Sri Lanka weather

Our guide to the weather in Sri Lanka during December

31

Average high

7

UV Index

223mm

Monthly rainfall

29

Sea temperature

Sri Lanka is a diverse and vibrant destination, offering a wealth of cultural and natural attractions. December is a great time to visit, with plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures. We've looked at the most up-to-date weather data for Sri Lanka, covering the last 12 years up to 2024, plus we've asked our team of travel bloggers for their first-hand experiences in order to answer the most frequently asked questions about Sri Lanka weather in December.

How hot is it in Sri Lanka during December?

Expect heat in Sri Lanka during December. The temperature hits about 31℃ during the day, falling away to a balmy 24℃ at night. Of course, the high humidity will make it feel even hotter. The UV index will be high at this time of year, so protection against skin and eye damage is needed. Try to limit exposure between 10am and 4pm. Apply broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every few hours, even if it's cloudy, or more frequently after sweating or swimming, and wear UV-blocking sunglasses too, and bear in mind that bright surfaces, such as sand and water increase UV exposure.

Does it rain in Sri Lanka during December?

On average, there will be 12 rainy days during the month, amounting to 223.1mm in total. That's a lot of rain. For comparison, the wettest months in the UK typically sees between 80mm and 100mm, depending on where you are. Due to the high temperature and humidity, you might expect lots of thunderstorms, however they're actually fairly infrequent at this time of year. On average, December will see just 3 days that produce a storm.

Is it windy in Sri Lanka during December?

You're unlikely to experience any strong winds. Expect a light breeze that picks up slightly at times in December. The high humidity and warm temperature will make the breeze feel warm, so any cooling effect will be limted.

How warm is the sea in Sri Lanka during December?

The water around Sri Lanka reaches a very pleasant 29℃ during December. This is very warm, and will feel bath-like. People who normally feel the cold will find this temperature perfectly acceptable. The hot air temperature and relatively high humidity will mean that you will feel comfortably warm when coming out of the water.

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Sri Lanka Blog posts

From the UK's most popular travel bloggers

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This week's successes: 17th March 2024

18th March 2024 by Stuart

It’s been a lucky week for six new winners this week, two of them called Alison... What are the chances? New winners Alison 1 found out she’d won a 10-night Mediterranean cruise with Oceania Cruises: “Didn’t quite believe it at first but absolutely delighted now that it’s been confirmed.” Alison 2 was a winner in Sunday Times’ popular “Where Was I?” competition and will be enjoying a 2-night stay in the Peak District at the Buxton Crescent Ensana Health Spa...

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Three Reasons to take a Cruise to Sri Lanka

10th January 2024 by Pack the PJs

Sri Lanka is a tropical paradise just waiting to be explored, so there’s no wonder that it’s a popular addition to travel bucket lists. With its rich history, diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes, the country offers a combination of attractions that can be hard to find elsewhere. While there are various ways to embark on your Sri Lankan adventure, choosing to visit as part of a cruise can make for an easy and stress-free experience. Without the worry of finding accommodation in each...

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Our 2 week Sri Lanka itinerary: coast to coast with kids 

24th September 2023 by Tin Box Traveller

Looking for inspiration to plan your family's Sri Lanka itinerary? Look no further! Our 2-week adventure takes you from coast to coast, with plenty of exciting activities for the kids. Explore ancient temples, encounter incredible wildlife, relax on stunning beaches, and make sure to schedule some downtime to avoid any meltdowns....

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Diary of an 11 Day Tour of Sri Lanka

21st September 2023 by Pack the PJs

In August, our travel blogger embarked on an unforgettable 11-day journey through the captivating landscapes of Sri Lanka. This extraordinary adventure was meticulously crafted by Luxtripper, ensuring every moment was filled with awe and wonder. Join us as we share our diary, chronicling the highlights of this remarkable escapade....

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Flying SriLankan Airlines to Sri Lanka and the Maldives

21st September 2023 by Pack the PJs

They embarked on their journey to the Maldives by flying with SriLankan Airlines from London Heathrow, with a layover in Sri Lanka. The entire trip consisted of four flights, and here's their honest review of the experience!...

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8 Cultural Gems of Colombo

13th July 2023 by Two Monkey's Travel

Exploring Colombo (now Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte) is a must if you are travelling to Sri Lanka by plane. You will be able to enjoy the delicious seafood cuisine, beautiful culture and friendly hospitality of the locals. Furthermore, getting there is not difficult. You can easily travel there and have a wonderful time using Srilankan......

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9 Best Waterfalls in Sri Lanka

8th March 2023 by The World in My Pocket

The picturesque island nation of Sri Lanka is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes. Swimming in the waterfalls of Sri Lanka should be at the top of your list of things to do! The verdant rainforest in the mountainous centre of the country conceals a plethora of remarkable waterfalls. In fact, Sri Lanka is home to some of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world, ranging from the majestic Bambarakanda Falls to the awe-inspiring Diy...

Weather in Sri Lanka

Our month-by-month guide to the weather and climate in Sri Lanka

31.3

Sri Lanka weather in

January
32.1

Sri Lanka weather in

February
32.3

Sri Lanka weather in

March
31.9

Sri Lanka weather in

April
30.5

Sri Lanka weather in

May
29.1

Sri Lanka weather in

June
28.9

Sri Lanka weather in

July
28.9

Sri Lanka weather in

August
29.2

Sri Lanka weather in

September
29.9

Sri Lanka weather in

October
30.3

Sri Lanka weather in

November
30.5

Sri Lanka weather in

December