Sri Lanka
Your month-by-month wildlife calendar
When to Visit Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka's two monsoon seasons mean that at least one part of the island is dry at any given time. The west and south coasts are best from December to March, while the east coast shines from April to September. Leopard and elephant sightings are excellent year-round at parks like Yala, Wilpattu, and Udawalawe.
Month-by-Month Calendar
Click on any month to see detailed wildlife and weather information
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
🎯 Our Recommendation
February and March offer the best combination of dry weather on the popular south and west coast, excellent leopard sightings at Yala and Wilpattu, blue whale watching off Mirissa, and elephant gatherings at Minneriya. The east coast is an alternative from June to August.
Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka FAQ
The best time to visit Sri Lanka is February to July for Yala leopard safaris, November to April for whale watching off Mirissa. August to September brings The Gathering at Minneriya, where up to 300 elephants congregate.
Coastal temperatures are warm at 27 to 33 degrees Celsius year-round. The hill country is cooler at 15 to 25 degrees. Monsoon seasons affect different coasts at different times.
May to June and October to November offer lower rates between seasons. Travelling during shoulder or low seasons can save you 20 to 40% on accommodation and tours while still providing excellent wildlife viewing.
Peak season at Sri Lanka is December to March when the south and west coasts have the best weather. Book accommodation and tours well in advance for peak dates, as popular lodges and camps sell out months ahead.