Planning to visit Sri Lanka in December? Check our guide on weather, best places to visit & travel tips.
Why Visit Sri Lanka in December?
December is considered the start of the peak travel season in Sri Lanka. It is true especially along the southern and western coasts. The weather is warm and welcoming, beaches are pristine, and the festive atmosphere adds charm. It is a month that offers a perfect blend of relaxation, culture, and adventure.
- Perfect Time for Beach Holidays: Western and southern beaches like Mirissa, Hikkaduwa, and Unawatuna bask in sunshine with minimal rain.
- Festive Celebrations: December sees the fusion of local traditions with global festivities—Christmas, New Year, and local events make cities lively.
- Wildlife and Nature: National parks like Yala and Udawalawe are open, with great visibility for wildlife spotting due to dry conditions.
- Cultural Richness: With drier weather in cultural hotspots like Kandy and Dambulla, temple visits and heritage tours are more comfortable.
Sri Lanka Weather in December: What to Expect
Sri Lanka experiences two monsoon seasons: the northeast (October to January) and the southwest (May to September). December falls in the inter-monsoon period, with the northeast still affecting the eastern and northern parts, while the south and west dry up and shine.
Temperature:
- Coastal regions (Colombo, Galle): 25°C–31°C
- Hill country (Kandy, Ella, Nuwara Eliya): 12°C–25°C
- North/East (Jaffna, Trincomalee): 26°C–32°C, with chances of rainfall
Regional Weather Highlights:
- Southwest Coast: Sun-soaked and perfect for beach activities.
- Hill Country: Misty mornings and cool nights. Carry warm clothing.
- East and North: Rain is less, popular with tourists during this time.
Humidity & Rainfall:
- Humidity averages around 70–80%.
- Sudden short showers are possible even in drier regions, usually in late afternoons or evenings.
Sea Conditions:
- Southwest beaches enjoy calmer seas—ideal for snorkeling, diving, and whale watching.
- The eastern coast can be rough and is usually not recommended in December.
Best 5 Places to Visit in Sri Lanka in December
December is one of the best months to explore Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes. From golden beaches to lush highlands, it is all touristy. The southwest and central regions shine because of dry, sunny days and pleasant nights.
Galle
Why Visit in December:
December is peak season in Galle, with ideal beach weather and minimal rainfall. The historic city shines under clear blue skies, and its charming old streets come alive with holiday festivities.
Highlights:
- Galle Fort: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Galle Fort is a 17th-century Dutch fortress filled with colonial architecture, museums, boutiques, and charming cafes. You can walk along the ramparts at sunset for stunning ocean views.
- Festive Vibes: During December, Galle Fort is beautifully decorated for Christmas. Enjoy carolers, seasonal food menus, and festive window displays in art galleries and stores.
- Nearby Beaches: Just outside Galle, you will find picturesque beaches like Jungle Beach and Unawatuna—best for swimming and snorkeling.
Mirissa
Why Visit in December:
Mirissa has calm waters, and marine life is abundant in December. Thus, making it one of the popular spots in Asia for whale watching. The small town also offers golden beaches, relaxed vibes, and great seafood.
Highlights:
- Whale Watching: December marks the start of the whale watching season, which runs until April. Blue whales and sperm whales are spotted regularly just a few kilometers offshore.
- Relaxed Beach Life: Mirissa Beach is ideal for sunbathing, surfing, or sipping cocktails at beachfront cafes.
- Secret Beach & Parrot Rock: Explore hidden coves or climb the Parrot Rock for a panoramic view of the coastline.
Kandy
Why Visit in December:
December offers pleasant daytime temperatures and cool evenings in Kandy. The city, nestled among misty hills, is both spiritually significant and historically rich.
Highlights:
- Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri DaladaMaligawa): One of Sri Lanka’s holiest Buddhist sites, this temple houses a sacred relic of the Buddha. Visit during the evening “puja” (prayer) ceremonies for a spiritual experience.
- Kandy Lake & Royal Botanical Gardens: Take a lakeside stroll or visit Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, which are especially vibrant in December.
- Cultural Shows & Museums: Enjoy traditional Kandyan dance performances or explore the city’s many cultural museums.
Festive Note:
While Kandy is predominantly Buddhist, Christmas and New Year’s are celebrated modestly in some parts of the city, particularly in hotels and guesthouses.
Travel Tip:
Use Kandy as a base to explore the cultural triangle or continue on to Nuwara Eliya and Ella by train for an unforgettable scenic journey.
Ella
Why Visit in December:
Ella’s crisp mountain weather is perfect in December—ideal for hiking, sightseeing, and relaxing. Lush green hills contrast beautifully with clear blue skies, and the crowds are manageable before the Christmas rush.
Highlights:
- Nine Arch Bridge: An architectural marvel surrounded by tea plantations. Visit around 6:00–6:30 AM to catch a train crossing the bridge in soft morning light.
- Ella Rock & Little Adam’s Peak: Hike through tea fields and forests to reach stunning viewpoints with minimal difficulty.
- Ravana Falls & Caves: Explore these natural wonders, both linked to the Ramayana legend.
Atmosphere:
Ella has a relaxed, backpacker-friendly vibe with boutique guesthouses, yoga classes, and cafes serving fresh local and Western food. December evenings are cool and often accompanied by bonfires.
Bentota
Why Visit in December:
If you are looking for both relaxation and adventure, Bentota in December is amazing. Located just a couple of hours from Colombo, Bentota offers luxury beachfront resorts and plenty of family-friendly activities.
Highlights:
- Beach Relaxation: Enjoy sunbathing on long stretches of golden sand, with calm waves perfect for swimming and lounging.
- Water Sports Hub: Try jet skiing, banana boating, water skiing, or windsurfing in the calm lagoon. It is also a wonderful place for river safaris on the Bentota Ganga.
- Brief Garden & Turtle Hatcheries: Visit the beautiful estate of artist Bevis Bawa or support marine conservation by touring local turtle hatcheries.
Festive Bonus:
Many resorts host grand Christmas Eve dinners and New Year’s Eve parties with fireworks, buffets, and music.
You can also visit Nuwara Eliya, Colombo, Hikkaduwa, and Yala National Park.
Top 5 Things to Do in Sri Lanka in December
In December, Sri Lanka is a tropical paradise of blue skies, golden beaches, and misty mountains. The month begins as a peak travel season in the southern and western regions. It also offers the perfect blend of sunshine and cultural richness. Whether you are an adventurer, a beach lover, or a spiritual seeker, here are the top r things to do in Sri Lanka in December.
Go Whale Watching in Mirissa
Why in December:
December is the official start of the whale-watching season along Sri Lanka’s southern coast. The seas around Mirissa are among the best places in the world to see blue whales, sperm whales, and dolphins.
What to Expect:
Tours typically start early in the morning (around 6:00 AM) and last 3–5 hours. Boats take you a few kilometers off the coast, where marine life thrives. In addition to whales, you might spot flying fish, turtles, and playful pods of spinner dolphins.
Best Time to Go:
From December to April, with calmer seas and more frequent sightings.
Tips:
- Choose eco-conscious operators who follow ethical guidelines.
- Carry motion sickness tablets if you’re prone to seasickness.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a camera with a zoom lens.
Take the Scenic Train Ride from Kandy to Ella
Why in December:
The route between Kandy and Ella is often described as one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world—and December’s clear skies and lush greenery make it even more picturesque.
What to Expect:
The 6–7 hours ride weaves through emerald tea plantations, cloud-covered mountains, cascading waterfalls, and rural villages. Every turn offers a postcard-worthy view.
Tips:
- Book tickets in advance—especially in December, when trains are in high demand.
- For the best photos, grab a spot near an open doorway or window (only in non-AC classes).
Explore the Galle Fort and Its Coastal Surroundings
Why in December:
Galle enjoys warm, sunny days in December, perfect for walking tours and beach explorations. The Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit for history lovers and culture seekers.
What to Expect:
Stroll along centuries-old ramparts, visit colonial churches, browse art galleries, and sip coffee in stylish cafes. The atmosphere is festive during Christmas, with holiday decorations, boutique shopping, and candlelit dinners.
Key Attractions:
- Dutch Reformed Church & Maritime Museum
- Galle Lighthouse
- Old Gate & Clock Tower
Nearby Beaches:
- Unawatuna: Great for swimming and sunbathing.
- Jungle Beach: A short hike through the forest leads to this hidden gem.
Enjoy Watersports and Beach Fun on the Southern Coast
Why in December:
The southern coast—from Hikkaduwa to Bentota—is sun-drenched and buzzing with life in December. The calm seas and warm weather make it the best time of year for water-based adventures.
Top Activities:
- Surfing: Weligama and Hikkaduwa are beginner-friendly surf spots with board rentals and instructors.
- Snorkeling and Diving: Explore coral reefs and shipwrecks, especially near Hikkaduwa.
- Jet skiing, banana boating, and windsurfing: Bentota is a hub for adrenaline-fueled water fun.
- River Safaris: Glide through the mangroves of the Madu River and spot birds, monkeys, and water monitors.
Visit Tea Plantations in Nuwara Eliya or Haputale
Why in December:
Cooler highlands offer a welcome break from the coastal heat, and tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya, Haputale, and Ella are stunning this time of year. The crisp December air and morning mists give the landscape a magical quality.
What to Expect:
Wander through rolling green tea estates, learn about tea processing at local factories, and sip freshly brewed Ceylon tea overlooking valleys.
Recommended Plantations:
- Pedro Tea Estate (Nuwara Eliya)
- Dambatenne Tea Factory (Haputale)
- Uva Halpewatte Tea Factory (Ella)
Activities:
- Guided plantation walks and factory tours
- Tea tastings with panoramic views
- Interactions with local tea pluckers
December Festivals & Events in Sri Lanka
- Christmas Celebrations
- Although not a predominantly Christian country, Sri Lanka celebrates Christmas with lights, music, and festive menus in major cities and resorts.
- Colombo and Negombo have elaborate displays and midnight mass services.
- Unduvap Full Moon Poya Day
- Celebrates the arrival of SanghamittaTheri, who brought the Bodhi Tree sapling.
- Buddhist temples host special rituals and religious events.
- New Year’s Eve Celebrations
- Hotels and beach clubs host grand parties and firework shows.
- Galle, Mirissa, and Colombo are party hotspots.
Travel Tips for Sri Lanka in December
- Book Early
- December is peak season—flights, trains, and hotels fill up fast.
- Make bookings at least 4–6 weeks in advance.
- What to Wear
- Light cotton clothing for the coast.
- Warmer layers for the hill country.
- Modest attire for temples.
- Getting Around
- Use trains for scenic routes, especially in the hill country.
- Tuk-tuks for short distances; agree on fare beforehand.
- Private drivers offer comfort and flexibility for longer journeys.
- Health & Safety
- Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.
- Mosquito repellent is essential in the evenings.
- Money & Connectivity
- Carry some cash—ATMs aren’t always available in remote areas.
- Buy a local SIM card for internet and navigation.
Consider this article as your guide for Sri Lanka in December. There are multiple places to visit and a number of activities to do. Choose what excites you the most.
Contact Ceylon Empire Travels the best travel agents in Sri Lanka to visit in Sri Lanka in December.
FAQs
Is December a good time to visit Sri Lanka?
Yes, December is a perfect time to visit Sri Lanka. You get sunny skies, great beaches, and festive events.
Where is the best weather in Sri Lanka in December?
The southern and western coasts (Galle, Bentota, Mirissa) enjoy dry and sunny weather. The hillside of the country is cool and misty but mostly dry.
What should I pack for Sri Lanka in December?
Pack lightweight clothing, swimwear, and flip-flops for the coast, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
Editorial Staff at Ceylon Empire Travels are Specialist in Sri Lanka Travel.
