person at stations or online via booking sights such as 12GoAsia . Tickets are released 10 days prior and sell out quickly.

9. Swimwear is for the beach only

For the most part, Sri Lankans are socially conservative and deeply religious. Swimwear is fine for the beach, but not when wandering about town. Going nude or topless is not permitted on any Sri Lankan beaches.

10. Avoid public affection and disruptive behavior

Public displays of affection are frowned on, as is loud or brash behavior, and losing your temper in public (keep this in mind when haggling – this should never be an angry process).

11. Dress respectfully when visiting temples

When making trips to religious sites, wear clothing that covers the legs and upper arms and shoulders. Remove your shoes and headwear before entering any Buddhist or Hindu temple or mosque, even if the site is a historic ruin. Socks are allowed (and you'll need them on scorching hot sunny days).

Tourists are less common in  Jaffna and the north where a distinct Sri Lankan Tamil Hindu culture predominates. Respect local etiquette when visiting Hindu temples – ask for permission before entering as non-Hindus are barred from entering some shrines. Some temples also require men to remove shirts and enter bare-chested (for example, Jaffna’s vast Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil ).

12. Show respect to Buddha images

Sri Lankan Buddhists take depictions of the Buddha very seriously and these should always be treated with respect. People have been deported from Sri Lanka for displaying "disrespectful" Buddha images, so avoid wearing clothing with Buddha images and if you have tattoos of Buddhist iconography, keep these covered. The same rules apply to statues – posing for selfies with a Buddha statue is a definite no-no, as is turning your back toward a Buddha image.

13. Be considerate when taking photographs

When photographing people, always ask for permission first. Note that if you photograph the famous stilt fishers at Koggala, you may be asked for payment (genuine stilt fishers are a rare breed nowadays). Flash photography isn’t allowed in temples (nor in the vicinity of military sites) and taking photos may be banned entirely at some Hindu sites. If you are photographing temples, be careful not to stand with your back toward a Buddha statue while you are snapping.

14. Use your right hand to eat

Traditionally, Sri Lankans eat with their right hand, using the tips of their fingers to mix rice and curry into little balls, and their thumb to gently push the food into their mouths. You may be encouraged to try this if you are invited into a local home for a meal, but always wash your hands first for hygiene reasons. Avoid eating (or shaking hands) with your left hand as it is used for less sanitary tasks such as personal ablutions.

15. Tipping is customary

Tipping is a way of life in Sri Lanka and many restaurant workers rely on the extra income this practice brings. Most larger hotels and restaurants add a 10% tip as standard; use this as a guide for how much to tip in places that don’t. 

16. Give wildlife space

In 2017, a British journalist died after being snatched by a crocodile at a lagoon near  Arugam Bay . Such attacks are rare, but they happen so be vigilant in rivers and lagoons. Dangerous sharks are not a problem in Sri Lanka, but poisonous snakes are found in waterlogged areas on land such as paddy fields. 

Keep a keen lookout for elephants on roads leading to national parks or when walking or driving in the hills. If you see one, keep your distance and be ready to back away. Never feed a wild elephant – this habituates elephants to associate humans with food and act aggressively.

17. Take standard safety precautions

Sri Lanka is one of the safest countries in Asia when it comes to petty crime. Violence against tourists is very rare, and theft and robberies are uncommon, though they do happen occasionally. As a precaution, wear a money belt and use your hotel safe.

Female travelers should avoid traveling alone at night, particularly on public transport, and take care walking alone on empty beaches. Given Sri Lanka’s conservative culture, long sleeves and dresses are culturally appropriate and will reduce the chance of being harassed.

18. Do not drink the tap water

Sri Lanka's tap water could theoretically be used for brushing your teeth but we don't recommend it, and it's certainly not safe for drinking. Bottled water is plentiful and better hotels provide clean drinking water for guests. If you do buy bottled water, check that the seal is intact and look for the Sri Lanka standards certification mark. Always dispose of empty bottles responsibly – filling your own drinking water bottle from a large bottle is better than buying lots of small plastic bottles.

19. Beware of scams and pickpockets

Scammers are active in  Galle Fort , Kandy and Colombo’s Galle Face Green , looking for tourists to cheat or charm out of money. Never buy gems hawked on the street – they will almost certainly be convincing fakes made from colored glass – and be dubious of any shop trying to sell you gems to "sell at a profit back home." Seek out information from official tourist offices and directly from operators rather than trusting agents, particularly if they seek you out first.   

Keep your money and valuables out of sight when on busy trains and buses, and when exploring crowded areas streets such as Colombo’s Pettah market district . Tuk-tuks have a habit of overcharging tourists – ask drivers to use the meter (and take another tuk-tuk if they refuse), or order a ride via Uber or local app,  PickMe .

20. Protect yourself against mosquitoes

Mosquito bites are one of the biggest health concerns in Sri Lanka. Although malaria has been eliminated, mosquitoes can carry debilitating dengue fever, a painful illness that can have serious side effects. No vaccinations are available for dengue and treatment can only reduce symptoms. Protect yourself by covering up at dawn and dusk, sleeping under a mosquito net and wearing strong repellent containing high levels of DEET ( diethyltoluamide ).

21. Be road-safe in Sri Lanka

Traffic is one of the biggest dangers facing visitors to Sri Lanka. Accidents involving motorcycles and lorries are common, and bus collisions – often involving pedestrians – are also a problem. Common causes of accidents include dangerous overtaking, overloading and pulling in suddenly to pick up passengers on the roadside.

Private bus company drivers tend to drive more recklessly than their government-run, SLTB counterparts. Don’t expect vehicles to stop at pedestrian crossings and keep your wits about you when walking beside any roads (sidewalks are rare in Sri Lanka).

22. Never underestimate the ocean

Sri Lanka's beaches may be idyllic, but there are few lifeguards and strong currents are a danger (particularly during the monsoon seasons). Many beaches shelve steeply and drowning is the second most common cause of death among tourists after road accidents. Seek local advice before swimming in unfamiliar water.

23. Natural disasters are a risk

Sri Lanka was one of the countries worst affected by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, which swept away more than 35,000 people and devastated many coastal areas. Following the disaster, early warning systems have been put in place in major towns and resorts, but not in rural, isolated areas, so be alert to signs of earthquakes and tsunamis.

The most common natural disaster in Sri Lanka is localized flooding during the southwest and northeast monsoons, which can cause landslides in highland areas. Sri Lanka is also vulnerable to tropical cyclones and periods of drought. For up-to-date weather warnings and situation reports, bookmark the country’s Disaster Management Center website .

This article was first published March 2022 and updated October 2023

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Weather in Sri Lanka in August

Generally speaking, August is a great time to visit Sri Lanka. The southwestern quarter of Sri Lanka can be slightly rainy in August, but the rest of the country enjoys perfect weather during this month.

If you like to enjoy some sea swimming or snorkelling, choose an east coast beach (Nilaveli, Trincomalee and Pasikuda) for your beach stay in Sri Lanka in August. If surfing is what you are after, visit Arugam Bay, which is a paradise for surfers.

In some years, Kandy Esala Perahera is held in August. It is a colourful procession that features traditional Sri Lankan dancers, drummers, flute players and elephants.

The average daytime temperatures in Sri Lanka in August range from 30°C to 35 °C (86°F to 95°F) in the coastal lowlands. The daytime temperatures in the central highlands range from 19°C to 25°C (66.2°F to 77°F) in this month.

Sri Lanka itineraries for August

As the weather in Sri Lanka in August is wonderful all over the country, there are lots of possibilities for an August Sri Lanka itinerary. Ideally, you need to plan the beach stay of your August Sri Lanka trip in the east coast. However, if sea swimming is not a priority, you may also choose a down south coastal area for your beach stay in August.

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Would you like to get our assistance to organize your sri lanka holiday drop us a message to get a tailor-made sri lanka holiday package that reflects your interests, budget, tour duration and the weather conditions of the month that you visit sri lanka., frequently asked questions, 1. is august a good time to visit sri lanka.

August is an excellent time to visit Sri Lanka. The best destinations to travel in Sri Lanka in August are Anuradhapura, Dambulla, Sigiriya, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Yala, Udawalawe, Jaffna, Colombo, and Negombo. The best beaches for beach stays in August in Sri Lanka are Trincomalee, Nilaveli, Passikudah, and Arugam Bay.

2. How are the crowds and costs in Sri Lanka in August?

August is a bit busy month for Sri Lanka. Many travellers visit Sri Lanka from the Northern Hemisphere to spend their summer vacations. It is also a bit expensive month to travel to Sri Lanka as most hotels and airlines charge peak season supplements for this month.

3. How is the weather in Sri Lanka in August compared to adjacent months?

The weather in Sri Lanka in August is similar to July , if not better.

September tends to be a little rainy in the second half of the month. Therefore, August is a better month to travel to Sri Lanka compared to September .

4. What to do in Sri Lanka in August?

From June /July to September is the dry season Minneriya. When the ponds and waterholes dry up in the region, hundreds of elephants start to gather around the Minneriya lake for water and tender grass. If you are visiting Sri Lanka in August, make sure to visit Minneriya national park to enjoy this amazing sight.

As mentioned earlier, August is a great time to enjoy excursions in Anuradhapura, Dambulla, Sigiriya, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Yala, Udawalawe, Jaffna, Colombo, Negombo. You will be able to learn about the excursions in these locations by referring to the above itineraries.

5. Are there any local festivals in Sri Lanka in August?

The earlier mentioned Kandy Esala Perahera is the main festival that takes place in Sri Lanka in August. It is held to honour the Sacred Tooth Relic and the four guardian gods, Natha, Vishnu, Kataragama and Goddess Pattini.

The dates of these traditional festivals are determined according to a Lunar calendar. Therefore, in some years this event falls in July. Check if your tour dates match with the Esala Perahera days. (It takes place for 10 days in Kandy.) If yes, make sure to book a night or two in Kandy to enjoy this colourful procession.

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10 Places and Things To Do in Sri Lanka In August

• Updated on August 2, 2022
• August , Sri Lanka

If you want a vacation during the rainy season, August in Sri Lanka is the best time to go. The Indian Ocean, the Bay of Bengal, and the Arabian Sea surround the beautiful island country, making it a must-see for every tourist.

Sri Lanka has a tropical climate all year, and August is no different. From the west coast to the east coast, here is a step-by-step list of the Best Places and things to do in Sri Lanka in August.

Table of Contents

A List Of 10 Best Places And Things To Do In Sri Lanka In August:

1) trincomalee’s beaches.

During the summer monsoons, you can relax on the remote beaches of Trincomalee, which are on the far eastern coast of the country. The best things about this beach are the soft sand, palm trees, and clear water.

The monsoon rains make this beach one of the most beautiful places in Sri Lanka in August. During August, these are the best beaches in Sri Lanka .

2) Nuwara Eliya, Ella

This is the best place to go in Sri Lanka in August. Stay in Ella to see the best of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty, no matter the weather. Visit Nuwara Eliya, one of Sri Lanka’s top 10 tourist spots, to see the real Sri Lanka.

There are tea plantations, railroad bridges, and quiet villages. Take a train ride through the lush green landscape of Nuwara Eliya, and you’ll never forget it.

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3) Esala Perahera

Esala Perahera is the name of the celebration of Buddha’s tooth. It has been going on for hundreds of years. The festival is a way to show respect for the precious tooth relic of Buddha, which is kept in Kandy. Many dancers in costume participate in the celebration of the tooth.

The elephants are dressed in flashy accessories and clothes during the event. At the end of the party, there is also a ritual of cutting the water. The event takes place from the end of July to the beginning of August.

4) Nikini Poya

In August, there is another Buddhist holiday called Nikini Poya. During this event, which has several rituals, it is hard to buy alcohol or meat.

Followers think the full moon is a sign of luck because it comes out on a moon night. The festival is a time for monks and people who follow them to show how well they can fast.

5) The Festival of Vel

The Vel festival is one of the most important Hindu and Tamilian celebrations. The celebration with most people is all about the Hindu god Lord Muruga. People who believe in the event fill the streets.

People usually have chariot parades and do religious dances while wearing bright clothes and jewelry. Most years, the event takes place at the end of July, but if the weather is good, it could go on until the beginning of August.

6) The Triangle of Cultures

During the monsoons, tourists who want to see Sri Lanka’s old sites should go to Kandy, Anuradhapura, and Polonnaruwa.

Some of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka are Sigiriya’s rock castle, Dambulla’s cave abbey, and the Buddhist Center of Mihintale. If you visit Sri Lanka in August and see these impressive ruins and religious buildings, you’ll have a great time.

This Portuguese settlement from the 1600s is on display to remind people of the past. You should visit the Galle Fort, the Galle Lighthouse, and Unawatuna Beach if you are in the area.

In August, the historic Dutch sea fort is home to several museums, shops, and cafes that visitors can enjoy. Another reason to go to Galle in August is to see the beautiful churches there.

8) The Arugam Bay

Locals say surf tourism is best in the southeast corner of this island nation, at Arugam Bay. Because of how the monsoon affects this part of Sri Lanka, Arugam is one of the best places to visit in August.

It’s worth going to this part of the country because the people are friendly and easygoing. If surfing isn’t your thing, you could read in a hammock on your next trip to Sri Lanka in August if that’s not your thing.

9) Homegrown teas of Sri Lanka

A trip to a Sri Lankan tea estate is a must for tea lovers. Sir Thomas Lipton’s search for tea began in the Haputale Mountains, and to see such a scene in August in Sri Lanka is fantastic! In Sri Lanka’s Hill Country, you can do many different things.

10) Colombo Sightseeing Tours and Activities

There is a lot to see and do in Sri Lanka in August, which makes it a great time to go there. Check out the city’s colonial British buildings, antique shops, and cafes.

To learn about Sri Lankan culture, you should go to the Pettah open-air market and the Beira Lake, known for its beautiful island and walkways along the lake.

Is August a good time to go to Sri Lanka?

Many travelers say August is the best time to see Sri Lanka’s beauty. From January to June, many people visit, which is why this is the case. Because of this, more people are on the beaches, lodging costs go up, lines form for popular hotels and restaurants, and the whole experience is more crowded.

Since Sri Lanka is surrounded on all four sides by water, the weather in August is usually hot and humid. But tourism in the country doesn’t suffer because of this. Sri Lanka has an average high temperature of 28 degrees Celsius in August. The average temperature is between 25 and 32 degrees Celsius, with 25 being the lowest and 32 being the highest.

Even though August isn’t as busy as other months, tourists may be able to get to most of the country’s tourist attractions quickly and early. Even the cost of getting there and staying there has gone down. The weather is perfect for tourists at this time of year. The water temperature in Sri Lanka ranges from 27°C to 29°C, warm enough to swim and snorkel in without getting burned. Since there are nine hours of daylight every day, tourists can also go anywhere and explore the land.

Tips for Visiting Sri Lanka in August? 

If you plan to visit Sri Lanka in August, these tips are must to know:

• Be sure to get an early start to escape the oppressive heat and the maddening crowds.
• The locations are often open daily from six to seven in the evening.
• In a rainstorm, have an umbrella nearby and wear light attire.
• It’s a good idea to dress appropriately before going to a religious site.
• Make sure you try the local cuisine and shop for handcrafted items like clothing.

Final Note:

If you’re looking for things to do in Sri Lanka in August, look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the best places to visit and things to see and do in Sri Lanka during the month of August. From exploring the stunning beaches to checking out the amazing wildlife, there’s something for everyone in Sri Lanka during this time of year. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!

Check More About Sri Lanka:

• Sri Lanka Popular Hill Stations to Visit
• Sri Lanka’s Top Reason to See
• 10 Famous Things to Do in Sri Lanka
• Sri Lanka’s 10 Best Honeymoon Destinations
• Yoga Retreats and Wellness Center in Sri Lanka

Tusk Travel Team

Tusk Travel is dedicated to delivering precise, genuine, and reliable travel guides through a dynamic team of writers, editors, and destination experts. We aim to provide comprehensive information in its simplest form, sharing insights to influence perspectives nationwide.

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still adventuring with kids

Sri lanka 3 week itinerary (july/august).

This Sri Lanka 3 week itinerary is based on travel to Sri Lanka during July and August .

You may see other Sri Lanka itineraries for other months are quite different. This is because Sri Lanka is an all year round destination – meaning when it’s monsoon on the West coast, you can bathe in glorious sunshine on the East and vice versa. So – the first thing you need to decide when visiting Sri Lanka is what months you’ll be heading there. This will then dictate which areas of the country you will travel to and what itinerary to plan.

We wanted our Sri Lanka 3 week itinerary to combine culture, wildlife and surf  so it made sense geographically to hit up the culture spots in the centre of the island, followed by safaris and then make our way over to the East Coast to surf. This way we avoided the  Yala monsoon which hits the West & South coast from May to September.

• Sri Lanka 3 week itinerary & map

Why Sri Lanka?

• Day 1 arriving in Sri Lanka
• Day 2 – 4 Kandy
• Day 4 – 6 Sigiriya
• Minneriya & Dambulla National Park
• Day 7 – Sigiriya back to Kandy
• Getting a sari made up – perfect for little girls!
• Day 8 – Kandy to Ella
• Day 9-10 Ella
• Day 11 – Ella to Kataragama

Yala National Park

• Day 12 – Kataragama to Arugam Bay (6 nights)
• Day 18 – 20 Arugam Bay to Lighthouse Point
• Day 21 – travel back to Colombo for night flight

Arriving in Sri Lanka

Getting around in sri lanka.

• Private Drivers in Sri Lanka
• Private Driver costs

Tuk tuks in Sri Lanka

Trains in sri lanka.

• Colombo to Kandy train

Kandy to Ella train

• Sri Lanka costs

Accommodation in Sri Lanka

Sri lanka 3 week itinerary.

Briefly our Sri Lanka 3 week itinerary heads immediately inland to explore ancient temples and culture in Kandy and Sigiriya, followed by a safari to witness ‘the gathering’ – the largest natural meeting of elephants in the world at Minneriya National Park (a short drive from Sigiriya).

Heading back to Kandy we catch the train to Ella and take what is argued to be one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world (we weren’t disappointed). Ella, in the heart of the hill country is the perfect place to visit the surrounding tea plantations, and do some stunning hikes before heading to the south west to Katagarama, for another safari in Yala National Park – this time to attempt to glimpse the elusive leopard.

To finish this Sri Lanka 3 week itinerary head to East coast to famous Arugam Bay for sun, surf and chillaxing.

Our Sri Lanka 3 week itinerary is based on travelling as a family, so we’re travelling a bit slower than maybe a couple or solo traveller.

We’ve worked in our golden 3 night rule as often as possible to allow the kids to settle in and us all to relax, rather than being on the go all the time. However, couples or solo travellers might want to speed up some of our 3 week itinerary, so I’ve added suggestions here and there for those travelling without kids.

Further below our Sri Lanka 3 week itinerary we’ve included information on transport and getting around and a section on costs in Sri Lanka and what you can expect to pay for accommodation, transport and basics whilst travelling Sri Lanka.

Read our post – 7 things to know before going to Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is the perfect place to explore if you’re looking for more than just sun and sand on your holidays. Tropical, incredibly diverse and super friendly this little country is perfect for adventuring families.

Just a stone’s throw from the tip of southern India, here in Sri Lanka you can see incredible wildlife (on affordable safaris), surf world class waves and get a serious culture fix. The food is mouth watering so foodies, get ready or indulge in one of the many excellent holistic Ayurveda retreats.

Adventure family travel is easy in Sri Lanka – the Sri Lankan’s absolutely adore kids and the country feels very safe to travel around.

We wanted our Sri Lanka three week itinerary to combine culture, wildlife and surf …

Day 1 – Arriving in Sri Lanka – your first night

If you’re not fussed about seeing the capital, Colombo , head straight to the coastal city of Negombo from Bandaranaike airport.

It’s nearer the airport than Colombo and being on the coast is a much more relaxing place to recover from the long haul.

We stayed just one night here at the basic, but perfectly adequate Marine Tourist Guest House  in Negombo and paid $46/£36 in an air-con room with two double beds. The guest house is only one road back from the beach and is a 2 minute walk to the amazing Seajoy restaurant which we would fully recommend for your first night of delicious Sri Lankan food (Rs3600/£18 for four of us).

We didn’t stay in Colombo but if we had done, I think we would push the boat out and spend the night at the famous colonial hotel Galle Face Grand . What I would pre-book is the train from Columbo to Kandy for your second day, although it means an early start with a departure at 7.00am. If you arrive on a late plane and you want to catch the early 7am train, I’d suggest spending 2 nights in Colombo or just 1 night and catching a later train. I talk more about booking this train and other transport options at the end of this itinerary.

Q – Should you book your accommodation ahead of arrival? I’d advise you to definitely book your first night of accommodation before arriving in Sri Lanka. After a long haul flight with exhausted kids, the last thing you want to be doing is dragging them around to find accommodation.

During peak season of Christmas/NY and July/Aug it’s advisable to book ahead if you have your eye on a specific accommodation and don’t want to be disappointed. A lot of the good places do book up far in advance for these periods. If you want to be more flexible with your itinerary then be sure to book at least a few days ahead of schedule.

3 Week Sri Lanka itinerary – Day 2 – 4

Day 2 is a travel day from Negombo (or Colombo) to Kandy.

Kandy is the cultural capital of Sri Lanka and location wise is slap bang in the middle of the island. It’s perfectly situated as a stepping stone to the East coast and is brimming with temples and culture. We decided to visit the culture spots first as they all seem to be either in or just north of Kandy.

Getting to Kandy

From Negombo to Kandy we booked a private taxi with our accommodation the night before. It cost us Rs8,750 (£43) and takes approximately 3.5 hours (although always allow longer in Sri Lanka when driving by car).

If we had stayed in Colombo I would recommend taking the train (Rajhadani Express) from Colombo to Kandy. You can pre-book it up to two weeks in advance (even if you are not in the country) with www.seat61.com or 12GoAsia . There are details of how to book this train at the end of this itinerary in the Getting Around Sri Lanka section.

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Spend 2 nights in Kandy to really recover from the flight and soak up true Sri Lankan culture. You can easily cut this down to 1 night if you’re not travelling with kids. You can read our post here Things to do in Kandy .

I’ve heard that many travellers choose to omit Kandy from their itinerary, labelling Kandy as polluted, busy and noisy. Yes, Kandy is a large city but we enjoyed it – we stayed in a homestay style hotel so it was great for our girls’ first experience of Sri Lankan food, hospitality and of getting a sari made up from a tailor (highly recommended).

In Kandy, visit the lake and the botanical gardens. We always love visiting botanical gardens as a family when we’re on our travels. The kids can run and play and it’s always a gentle intro to a country. 

Here in Kandy is one of Sri Lanka’s most revered temples – the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (UNESCO site). We didn’t visit but just saw the outside whilst walking along the lakeside. We chose not to go in the temple as we’d actually seen the sacred tooth relic being paraded along the streets of Kandy on the night we arrived. We’d unsuspectingly arrived on the finale of the 10 day Buddhist festival Esala Perahera (and paid quite a lot of money for seats to watch it!). 

We stayed with the gracious Kumari from Madugalle Family Friendly Guest House (or sometimes it’s referred to it’s old name, Kandy Inn). This large colonial house is slap bang in the middle of Kandy so very near to the key sights, namely the lake and the Temple of the Tooth. 

Black and white portraits of seven generations of Kumari’s family stare down the walls whilst we took delicious breakfasts of toast and pineapple jam with fresh mango. We were fascinated by the family’s history and by Kumari and her family’s hospitality and charm. Nothing was too much – she insisted on booking us tuk tuks from the accommodation so we would get the right fare and not be ripped off and was delighted to organise our tailor visit, even forwarding the finished saris to our Arugam Bay accommodation. Basic accommodation (no aircon) so a very affordable price, but lovely welcoming family vibe.

If you’re happy to splash out I’d really recommend The Elephant Stables , a 5 star hotel in an old colonial bungalow set in the hills above Kandy. With amazing views, this hotel is only a 10 minute tuk tuk ride into the centre of Kandy. Tortoise roam the gardens and you can stay in gorgeous suites or incredibly a huge tent with beautiful furniture inside! This is top of my list next time we visit Sri Lanka!

Alternatively if you’re looking to stay on a Tea Plantation, Madulkelle Tea and Eco Lodge , 30km from Kandy, is glamping at it’s finest. A five star set up, these tents are like nothing you’re ever seen! Complete with en-suite (some with baths!) these tents are next level, set in a stunning location. Activities here include cooking lessons and hiking.

Getting a sari made up

One of the best things we did in Sri Lanka was choosing material and going to a tailor in Kandy to have saris made for the girls. We paid Rs2100 for the material and another Rs2000 to the tailor. Our tailor’s name was Mahashi. If you’re interested in contacting her, DM me and I’ll pass on her phone number. Ask your guesthouse to call Mahashi and then take a tuk tuk to meet her to get your girls measured. Then she will send one of her helpers to go to the material shop with you to choose from the rolls of beautiful fabric. It was easy and everyone was so helpful and lovely – particularly in the material shop where we were quite the novelty. 

3 Week Sri Lanka Itinerary – Day 4 – 6

Day 4 is a travel day from Kandy to Sigiriya with a visit to Dambulla Caves which is directly en-route, one hour before Sigirya. It’s a 3 hour drive (without stops) with a private driver, so estimate around 5 hours in total taking in Dambulla Caves as well. Your driver will stop and wait for you while you climb the steps and see the caves. 

Yo will also have the opportunity on the Kandy – Sigiriya road to stop off at some of the spice gardens en-route, which is an interesting but not a vital stop. The spice gardens are free to enter but there’s a hard sell at the end for overpriced products.

Spend 3 nights in Sigiriya to climb either the famous UNESCO Lions Rock or the alternative (and more adventurous climb – Pidurangala Rock. You can also use Sigiriya as a base to do a safari in the nearby (1 hour away) Minneriya and Dambulla National Parks.

We chose to climb Pidurangala Rock, over the more touristy Lions Rock for many reasons. It’s a much easier climb than Sigiriya, much more adventurous (you’re climbing in-between and over huge rocks just before the summit) and it’s much much cheaper (Rs500 each instead of $35 each). I think it’s a much easier climb for young kids. I’ll take mine back to climb Lions Rock when they’re a bit older. I think it would have been a real slog for them at 6 and 9 years old, plus it’s absolutely rammed with tourists, has no shade and is home to some mean hornets nests ……

Day 5 – Get up at 4am to climb Pidurangala Rock to summit at sunrise. Head torches are necessary!  You can read our post here on our Pidurangala Rock climb.

If you wanted to cut down your time in Sigiriya, it’s possible to climb Pidurangala at dawn, visit Lions Rock in the afternoon and do an evening safari! We don’t recommend this with kids though and even the thought of that is exhausting! We could have easily spent only 2 nights here climbing Pidurangala at dawn, departing at noon for an afternoon safari and been off the following day but with 3 nights in a place, you get two full days. We wanted to take it easy and it was a great place to chill, play cards with the kids and get to know our hosts. It was here we learnt how to make hoppers, ate water lily buds (who knew they were edible?) and danced carefree in the monsoon rain. 

Minneriya and Dambulla National Park

Our safari to witness ‘The Gathering’ – the unique spectacle of hundreds of elephants gathering in one place – the largest in the world – was arranged by  Darnshi Lodge  where we stayed. We had a private jeep for our family and took an afternoon safari, leaving at 12 noon. (Evening safaris were also possible). It cost us Rs12,200 (£61) + 3,000 tip for the four of us, plus we had to pay the National Park fees upon entering. It was around an hour’s drive from Sigiriya to the park entrance.

Minneriya and Dambulla National Parks are right next to each other, joined by an elephant bridge allowing the elephants to cross at any time into the other park. Minneriya is the park which has the reservoir, where the elephants congregate in August, the driest month, to drink and socialise. The safari will take you to whichever park the elephants have been spotted in recently.

We were amazed to see a matriarch and her baby almost immediately on arriving into the park. It was a true delight for my girls to see wild elephants for the first time in their lives, although the number of jeeps surrounding the elephants made me uncomfortable. We asked our driver & guide if we could leave the gaggle of tourists behind and take off on our own. We were rewarded by an encounter with a solo male who we followed from a discreet distance for over 15 minutes. Seeing elephants in the wild is an experience second to none.

Talking of elephants – we were privileged to see wild pygmy elephants in Borneo during our family wildlife volunteering holiday – read about it and watch our video footage here  – scroll to day 5 video diary.

If you’re off on safari with little ones, Jenny from Travelynn Family gives excellent tips on going on safari with kids under the age of 5 .

We stayed 3 nights at  Darnshi Lodge , which is slightly out of Sigiriya. Darnshi Lodge was our cheapest accommodation in Sri Lanka (£27 per night for an air con ensuite room) but was easily the best value for money we had in the whole of Sri Lanka. It’s family run business and it was lovely to get to know the family for a few days before moving on. We stuck to our trusty 3 day in one place rule here and didn’t regret it. One of the brothers who live here has a tuk tuk, so we could give him a shout whenever we wanted to get out and about.

3 Week Sri Lanka Itinerary – Day 7

Sigiriya back to kandy.

Unfortunately unless you want to carry on North to see further temples in the golden triangle (in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa) or head to the coast either to Trincomalee or to Batticaloa (with a view to then travelling south down to Arugam Bay), you now need to re-trace your steps to Kandy to take one of the most beautiful train rides in the world.

So day 7 is a travel day back to Kandy. The train leaves early morning so it requires another night in Kandy (tonight). There’s no real way around this unless you choose to go straight to Sigiriya (instead of Kandy) on your 2nd day. This would have been too much for us with the kids in tow but it’s an option to avoid doubling back to Kandy.

Arrange to pick up your saris now, if you visited the tailor on your first visit to Kandy. If not, get measured up this afternoon and have your guest house forward you the made up saris when they’re finished. This is what we did and it was a wonderful interlude, rather than feeling like we’d wasted a day in Kandy waiting for the train.  It was one of the simplest and most authentic things we did in Sri Lanka and the saris will make wonderful souvenirs for my girls once they grow out of them.

We spent the remainder of the afternoon going to the train station to try to book tickets for the Ella train the following morning. We were sent packing as all the reserved seats had been sold. We were told to return one hour before the train departure time the following morning to buy an unreserved ticket.

The train journey is LONG but a must – even with kids. Many travellers break the journey by stopping in Nuwara Eliya , nicknamed ‘little England’ for it’s quaint cottages and tea rooms. We didn’t bother with this – we have enough of that in the UK, and did the long 7 hours to Ella in one stretch.

A word of warning – the train will be completely full, particularly so in peak season. We felt sorry for others that had to stand the entire way – it would have been a nightmare with the kids, so we do have some tips to pass on about how to bag seats. First and second class tickets (both ‘reserved’ seating) can be hard to acquire in peak season. It’s possible to book online before arriving in Sri Lanka but you will pay a premium.  Our trick was to board a station earlier than Kandy to avoid fighting the throng of tourists and locals boarding in Kandy. We had a tuk tuk take us to Peradeniya, which is 5.5km west of Kandy (which is where the Botanical Gardens are). We boarded the train fine and although the train was full, managed to quickly slide into seats as the crowds got off in Kandy and before the throng boarded.

3 Week Sri Lanka Itinerary –  Day 8

Kandy to ella.

Day 8 is a travel day from Kandy to Ella. This train, famously bright blue, climbs up to the atmospheric hill country through incredible scenes of misty rolling verdant hills where tea plantations roll undulating as far as the eye can see.

This train journey is a tourist attraction in itself and instead of seeing the 7 hour journey as laborious and a bore, soak up the atmosphere and watch the locals. We travelled in 2nd class unreserved so we were crammed in like sardines (we were extremely thankful to have seats) but it was a wonderful opportunity to meet the locals, who ended up squeezing onto our seat, playing lego with our girls and we even had a crowd gathered round watching a kids film on the iPad towards the end of the journey. Not me, of course, I was looking out of the window the entire time – but hey when you got kids on a 7 hour journey – occasionally needs must! It’s worth noting that it’s unlikely you’ll be able to snap any of those amazing photos on Instagram (of yourself or a pretty girl hanging out of the train) in 2nd class unreserved – simply because these carriages are rammed. It’s difficult to get anywhere and I had to push and shove to get to the doorway to take a quick snap. What is great about the 2nd class unreserved is that you’re hanging out with the locals. You will need to book the 1st class reserved (where everyone is allocated a seat and no-one is standing) if you want to take the instagram famous shots!

3 Week Sri Lanka Itinerary –  Day 9-10

Spend 3 nights in Ella enjoying the cooler climes of the hill country. Ella is a fantastic spot to kick back, relax, hike some of the famous trails. Little Adam’s Peak is an easy option for families with young children, plus on the first section you walk through tea plantations and can often see the tea pickers at work. Ella’s Rock could be managed with older kids whilst Adam’s Peak is a much longer hike.

We enjoyed walking the rails and exploring the nine arch bridge. You can read our post of the best things to do in Ella here,  including  the best place in Sri Lanka to eat chocolate roti (and learn how to make it!).

Ella enjoys a relaxed, backpacker vibe and it’s a good place to do a cooking class if you want to learn about Sri Lankan cuisine. We pushed out our accommodation budget in Ella, as so many of the activities were free. We stayed at the amazing Zion View  which has jaw dropping views of Ellas Rock and a fabulous play area for kids next to their restaurant.

3 Week Sri Lanka Itinerary –  Day 11

Ella to kataragama.

Day 11 is another travel day from Ella to Kataragama in the south east – the gateway to Yala National Park. Again we took a private driver, paying Rs6500 (£35) for the two and a half hour journey.

Our goal – to glimpse a leopard. Of all the National Parks in Sri Lanka, Yala National Park has the highest density of leopards, so chances here are as high as you’ll get to try sneak a peek at this incredible creature.

We booked into Cadjan Wild  for one night, which lies right on the border of the National Park. We’d been given a tip to stay here by friends as with it’s location, your jeep can enter a smaller, less busy gate into the national park which meant we didn’t have to get up as early and less queueing! Cadjan Wild semi-luxury bungalows are the perfect place to bed down before a safari. The bungalows are contemporary, have air-con and have impressive ensuite outdoor marble showers. The gardens are beautifully lit with candles come dusk, where you can swim in the salt pool and watch troops of monkeys jumping in over the fence from the national park, to scoff fruit from the trees or even drink from the pool!

Choose from an evening safari or a morning safari. It’s very hit and miss if you see a leopard or not and it doesn’t seem to make any difference whether you opt for a morning or evening safari. We stayed only one night here at Cadjan Wild, so we decided to take the morning safari the following day and then head on to Arugam Bay the same afternoon. Others we met decided to do both an evening and morning safari to increase their odds of spotting a leopard. It’s definitely something to consider if you’ve got older kids, and something we might do next time as unfortunately, whilst we saw tons of other wildlife, and our guide was incredible, we didn’t manage to spot the elusive creature – so it would be have been great to have tried another time. With our kids being quite young, and already having done a safari with them, we felt only doing one in Yala was the right decision. Whilst safaris are very exciting, they are also rather rough.  The jeeps can be particularly uncomfortable negotiating huge ruts in the trails and ragging it around quite fast. Equip all members of the family with sunglasses and something to put over the mouth and nose – it’s vital to stop the dust getting in.

3 Week Sri Lanka Itinerary – Day 12

Kataragama to arugam bay (6 nights).

Day 12 – after the morning safari, take a private driver to Arugam Bay. Here you can relax for a whole week of relaxing by the beach and explore the secret surf spots along the coast. 

(The journey from Kataragama to A Bay will take approximately 3.5 hours and we paid Rs10,000 (£50).

Arugam Bay is a stunning crescent bay of golden sand with the best surf in Sri Lanka.

This laid back, one street town is the perfect place to kick back and chill for a week. A Bay, as it’s affectionately known is full of yoga classes, cool cafés, and world class breaks. Catch tuk tuks out to Arugam Bay’s surrounding surf spots with wonderful names such as Peanut Farm, Elephant Rock or Whiskey Point.  

We stayed in the wonderful beach side Aloha Villas in Arugam Bay. Literally wake up and fall out of bed onto the beach and the thundering surf. Cabanas are basic with fans, but great for location and your wallet. The friendly staff will pop down a mattress for you free of charge for the kids. We spent a good week here before we moved literally 100 metres up the beach to Roccos for the relief of aircon and pool for the kids, although this comes with a price. We also stayed at the luxurious Spice Trail on our way back which was heaven! The best place to stay if budget isn’t your concern is Hideaway Villas – these are cool vibes slash boutique bungalows at their best. Unfortunately Hideaway  was fully booked during our visit but we still took the opportunity to visit their pool for a small fee and their uber cool cafe bar. If budget is no issue, stay here.

It’s around 4 hours to drive from Kataragama to Arugam Bay.

3 Week Sri Lanka Itinerary –  Day 18 – 20

Arugam bay to lighthouse point.

I actually arranged our whole trip around staying at this incredible place – Hilltop Cabanas at Lighthouse Point, Komari (about 30 minutes north of Arugam Bay). It’s one of the few places I pre-booked from the UK. You’ll see why if you read our  full review on Hilltop Cabanas here . It’s quite simply a slice of paradise! Their rustic cabanas are perched on stilts and are open air with nothing but mozzie nets between you, the moon and the ocean!

Do absolutely nothing here but surf, collect shells, swing in a hammock, read a book or play chess. Take in the breathtaking remote location and enjoy the isolation. If you don’t surf then maybe only stay one or two nights, just for the experience. 

If you have longer on your itinerary or if you’ve spent less time in any of the spots above, I’d recommend travelling up the East coast and exploring further all the way to Trincomalee. From there you can catch a train back to Colombo (7 hrs, although don’t take the night train without a male chaperon) so can complete a loop rather returning to Arugam Bay to get a transfer back to the airport.  Alternatively catch a private cab for around Rs20,000.

3 Week Sri Lanka Itinerary –  Day 21

Travel back to colombo for night flight.

Return to Arugam Bay via tuk tuk to pick up a private cab directly to the airport. We ordered one for 4pm which got us there in time for our late night flight back to Heathrow.

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We always use a trusty Lonely Planet guidebook when we’re on our travels. I’m a big fan of Lonely Planet and have been using them for years. The latest Sri Lanka Lonely Planet guidebook is still the 2018 guidebook below which will be invaluable to you on your trip. If you’re planning to travel after October 2021 then you’ll be pleased to hear you can order the 2021 updated Sri Lanka Lonely Planet guidebook .

T his is our Sri Lanka 3 week itinerary – choose to use this exact one or cut and paste into your own schedule as you wish. One option is to spend less time in Arugam Bay and then spend 3-4 days travelling up the East Coast to Trincomalee. From here you can catch a train back to Colombo. Whilst researching this route it became clear that the sleeper train is no longer running, although the night train still does. I’ve heard it’s not safe to travel without a male chaperon so if you’re ladies travelling solo, catch a private cab or get the day train. 

There are supposedly two international airports in Sri Lanka – Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) 35km from Colombo and Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport on the South coast. I researched into flying into Mattala Rajapaksa as geographically, it would have been easier for our 3 week Sri Lanka itinerary, but it was way more expensive and so as most people do, we flew to Bandaranaike.

From the airport , if you’re after an immediate authentic experience, walk onto the road outside the airport to catch a tuk tuk to Negombo – yes a family of four can squeeze into one (note tuk tuks are not allowed into the airport so you will have to walk outside onto the road where they queue on the opposite side).  Expect to barter hard. I’d read reports of fares being as low as 800 for a tuk tuk to Negombo but we only managed to get down to 1200 and that was hard work. But don’t worry Sri Lanka is not like India or Indo – the Sri Lankans are generally very fair, but nevertheless still bargain.

If you’d prefer to check out the capital, Colombo , a taxi should cost around Rs 2500 (17 USD) from one of the taxi counters inside the airport (no need to book ahead). Alternatively the airport bus only takes 40 minutes, costs peanuts at 110 rupees each and is easy to find. Turn left coming out of the airport, keep walking to the end, then turn right and you’ll see the buses up over to your left.

Once in Colombo, expect to pay around 150 rupees for most tuk tuk or taxi journeys around Colombo

Private drivers

We predominantly used private drivers to get around Sri Lanka – something that I’ve never done in any other country or even really come across whist travelling.

As Sri Lanka is a compact little country, most distances take between 3-4 hours by car, much longer on public transport.

We found using private drivers to be the easiest way as a family to get around, especially as we had limited time on our during our 3 week Sri Lanka itinerary, but it did take a chunk out of our budget. We also loved the fact we could stop whenever we wanted – if the girls needed a wee for example (as opposes to being on a bus without a toilet) and we could pull over if we fancied buying some fruit from a roadside stall, if we saw wild elephants on the road or if simply wanted to take a photo.

Read our post – A complete guide to private drivers in Sri Lanka

If we had been travelling Sri Lanka for a longer period, we would definitely have prioritised taking cheaper public transport, the bus or the train.

Note: if you are not a family travelling, but a couple or travelling solo, then getting a private driver would not work out as economical for you as it was for us, unless you found some buddies to share.

Most hotels and guest-houses can easily arrange a private driver.

One word of warning – there are rarely seatbelts in the back of private cabs, which was a slight concern for us travelling with kids. Driving on Sri Lanka roads is quite chaotic, so if you feel unsafe with your driver, ask them to slow down – most of them respect your wishes. We can highly recommend our driver Pradeep who can be contacted on facebook to pre-organise transport. DM me on our facebook page @thefamilyfreestylers if you’d like his contact. He is also able to organise private drivers around almost all of the island and his prices are always cheaper than arranging direct with a hotel or guest house. Many of our friends have used Pradeep – he is trustworthy and reliable.

Tipping your driver

If you wish to tip your driver Rs500 is the suggested normal rate.

Private driver costs

We paid the following for our routes with a private driver during our 3 week Sri Lankan itinerary.

Rs9000 (£45) one way from Negombo to Kandy.

Rs6500 (£32.50)from Kandy to Sigiriya one way with a stop off at Dambulla Caves

Rs7150 (£36) from Sigiriya to Kandy one way

Rs6500 (£35) Ella to Katagarama

Rs10,000 (£50) Katagarama to Arugam Bay

The current exchange rate (April 2021) is Rs200 = $102/£0.72/€0.85

We love tuk tuks and use them for all short distance journeys. It is also possible to rent tuk tuks and this is something we will definitely consider on our next trip to Sri Lanka.

Our tuk tuk costs were:

Airport to Negombo 1200

Kandy centre to botanical gardens 500 each way

Ella to tea plantation 1000

Ella – round trip to Ravana Falls & 9 arch bridge 1700

Arugam Bay to Peanut Farm (driver to wait and return) 900

Arugam Bay to Whiskey Point (one way) 700

Arugam Bay to Elephant Rock 900

 Arugam Bay to Lighthouse Point 1700

Rail travel is limited somewhat across Sri Lanka with lines mainly from Colombo to Kandy, Colombo down the West coast to Galle, Kandy to Ella, Trincomalee to Colombo and Colombo to Jaffna. The railways were primarily built for trade, transporting tea from the hill country to ports for export.

Word of warning; Do not take night trains or buses without a male chaperon. Even local women do not do this and it’s taking an unnecessary risk.

Children under 12 pay half fare with Sri Lanka Railways, children under 3 travel free.

Carriages are either reserved or unreserved. Seats in the reserved carriages can be booked up to 30 days in advance through an agent (Sri Lankan railways do not have any option to book direct online).  

If you buy a ticket for a reserved carriage you are guaranteed a seat and a specific seat number will be printed on your ticket. The reserved carriages have a guard on who will stop anyone from entering who does not have a specific ticket for that carriage. No-body is allowed to stand, so reserved carriages are not crowded.

Tickets for first class reserved and first class observation carriages, and sometimes even second class reserved sell out quite quickly after tickets are released on sale, so it’s a good idea to book tickets from outside Sri Lanka before you arrive with Visit Sri Lanka Tours .  

First class observation carriages have larger glass windows, but they don’t open so don’t book this carriage if you want to take photos out of the windows.

If you are told at a railway station that a train is fully booked, they are talking about the ‘reserved’ carriages. A train is never fully booked so you can always turn up on the day and buy a ticket for an unreserved carriage.

Colombo – Kandy train

The Rajhadani Express runs twice a day from Colombo to Kandy. You can pre-book it up to two weeks in advance (and from outside of the country) with Visit Sri Lanka Tours.   I’ve also heard you are now able to book via  12GoAsia  (since Summer 18) although when I went on, I couldn’t seem to book for either the Rajhadani Express or the Kandy to Ella train!

The first train departs at 7.00am arriving at 09.35am and the other departs at 15.35 arriving 18.05pm (these were the times when I visited so do check the schedule on  www.seat61.com If you want to take in the wonderful Sri Lankan countryside on the way be sure to catch the morning train as you’ll arrive in darkness with the afternoon train. For the best views sit on the left hand side of the carriage with your back to the engine. Tickets are £1 for 2nd class or £3 for first class reserved if you book in Sri Lanka, or approximately £10 for second class & £11 for first class pre-booked before arriving in Sri Lanka with  Visit Sri Lanka Tours .  We worked out it was approximately the same cost to take the train from Colombo to Kandy as a private taxi from Negombo to Kandy for our family of four (if we pre-booked our tickets from the UK).

Kandy – Galle direct train

On our last trip to Sri Lanka (Feb 2020) we discovered the direct train from Kandy to Galle and onto Weligama on the south coast. This train leaves daily from Kandy at 5.00am and stops for only 15 minutes in Colombo Fort, which means you get to Galle super fast (arriving around 11.30am). Our tip is to travel on a Sunday when this normally rammed commuter train is dead quiet. You cannot pre-book this train. It does not have 1st class or observation class, so you need to rock up at the station at 04.30 to buy your tickets. The HUGE plus to catching this red eye train is that it avoids having to stop in Colombo over night or a lengthy wait in Colombo for a connecting train (which turns the journey into a full day slog).

Read our full post on taking the Kandy to Galle train . We would highly recommend taking this train! It’s easy, dirt cheap and the scenery is stunning.

The cost for four tickets for 2 adults and 2 kids, unreserved 2nd class one way was Rs610 (that’s an incredible £3.00!).

I was really worried about getting seats because the journey was so long (7hrs) and we really wanted the kids to be able to have a seat. I’d stupidly thought that by rocking up the day before, I might still be able to get some. No way! This train is now fully on the tourist map, so during peak season forget about it.  If you definitely want a seat with your family, I’d highly recommend booking before arriving in Sri Lanka (see how to above). I did meet a few travellers who had managed to buy reserved tickets off touts around the station, but I never was offered any so it’s a risk to leave it to chance.

However, don’t fear if you can only get unreserved tickets. We followed a cunning tip that I’d read about that worked a treat. Our trick was to board a station earlier than Kandy to avoid fighting the throng of tourists and locals boarding in Kandy. We had a tuk tuk take us to Peradeniya, which is 5.5km west of Kandy (where the Botanical Gardens are) where we bought our tickets and waited slightly nervous as to how this would play out. We boarded the train with no bother and although the train was full, we stood until the train started slowing into Kandy station where most people started to get out of their seats. We nabbed four seats quickly and sat there extremely smug staring out of the window at the throng – a 6 person deep crowd trying to pour onto our unreserved carriage. However, after a few hours we ended up squishing up on our seats and letting kids sit with us – 7 hours is a long time to stand (!) and it was good to get to know some little locals a little better.

Costs in Sri Lanka

Below are some of the real costs that we paid whilst in Sri Lanka (Aug 17). The rate at the time was Rs200 = £1. It will help you get an idea of how much you will need on a daily basis to budget. We actually spent far more than we expected to in Sri Lanka travelling as a family of four. Our highest expenditure was private drivers (see fares above) and tourist attractions. Prices in Sri Lanka are mostly in Sri Lankan rupees although many tours & accommodations quote in US dollars.

Your next biggest cost will be accommodation. You can obviously choose to go budget, mid range or luxury, so your costs will vary here. Generally on average we spent around $50 a night for a non air-con room that we all shared (often the kids would top and tail a single bed). This of course was certainly not luxurious but was adequate, clean and cheap. 

The exception to this was in Ella where for once we weren’t paying out each day for tours or private drivers and so we chose to pay more and stay in the beautiful Zion View . The only other place we splashed out on accommodation was in Aruguam Bay, when the temperature rose to over 40 degrees and we were forced to leave our perfect (but non air-con) beach side cabana ( Aloha Cababas $48) to move into more the more palatial surroundings of The Spice Trail ($180 a night) and Roccos ($93), where we had a the luxury of a pool and air con to keep us sane! 

You can see links to all of our accommodation in our 3 week Sri Lanka itinerary above. Our favourite was Hilltop Cabanas on the east coast – basic open sided cabanas on stilts facing the ocean ……

Sri Lanka Attractions

Kandy Botanical gardens Rs4500 for a family of four (1500 adult/750 kids)

Dambulla Caves Rs1500 per adult/ kids (free lotus offering Rs100)

Sigirya – Pindurangala rock Rs500 mandatory donation each, 15 min tuk tuk to get there & back Rs300 

Sigiriya – Lions Rock US$30 or the equivalent in rupee – you can only pay in cash. Previously payment was ONLY in rupees but recent travellers say they’ve paid in US dollars.

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Kandy Rs1000 for foreigners

Ella – Hapulate tea plantation Rs450 per adult child free

Minnieyia National Park safari Rs12,200 (£60) + 3,000 tip – (under 5s free ). This was for a private jeep for our family. We also had to pay national park entry fee on top on the above costs on arrival. Departures from Sigirya – 13.30 for afternoon safari or 18.30 for evening safari.

Yala National Park safari – private jeep for family of four – I’m just finding this information out again as I can’t find it 🙂

Arugam Bay (Pottuvil) Lagoon trip Rs6500 for family of four including tuk tuk from & to our accommodation 

Doctors visits in Sri Lanka

We can highly recommend the doctor in Ella at Care Well Medical Centre (details below). I had some grit or dust, possibly from the safari, in my eye, which was causing me pain. The doctor was excellent and was very pleased that I’d been to see her rather than wait until Arugam Bay (who she didn’t see to have a very high opinion of!)

Dr M.G.S Gamage or Dr Mrs D V V K Ganga, Care Well Medical Centre, Ella

[email protected]

Doctors fee Rs3000

Antibiotic eye drops Rs2500

However we did have to visit the doctors again in Arugam Bay …. to get some iodine for a cut and have it looked at as it looked yakky.  The surgery did look dirty, especially the bed to lie on (which we did not!). In fact, we could have easily picked up some iodine at the local supermarket for Rs150 …..rather than the Rs1000 we paid!

Doctors visit in Arugam Bay $49 bottle of iodine 1000

Basics costs in Sri Lanka

bottle of water 80-120

chocolate roti 450

packet of polos 120

bag of nuts 175

Pringles 420

crackers 100

mens haircut 500

fresh coconut 100

lion beer 160 each from shop or 500 in restaurant or bar

bakery 600 (jam roll, sweet buns, veg bun, fruit)

Arugam Bay surf board hire 800 per day

washing 1000 per load

yoga class 1000

massage 2000

bottle of rum 3150

tampons 200 each or 650 for 10 (not readily available generally in Sri Lanka but spotted in supermarket in Arugam Bay)

bottle of iodine in Arugam Bay supermarket 150

ear & eye antibiotic drops in Arugam Bay supermarket 150

milk for babies and smaller nappies were also available in the Arugam Bay supermarket

Read more of our Sri Lanka posts

3 week Sri Lanka itinerary in July/Aug

Climbing Pidurangala Rock in Sigiriya

  Hilltop Cabanas – the most epic place to stay on the east coast

6 Places to Visit in Ella

  What to do in Kandy  

First Impressions to Backpacking Sri Lanka

How to Stay Safe at Elephant Rock

7 things to know. before going to Sri Lanka

Private drivers in Sri Lanka – everything you need to know

The Kandy – Galle Train – the ultimate guide

Volunteering in Sri Lanka on an elephant conservation project

The Best Family Hotel on the South Coast of Sri Lanka – Review

Looking to book a room in Sri Lanka? Check out these great options!

•  – Top Pick for Adventurous Families
•  – Where We Stayed
• –  Luxury 5 star stay

Looking to book your next trip? Check out the following services we use!

• Kayak to find a cheap plane ticket or AirTreks for RTW tickets.
• Booking.com to find a hotel deal.
• World Nomads to insure your trip.
• Viator for a good quality day tours.
• G Adventures for a multi-day guided tour.

Disclosure: This post also contains affiliate links. Should you click on a link to purchase, it is at no extra cost to you, but I get a small commission that goes towards the running of this blog. This is no way affects the  authenticity of this site – we only recommend services and products that we use and love.

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If you are considering adding Nepal to your world travels, check out this fantastic Ultimate Guide to Visiting Nepal by fellow blogger Anya!

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This is great and by far the best info and useful tips I have found on visiting Sri Lanka yet!! Looking at the photos makes me wish I was there now!! I am planning on going next year and will definitely contact the accommodation recommended and follow the other useful tips. Thank you so much, I have already forwarded this on to friends and will be following your blogs in the future.

Hi Sue. Thanks, I’m glad you found us. If you have any questions on Sri Lanka closer to booking your trip, give me a shout 🙂

I am avid reader of your adventures. Just wanted to shoot a quick question if that’s OK.

I am considering travelling with my family to Arugam Bay area in August 2019. I was wondering if the ocean is safe for kids (ours will be 8 and 10 y.o.)? Let us know.

Wishing you a great skiing season,

Hi Mehdi. Thanks for getting in touch. Great question! There’s a big swell on the East coast of Sri Lanka during the summer months which is why it’s such a famous surf spot. However the swell means safe swimming is limited to only a few places. We saw adults swimming no problem outside our cabanas (Aloha Cabanas) on the main beach, however I wouldn’t let my girls swim there at all. Arugam Bay is a crescent shaped bay and has a really safe spot right in the crux of the bay called Baby Bay (there’s a photo of Baby Bay on my post on Day 12). It is one of the most central places in A bay and only took us 5 – 10 mins to walk to each day. This is really safe as it’s quite shallow and it’s the only place we let our girls swim whilst we were at Arugam Bay. It’s also a great place for them to learn to surf. We got round this negative by making sure we booked some accommodation with a swimming pool for some of the time were were at A-Bay. Sri Lanka really is a fantastic destination – I wouldn’t let this put you off going – just book somewhere with a pool. We can highly recommend The Spice Trail, Hideaway or Roccos (links are in our post).

Waow… Great thanks for the detailed answer… We are definitely going !

One last question if I may… Would you say that there is a beach walking distance from Hilltop Cabanas where you really inspired us to stay are suitable for children to swim? Many many thanks.

No. The beach at Lighthouse Point is still quite rough. Our girls paddled there but we didn’t let them swim. We didn’t walk too far each way up the beach as the temperature was soooo hot – over 40 degrees, and there’s no shade at all on the beach. My advice is to only book for two nights at Hilltop Cabanas – it’s a great place to relax and chill (and surf) but as there’s no shade on the beach, the kids can only paddle before 08.00 or after 16.00 – 16.30 (when the sun becomes bearable) so there’s a lot of chilling in hammocks, playing chess and adventuring in the stilt cabanas. Sleeping in the outdoor open air cabanas is definitely the draw here.

ps If you book Hilltop Cabana through my link in the post above, it doesn’t cost you anything more, but I make a small profit to keep the blog running 🙂

Hi Mags, so happy I found your post about a three week itinerary for Sri Lanka in August! It’s exactly what I was looking for (and most other people seem to travel another month). And it’s great you added suggestions in case of travelling without kids!

There’re two questions I would like to ask: 1. Is Sri Lanka very crowded/touristy in August (even though it’s an all year round destination) regarding the places you visited? 2. May I ask how much you paid for your flights from the UK? Because flights from Germany (which shouldn’t make a big difference) seem to be very expensive in the month of August 800 Euros. Looking forward to hearing from you!

I’m so pleased that our post has been helpful to you.

We didn’t find it too touristy in August. Of course yes there are tourists, especially at the popular attractions but it wasn’t ridiculously so.

I searched long and hard for our flights and even travelled up to Glasgow to fly out of the UK as the Scottish schools had gone back to school on our return dates. We managed to get them for £1800 for 2 adults and 2 children which was exceptional although it took me days of repeated searching to find them 🙂

I think flights are always cheaper from the UK though for some reason.

[…] If you more time here is a 3 week itinerary for Sri Lanka. […]

Thank you so much for this. We are going to sri lanka july 2020 for 3 weeks and this is just what we needed. One question, would you avoid the south and south west in july? I’m getting mixed reports that the weather is hit and miss and it is possible to travel to this part on july. Thanks

Hi Daniel. Oh fabulous! You will have a brilliant time. We didn’t go down south as we were worried about the monsoon down there during August but in actual fact when we were there, we met a lot of tourists that had visited down south during their trip and they said the weather was okay – maybe not as sunny as the west, cloudy or overcast but not torrential rain. I think next time we would visit during this time. Obviously each summer is different so it’s your choice. I think having a flexible schedule would be best in case the weather isn’t so good so you could move on easily without being tied into accommodation. If you have any other questions, just shout 🙂

Hi, great great article BTW. We are looking at a couple of weeks in July 2020 and have pretty much settled on the same route, maybe less time in one or two places but essentially the same. Can you let me know how long it took from A Bay to Colombo in order for you to catch your flight? We explored the option of leaving A Bay for Galle and then getting the train to Colombo, but it just means another couple of days travel plus another overnight stop at the expense of a night in A Bay. Also, can you remember the cost of the private taxi from AB to Colombo? Thanks

Hi Griff, great to hear from you. The taxi ride from Arugam Bay to Columbo was long! 8-9 hours. We were quoted 7000 from our guy but in the end we couldn’t organise a taxi through him and paid 10,000 with the local cab company in Arugam Bay. Our flight left at 1am so we were trying to weigh up going the day before and staying in a hotel and getting up early. In the end we left A Bay at 2pm and drove direct to the airport so had more time in A Bay and saved on the hotel accommodation that night – we got to the airport around 10-11pm to check in. In fact, we left our iPad in the taxi by mistake (it was charging in the front) and we only noticed as we were about to go through security. Amazingly, we called the taxi office back in Arugam Bay who called the driver who came back to meet my husband at the airport entrance! We love Sri Lanka!! Any other questions – ask. We have the name of a very good driver who organises private taxis all over SL at about 20-30% off accommodation providers charge. Just a word of caution – most taxis don’t have seat belts – so if you are extremely cautious, especially with kids, you might have a heart attack! We did ask every time for a taxi with seat belts but generally they didn’t have them or they were broken ………

Hi We are currently planning our itinerary for our July/August 2020 trip to Sri Lanka. Your blog is really helpful. Thank you. We are petty much using it as our base itinerary. Although we may not be able to get into the Hilltop Cabanas as they are already fully booked. We are 2 couples, no kids with us ( all grown up), coming from New Zealand. We have been debating whether to book a driver for the whole trip, before we go, through our NZ travel agent who uses a local Sri Lankan travel agency? That would mean we have a driver available even on the days we are staying put. Which seems a bit of an unnecessary expense. But has some advantages. Or are we better just to book drivers locally as we need to go longer distances? With the risk that we don’t really know how much it will cost. Interested to hear your thoughts on these options. Thanks Christine Dean

Hi Christine. Thanks for your message. Shame about Hilltop Cabanas – it’s SUCH a good spot. They only had the last few dates of our holiday when I found them and so I ended up basing our entire holiday around them! 🙂

I have heard of other tourists in Sri Lanka booking a private driver for their entire stay. To me, also, it seems a bit overkill. For one, I would never want a driver hanging around, I don’t think I would fully relax! 🙂 I’d also be interested in what they were going to charge you for that! I bet it is a lot of money.

If I were you I would just order drivers as and when you need them. They are VERY easy to organise from each accommodation and even collectively I don’t think they would be as much as using a driver for the entire trip. We used the same driver for a lot of our trip. He has contacts everywhere so even if he personally could not drive us, he would organise a local driver and was always cheaper than arranging through our local accommodation. If you ping me an email, I will give you his details and you can have a chat to him on Facebook and ask him about fares from point A to point B.

Have a fab time! We are going again to SL in 4 weeks to review an Elephant Conservation Project in one of the National Parks. We are soooo excited!!

Hi Christine I have now written an in-depth guide on private drivers in Sri Lanka. Here’s the link if you are interested, however you may have cancelled your trip now due to Covid-19. I have heard that Sri Lanka are opening up to international flights on 1 August 2020.

https://thefamilyfreestylers.com/private-drivers-in-sri-lanka/

Best wishes

Thanks. Will store that info for future. Yes have gad to cancel our trip for now. 😞

So disappointing 🙁 You will love Sri Lanka once you get there – I guarantee it!

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5 Best Places To Visit in Sri Lanka in August

• By Editorial Staff

Sri Lanka is a beautiful country with a rich culture and history, and August is a great time to visit as the monsoon season has ended and the weather is pleasant. Here are five of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka in August:

Table of Contents

1. Yala National Park

Yala National Park is one of the most popular national parks in Sri Lanka and is known for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. The Park is home to a variety of animals including elephants, leopards, crocodiles, and monkeys. August is the perfect time to visit as the monsoon season has ended and the weather is dry, making it easier to spot the animals.

The best way to explore the park is on a safari, which can be arranged through a local tour operator. These safaris usually take place early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the animals are most active. Visitors can also explore the park on foot, but it is important to be accompanied by a guide who is familiar with the park’s terrain and wildlife.

In addition to wildlife viewing, Yala National Park also offers a variety of activities such as bird watching, camping, and picnicking. There are several camping sites within the park, which offer visitors the opportunity to spend the night in the park and experience the sounds and sights of the wilderness.

Suggested Read: Sri Lanka Family Tour Packages

Galle is a beautiful coastal city located in the southern part of Sri Lanka. It is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, beautiful beaches, and delicious seafood. August is the perfect time to visit as the monsoon season has ended and the weather is pleasant.

One of the main attractions in Galle is the Galle Fort , which was built by the Dutch in the 17th century. The fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to a variety of historical buildings, including the Galle Lighthouse and the Dutch Reformed Church. Visitors can also explore the many shops and restaurants within the fort and enjoy the picturesque views of the Indian Ocean.

Another popular attraction in Galle is the Unawatuna beach, which is known for its clear blue waters and white sandy beaches. Visitors can spend the day relaxing on the beach, swimming, or snorkeling. There are also several surf schools in the area where visitors can learn to surf.

3. Trincomalee

Trincomalee is a beautiful coastal city located in the northeastern part of Sri Lanka. It is known for its stunning beaches, clear blue waters, and rich cultural heritage. August is the perfect time to visit as the monsoon season has ended and the weather is pleasant.

One of the main attractions in Trincomalee is the Koneswaram Temple, which is one of the most important Hindu temples in Sri Lanka. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and is considered to be one of the most sacred places in the country.

Visitors can also explore the many other temples and churches in the area, which offer a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Another popular attraction in Trincomalee is the Nilaveli Beach, which is known for its clear blue waters and white sandy beaches. Visitors can spend the day relaxing on the beach, swimming, or snorkeling. There are also several diving schools in the area where visitors can learn to dive and explore the beautiful coral reefs.

4. Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is an ancient city located in the northern part of Sri Lanka. It is known for its rich cultural heritage and is considered to be one of the most sacred places in the country. August is the perfect time to visit as the monsoon season has ended and the weather is pleasant.

One of the main attractions in Anuradhapura is the Sri Maha Bodhi , which is a sacred fig tree that is believed to have been grown from a cutting of the original bodhi tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment.

The tree is over 2,000 years old and is considered to be one of the most sacred Buddhist shrines in the world. Visitors can also explore the many other temples and monasteries in the area, which offer a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Another popular attraction in Anuradhapura is the ancient city of Anuradhapura, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the many ruins of the ancient city, including the Jetavanaramaya, which was one of the tallest buildings in the world during its time, and the Abhayagiri Monastery, which was one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in the world.

Suggested Read: Sri Lanka Tour Packages From Trivandrum

5. Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa is an ancient city located in the northeastern part of Sri Lanka. It is known for its rich cultural heritage and is considered to be one of the most sacred places in the country. August is the perfect time to visit as the monsoon season has ended and the weather is pleasant.

One of the main attractions in Polonnaruwa is the Parakrama Samudra, which is a large man-made lake that was built in the 12th century. The lake is surrounded by many ancient temples, monasteries and statues. Visitors can also explore the many other temples and monasteries in the area, which offer a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Another popular attraction in Polonnaruwa is the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the many ruins of the ancient city, including the Royal Palace, the Gal Vihara , which is a rock temple that contains four statues of the Buddha, and the Vatadage, which is a circular relic chamber.

Overall, Sri Lanka is a beautiful country with a rich culture and history. August is a great time to visit as the monsoon season has ended and the weather is pleasant.

Yala National Park, Galle, Trincomalee, Anuradhapura, and Polonnaruwa are five of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka in August, each of which offers a unique experience and a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Contact Ceylon Empire Travels the best travel agents in Sri Lanka  to visit in Sri Lanka in August.

Editorial Staff at Ceylon Empire Travels are Specialist in Sri Lanka Travel.

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Sri Lanka One Life Adventures - 12 Days

Absolutely incredible tour! There was a great split of nature, historical and cultural activities that gave us all a great time in Sri Lanka. Our trip managers, Ruby and Rihas were both so knowledgeable and went above and beyond to make sure we all had the best holiday possible.

Sri Lanka Uncovered

I had an amazing experience on the Sri Lanka tour with V! It well over exceeded expectations! Each attraction we attended, V was filled with so much knowledge and fun facts to inform us with and he was such a friendly and fun tour guide. I have done a trutravels tour before and this tour has by far been the most fulfilling because of our amazing tour guide. We did additional activities outside of the itinerary which V went above and beyond to find and provide for us and thanks to him I was able to tick off some huge bucket list activities such as meeting and feeding my first ever elephant, and being able to watch little baby elephants getting fed and their rehabilitation centre! There were countless experiences V arranged for us all outside of the itinerary that enhanced our already amazing trip! I am so grateful for the experience and the many laughs and memories created on this once in a life time experience! I am gutted to be leaving but beyond overwhelmed with happiness with everything I got to see and do on this tour! Thank you V so so much for everything! Highly recommend the Sri Lanka uncovered tour!

Discover Sri Lanka Beauty - 12 Days

Great tour, well organised and it is a lovely country.

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

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Simply Sri Lanka

It was great. The guide matish was amazing, Averything was organize perfectly

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Sri Lanka Experience

Amazing time with Intro, tour leader was Tom who was knowledgeable and passionate and able to answer all our questions and give great recommendations. A perfect balance of activities and free time. Stayed in lovely accommodation.

Splendour Of Sri Lanka (7 Days) Free Upgrade to Private Tour Available

So it's only fair I start this review by praising how amazing our driver and tour guide Nishantha (Nish) Was. he made us feel so comfortable throughout our entire tour, he was very knowledgeable about all the places we visited and really went out of his way to make sure we were happy with what we had done each day. He was always on time and we felt very safe with his driving as you may or may not know drivers and tuk tuks in Sri Lanka are pretty crazy and Nish was very relaxed and in total control. He also took us to places that weren't on the schedule which he called Nish's highlights and he seemed to know everyone lol and everyone seemed to really like him which made us feel entirely safe. On our last day for drop off at our hotel that we had booked not through the tour company and the hotel was to say the least not very welcoming and dirty so Nish drove us to a new hotel which we knew with no quibble and sorted out on our behalf with the hotel for none payment. We feel we've made a friend in Nish and will definitely us him again whenever we return to Sri Lanka. So onto the hotels, each hotel was clean and the food was good no upset stomachs which was good, we opted for the moderate hotels package and we booked quite late so some of the original hotels that were quoted were full but beauty Lanka travels found some very nice alternatives The only issue we probably would say was that the hotels were very quiet with no evening entertainment but to be honest we were quite tired each night so we would chill in our room after dinner. In fact one hotel we stayed at we were the only 2 people in the whole hotel staying there but the whole staff made us feel very special and the food was amazing. So now On to the tour itinerary and company itself to be honest I can't fault beauty Lanka travels for what they provided the attractions where varied and well spread out, each day was definitely full and you can adjust anything you want or don't want to do Me and my wife really wanted to see and do the ambuluwawa tower (which we highly recommend) so Nish just cut out another part of the tour to accommodate so we could To make you aware the tour is quite tiring as it's quite early starts and late finishes And you are checking in and out of hotels every day so you dont really get to use the hotel facilities much. If we was to do another tour we would prob have it so we have break days especially at Ella ( which is lovely) and the last stop at the beach resort But overall very good company to deal with and they provided everything that was offered. Mr & Mr Mark

Sri Lanka Encompassed

There are some points I'd like to pick up on: 1. It would be a good idea to have a hotel for our 1st night much closer to Columbo airport as it took over an hour to get to the Sapphire Hotel (traffic jams through Columbo) - especially as our 2nd night was in Negombo itself, which is so close to the airport! 2. We were surprised to visit such a big Spice Garden with lots of coach tours, etc, which was very keen for us to buy their produce! We thought G Adventures supported smaller charity projects. 3. We suggest the last night of the tour be much closer to Columbo airport. The drive from Mirissa to Columbo airport was 3-4 hours, which we had to arrange and pay for ourselves (Udaya was very happy to help us arrange the taxis). 4. We were told to be very careful in Mirissa as it's a dangerous place with people ripping you off and particularly dangerous for girls on their own. Why does G Adventures stay there for the R&R? - especially as Udaya also warned us about not swimming in the lagoon which our hotel rooms looked out on!? Surely there are safer resorts further round the coast and closer to Columbo Airport (see 3)? 5. Our CEO, Udaya, was brilliant going out of his way to help us (eg when members of the group were ill), doing extra activities which weren't on the itinerary and explaining the culture, history, etc of Sri Lanka. He clearly loves his homeland and wants us to take that love back home with us. However, we had to listen to him very carefully to understand his English.

Sri Lanka Express

Fantastic guide, absolutely put 150% effort in. Very knowledgable and made sure we were all happy. Nothing was too much. Very caring to individual wants/needs. Great tour as a quick insight into a beautiful country

Best of Sri Lanka

It was an ecxellent tour which was way above my expectations. The tour guide, INDIKA, contributed greatlly to my knowledge of Sri Lanka, its culture, its history, and its Buddhist and Hindu heritage. The religious sites of the North and the trecking / hiking in the second half of the tour presented a very good balanse on the whole two weeks experience. It is one of the best tours I have been so far. Thanks INDIKA and Intrepid.

Premium Sri Lanka in Depth

Splendour of Sri Lanka - ( 8 Days and 7 Nights tour in Sri Lanka )

Incredible! From the moment we arrived at the airport everything was very well organised. Our driver/guide Amila was waiting for us at 03.50. The trip is organised to maximise the number of interesting places to visit. It was action packed, but extremely enjoyable and informative. Amila is very knowledgeable and speaks excellent English. He is also very willing to change the itinerary to suit your needs. He is very patient, especially with us, as an older couple, he helped us with the harder climbing and didn't rush us at all. All the accommodation was welcoming, clean and comfortable and catered very well for your basic needs. However it would be a good idea to bring a couple of power packs for your rechargeable electrical items as none of the hotels have many electrical sockets in the rooms. Overall, this has been a wonderful holiday. We would highly recommend it to other travellers

Sri Lanka Explorer

I felt this was more an explore or exodus trip not intrepid!!!! If you don’t nit include meals we should have be able to choose where to eat instead of being force fed cold buffets. Safari was awful poor elephants. Spice garden rubbish.. not enough exposure to local life. Should have train journey from Kandy to Colombo.

Lifetime Experience In Sri Lanka

We had the most amazing time on our trip. Our guide Janaka was thoughtful, flexible and had great knowledge of the country, We were very grateful for his help and guidance throughout the trip. This tour has excellent accommodation places included and the experiences are immersive in local culture and hands on. The Safari was an experience that is not to be missed! The combination of great guides and AMAZING wildlife was incredible. Highly recommend this trip as a taste of the wonder of Sri Lanka.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Grand Tour Of Sri Lanka

Had an amazing holiday with BH tours, it turned out to be a private tours but that really did not matter. My guide could not do enough for me, and was very knowledgeable on Sri Lanka. Great value all around, I saw and did so much.

Cycle Sri Lanka

The trip exceeded my expectations. Our great guides found quiet cycling roads so we didn't need to worry about the hectic roads. The food and accommodation was great!

What people love about Sri Lanka Tours in August

Good coverage of a variety of aspects of Sri Lanka and its culture.

V was the most amazing, funny guide ever! He was always down for a good time and I have honestly never met someone as knowledgeable and intelligent as him! He knew so much about everything!

There were many parts of the tour I really liked and enjoyed. I believe some areas could be improved. Overall I enjoyed the tour! One suggestion is to change the wording on your website as it was misleading (this goes for tour radar too). Generally, the hotels were perfect! There were two in particular that myself and the other family didn’t like/enjoy. They were the hotel in Ella and the one in Nuwara Eliya. After a long day it would have been nice to have a hotel with a pool (if possible) in Ella. The English village in Nuwara Eliya was a little strange and dirty, my room didn’t smell nice (the whole village was empty and if I was travelling by myself, I would have booked myself into a different hotel). It was also very far from the town. The car was comfortable and we always left on time, I also liked the range of activities provided. Communicate best you can in relation to tickets for the train. We got very lucky as a staff member on the train saw the young child who was travelling with us and moved us to a separate carriage. I think if I was stuck standing in third class for the entire journey the experience would have been completely different and I would have opted to drive instead. Please explain this to future customers.

Destinations

• Yala National Park August 2024 (50)
• Southern Province Sri Lanka August 2024 (14)
• Southern Sri Lanka August 2024 (14)
• Western Sri Lanka August 2024 (9)
• Western Province Sri Lanka August 2024 (8)
• Uva August 2024 (4)
• Northern Sri Lanka August 2024 (4)

Regions in Sri Lanka

• Yala National Park (50)
• Southern Province Sri Lanka (14)
• Southern Sri Lanka (14)
• Western Sri Lanka (9)
• Western Province Sri Lanka (8)
• Spring 2024 tours (571)
• Summer 2024 tours (577)
• Fall / Autumn 2024 tours (577)
• Winter 2024 / 2025 tours (486)
• Spring 2025 tours (313)
• Summer 2025 tours (180)
• Fall / Autumn 2025 tours (177)
• Winter 2025 / 2026 tours (152)
• Sri Lanka Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 2 Weeks Sri Lanka Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Best 3 Day Sri Lanka Itineraries 2024/2025

International Versions

• Deutsch: Sri Lanka Rundreise im August 2024
• Français: Circuits au Sri Lanka en Août 2024
• Español: Circuitos por Sri Lanka en Agosto 2024
• Nederlands: Sri Lanka Rondreizen in Augustus 2024

Sri Lanka travel guide: Everything to know before you go

B eaches, elephants, tea plantations, curries, sacred rituals, colourful ceremonies, and warmly welcoming people: Sri Lanka is south Asia in miniature. Hailed as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean” and the “Teardrop of India ”, this ancient island nation has long been celebrated – and coveted – for its abundant landscapes, strategic significance, and rare beauty.

Thankfully, despite years of unrest and strife , Sri Lanka’s past is remarkably well preserved. From Victorian-era colonial clubs to centuries-old Buddhist temples, layer after layer of Sri Lankan history is within reach. Its natural heritage is rich, too. Ten national parks provide sanctuary for sloth bears to sambars, leopards to lorises, and of course plenty of elephants. For such a small island (roughly the size of Ireland), the diversity here is striking – you can climb mist-robed mountains, surf silvery shores, trek through abundant jungle, all in the same day.

Sri Lanka’s cities have that frenetic, cheerful chaos common to Asian cities, whether it’s Colombo ’s colonial grandeur or Kandy’s exalted lakeside lifestyle. Either way, the coast’s serenity is never far, with some of the finest beaches in the world ready to embrace you: champagne-coloured sand, palms in regal repose, and the tropical waters of the Indian Ocean.

Current travel restrictions and entry requirements

The Department of Immigration and Emmigration has introduced an online embarkation form , which will replace the paper embarkation card. Foreign nationals can complete the online form three days prior to arrival in Sri Lanka. The service is free of charge. All visitors are advised to apply online for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter Sri Lanka; you can apply for on the ETA website. This can be done upon arrival, but it’s much simpler to do in advance.

All Covid-19 requirements have been lifted for entering Sri Lanka.

As entry requirements are liable to change, check before any travel for updates.

Best time to go

It depends on what you’re looking for. Thanks to its dual monsoon pattern, December-April tends to be best for beaches and wildlife excursions on the south and west of the island, while the dry months of May-September unlock access to the north and east.

Read more on Asia travel :

• Crowd-free and captivating: Why now’s the time to visit Sri Lanka
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Each side has its pick of stunning locations, and if you want to see both (without getting drenched) then September-October and April are the shoulder seasons for you, offering cooler temperatures, fewer tourists and excellent hiking opportunities. April coincides with the local new tear celebrations, so be wary of increased congestion on the transport networks.

Top cities and regions

Kandy is Sri Lanka’s beating heart: Holy town, hilltop enclave, and spiritual centre. Sri Lanka’s ancient customs and natural beauty come together here, with temples, shrines and palaces reflected in the glassy surface of the lake, hugged by hills as green as any you’ll ever see. Take the Main Line train from Colombo, wind your way up the mountains, and enjoy one of the world’s most celebrated railway rides. Kandy is where Sri Lanka’s kings resided, and it’s easy to see why; today, the entirety of Kandy is a Unesco World Heritage site.

Despite the crowds, be sure to visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth, Sri Lanka’s greatest religious relic, and said to be from the Buddha’s own mouth. While you can’t see the tooth itself – only the case is on display – the temple itself is beautiful, with many chambers, galleries and artefacts. Go in the evening to witness the prayers and the candlelight. Further along the train line is Ella, where the British plantation owners once resided, and home to Ella Rock, whose summit is a challenging but reasonable hike (three–four hours).

Whitewashed, manicured, and orderly, Galle feels like a prestigious Mediterranean seaside resort. No wonder: it was founded by the Portuguese and expanded by the Dutch . Galle’s architecture and atmosphere have a distinctly European feel, from the prim and proper lighthouse to the austere Protestant churches. Gone are the laid-back surfer vibes of Weligama and Marisa, replaced by well-to-do couples, fashionable boutiques, and candlelit dinners.

Explore the well-preserved fort by daylight before taking a stroll down the tranquil lanes and avenues of the town itself. The seafood food is spectacular, the bars plentiful, and the nights balmy and untroubled. Just don’t expect much nightlife.

Crowded, frenetic, and choked up, Colombo used to be dismissed as merely the place from which to fly in and out. But Colombo has history, culture and excellent food.

If you’re keen on colonial history, the city boasts some of the best-preserved architecture from anywhere in the former British Empire. If not, there are plenty of temples, museums, and shrines besides. Hop on a tuk-tuk and explore an anthology of Sri Lanka’s past: the mind-melting stripes of Jami Ul-Alfar mosque; the statues of the Gangaramaya (Vihara) Buddhist temple; and St Anthony’s Shrine, a Catholic church illuminated at night. Gathering these cultural riches is the Colombo National Museum, the biggest in Sri Lanka and featuring over 100,000 artefacts.

Anuradhapura and Sigiriya

The ancient city of Anuradhapura was abandoned in the 13th century, and was overgrown by jungle until the 19 th century. Since then, it has flourished as a site for both Buddhist pilgrims and tourists, who flock to see the shrines and relics. One of the most visited is a sacred pipal tree, planted in 245BC from a cutting of the Bo tree, under which it’s said the Buddha attained enlightenment. It’s recognised as the oldest cultivated tree in the world.

Even more iconic are the Dagobas, the wide-domed Buddhist temples that dominate the city. Ruwanwelisaya, the oldest and the grandest, can get crowded. Instead, go wherever the ceremonies are taking place. Outside of the city lies Mihintale, a hilltop where the first Buddhist monastery is said to have converted a Sri Lankan king and his hunting party. The view from the peak of the hills is spectacular, but go at sunrise rather than sunset, or prepare to huddle among couples.

Just over an hour away is Sigiriya, a rock formation featuring an ancient fortress. It’s another Unesco site, and possibly the single most popular attraction in the country. Although entry is a little pricey (£24 for foreign visitors), it’s worth it. You’ll see ancient frescoes, the centuries-old Mirror Wall, and the enormous – scarcely-believable – lion’s paws guarding the summit (the remains of what was originally a towering stone lion). It’s 350-odd metres to the summit, so wear your exercise gear and prepare to sweat.

Arugam Bay and Kumana National Park

Sri Lanka isn’t short of beaches. The crescent-moon sands of Arugam Bay are among the best. While Weligama, Mirissa, and Hikkaduwa have more of a party vibe, Arugam Bay’s tranquil beauty is better suited to relaxing. Pitched on the unspoilt east coast, the waves are best between May and October – when the rest of Sri Lanka is beset by monsoon rains and ocean currents. Arugam Bay’s thatched huts and sleepy shoreline is one of the finest places to get away from it all. The waves at Main Point are some of the best in Sri Lanka.

When you’re ready to explore again, hail a tuk-tuk and head to Kumana National Park. Unlike Yala, its famous neighbour, Kumana National Park retains much more of its wilderness – less zoo, more sanctuary. It’s especially good for bird spotting, with hundreds of species nesting there. A guide is included with entry, which means you can’t tour the park alone, but they’re such good spotters that it makes for a much better experience.

Best under-the-radar destinations

Until recently, the north of Sri Lanka was scarcely visited due to the 25-year civil war, with the Tamil-controlled northern regions engulfed in conflict. With the war long since over, travellers are returning to Jaffna, the biggest city in the north and previously completely inaccessible.

India is the cultural force here, not the Singhalese of Sri Lanka, and you immediately sense the difference. Language, food, atmosphere are all south Indian; Tamil rather than Sinhalese, masala dhosa rather than kottu roti , Shiva rather than Buddha. The biggest Hindu temple in Sri Lanka, Nallur Kandaswamy, is as vibrant and impressive as any in India, and if you’re hazy about the differences between Hinduism and Buddhism, exploring Nallur Kandaswamy after being in the south will sharpen you up.

Jaffna’s fort is smaller than Galle’s but is much less crowded, and especially beautiful at sunset. And fewer tourists means the locals are less accustomed to dealing with foreigners, though no less welcoming.

Wilpattu National Park

It’s Sri Lanka’s biggest national park , dominating the north-west coast, but Wilpattu has an undiscovered, secretive feel. While more popular national parks have “Disneyfied” the wildlife experience, with viewing stations, zoo-like enclosures, and money-making animal encounters, Wilpattu is wilderness proper.

If you want to pat an elephant and get a hundred likes for it, stick to Yala; if you want to lose yourself in dense woodland – quietly sighting a spotted deer, sloth bear or leopard – then Wilpattu is unsurpassed. Check into one of the forest lodges in the park, stick your jodhpurs on and experience a traditional safari game drive around the park.

Trincomalee

Given the sheer beauty of its glittering bay, it’s a wonder that Trincomalee isn’t better-known. Head over to the north-east coast and dip into a miniature world all of its own: tropical beaches bunched together like ripe fruit, shrines where the centuries peel away to reveal age-old rituals, and lagoon water as clear as crushed crystal. Half a dozen of Trincomalee’s beaches could make a strong claim for best on the island. Crack open a coconut, kick off your sandals, and luxuriate in the sunshine. When you’re ready to amble, there’s a colonial-era fort, historic temples, and rocky outcrops where you can spot blue whales.

Best things to do

Take the train deep into the tea plantations.

Whatever else you get up to in Sri Lanka, make absolutely sure that you take the Main Line train from Colombo to Kandy, and then from Kandy all the way to Ella. It takes eight hours or more, but this is one of those journeys that’s worth savouring. The train climbs inland from the coast, cutting through rock, farmland and jungle. You’ll travel across mountains veiled in mist, hillsides carpeted with tea leaves, and imposing brick-arched bridges from another era. If you fancy a cocktail and a party, stay on until at Ella; if you want a cup of tea and tranquillity, get off at Nuwara Eliyah.

Get a taste of surf culture

Surfing can be tough, physically draining, and utterly, blissfully exhausting. Getting on a board is daunting, especially when surrounded by confident surfers strutting about, so find a school that’s right for you. Although Weligama is the surf hotspot, there are less crowded (and much prettier) places to learn all along the south coast, such as Mirissa, Ahangama, or Unawatuna, which are also great for beginners.

While you can surf just for the day, it takes some getting used to, so if you have the time check into a surf camp for a few days. Plunging into the sea every morning, feeling the pump and force of the waves, and collapsing on the sands in happy fatigue afterwards is a rewarding, nourishing, and vital experience – especially if you combine it with some yoga. Plus, there is no appetite quite like the one worked up on a surfboard, so when you finally sit down for your coconut curry it’ll taste even better.

Get up close to wildlife

Many conservation projects in Sri Lanka are preserving wildlife sustainably while also giving you unparalleled access. Since the early 1990s, numbers of elephants, leopards, and other endangered species have risen considerably, and sustainable tourism has helped. The Smithsonian Primate Research Station, near Polonnaruwa, is the oldest of its kind in the world and Bundala’s flamingo-filled wetlands are a Unesco biosphere reserve. The safaris in the national parks – Wilpattu, Udawalawe, and Wasgamuwa – rival almost anything in Africa.

Read more on wildlife travel

Getting around

Travelling by train isn’t just convenient, it’s also a quintessential journey through Sri Lanka’s history and a window unto its landscapes. It’s also very cheap, with even longer journeys available for less than 2,000 rupees (around £5).

For short journeys, it has to be tuk-tuk. Individually decorated, stubbornly persistent and formidably cheap, travelling by tuk-tuk quickly becomes addictive. It’s not always comfortable, especially if you squeeze three or more into the backseat, but it’s a great way to chat to locals and get the wind in your hair. Agree the fee in advance, especially in tourist areas, but remember the country is suffering from a fuel crisis – if you can afford to fork out an extra hundred rupees, do it.

Otherwise, when you need that 6am ride to the airport or that drive down from the mountains to the coast, book a taxi. Many tuk-tuk drivers also have cars, so ask ahead about a taxi service. Roads are generally well maintained and safe, but driving can be erratic.

How to get there

Sri Lankan Airways offer direct flights between London and Colombo. Other airlines offer stopovers, often in Doha or Dubai .

Money-saving tip

Travel and food are cheap in Sri Lanka, but accommodation is comparatively expensive. Alcohol is pricey, too – this is a conservative island, and the drinking culture is much less raucous here than in the rest of south-east Asia. There’s no real hostel culture either, so the best value are the guesthouses, which are often family-run and very friendly. If you want the full-on luxury experience, Sri Lanka offers an enviable abundance of Western opulence – at Western prices, so book in advance.

Tipping isn’t expected, but haggling very much is. Friendly negotiation is part of the transaction here, so get stuck in.

What’s the weather like?

Thanks to its ocean winds, Sri Lanka is tropical and enjoyably warm most of the year round, with coastal temperatures averaging around 28C and upland areas averaging between 16-20C. The island experiences a dual monsoon, affecting one side of the island at a time. The south-western region and central highlands receive most of the island’s rainfall, whilst the north and the east experience a distinct dry season from May to September. Take a jacket – the evenings can get chilly.

What time zone is it in?

Sri Lanka Standard Time, GMT+5:30

What currency do I need?

The Sri Lankan rupee. You can’t get hold of these outside the country, so you’ll need to exchange or withdraw some after arrival. Exchanging at the airport will be more expensive, but it’s also a reliable 24/7 service and a good place to set yourself up for the next few days. Although card payments are growing increasingly popular, most small shops, local restaurants and markets still aren’t set up for it, so make sure you always have cash on you.

What language is spoken?

The primary language of Sri Lanka is Sinhala, although in the north Tamil is widely spoken. You’ll find English spoken by many, particularly as the language of commerce.

What plug sockets are used?

Types D and G. Plug type D is the plug which has three round pins in a triangular pattern; type G is what is used in the UK.

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Sri Lanka extends visa free entry to visitors from seven countries

Tourism Minister Harin Fernando said that a final decision regarding the matter will be taken during the next few weeks.

The free visa regime was initially implemented for nationals of China, India, Indonesia, Russia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan until 31.03.2024.

The pilot program was launched to rebuild the tourism industry in line with the Cabinet of Ministers Approval 23/1885/602/023 dated 24.10.2023.

Accordingly, nationals of the above-nominated countries possessing Diplomatic, Official, Public Affairs, Service, and Ordinary passports are eligible to enjoy a visa-free regime under this scheme.

The above nominated nationalsshould apply for Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before arriving in Sri Lanka.

The validity period of the free ETA is 30 days and permits double entry from the date of initial arrival to Sri Lanka. (Colombo Gazette)

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