Planning a holiday in Sri Lanka in December is one of the best travel choices you can make. With pleasant weather, stunning beaches, cultural heritage, wildlife safaris, and year-end festivities, the island offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re a couple looking for a romantic getaway, a family planning a cultural trip, or a solo traveler chasing adventure, Sri Lanka in December has something for everyone.
Weather in Sri Lanka in December
December marks the peak dry season in the west, south, and central parts of Sri Lanka. This means the island’s most popular destinations—Colombo, Galle, Bentota, Kandy, and Nuwara Eliya—are at their best during this time.
Temperature: 23°C – 31°C. Warm but comfortable.
Rainfall: Very low in the west and south, slightly higher in the north and east as the monsoon retreats.
Humidity: Moderate to high, balanced by refreshing sea breezes along the coast.
Why this matters for travelers:
You’ll get sunny beach days, clear skies for cultural sightseeing, and cooler evenings in the central hills—making it the best time to visit Sri Lanka. Travelers can enjoy everything from whale watching in Mirissa to exploring Kandy’s heritage without worrying about rain.
What to Wear in Sri Lanka in December
Packing right is essential for a comfortable Sri Lanka trip in December. Since the days are warm and the evenings cooler, versatile clothing is best.
Daywear: Lightweight cotton T-shirts, shorts, sundresses, and breathable linens are perfect for sightseeing and beach days.
Beachwear: Swimsuits, sarongs, and flip-flops for coastal areas like Bentota, Mirissa, and Unawatuna.
Evenings: Light jackets or shawls are handy in the hills (Kandy, Nuwara Eliya) where nights get cooler.
Temples & Cultural Sites: Modest clothing is required—cover shoulders and knees when visiting places like the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy.
Travel Tip: Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, a wide-brim hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent (especially for safaris). Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring forts, temples, and tea plantations.
Why Visit Sri Lanka in December?
Perfect Weather: December offers warm sunshine with little rain, making it great for beaches, sightseeing, and outdoor adventures.
Whale Watching Season: December is the start of peak whale-watching in Mirissa, where you can spot blue whales and dolphins.
Festive Celebrations: Christmas and New Year bring a special vibe with decorated streets, beach parties, and cultural shows.
Ideal for All Travelers: Families, couples, and solo travelers find Sri Lanka welcoming, safe, and budget-friendly.
Luxury at Good Prices: December is peak season, but travelers can still find boutique stays, affordable tours, and budget-friendly Sri Lanka packages for a memorable holiday.
Top 5 Destinations to Visit in Sri Lanka in December
1. Colombo
Colombo is the vibrant capital and a must-stop on your Sri Lanka December trip. The city is lively with Christmas decorations, festive markets, and cool seaside evenings. Families can enjoy museums and shopping malls, couples love the sunset walks along Galle Face Green, and foodies can explore authentic Sri Lankan street food. December makes Colombo even more inviting with pleasant temperatures and cultural festivals.
Things to Do in Colombo:
Shop at Pettah Market and Arcade Independence Square
Stroll along Galle Face Green at sunset
Visit the Colombo National Museum
Top Attractions in Colombo: Galle Face Green, Pettah Market, Independence Square, National Museum
Travel Tip: Use tuk-tuks with meters for short city rides—they’re fun, quick, and affordable.
2. Galle
Galle is a mix of colonial charm and tropical beauty, making it one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka in December. The 17th-century Dutch Fort is a UNESCO site, while boutique cafes and coastal walks make it a favorite for couples. Families can enjoy its calm beaches, and the cooler December evenings are perfect for exploring its cobbled streets.
Things to Do in Galle:
Top Attractions in Galle: Galle Fort, Unawatuna Beach, Maritime Museum, Galle Lighthouse
Travel Tip: Stay overnight inside Galle Fort for a unique cultural and historical experience.
3. Kandy
Kandy is the cultural capital and a highlight of any Sri Lanka trip in December. Surrounded by misty hills, Kandy is home to the famous Temple of the Tooth and scenic lakeside views. Families enjoy cultural performances, couples love the romantic hill settings, and solo travelers can immerse themselves in heritage. December’s mild weather makes it especially enjoyable.
Things to Do in Kandy:
Top Attractions in Kandy: Temple of the Tooth, Kandy Lake, Royal Botanical Gardens
Travel Tip: Visit the Temple of the Tooth early morning for fewer crowds and a peaceful atmosphere.
4. Nuwara Eliya
Known as “Little England,” Nuwara Eliya is a charming hill station, perfect for a Sri Lanka December getaway. With tea plantations, colonial-style buildings, and cool mountain weather, it’s a total contrast to the tropical beaches. Families can enjoy tea estate tours, while couples find romance in the misty landscapes. December makes the town crisp and scenic, with lush green plantations at their best.
Things to Do in Nuwara Eliya:
Top Attractions in Nuwara Eliya: Gregory Lake, Hakgala Gardens, Pedro Tea Estate
Travel Tip: Pack warm layers—nights can get chilly in December.
5. Mirissa
If you’re planning a Sri Lanka trip in December, Mirissa should be on your list. It’s famous for whale watching, with blue whales and dolphins spotted during this season. The beaches are perfect for relaxation by day and beach parties at night, making it ideal for both families and young travelers. Couples love the romantic sunsets and laid-back vibe.
Things to Do in Mirissa:
Top Attractions in Mirissa: Mirissa Beach, Parrot Rock, Coconut Tree Hill
Travel Tip: Book your whale watching tours in advance—December is peak season and tours fill quickly.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Sri Lanka in December offers the perfect mix of sunshine, culture, and adventure. From Colombo’s festive vibe to Galle’s colonial beauty, Kandy’s culture, Nuwara Eliya’s hills, and Mirissa’s whale watching, every destination is at its best this month. The weather is ideal, the activities are plenty, and the experiences are unforgettable.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Visiting Sri Lanka in December
1. Is Sri Lanka expensive in December?
No, Sri Lanka is not expensive in December compared to many other tourist destinations. While hotel and flight prices are slightly higher during peak season, the island is still considered affordable. Food, local transport, and activities remain budget-friendly, making Sri Lanka one of the best value destinations in Asia.
2. Which month not to visit Sri Lanka?
The worst months to visit Sri Lanka are during heavy monsoon periods—May to September in the southwest and October to November in the northeast. Rainfall is high, making beaches less enjoyable and outdoor sightseeing difficult.
3. Why is December the best time to visit Sri Lanka?
December is the best time to visit Sri Lanka because the weather is dry and sunny in most regions. It’s perfect for beach holidays, cultural sightseeing, safaris, and whale watching, with the bonus of Christmas and New Year celebrations.
4. Is Kandy cold in December?
Yes, Kandy can be cooler in December compared to coastal cities. Daytime temperatures are around 18–22°C, with chilly evenings. A light jacket or shawl is recommended when visiting.
5. How to dress in Sri Lanka in December?
Wear light cotton clothes during the day, swimwear for the beaches, and a light jacket for cooler hill areas like Kandy or Nuwara Eliya. When visiting temples, modest attire is required—cover shoulders and knees.
6. What adventure activities can you do in Sri Lanka in December?
December is perfect for adventure in Sri Lanka. You can go whale watching in Mirissa, surfing in Weligama, hiking in Ella, wildlife safaris in Yala National Park, or white-water rafting in Kitulgala.
7. What are the hidden gems to explore in Sri Lanka in December?
Some hidden gems worth visiting are Jaffna for its unique Tamil culture, Ella for scenic train rides, Kalpitiya for dolphin watching, and Rawan Ella Falls in Nuwara Eliya for offbeat beauty.
8. Is December a good time for safaris in Sri Lanka?
Yes, December is one of the best times for safaris. Parks like Yala and Udawalawe are open with good chances of spotting elephants, leopards, and exotic birds due to the dry season.
9. Can you go surfing in Sri Lanka in December?
Absolutely! The south coast beaches like Weligama and Hikkaduwa have great surfing conditions in December, making it a hotspot for beginners and experienced surfers alike.
10. What are the best places to visit in Sri Lanka with family in December?
Families visiting Sri Lanka in December can enjoy Colombo for shopping and cultural shows, Kandy for heritage and scenic walks, Bentota for safe beaches, and Yala National Park for wildlife safaris. The weather is perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing with kids.
11. What are the best places for couples in Sri Lanka in December?
Couples love Galle for its colonial charm, Mirissa for romantic sunsets and whale watching, and Nuwara Eliya for cozy hill station vibes. December’s cool evenings and festive mood make it one of the best times for a honeymoon in Sri Lanka.