sri lanka travel 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!

TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR SRI LANKA

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.

Travel Insurance for Sri Lanka.

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

28 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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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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Discover Sri Lanka

There is so much to see and do in Sri Lanka! This 10-day trip will take you around some of the most exciting parts of the country; spot Elephants in their natural habitat, discover the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and learn more about the famous Ceylon Tea plantations.

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

Planning a trip to Sri Lanka? Why spend hours of research and planning when you can instead book your trip today with our tailor-made trip service ? Our Sri Lanka itineraries are designed by local travel experts and are completely customizable. 

• 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.

Want to learn even more useful information for your upcoming trip to Sri Lanka? Read our travel tips for travelling to Sri Lanka and how to get to Sri Lanka .

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.

Travel advice for Sri Lanka

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• Best time to visit Sri Lanka

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written by Dre Roelandt

updated 06.06.2024

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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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.

By Jessica Puckett

By Rebecca Cope

By Becky Lucas

By Marti Buckley

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.

• Sri Lanka Tours
• Sri Lanka Travel Guide
• When to Visit Sri Lanka

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.

• Andrea Krizkova Krizkova
• From Czech Republic

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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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

Sri Lanka In August | Weather, Things To Do Places To Visit

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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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Discover the Enchanting Charms of Sri Lanka in August: A Monsoon Season Adventure

Sri Lanka in August brings the embrace of the southwest monsoon, transforming the island into a lush paradise teeming with life. While some travelers may hesitate to visit during this season, August offers a unique opportunity to experience Sri Lanka’s natural beauty in a different light. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the wonders of visiting Sri Lanka in August, highlighting the best destinations, activities, and tips to make the most of your monsoon season adventure.

Embracing the Monsoon: Weather and Climate of Sri Lanka in August

August marks the peak of the southwest monsoon in Sri Lanka, bringing intermittent showers and cooler temperatures to the island. Despite the rain, the landscapes come alive with vibrant greenery, cascading waterfalls, and rejuvenated wildlife. Understanding the weather patterns and packing accordingly can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey.

Best Destinations to Visit: Rainy Season Delights

While some beach destinations may experience rough seas and limited water activities, Sri Lanka offers plenty of alternatives for exploration during August. Head to the hill country, where mist-shrouded mountains and verdant tea estates create a magical ambiance. Explore ancient cities like Kandy and Nuwara Eliya, where cultural festivities and cooler temperatures await.

Wildlife Encounters: Rainforest Adventures

August is an excellent time for wildlife enthusiasts to visit Sri Lanka’s national parks and reserves. Despite the rain, the rainforests of Sinharaja and Horton Plains burst with biodiversity, offering opportunities to spot endemic species such as leopards, elephants, and colorful birdlife. Take a guided safari tour and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the tropical wilderness.

Cultural Experiences: Festivals and Traditions

Despite the rain, August is a vibrant month in Sri Lanka, with several cultural festivals and religious celebrations taking place. Witness the colorful processions and pageantry of Nikini Poya, commemorating significant events in Buddhist history. Visit ancient temples adorned with lanterns and participate in traditional rituals to gain insight into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.

In August, Sri Lanka brims with vibrant festivals and rich cultural traditions that reflect the island’s diverse heritage. Despite the occasional showers from the southwest monsoon, locals and visitors alike come together to celebrate these auspicious occasions. Here are some of the festivals and traditions you can experience in Sri Lanka during August:

Esala Perahera in Kandy : The Esala Perahera, held in Kandy, is one of the grandest and most revered Buddhist festivals in Sri Lanka. Lasting for ten days, this vibrant procession features beautifully adorned elephants, traditional dancers, drummers, and elaborately decorated floats parading through the streets of Kandy. The highlight of the festival is the sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha, which is paraded in a golden casket atop a majestic tusker, amidst a dazzling display of lights and fireworks.

Kataragama Esala Festival: Held at the Kataragama Temple complex in the southern region of Sri Lanka, the Kataragama Esala Festival attracts devotees from various religious backgrounds. This multi-faith festival celebrates the deity Kataragama Deviyo, believed to be a guardian deity of the island. Pilgrims engage in rituals, devotional songs, and fire-walking ceremonies, seeking blessings for health, prosperity, and protection.

Nallur Kovil Festival in Jaffna: The Nallur Kovil Festival is a significant Hindu religious event held at the Nallur Kandaswamy Temple in Jaffna. Devotees gather to pay homage to Lord Murugan, the presiding deity of the temple, through elaborate rituals, processions, and cultural performances. The highlight of the festival is the chariot procession, where the idol of Lord Murugan is carried on a beautifully decorated chariot around the temple precincts.

Vel Festival in Colombo: The Vel Festival, also known as the Thaipusam festival, is celebrated by the Tamil Hindu community in Sri Lanka. Devotees undertake acts of penance and make offerings to Lord Murugan, often piercing their bodies with hooks and skewers as a form of devotion. The festival culminates in a grand procession where devotees carry ‘vel’ (sacred spears) and kavadis (ornate wooden structures) as acts of penance and gratitude.

Eid-ul-Adha: Eid-ul-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is celebrated by the Muslim community in Sri Lanka to commemorate the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. Muslims gather for prayers at mosques, exchange greetings, and partake in communal feasts, sharing food and gifts with family, friends, and those in need.

These festivals and traditions in Sri Lanka during August offer a glimpse into the island’s rich cultural tapestry and provide an opportunity for locals and visitors to come together in celebration and reverence.

Tips for Traveling in August: Making the Most of Your Monsoon Adventure

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey during August, consider a few essential tips. Pack lightweight rain gear, including waterproof jackets and umbrellas, to stay dry during outdoor activities. Opt for accommodations with indoor amenities and activities to keep you entertained during rainy spells. Be flexible with your itinerary and embrace the beauty of the monsoon, allowing for spontaneous adventures and memorable experiences along the way.

Visiting Sri Lanka in August offers a unique perspective on the island’s beauty and diversity, despite the rainy weather. From misty mountains to cultural celebrations, there’s no shortage of experiences to cherish during this monsoon season. Plan your trip wisely, embrace the magic of the rain, and embark on a memorable journey through the enchanting landscapes of Sri Lanka.

Plan your visit to Sri Lanka with Surabi Lanka Travels today Visit:

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10 Places and Things To Do in Sri Lanka In August

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

About The Author

Tusk Travel Team

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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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Best Time To Visit Sri Lanka

• Southwest Coast
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• Habarana, Sigiriya & Dambulla
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Anuradhapura Kingdom Ruins

Dating back as far as 377BC, this ancient kingdom is an essential stop on any tour of Sri Lanka. Established as the first capital city of the island by King Pandukabhaya, it survived 119 successive kings for over 1500 years before becoming one of the world’s most spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Regarded as the cradle of Buddhism, the sacred site is home to a vast network of temples and monasteries which can be explored at leisure during this four-hour tour. Discover the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree which is said to have grown from a cutting from the tree in India under which Buddha attained enlightenment, marvel at the preservation of the Twin Ponds and soak up the impressive history at the onsite museum housed within one of the ancient monasteries which is filled with ornate trinkets dating back to the pre-Christian era.

• Duration: half day • Daily departures • Operates year round • Private experience • Available for guests on a car and driver itinerary staying in Anuradhapura, Dambulla, Habarana, Kandalama and Sigiriya hotels

Good to know Legs and shoulders must be covered, and shoes will need to be removed when exploring the temples.

Polonnaruwa Kingdom Ruins

Brush off your explorer hat as you traverse the ancient second capital of the island and discover the monumental ruins of this glorious garden-city. Dating back to 1070 A.D, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is brimming with history and the on-site museum will soon have you up to speed. The ancient compact city is easy to navigate and filled with impressive architectural structures from the enormous Royal Palace that stands seven stories tall to more personal relics such as the King’s private swimming pool. During this five-hour tour you’ll have the opportunity to explore many of the city’s highlights including the beautiful white Kiri Vihara Dagoba which archaeologists found when clearing the area from jungle in perfect condition after 700 years. From evocative temples and shrines to the serene Sea Of Parakrama, this is one of the best -preserved sites in Sri Lanka and sure to create lasting memories for years to come.

• Daily departures • Operates year round • Private experience • Available for guests on a car and driver itinerary staying in Sigiriya, Anuradhapura, Dambulla, Habarana, Kandalama, Passikudah and Trincomalee hotels

Sigiriya Rock Fortress (car & driver and stay-put excursion)

One of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks, Sigiriya Rock is a sight to behold, towering 200 metres above the surrounding jungle. Formed from magma of an extinct volcano, the fortress was created over 1500 years ago by King Kashyapa and is considered one of the best-preserved examples of ancient urban planning. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982, discover the vast history of the plateau at the onsite museum before making the climb up the vertiginous staircases to the summit passing impressive frescoes and the famed Mirror Wall and colossal Lions Platform as you go. From the top, explore the ruins of the ancient civilisation through the remnants of the palace and vast gardens and soak up the panoramic vistas of the jungle covered central plains.

• Duration: half day • Daily departures • Operates year round • Private experience • Available for guests on a car and driver itinerary staying in Anuradhapura, Dambulla, Habarana, Sigiriya, Kandalama, Kandy and Trincomalee hotels • Available as a day trip for guests staying at hotels in Negombo

Good to know For the most pleasurable experience we recommend organising this excursion first thing in the morning or after 4pm to avoid the heat of the day. While suitable for all, the climb to the summit requires a good degree of physical fitness.

Dambulla Cave Temple

A fantastic stopping off point when travelling between Habarana or Kandalama and Kandy, the famous cave complexes of Dambulla are a haven for those interested in Sri Lanka’s rich history. Dating back to the first Century BC, this ancient cave temple has been a pilgrimage for Buddhists and Hindus for 22 centuries and is still a place of holy importance to this day. There are over 80 documented caves at the site, but with around an hour to explore, this excursion will guide you through the major highlights which are spread over just five of them. Adorned with statues of Gautama Buddha and ornate ceiling paintings, the iconic temple is brimming with artefacts depicting the island’s glorious past and is not to be missed.

• Daily departures • Operates year round • Private experience • Available for guests on a car and driver itinerary staying in Sigiriya, Anuradhapura, Dambulla, Habarana, Kandalama, Kandy and Passikudah hotels • Available as a day trip for guests staying at hotels in Negombo

Kandy’s Highlights

Whether time is of the essence or you’re after an introduction to this vibrant city that’s brimming with history and culture, this half day excursion will ensure you don’t miss any of Kandy’s major attractions. Discover one of Buddhism’s most sacred shrines at the golden-roofed Temple of the Sacred Tooth, where the relic tooth of Buddha is housed and explore the spectacular Royal Palace complex – the perfect backdrop for some holiday snaps. Dating back to 1821, finish your trip with a meander through the delightful Royal Botanical Garden where you’ll find over 100 endemic plants before exploring the rest of the city at leisure or returning to your hotel to unwind.

• Duration: half day • Daily departures • Operates year round • Private experience • Available for guests on a car and driver itinerary staying in Dambulla, Habarana, Kandalama, Kandy and Nuwara Eliya and Kandy hotels • Available as a day trip for guests staying at hotels in Beruwela, Kalutara, Bentota & Negombo

Good to know This trip is suitable for all, but legs and shoulders must be covered, and shoes will need to be removed when entering the temple.

Udawalawe Jeep Safari & Elephant Transit Home

Founded in 1995, the Elephant Transit Home is a haven for orphaned or injured elephant calves who are rehabilitated back to full health before being returned to the wild. Great lengths are taken to minimize contact between the baby elephants, their caregivers and visitors but you can enjoy watching them stamp their feet impatiently as they wait for their food and relish in the fact that once old enough to survive alone, they’ll be free to roam the national park once more. After a delicious lunch in a local restaurant, hop into your private jeep and get ready to explore the Udawalawe National Park, a sanctuary for wild animals displaced by the construction of nearby Udawalawe Reservoir. Infamous for its large population of elephants, have your camera at the ready as you spot herds of these majestic creatures feeding, playing and bathing in waterholes as well as an abundance of other mammals, reptiles and birds.

• Duration: half day • Time: midday to 6pm • Daily departures • Operates year round • Private experience • Available for guests on a car and driver itinerary staying in Udawalawe, Hambantota, Tangalle and Yala • Available for guests staying at hotels in Tangalle, Hambantota, Galle, Koggala and Weligama

Good to know This unforgettable trip is suitable for all ages.

Udawalawe 3-hour Jeep Safari

If you’ve already had the pleasure of exploring the Udawalawe National Park and would like some additional time observing the abundant wildlife in their natural habitat, this is the excursion for you. As you head back into the vast park it won’t be long before you stumble across a herd of elephants strolling alongside the track or water buffalo and deer congregating by a watering hole. Your knowledgeable driver will be on hand to point out the local flora and fauna from soaring eagles to prehistoric looking monitor lizards and will ensure you discover the best secluded spots.

• Duration: half day • Times 6am to 9am or 3pm to 6pm • Daily departures • Operates year round • Private experience • Available for guests on a car and driver itinerary staying in Udawalawe, Galle, Hambantota, Tangalle and Yala

Good to know Suitable for all, if not staying in the vicinity of the national park we’d recommend an afternoon safari due to the early start of the morning excursion.

Yala Full Day Jeep Safari

Explore Sri Lanka’s most famous national park and experience the sanctuary’s rich wildlife from the comfort of your own private jeep on this epic full day excursion. As the sun begins to rise and the parks inhabitants begin to emerge from their slumber, your experienced guide will drive you through the grassy plains and light forest in search of elephants, crocodiles, buffaloes, monkeys and more. With one of the highest densities of leopards in the world and a full day to explore, there’s a good chance you’ll catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures too. A haven for bird watchers, the park is brimming with both migratory and endemic bird species and dotted with important ancient ruins and temples dating back to the 5th century B.C.

• Duration: full day • Time: 6am to 6pm • Daily departures • Operates year round except September – mid-October • Private experience • Available for guests on a car and driver itinerary staying in Yala

Good to know This experience is designed for those staying in close vicinity to the park due to the early start. Please note that during the height of the drought season between September and mid-October, the park will be closed.

Yala 3-hour Jeep Safari

If you’re short on time or simply want to add in a safari trip while staying in a resort along the serene southern coast, this three-hour excursion is just the ticket. With your own private guide, it won’t be long before you’re spotting herds of elephants walking across the grassy plains and buffaloes and deer cooling off by a watering hole. Spot monkeys playing in the treetops, crocodiles popping up for air and eagles soaring in the sky above – the park is teeming with life. With one of the highest densities of leopards in the world, Yala is a prime location to encounter these elusive creatures in their natural habitat and bird enthusiasts won’t be disappointed either with a huge collection of migratory and endemic species to spot.

• Duration: half day • Time: 6am to 9am or 3pm to 6pm • Daily departures • Operates year round except September to mid-October • Private experience • Available for guests on a car and driver itinerary staying in Hambantota, Tangalle, Udawalawe and Yala • Available for guests staying at hotels in Yala, Udawalawe, Tangalle and Hambantota

Good to know If not staying in close vicinity to the national park, we’d recommend the afternoon excursion due to the early start of the morning option.

Wilpattu Jeep Safari full day

Much quieter than Sri Lanka’s other popular national parks, Wilpattu offers a genuine sense of wilderness with scientific research on the bio-diversity of the park still in its infancy. This ‘Land of Lakes’ is dotted with water-basins and hidden in the dense forests you’ll find an array of wildlife from sloth bears and spotted deer to elephants and crocodiles. Little is known of the large population of leopards who reside in the park, but next to Yala in the south. this is the second-best place to spot them in Sri Lanka. With an intimate knowledge of the area, your guide and driver will navigate the day based on their experience giving you the best chance to catch a glimpse of the abundant wildlife in their natural habitat.

• Duration: full day • Time: 6am to 6pm • Daily departures • Operates between February and October • Private experience • Available for guests on a car and driver itinerary staying in Anuradhapura, Dambulla, Habarana, Kandalama and Sigiriya

Wilpattu 3-hour Jeep Safari

• Duration: half day • Time: 6am to 9am or 3pm to 6pm • Daily departures • between February and October • Private experience • Available for guests on a car and driver itinerary staying in Anuradhapura, Dambulla, Habarana, Kandalama and Sigiriya

Good to know Suitable for all, for those staying further afield and those who can’t commit to a day trip, we’d recommend an afternoon visit.

Bundala Bird Watching Safari

The first wetland to be declared as a RAMSAR site in Sri Lanka, Bundala National Park is a must do for bird enthusiasts. The UNESCO designated biosphere reserve hosts 197 species and is one of the best places to observe both migrant and resident birds which use the parks five shallow lagoons as feeding sites. Delight in the impressive bird song as your personal tracker guides you through the six different types of wetland where you’ll spot the likes of Black Headed Ibis, Painted Storks and Terns along with other small mammals, reptiles and butterflies from the comfort of your own private jeep.

• Duration: half day • Time: 5.30am to 9am or 2.30pm to 6pm • Daily departures • Operates between October and March • Private experience • Available for guests on a car and driver itinerary staying in Hambantota, Tangalle, Udawalawe and Yala • Available for guests staying at hotels in Tangalle and Hambantota

Good to know Due to the early start time of the morning excursion, we’d recommend an afternoon visit for those staying further afield.

Minneriya Jeep Safari

If observing elephants in their natural habitat is on your to do list while in Sri Lanka, Minneriya National Park should be top of your list. While elephants can be spotted all year round in huge numbers, during the dry season, between April and October, the park plays host to one of the greatest wildlife spectacles in the world: The Great Elephant Gathering. As the Minneriya Tank dries up and gives way to a lush grass plain, 300 or more elephants gather in the late afternoon to feed offering visitors an unforgettable spectacle. Home to a host of other wildlife from two endemic monkey species to the Sri Lankan Sloth Bear, the endangered Grey Slender Loris and elusive Sri Lankan Leopard can also occasionally be spotted.

• Duration: half day • Time: 3pm to 6pm • Daily departures • Operates year round • Private experience • Available for guests on a car and driver itinerary staying in Sigiriya, Anuradhapura, Dambulla, Habarana, Kandalama and Kandy

Good to know Depending on the time of year, guests may be taken to the Hurulu Eco-park (Jan to May) or Kandulla National Park (Nov to Dec) as elephant migrations interchange between all three parks.

Whale Watching Cruise (car & driver excursion and stay put excursion)

Embark on this once in a lifetime trip in search of whales on this thrilling cruise across the Indian Ocean and discover the multitude of marine life off the coast of Sri Lanka. As your expert skipper and crew sail through areas frequented by whales, look out for sperm, killer, humpback and pilot whales in the tropical waters as well as acrobatic spinner dolphins racing alongside the boat. Home to the largest Blue Whale colony in the world, there’s a good chance you’ll spot these enormous mammals during your excursion offering some incredible photo opportunities and memories that will last a lifetime.

• Duration: half day • Time: 6.30am to 11.30am • Daily departure • Operates between October and March • Group experience • Available for guests on a car and driver itinerary staying in Galle, Hambantota, Koggala, Mirissa & Tangalle • Available for guests staying at hotels in Galle, Koggala & Welogama.

Good to know A great experience for those looking to explore Sri Lanka’s marine life however as these are wild animals, sightings can’t be guaranteed.

Hot Air Balloon Flight

Embark on this unforgettable adventure activity and experience the serenity of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle from the sky. Revel at the views as the sun rises and you gently glide across dense forests, ancient ruins and grassy plains, witnessing the stunning landscapes from a whole new perspective. The perfect addition to any honeymoon or those celebrating a special occasion, after landing your flight will be toasted with a glass of champagne or juice.

• Duration: 1½ hours • Time: 5.30am to 7am • Daily departures • Operates between November and April • Private experience • Available for guests on a car and driver itinerary staying in Kandalama, Dambulla, Habarana and Sigiriya

Good to know Not suitable for those under 16 years of age, pregnant passengers or those with heart conditions.

Sri Lankan Cooking Class

There’s no better souvenir than mastering the art of Sri Lankan cooking, providing you with instant access to the island’s rich flavours once home. Since the Dutch, Portuguese and British settlers began trading spices they have become an important commodity in Sri Lankan cuisine and are the key to mastering the perfect dish. Your class will begin with a guided spice tour where you’ll discover the country’s rich herbal heritage, from harvesting and processing through to the health benefits of the most popular flavours. Set in a restaurant adjacent to a cinnamon plantation, you’ll get busy preparing a traditional Sri Lankan curry with a recipe that’s been inherited over generations before tucking into your own delicious creations over lunch.

• Duration: half day • Daily departures • year round • Private experience • Available for guests on a car and driver itinerary staying in Kandalama, Dambulla, Habarana and Kandy

Good to know This class is ideal for those travelling between Habarana or Kandalama and Kandy or vice versa due to its location between the two.

Ceylon Tea Picking Experience

The story of Ceylon tea begins over 200 years ago when Sri Lanka was still a British colony. With its alchemy of land, sun and rain the island provides the ideal climate for its cultivation. For those looking to delve deeper into the cultivation process and history of Sri Lanka’s greatest export, this immersive tea picking experience is not to be missed. A good cup of tea starts in the field and you’ll begin by observing the fine art of tea plucking before heading back inside and learning all about tea processing with a thorough factory visit. Much like wine, each batch of tea must be taste-tested, and you’ll get a quick masterclass on what to look for from your knowledgeable guide. After all that learning, end the day with a refreshing cup of Ceylon Tea straight from the plantation and a newfound appreciation for the hard work that goes into every cup.

• Duration: half day • Daily departures • Operates year round • Private experience • Available for guests on a car and driver itinerary staying in Nuwara Eliya and Kandy

Good to know This is a great half day trip for those travelling between Nuwara Eliya and Kandy or vice versa, due to its location between the two.

Highlights of Colombo In A Day

Bustling Colombo is packed with unmissable sights and you’ll discover the most compelling of them on this private full-day visit. The well-thought-out itinerary includes a blend of historic sites and contemporary attractions, along with some that are both, such as the Dutch Hospital, the oldest building in the Colombo Fort area, which has been repurposed as a stylish shopping and dining destination. Other highlights include the Galle Face Promenade, which runs the length of the city’s celebrated seaside park; Sambodhi Chaithya, a Buddhist shrine that’s a fascinating example of 1950s architecture; and Nelum Pokuna Art Street, a colourful open-air market where local artists showcase and sell their work. Just behind Art Street is the National Museum, where you can feast your eyes on everything from the crown jewels of the last King of Kandy to vividly painted demon masks.

• Duration: full day • Daily departures • Operates year round • Private experience

The Art of Creating Sri Lankan Tea

As well as its aromatic spices, Sri Lanka is famed for its tea production. Since the first plantation was established in the 19th Century, millions of kilograms of tea have been exported around the globe, to countries including the UK, the UAE and Turkey. You’ll visit one of the oldest tea producers in the country and learn all about the creation of the famous Ceylon loose-leaf tea from the plant to the cup via the refining and blending processes. You’ll also learn about the subtle differences in flavour of teas grown at different altitudes and how teas are blended for the tastes of their ultimate destinations around the world.

• Duration: 1½ hours • Daily departures from Colombo and Negombo hotels • Operates year-round • Private experience

Hike Pidurangala Rock

Climbing Sigiriya Rock is a Sri Lanka rite of passage, however, as with scaling any iconic viewpoint – once you’ve reached the top, it’s not part of the landscape that you’re viewing. The almost-200-metre-high Pidurangala Rock lies just to the north of its more famous neighbour and has some pretty epic views from its summit (which, like Lion Rock, is reached by man-made paths and staircases). The best times to climb are sunrise and sunset when the shifting light casts dramatic shadows across the landscape, and – if you are lucky – creates dramatic skies of many colours.

Duration: half day • Daily departures from Habarana, Sigiriya, Kandalama, Polonnaruwa and Dambulla • Operates year-round • Private experience

Village Cooking Experience

The cuisine of Sri Lanka has been shaped over centuries, influenced by Arab traders and European settlers, and trying the spice-enriched specialities – whether from a high-end restaurant or a street hawker – is a staple experience during a visit to the island. To really enhance your time here, we recommend learning how to create a handful of dishes in a local village. You’ll buy your produce from a village vendor in the company of your host; they’ll show you the essential ingredients used in traditional cooking and select the freshest vegetables that will be used to create their culinary masterpieces. In a wattle-and-daub hut that’s surrounded by paddy fields, your host will whip up a range of flavourful and authentic curries that you’ll get to enjoy at the end of the morning.

• Duration 1½ hours • Time: 10am to 11.30am • Daily departures from Habarana, Sigiriya, Kandalama, Polonnaruwa, Dambulla • Operates year-round • Private experience

Learn the Art of Traditional Pottery & Pan Mat Making

Spend a few hours discovering the skill and beauty of a couple of the traditional crafts still practiced in Sri Lanka’s Hill Country: pottery and weaving. You’ll visit the workshop of a potter and learn about the age-old methods used to create stunning earthenware pieces as well as trying your hand on the potter’s wheel yourself. The focus then shifts to the intricate art of weaving pan reeds into vibrant and multi-use mats – a pan padura – which most families in Sri Lanka will own. Watch as dried-out reeds are transformed in front of your eyes and even have a go yourself.

• Duration: 3 to 4 hours • Daily departures from Kandy • Operates year-round • Private experience

The Art of Drumming

The traditional music and percussion instruments of Sri Lanka are the focus on this short but sweet experience from Kandy. Learn about the history and culture surrounding the Kandyan drum, their importance and use during festivals, rituals and at temples. There’ll be the chance to try out the skill for yourself under the guidance of an experienced drummer; this is a great experience to enjoy together as a family.

• Duration: 2 hours • Time: 9am to 11am or 3pm to 5pm • Daily departures from Kandy • Operates year-round • Private experience

Crab Curry Cooking Class

The shallow lagoons off the east coast of Sri Lanka are rich with edible crab species and a Sri Lankan crab curry is a regional speciality. During this half-day experience, you’ll visit a local guesthouse and discover how to make this flavourful dish – a skill that will allow you to bring the taste of Sri Lanka home with you.

• Daily departures from Passikudah • Operates year-round • Private experience

The Cinnamon Experience

Not far from the golden shores of Weligama is the hillside Top House, a working cinnamon plantation that’s been lovingly restored by its British owner. A combination of self-sustaining age-old techniques and modern technology is used to extract cinnamon leaf oil at the newly built distillery. During your private tour, you’ll explore the cinnamon nursery, the plantation itself, the peeling hut and the distillery, travelling on foot and by a tractor-hitched trailer, and learn about the processes involved in creating their artisan produce.

• Duration: half day • Start time: 9am • Departs Monday to Saturday from Galle, Weligama, Tangalle, Koggala • Operates year-round • Private experience

Good to know The plantation is closed on poya days.

Galle Fort Photography Experience

Join a private photography walk of Galle Fort with a local travel and lifestyle photographer with the chance to refine your camera skills and take some inspiring photographs. There is a lively art scene here, and visitors and keen shutterbugs are inspired by Galle Fort’s coastal location, creativity, and heritage architecture. Tour the cobbled streets through a lens and discover its majestic defences, once walked by merchants and traders, now fringed with characterful boutiques, galleries, and eateries. Over a memorable couple of hours, you’ll hone your photography skills with a guide who knows the fort and its stories.

• Duration: 2 hours • Time: 6am to 4pm or 8am to 6pm • Daily departures from Galle • Operates year-round • Private experience

Kandy Horse Riding

Take a horse-riding lesson in Kandy, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned rider. Ride one of Victoria Golf Club’s gentle, thoroughbred horses, ideal for both apprehensive beginners and experienced riders, promising to make riding in Sri Lanka an unforgettable and enjoyable experience. The Saddle Club offers lessons to children and adults and one-hour treks to appreciate the beauty of the scenery while enjoying some fresh mountain air.

• Duration: 1 hour • Daily departures from Kandy • Operates year-round • Private experience

Kumana National Park by Jeep

Join a half-day or full-day game drive to experience the spirit of Kumana National Park. Kumana National Park is a well-known eco-tourism attraction and bird sanctuary where many birds breed and roost. One of the most significant features of the park is the Kumana Villu, a 200-hectare natural swamp lake fed by the Kumbukkan Oya through a half-mile-long narrow channel.

• Daily departures from Passikudah or Trincomalee • Operates year-round • Private experience

Street Food of Negombo

Spend an evening feasting on the delicious street food of Sri Lanka. As one of the leading cultivators and exporters of spices worldwide, the Sinhalese use their seasonings with utmost care. It's known for the sweetest cinnamon, peppercorns, tamarind, cloves, nutmeg, mace, and more. It can be sampled in its street foods, including flavoursome masalas topped with decadent meat and slow-cooked vegetables. Snackable dishes are an integral part of Sri Lanka’s diverse cuisine, and you’ll have a chance to taste plenty of dishes as you venture around Negombo.

• Duration: evening • Daily departures from Negombo • Operates year-round • Private experience

Canoe Unawatuna Lagoon

Paddle through the mangrove forests of the Unawatuna Lagoon in a canoe. Your adventure begins with a safety introduction and life jackets. You’ll board a canoe and paddle through beautiful rivulets and mangrove forests. You can interact with the local people and watch them catch crabs as you go. An experienced professional guide will assist you throughout the trip, pointing out bird species flocking on the distant trees on a two-hour voyage.

• Daily departures from Galle • Operates year-round • Private experience

Colombo City Walk

Join a family-friendly tour to explore the Colombo neighbourhood of Pettah on foot in the company of a knowledgeable local guide. Your tour begins by exploring colourful and fragrant markets, including a floating market. You’ll have the chance to see a Dutch church dating to 1749, the Dutch Period Museum and the Red Mosque. Explore places rich in history and religion, such as the Gangaramaya Temple and the Colombo Museum.

• Duration: half day • Daily departures from Colombo and Negombo • Operates year-round • Private experience

Golf at the Royal Colombo Club

Play a round of golf at the Royal Colombo, a leading 140-year-old private members club in Sri Lanka. The club is a sanctuary in the heart of Colombo, sitting in contrast to its surroundings. After your round, the clubhouse provides an airy, relaxing atmosphere and a beautiful place for members and visitors to unwind.

• Duration: full day • Departs Monday to Friday from Colombo or Negombo • Operates year-round • Private experience

Kanneliya Rainforest Trek

Venture into the Kanneliya Rainforest on a private tour to explore its flora and fauna. While it’s known as one of South Asia's most floristically abundant areas, the Kanneliya Forest Reserve is also home to fascinating birdlife, including many endemics and an incredible diversity of mammals, butterflies, dragonflies, amphibians, and reptiles. During your tour, you’ll have the chance to see the Anagimale Falls, an ancient tangled giant creeper and the little waterfall of Narangas Ella. An impressive Nevada tree observation platform provides a great spot to look out over the Reserve.

• Duration: 3 hours • Daily departures from Galle or Koggala • Operates year-round • Private experience

Learn the Art of Lace Making

Watch a traditional Sri Lankan lacemaker at work on an insightful half-day experience. Sit down with a Beeralu lacemaker to observe how they create intricate art. A lace pattern is hand-drawn on graph paper, after which the design is marked with pins and wrapped around a lace pillow. Then, several lengths of thread are woven or braided with the help of wooden bobbins to create a finished piece of lace. Though this process requires more effort than machine-cut lace that can be produced in bulk and on demand, the authenticity and quality of Beeralu lace are unparalleled.

• Daily departures from Galle, Koggala, Tangalle or Weligama • Operates year-round • Private experience

Dinner Overlooking Negombo Lagoon

Dine on fresh seafood with a view over the Indian Ocean. Negombo Lagoon is an open-air dining space in the fishing village where you can choose from the freshest catch of the day from the seafood market and then ask the chefs to prepare it in a sauce or curry of your choice.

• Duration: evening • Start time: 6pm • Daily departures from Negombo • Operates year-round • Private experience

Surf’s Up at Weligama Bay

Negotiate the waves on a two-hour surf lesson. Weligama Bay is the centre of surf culture on the south coast of Sri Lanka and an ideal spot to learn, whether you’re a beginner or looking to finesse your skills. There are gentle beginner waves all day, every day, and all year round. For those who know the basics, there are unbroken waves to tackle, and expert surfers can finetune their paddle, stance, and style — or learn some new manoeuvres.

• Duration: 2 hours • Time: 11am to 1pm or 3pm to 5pm • Daily departures from Galle, Weligama, Tangalle or Koggala • Operates year-round • Private experience

Explore Kandy by Classic Car

Take a ride around the historical and cultural Kandy in a classic car. This private tour takes you around the city, where colonial-era and local architecture sit side by side. Its landscapes and streets will enthral you, and there’s the chance to see the golden roof of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a sacred Buddhist shrine, and visit Kandy Lake, an artificial lake with a palm-dotted island at its centre.

• Duration: 2 hours • Time: 8.30am to 10.30am or 4pm to 6pm\ • Daily departures from Kandy • Operates year-round • Private experience

Udawaththakale Forest Trek

Hike through a historic forest reserve on a hill ridge in Kandy. Udawaththakale Forest is a vital bio reserve for Kandy. On a guided trek, you’ll see the forest's highlights, including the water pond, the Kodimale peak, the Senkanda Cave, and the Garrison cemetery. There are also several Buddhist temples and hermitages inside the forest reserve.

• Duration: 2 to 3 hours • Daily departures from Kandy • Operates year-round • Private experience

Highlights of Colombo by Classic Car

On a private tour, step back in time and observe Colombo’s historic buildings from the comfort of a classic car. Spend a couple of hours visiting architectural landmarks in Columbo. The colonial buildings in Fort are some of the city’s most recognisable structures, including the Dutch Hospital, once used as a health centre for the Dutch East India Company and later by seafarers. You can also visit the Old Colombo Lighthouse, an elegant Victorian tower.

• Duration: 2 hours • Time: 8.30am to 10.30am or 4pm to 6pm\ • Daily departures • Operates year-round • Private experience

Street food of Hikka

Hikkaduwa might be best known for its beach and surf culture, but it is also renowned for its delicious street food. Spend an evening on a gastronomic adventure, tasting these local street foods. There’s plenty of seafood to try alongside spicy and flavoursome roti, crispy pancakes known as hoppers, and traditional curry and rice. Watch as the vendors prepare the dishes as you listen to the sound of the waves.

• Duration: evening • Start time: 6pm • Daily departures from Galle or Hikkaduwa • Operates year-round • Private experience

Explore Galle by Classic Car

Join a resident in their beloved 1972 Volkswagen Beetle convertible for a two-hour tour of Galle. Galle is a melting pot of culture, cuisine, and craft recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On your journey, you’ll witness Galle’s maritime history and Dutch-colonial influence with insight from your guide.

• Duration: 1½ or 2 hours • Time: 8.30am to 10am or 4pm to 6pm • Daily departures from Galle or Koggala • Operates year-round • Private experience

Mangrove Conservation Project Visit

Koggala Lagoon is in Sri Lanka’s southern province, where a wide range of wildlife live, and small villages dot the shoreline. It’s home to a large mangrove biome with eleven mangrove species and a high level of biodiversity. Many of the mangroves were destroyed yet vital habitat restoration has been underway since 2010, led by the Wildlife and Ocean Resource Conservation and supported by the DER Touristik Foundation, Kuoni’s parent company.

On this half-day experience, a private transfer will collect you from your hotel and take you to Koggala Lagoon. You’ll meet the team who’ll provide an overview of the conservation work and the mangrove ecosystem at Koggala, beginning with a look at the plant nursery. Mangroves are vital plants that grow in water, tolerating conditions that most plants can’t survive in, thanks to their ability to remove salt. Crucially, mangroves absorb twice as much carbon dioxide as tropical rainforests, helping maintain good water quality, filter pollutants, and protect shorelines from erosion.

After an introduction to the science behind the mangrove growing and planting techniques, you’ll board a boat to venture out onto the lagoon to study the mangroves, observing the local wildlife that live here, with birdlife soaring overhead, including herons and hawks. You’ll have the chance to plant seedling mangroves following a successful technique that other organisations involved in the restoration of mangrove swamps around the world have adopted.

• £10 of each excursion sale goes towards the conservation programme Duration: 3 hours (excluding transfer times) • Departs from Galle, Tangalle, Koggala, Bentota, Ahungalla and Hikkaduwa hotels (as private car & driver transfer) • Operates year round • You must wear clothes that cover your legs and shoulders • Shoes and sandals must be removed • We recommend booking the tour in the morning or the late afternoon to avoid the heat of the day

Scenic Train Journey - Nuwara Eliya to Ella

The rail journey between Nuwara Eliya (Nanu Oya station) and Ella is arguably the most beautiful stretch of the Kandy-to-Hill-Country journey. For a few hours, the iconic train winds its way up through tea plantations and fruit farms on the way into the beautiful town of Ella.

• Duration: half day • Time: 3.45pm to 6.30pm • Daily departures • Operates year-round • Group experience

Good to know The train journey is based on tickets in the first class, air-conditioned carriage. It includes guaranteed seats, lunch or high tea depending on journey time (after the rail journey), taxes and service charges.

Scenic Train Journey - Kandy to Nuwara Eliya

Depart from the hotel and transfer to the train station and board the train that will take you up towards Nuwara Eliya. As you ascend into the Hill Country, the train passes through rolling tea plantations and verdant forests and you’ll understand why this journey has been named as one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world. Disembark at Nanu Oya station and transfer to your Nuwara Eliya hotel by road.

• Duration: half day • Time: 12.20pm to 4pm • Daily departures • Operates year-round • Group experience

Scenic Train Journey - Nuwara Eliya to Kandy

Depart from the hotel and transfer to the train station at Nanu Oya and board the train that will take you to Kandy. As you descend from the Hill Country, the train passes through rolling tea plantations and verdant forests and you’ll understand why this journey has been named as one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world. Disembark in Kandy and transfer to your hotel.

• Duration: half day • Time: 1.40pm to 6pm • Daily departures • Operates year-round • Group experience

Best time to visit Sri Lanka

The best time of year to visit Sri Lanka depends on where you wish to travel to – for a relatively small island, there are wide variations in climate, depending on the time of year. There are two monsoons that affect the island’s climate – the north-east monsoon which can affect the whole island, and the south-west monsoon which is less intense and impacts the south and west coasts as well as the Hill Country. Despite the rainfall, the temperature around the coast rarely drops below 25 degrees; up in the Hill Country it is a little cooler due to the higher altitude. Generally, the best time to visit the west and south coasts as well as the Cultural Triangle is between December and April, while on the east coast the climate is at its finest from May through to October.

Sri Lanka Weather

Sri lanka weather by month.

Sri Lanka in January Sri Lanka’s weather in January is generally warm and dry, especially in the central, western and southern regions. If you are looking to explore the Cultural Triangle and then spend some time on the beaches of Negombo, Bentota or Tangalle, this is a great time to travel. The north-east (maha) monsoon will still be affecting the east coast, although the period of the heaviest, most prolonged rains will be coming to an end.

Sri Lanka in February The weather in February remains pleasant, with beautiful sunny days on the west and south coasts and in central Sri Lanka. There is minimal rainfall in these regions and temperatures can rise to over 30 degrees. There are still rains in the east coast; however, these are beginning to become more sporadic and less intense. Independence Day is an annual, country-wide celebration that takes place on 4th February.

Sri Lanka in March March is one of the best times of year to visit Sri Lanka. The north-east monsoon is almost over and the temperatures on the east coast are starting to rise. The beach resorts of the west and south coasts tend to be basking in glorious sunshine and temperatures in the mid-30s, although towards the end of the month there may be some rain. The Hill Country also experiences a rise in temperature during March.

Sri Lanka in April Another good month to visit the island, April continues the trend of a warm and sunny Sri Lanka climate, particularly at the beginning of the month. As it’s the end of the dry season in the west and south, humidity is relatively high, especially in the Cultural Triangle. If you are looking to visit the Hill Country – including the city of Kandy and beautiful Nuwara Eliya, then this is one of the best times to visit. The mornings and evenings are not so chilly, the daytime temperatures hover around the mid-20s and rainfall is below average. The Sinhalese/Tamil New Year also takes place in mid-April.

Sri Lanka in May This is the month where the focus really starts to shift from the resorts of the south and west to the beaches of the east. Here, the sun starts to consistently shine and the temperatures rise to the high-20s. The south-west, or ‘yala’, monsoon reaches the south, west and central regions this month. The rains tend to be short and sharp, and there are often gloriously sunny interludes. Swimming in the sea along the south and west coastlines is usually discouraged during this period as winds that accompany the monsoon can create large waves. The Vesak Full Moon Poya Day, or Festival of Lights, is celebrated in May.

Sri Lanka in June The south-west monsoon continues to affect the southern and western regions of the island, with increased rainfall and lower temperatures in the Hill Country.If you’re seeking an idyllic beach, the east coast is the place to go. The temperatures rise in to the low-30s and days are usually gloriously sunny. This is a good time of year to combine an exploration of the Cultural Triangle with a relaxing stay at one of Passikudah’s or Trincomalee’s luxury resorts. The Poson Poya is celebrated in the Cultural Triangle.

Sri Lanka in July Sri Lanka’s weather in July is similar to June – the monsoon is still affecting resorts such as Negombo, Bentota and Weligama, while the beautiful east coast is warm and sunny. There are lots of religious festivals that take place throughout the summer months including the Hindu festival of Vel, and Esala Perahera, also known as the Festival of the Tooth, which falls in either July or August.

Sri Lanka in August Unlike many of our other Asia destinations, Sri Lanka is an excellent choice during the school summer holidays. The rainfall amounts in the south and west drop significantly in comparison to the previous months (they’re also lower than the following months, too) while the east coast climate remains very pleasant. The previously mentioned Esala Perahera may fall in August and is celebrated with parades and fire-lit dances in the city of Kandy.

Sri Lanka in September The rains of the south-west monsoon increase again this month, especially in the western, southern and Hill Country regions. September also sees the last of the really good weather on the east coast – you may even experience rainfall during the latter half of the month. If you are staying in Trincomalee, we recommend heading out on a whale-watching trip as blue whales pass the east coast on their migration around the island.

Sri Lanka in October Sri Lanka weather in October can be changeable – it is one of the wettest months across the whole island. The south-west monsoon is still affecting the south and west for most of the month, although this does start to fade later in the month. While one monsoon is ending, another is beginning its approach towards the north and east regions.

Sri Lanka in November The number of sunshine hours increases in the south and west, however there still may be some downpours. The best time to visit these regions is later in the month. The Hill Country and Cultural Triangle will be experiencing high levels of rainfall this month, and the arrival of north-east monsoon means rainfall is increasing along the west coast. The Hindu festival of Deepavali, also known as the Festival of Lights, takes place in late October or November.

Sri Lanka in December December in Sri Lanka marks the start of the high season for the beach resorts on the south and west coasts. The weather is also starting to improve in the Hill Country and the Cultural Triangle, although rain can still be expected. This month also sees the beginning of the whale-watching season off the south coast. The north-east monsoon continues to bring intense rainfall to the island’s north and east regions.

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From the multi-award-winning Kuoni

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 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

Sri Lanka Package Starting @ ₹14,562

5* Properties. Pristine Beaches. Exciting Itineraries

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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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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Weather in Sri Lanka in August

The weather in Sri Lanka in August is relatively hot, with temperatures rising to 30 °C in the southern region, similar to that of July. Being a tropical country, Sri Lanka experiences relatively consistent temperatures throughout the year. The perfect time to visit the South and West coast of the country is from November to May, during the dry season. March to September on the other hand is the ideal time to hit the North east coast of the island. The ‘Yala monsoon’ winds bring rainfall to the southern region of the country between April/ May to October. So, if you intend on travelling to Sri Lanka in August, you’d rather head to the northeast coast of this gorgeous island. Here’s a breakdown of the weather in the different regions, across the country, in August.

The south and south-west coast of Sri Lanka 

The Southern and Western coasts of the country receives rainfall in the months between April/ May to September. However, from June to August, there are only light, short lived showers, primarily in the evenings. It is a good time to explore beaches like Bentota, Weligama, Mirissa, along this coast. Reason being, they receive enough sunlight with intermittent spells of rainfall, while still avoiding large tourist crowds. Luxury travellers looking to simply unwind can take advantage of the off season rates, great discounts and make the most of their holiday. Water sports and other activities along the coast are usually shut for tourists in August, in which case, going to the northeast coast is a better option. 

The Northeast coast of Sri Lanka in August

This region receives plenty of sunshine in the month of August, making it a great time to explore. It is a good time to visit the national parks here. In August and September, Minneriya National Park is a site w orth experiencing, as herds of elephants come together for “The gathering”. (link) You can enjoy the beaches of Trincomalee, Batticaloa, and Arugam bay which cater to all kinds of travellers. Whether you’re looking to indulge in adventure water sports like surfing and diving or simply enjoy some downtime by the beach. 

When it come to things to do in Sri Lanka in August, surfing at Arugam Bay definitely tops our list. You’re guaranteed to ride the best waves in the months of July, August and September. 

The Hill Country and Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka

The weather in the hill country of Sri Lanka is rather pleasant.  Hiking in Nuwara Eliya , Hatton and other parts of this region, amidst the lush green landscapes makes for a breathtaking experience. Temperatures in August are low and rainfall is moderate. Given the uncertain weather pattern, it is advisable to avoid steep trekking trails in case of rainfall. 

The Cultural triangle – Kandy, Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, is known for its rich history, ancient ruins and religious monuments. The most famous sight being the Sigiriya Rock fortress. The dry season here, runs from mid February to September. The weather in Sri Lanka in August is a good time to explore this region without having to worry about rainfall. On the downside, temperatures rise to about 30 °C during the day. For an enjoyable experience, it is best to start your day early and rest post noon, in order to avoid the overhead sun.

Visiting the National Parks of Sri Lanka In August

If you are looking to explore Sri Lanka’s exotic and rare variety of wildlife species, August is a great time to do so. Every year ‘The Gathering’ takes place during this month, at Minneriya National Park. A period during which hundreds of wild elephants gather near a reservoir for water as it is the dry season. It is said to be the largest gathering of wild asian elephants in the world. It is also a great time for spotting Leopards at Yala National Park. You can even visit the Udawalawe National Park in the Northeast region of the country. Don’t forget to read up on the best National parks to visit in Sri Lanka given the number of choices you’re spoilt with. 

To sum it up

The weather in Sri Lanka in August makes it a great time to visit Sri Lanka. Even though the south and south west coast receive rainfall, the rest of the country can be explored in all its glory. You can find enough sunshine on the East and North-east coast of the country. Besides that, it is also a good time to spot the vast variety of wildlife that the island has to offer. It is the ideal time to head head off the beaten path and explore the less touristy regions of the island.

Besides the weather, make sure you’re well-versed with all the essential information. From understanding the currency to accounting for the cost of travel . For a hassle free trip without having to account for so many different variables, simply get in touch with us. We’ll help Plan your ideal holiday to Sri Lanka while making sure you get the most out of it. 

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The 12 best places to visit in Sri Lanka

Nov 9, 2023 • 9 min read

Polonnaruwa is famed for its ancient ruins, rock temples and Buddhist heritage © leodaphne / Getty Images

With rugged mountains, untouched beaches and fertile soil that grows coconuts, tea and spices, Sri Lanka offers travelers a wondrous mix of experiences unmatched for an island of its size.

Today the country’s rich heritage, delectable cuisine and astonishing wildlife are more accessible than ever, thanks to an ever-improving public transport system. Trains, buses, coaches and tuk-tuks carry visitors to all parts of the island at various price points. But with so many charming places to choose from, where does one start?

Depending on what you’re looking for – art, culture, history – what you put down on your Sri Lanka itinerary is bound to change. Still, here’s our selection of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka to get you started. 

Best for exploring on foot

No Sri Lanka itinerary is complete without Colombo , the country’s culturally diverse hub. (But not its capital – that’s actually Sri Jayawardenepura-Kotte!) An ideal first taste of Sri Lanka, with tuk-tuks, cars and buses rushing through busy lanes, Colombo is renowned for its landmark buildings around the cosmopolitan Fort district, including the terracotta-roofed Dutch Hospital . 

Be sure to spend some time at Galle Face Green , a seaside promenade where hundreds of families gather to dip their toes in the sea at sunset and children fly kites overhead. Order yourself isso wade , deep-fried prawn and lentil cakes, topped with spicy sambol , and people-watch. 

Planning tip: While Colombo is a safe and walkable city, tuk-tuks are inexpensive and convenient for getting around. Always check that your tuk-tuk has a working meter before you get in to ensure you pay the correct fare for your ride. 

2. Sigiriya

Best for history buffs and art aficionados 

With ornate ponds, royal sleeping chambers and majestic lion paws carved into the base of the rock, the colossal granite fortress of Sigiriya  is easily Sri Lanka’s most recognizable site, peeking out of a thick jungle canopy for a glimpse of the ancient kingdom of Kassapa.

Although its frescoes – images of bare-breasted women adorned in jewelry with flowers in their hair – are famous, the view from the top of the rock is unparalleled. A hush of calm echoes over the terraced summit, which covers 1.6 hectares (4 acres). 

Planning tip: Get here around 7am – the cooler morning air makes for a pleasant walk up the 1200 steps to the top. Aim to head back down before noon (before the rock surface gets too hot), stay hydrated and wear soft shoes with tread.

3. Anuradhapura

Best for experiencing Buddhist culture

Anuradhapura looks misleadingly like any other Sri Lankan town when you arrive: an unremarkable clock tower, a single train station and small shops lining a busy main road. But the town's simple facade gives nothing away regarding the enormous scale of its heritage as the heartland of Sri Lankan Buddhist culture.

The main feature of this area remains the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree, believed to have been planted from a cutting from the tree Buddha attained enlightenment under in Bodhgaya, India. Beyond this, Anuradhapura is bursting with archaeological wonders: colossal dagobas (stupas), temples, palaces and venerable Buddhist sites scattered among the jungles and villages of the area. 

Planning tip: Comfortable shoes are a must for walking between sites. Buddhist temples, even as ruins, are still places of worship, and footwear must be removed before entering. Carrying a scarf to cover legs and shoulders is always a good idea.

4. Polonnaruwa

Best for ancient archaeological wonders

Often twinned with a visit to Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa is also famed for its ancient ruins, rock temples and Buddhist heritage. 

As you gaze upon the 14m (46ft) reclining Buddha in Gal Viharaya and its surrounding carvings, you can’t help but imagine what went into creating these figures. The white, grey and black granite softens the details of these intricate carvings, and the scent of fresh flowers and incense, offered to the statues by devotees, floats through the temple's air. 

Don’t skip the remaining archaeological sites in the area, including the Royal Ruins , which can be visited in a day and contain closely grouped temples and stupas. 

Planning tip: If traveling toward Jaffna in the north of Sri Lanka, both Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa are great places to stay and break up the journey.

Best for a taste of Tamil culture

From the Jaffna Fort  to the architecturally marvelous Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil , a Hindu temple adorned with brasswork and staggering murals, Jaffna is a relaxed change from the rest of the country. Here you can immerse yourself in the culture and heritage of Sri Lanka’s largest ethnic minority: the Tamil people.

Once under Portuguese and Dutch occupation, today’s Jaffna is revitalized with up-and-coming restaurants. Of the several islands off the coast of Jaffna accessible by roads and ferries, Kayts – a hauntingly beautiful, quiet island of fishing communities – and Delft, with its wild ponies descended from horses abandoned by Dutch colonists, are worth a visit.

Planning tip: The Tamil-centric culture in Jaffna differs from the rest of the island. Be mindful of local customs, such as removing footwear when entering certain sites. This includes the Jaffna Public Librar y, where footwear is removed as a means of respecting the knowledge within the building.

6. Trincomalee

Best for an unspoiled beach vacation

Stretches of powdery soft beaches and calm waters meld with dramatic cliffside Hindu temples – among them the famous Kandasamy Kovil , with unmistakable ornamental architecture and a monumental statue of Shiva looking out to sea – for a touch of Sri Lanka that remains off most tourists’ radars. 

The coastline here is only disturbed by the occasional bit of driftwood or coconut husk washing ashore in the shallow waters, ripe for snorkeling, where miles of coral reefs and marine life thrive.

Planning tip: Public beaches here do not have lifeguards, and swimming and snorkeling should only be undertaken with a guide.

7. Dambulla

Best for pilgrim trails 

An important part of the country’s pilgrim trail, set within a quiet jungle that's home to the native toque macaque (aka toque monkey), Rangiri Cave Temple in Dambulla is the most visited place in Sri Lanka.

Expect troops of monkeys to accompany you on the walk up to the temple, inside which you'll find a series of five caves containing 150 well-preserved statues of Buddha alongside religious art, sculpted and painted into the rock.

Planning tip: Wear white or soft colors as a mark of respect, and expect crowds on full-moon days, which are holy days in the Buddhist calendar. While toque macaques are delightful to watch, they are wild and should never be approached.

8. Minneriya National Park

Best for witnessing the largest gathering of Asian elephants in the world

Herds of wild elephants – around 300 in number – graze nearly 9000 hectares (22,240 acres) of Minneriya National Park, where life centers around Minneriya Lake. Watch in awe (cameras at the ready, naturally!) as long trunks draw water and calves roll around on the banks in wet mud.  

Once a year, during the dry season, all 300 elephants gather around the banks of the lake to graze in a marvelous natural event known as "the Gathering." This also happens to be the largest gathering of Asian elephants in the world.

Planning tip: April to October is the best time to see the Gathering. Prebooking your safari and sharing jeeps helps to reduce the number of vehicles entering the park during this busy period.

Best for experiencing Sri Lanka’s Hill Country

An ideal day trip from Colombo, the train departs the city’s Fort Railway Station and pulls into the heritage town of Kandy in under four hours. As the train curves and winds around mountains to connect rural towns, wide windows frame the view of deep ravines and hillsides densely covered in emerald-green tea bushes. 

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and Kandy Lake , both must-do attractions for anyone visiting Sri Lanka, are easily reached via tuk-tuk from the station. 

Planning tip: Visitors are required to cover their arms, legs and shoulders when visiting the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. The Kandy-to-Colombo train is an alternative way to experience Sri Lanka’s railway journeys, as popular towns such as Ella are 10 hours away from Colombo.

10. Kalpitiya 

Best for surfing enthusiasts

Despite attracting thrill-seekers from around the world, Kalpitiya retains most of its quaint coastal charm, with the exception of a Dutch-era fort that is occupied by the Sri Lankan navy. Cows, goats and donkeys stroll across the villages. Thatched-roof beach huts with outdoor showers offer that stereotypically pleasing surf-shack vibe, and most mornings you’ll wake to a crowing rooster. Most important, just 30km (19 miles) north of here at Vella Island, a narrow sandbar, you’re surrounded by tall, clear waves – kitesurfing heaven. 

Planning tip: The weather for kitesurfing is ideal between October to May, and there are several kitesurfing schools around Kalpitiya.

11. Kumana National Park

Best for spotting birds 

Known for its 200-hectare (494-acre) bird reserve, Kumana National Park is a birder’s dream, home to throngs of vibrant kingfishers and jungle fowl alongside 255 recorded species of endemic and migrating birds, all of which find sanctuary in the park's mangrove swamps and lagoons.

Expect to spot falcons and eagles as they soar above or peacocks shimmying on the ground. Also frequently spotted here: cleverly camouflaged crocodiles lying in wait on the sandy banks of the lake for a chance encounter with buffalo.

Cap off your trip here with a visit to the coastal village of Panama, which many visitors bypass in favor of bigger towns, such as Pottuvil and Arugam Bay . Between the tiny monastery under a rock, thatched-roof homes and dirt tracks through paddy fields, Panama is one of the most remote places to see.

Planning tip: Entrance to Kumana National Park is through the village of Okanda. Prearranging a guided jeep safari is best for enjoying the park. 

12. Adam’s Peak

Best for experiencing a night hike

Adam’s Peak (the footprint of Prophet Adam, in Islam), Sri Pada (the sacred foot of Buddha) and Samanala Kanda (the mountain of the butterflies and a reference to the local deity Saman) are multiple names given to Sri Lanka’s holiest peak, considered sacred by all religions on the island. 

Join thousands of pilgrims, dressed in white, in the early hours of the morning to hike slowly and quietly to the little temple at the top . Humble teahouses, resting places and shrines dot the landscape as you ascend. Pilgrims greet each other through blessings for a good climb. The hike to the top takes three to four hours, depending on the trail you choose. Aim to summit at dawn to catch the first rays of the sun wrapping around the mountain.

Planning tip: Adam’s Peak is 2243m (7359ft) high and a moderate climb. Ascending via Hatton and descending via Ratnapura is the shortest route, although steeper.

The full-moon days in December and May mark the beginning and end of the climbing season. During this period, set off earlier to sidestep the crowds, or expect slow and packed trails. Climbing in the offseason is not recommended, as it coincides with the southeastern monsoon.

This article was first published Apr 9, 2021 and updated Nov 9, 2023.

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The 10 best holiday destinations in August for summer sun

As summer approaches, greater attention will turn to plans with family and friends for that long-awaited trip abroad.

With brighter days, warmer temperatures and the kids off school, August remains a popular choice of month for a summer holiday .

While the UK weather can range from heatwave to downpours, many destinations offer near-uninterrupted sun along with more manageable daily temperatures.

Some places are best avoided at the height of summer, such as Seville , where temperatures can regularly hit 40C. Nevertheless, there are plenty of enticing destinations where August is the perfect month for a holiday, whether you’re looking at being active or just lying on a sun lounger.

From a Greek island to the Portuguese coast, Italian lakes to a Columbian city, here are some destinations that are sure to inspire your August summer holiday.

Crete, Greece

• Average temperature in August: 29C
• Hours of sunshine per day: 11

With an average temperature just under 30C and just under 12 hours of sunshine per day, August in Crete offers a more pleasant and temperate experience than nearby Corfu or mainland Greece . The largest and most populous of the Greek islands, Crete is a mountainous island as famed for its historical importance (think of the Minoans) as it is for its beaches.

Tourists can visit the capital, Heraklion, to see a stunning old harbour, Venetian architecture and the ruins of the (alleged) oldest city in the world, Knossos. Alternatively, go to Chania for another scenic harbour, colourful buildings and beautiful beaches. Other towns, such as Rethymno, are less touched by tourism for those hoping for more of an “authentic” experience of Greece.

Read more on Europe travel :

• Why this European island is perfect for an ‘inbetweeners’ holiday
• The best spas in Eastern Europe for an affordable, yet luxurious, break
• The lesser-known Croatia destinations you may not have considered

Nice, France

• Average temperature in August:  28C
• Hours of sunshine per day: 10

One of the most famous cities on the French Riviera, Nice has long been a tourist destination. Queen Victoria was known to have visited several times, while other visits from European aristocracy in the 18th and 19th centuries contributed to its establishment as a fashionable destination.

Today, Nice stands out as one of the more accessible and affordable places in southern France and was recently awarded status as a Unesco World Heritage site in 2021. With several plazas, its own beach (and the famous Promenade des Anglais), a picturesque port and buzzing nightlife, Nice’s high-end reputation has morphed into being a city with something for everyone.

Valencia, Spain

• Average temperature in August: 31C

Spain ’s third city has enjoyed a rise in popularity with foreign tourists in recent years. Offering miles of golden sand, warm sea and the guarantee of heat and sun, it also contains an extensive old town that is lined with cobbled streets, a range of quality restaurants, hole-in-the-wall bars and independent shops.

Three impressive plazas and a stunning cathedral form the focal point of the city, while the beaches of Malvarrosa and Patacona are home to dozens of cafes, beach bars, excellent (often paella-led) restaurants, football and volleyball pitches, and dozens of happy locals. Attractions include the City of Arts and Sciences (and its aquarium), the 12km Turia Gardens and the Holy Chalice, supposedly used by Jesus during the Last Supper.

Read more: Where to stay and what to do in Valencia, Spain’s laid-back coastal city

Dubrovnik, Croatia

• Average temperature in August: 30C

Perched tantalisingly close to the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik is the seaside gem of Croatia . While more recently famous for being the filming location for Game of Thrones , the Old Town, encircled by 16th-century walls, is replete with Baroque and Gothic architecture, impressive squares and limestone streets.

Visitors can walk along some sections of the walls before taking in several medieval buildings, such as the clock tower or cathedral. Though pebbly in places, the beaches offer great access into the azure waters of the Adriatic and also house – along with the Old Town – a good portion of the city’s nightlife.

British Colombia, Canada

• Average temperature in August: 21C

Although cooler than some summer getaways, August is the perfect month to visit one of Canada ’s most beautiful provinces. Home to the city of Vancouver, part of the Canadian Rockies and incredible forests and lakes, British Colombia is best experienced in summer when the full range of outdoor activities is possible.

The cooler temperatures allow for getting out and about in any of the seven national parks, where you can swim, hike, fish, cycle and kayak to your heart’s content. If you prefer, visit Vancouver – the third largest city in the country – or go to Whistler; even outside of ski season, the famous resort town provides plenty of natural beauty and opportunities for physical activities. Parts of the province receive up to seven days of rain during August, but you can seize this opportunity to see stunning areas of natural beauty in different conditions.

Algarve, Portugal

A popular destination for Brits, visit the Algarve for rugged, golden beaches, picturesque towns, and blue seas and skies. This slither of southern Portugal has several amazing locations for sun in August, with its temperate Mediterranean climate meaning it often stays cooler than other places in the country.

Faro, the region’s capital, contains the main airport and also offers cobbled streets, neoclassical architecture and nearby green spaces. Albufeira, 46km away, is one of the most popular beach and party towns in the area, with rocky cliffs, hidden coves and several adventure activities. Lagos offers similar with regard to beaches but with a more calm and relaxed atmosphere. Tavira and Silves provide a similar range of activities and beaches as well as scenic Old Towns.

Medellin, Colombia

While many nearby destinations are coming out of (or are in the middle of) winter in August, Medellin’s location (just over 400 miles north of the equator) means that August temperatures remain high.

Nicknamed “The City of Eternal Spring” due to its good weather, the city was once more famous for drug production than as a tourist destination. However, the sprawling city set in the mountains of Antioquia has improved enormously in recent years, with recent advances in transport and infrastructure saw it named as the most innovative city in the world by the Urban Land Institute. It now holds a reputation as a clean, thriving and safe city, with several features – such as its wildlife setting, extensive metro system, and cable cars – contributing to the city becoming a “hipster holiday destination”.

Ljubljana, Slovenia

• Average temperature in August: 27C

The Slovenian capital is another city that has become somewhat of a hipster destination in recent years, for good reason. With the river and medieval castle as focal points, the city offers several lesser-known cultural attractions and plenty of opportunities to learn about the region’s often understudied history. The city is home to several excellent bars and restaurants (both on the riverside and further into town). Those looking to combine an urban break with some rural escapism can pair a visit with a trip to Lake Bled, a lakeside town just an hour from the capital. Its idyllic setting and small size make for an easy spot to relax and unwind by the water.

Trincomalee, Sri Lanka

• Average temperature in August: 34C
• Hours of sunshine per day: 9

Anyone looking to travel further may want to head to the Indian Ocean. The weather in Sri Lanka varies quite dramatically throughout the island, but August presents an excellent opportunity to visit the north.

Jaffna might offer the taste of a city and Wilpattu National Park is home to the natural beauty of lakes, but Trincomalee provides both – with the addition of scenic port and beach areas. Gokarna Bay is known for its white sand, while the city itself is home to historic Hindu temples such as Koneswaram and Bhadrakali Amman. If the beaches don’t take your fancy, you can head to nearby Kanniya and visit the hot springs.

Milan and the Lakes, Italy

• Average temperature in August:  29C
• Hours of sunshine per day : 8

Famous as a fashion capital, Milan is one of the most accessible cities in Italy due to the number of daily flights from the UK. In summer, it receives fewer tourists than southern destinations and is often far cooler, with its average temperatures of 29C ensuring it’s still a smart summer choice.

While the city itself has a plethora of cultural, historical, architectural and leisure attractions, the nearby lakes of Como, Maggiore and Garda can be reached by direct train services (journeys take between 40 minutes to just over an hour) and offer more picturesque views with a lakeside setting. While prior planning may be needed to minimise some of the costs, the opportunity to bask in the lakeside sun just before ordering your risotto may be too good for some to turn down.

Read more: Best hotels in Europe – where to stay for a city, beach or retreat break

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Monday Jun 10, 2024

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Sri Lanka among ‘3 Must-Visit Travel Destinations for Summer 2024’

Monday, 10 June 2024 01:59 -     - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Fishermen on stilts at the sunset, Sri Lanka GETTY

Sri Lanka has been recognised as one of the ‘3 Must — Visit Travel Destinations for Summer 2024’ by a specialist contributor to the prestigious Forbes magazine.  Alongside Paros in Greece and Mauritius, Sri Lanka was highlighted for offering unique and compelling travel experiences. “Sri Lanka, another island country floating in the Indian Ocean, is a land of verdant highlands and stunning beaches. Its appeal is a blend of surf and wellness cultures, similar to Bali before its boom in popularity and resulting over-tourism,” said an article contributed by travel and business professional Kathleen Peddicord in the Forbes magazine.  It added that the island nation is praised for its blend of surf and wellness cultures, with numerous centres for yoga, reiki and breath-work emerging in recent years; with notable wellness retreats such as Kalukanda House and Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort which offer luxury accommodations combined with holistic health practices.

“Sri Lanka is a place for nature lovers, home to 22 national parks, Its Mountains and thick, subtropical jungles support a wide variety of plant and animal species. Visitors catch glimpses of elephants, otters, sloth bears, and elusive leopards on safari. The Pekoe Trail, a 186-mile path that was completed in 2023, takes trekkers through the Central Highlands, including local villages, tea plantations and holy shrines. You can also explore Sri Lanka by train, traveling easy while taking in scenic views and enjoying a unique cultural experience. In the lowlands and along its coastlines, Sri Lanka serves up soft-sand beaches with frothy, surfable waves. There are beach towns with trendy hotels and cocktail bars, as well as quiet strips of untouched sand,” Forbes article described. It noted Mirissa Beach, known for its calm, crystal-clear waters and rock formations, shows up among Tripadvisor’s ‘Best of the Best Beaches’ for 2024.  Forbes article noted that unlike some popular tourist destinations experiencing anti-tourism protests, Sri Lanka is actively seeking to attract more visitors. “Its tourism authority is investing in marketing campaigns to attract more people, while anti-tourism protests heat up in the Canary Islands, Venice, and Amsterdam, among other places,” it added. (https://www.forbes.com/sites/kathleenpeddicord/2024/05/24/3-must-visit-travel-destinations-for-summer-2024/?sh=3e4df0411d16)

Tuesday, 22 Jan 2019 --> Last Updated : 2024-06-10 14:19:00

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Mon, 10 Jun 2024 Today's Paper

United Petroleum Australia to begin Sri Lanka operations by August

5 June 2024 09:13 am - 17     - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

He said that United Petroleum Lanka Pvt Ltd made a deal with Sri Lanka's Board of Investments (BoI). This deal is part of an agreement with the Power and Energy Ministry to supply petroleum products in Sri Lanka.

United Petroleum Australia has created a company in Sri Lanka called United Petroleum Lanka Private Limited.

This company will take over 150 existing gas stations and has permission to build 50 new ones under United's name.

The total investment for this project will be around 300 million USD. To start, they will invest 12 million USD, with plans to invest the rest within a year.

While operating in Sri Lanka, the company does not plan to engage in a price war but will offer various benefits to consumers.

The quality of the petroleum products will match that in Australia, with a strong focus on maintaining high standards.

United Petroleum Australia Pvt Ltd is a top petroleum trading company in Australia, with over 500 gas stations across the country.

United Group also has other businesses in Australia and Singapore, and this is their first time expanding their retail petroleum business outside Australia.

  Comments - 17

Russel Harmmer Wednesday, 05 June 2024 10:05 AM

Really it is a good move. Thanks to Ranil.

Reply 0       0 0       0 -->

Vijith Pieterz Wednesday, 05 June 2024 10:07 AM

Very good China, India and Australia will prove that they can do a better job than CPC. Hats off RW

Smh Wednesday, 05 June 2024 10:27 AM

Seems like a good move if the details have no weird clauses.

Sell all for Easy Life Wednesday, 05 June 2024 10:38 AM

Colonial mentality creeping in, hail any assets given out

Gen Wednesday, 05 June 2024 11:42 AM

I recommend you could use the internet and check how countries like Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam have progress. NPP/JVP will never understand this.

Reply : 0       0 -->

wsw Wednesday, 05 June 2024 11:51 AM

Short sighted comment, lacking depth or substance. Where does colonialism creep in for an initiative that; a) saves the nation valuable foreign exchange, b) Improves the quality of the service stations and products, c) protects the consumer from the pitfalls of dealing with a (corrupt) monopoly, d) Compels the local entity to lift their game and aim towards profitability, e) Helps turn overstaffed loss making liabilities into assets of the nation regardless of being foreign owned or leased, f) Boosts the image of the nation in terms of product servicing and worldwide market confidence, the list goes on.

DPerera Wednesday, 05 June 2024 03:36 PM

You want JVP trade unionists to run CPC petrol stations?

Mani Wednesday, 05 June 2024 10:51 AM

RW has a vision to take this country to the next phase

TIME WILL TELL Wednesday, 05 June 2024 04:53 PM

DREAM ON MANI. DID YOU MEAN TAKE HIS OWN POLITICAL VISION TO ANOTHER STAGE!!

Ruben Wednesday, 05 June 2024 11:21 AM

Excellent move forigen investment what sri lanka need with foriegn managment our fellows have Ruined all sectors by corruption bribery theft mismanagement

Sri Wickrema Wednesday, 05 June 2024 12:30 PM

If the Government or CPC is still going to decide petroleum prices there is no point of allowing foreign oil companies to operate here.

Dinesh Mr. Withanage Wednesday, 05 June 2024 04:20 PM

By dissolving CPC monopoly don't the country's foreign reserves exhaust? Do these companies spend their own Dollar reserves?

kaputa Wednesday, 05 June 2024 06:24 PM

currently 500 station and adding 250 more in Sri lanka. simply by doing this they increased its operational capacity by 50 % , wow ... price per one liter in sri lanka approx 0.20 USD higher than Ausi price.

Sambo Thursday, 06 June 2024 07:42 AM

The ministry of petroleum was boasting that when foreign countries takes over the distribution of petroleum due to competition the prices will come down. Has that happened so far. They are all following the CEYPETCO oil pricing,

Vic Thursday, 06 June 2024 02:20 PM

What is the benefit to the country? all are going to sell at the same price. At least CPC's profits will be in Sri Lanka. but the other's????

sunil Friday, 07 June 2024 11:48 AM

CPC either reform and detradeunionize or perish

ajith Friday, 07 June 2024 11:49 AM

waiting for the day Srilankan Airlines will see such a change

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Alleged car break-in and passport theft at NW Harris Co. park strands couple: 'We can't travel'

HARRIS COUNTY, Texas (KTRK) -- A couple visiting from Sri Lanka cannot leave the country after their passports were stolen at a northwest Harris County park.

Thusitha Wickramarachichi said his parents were visiting him and his 16-month-old daughter.

"They were excited, and then we were planning some cruises and all that," he said.

But all their plans were halted on Saturday. He said his parents were watching him play cricket at Matzke Park near Jones and Grant roads when a thief broke into his truck and stole a purse containing their passports.

"I usually do, but that day, I did not check with them to see if they had their passports in their bags," Wickramarachichi said.

Surveillance cameras on the car parked next to his truck captured the theft, and the Harris County Sheriff's Office said the footage could be useful in tracking down the thief.

The video shows a man in orange sneakers and an orange shirt exiting the backseat of a black car. He crouches down as he makes his way to the truck and then appears to use some tool to make a hole in the window.

"It took only five seconds," Wickramarachichi said.

Without passports, his parents are unable to leave the country. He said they're waiting on documents from Sri Lanka to begin applying for new passports, which he said would take four months.

"Now we can't do cruises, we can't travel, none of that," he said.

They also won't be able to make their July flight home.

Anyone who recognizes the man in the video is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.

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