If you're looking for up-to-date information to plan your dream trip to Sri Lanka, you're in the right place.

I'm Alice, a tropical entrepreneur with a deep love for Asia. Read more about my story.

I've been living in Sri Lanka since 2021, when Stefano and I left everything behind to go in search of our island. Today, I can finally say we've found it. I live in Ahangama, a small village on Sri Lanka’s South Coast, where monkeys swing through the garden and peacocks fly from rooftop to rooftop. Yes, peacocks really do fly — all the way up to the top of the tallest palm trees, where they spend the night. You didn’t know that? Neither did I — and I hope it’s just the first of many curious things you'll discover as you scroll through these pages.

Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka: The Big Question

Whenever someone plans a trip to Sri Lanka, the first thing they ask is: “When’s the best time to visit?” The second one? “Does it rain in August?”

The truth is: there isn’t one answer for everyone. And no — in August, it usually doesn’t rain, at least not on the South Coast of Sri Lanka.

This year, for example, today is September 14th and we’ve barely seen a drop since July 1. Probably the driest two months of 2025 so far.

So yes, there are drier months and wetter ones, but if there’s one thing I’ve learned since moving here it’s that Sri Lanka’s weather is increasingly unpredictable. Each season brings something special.

Traveling to Sri Lanka in Low Season

Visiting Sri Lanka during the low season (or off-season) can completely change the experience:

Lower prices on hotels and flights (sometimes 30–40% less).
Fewer tourists in temples, markets, and beaches.
More availability in the best accommodations, without booking months ahead.
A calmer vibe — ideal for relaxation, slow mornings, and real connection with the island.

In other words: less chaos, more authentic Sri Lanka.

Understanding the Seasons in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka can be visited year-round thanks to its tropical climate:

Average temperatures: 25–30°C on the coast, 15–20°C in the Hill Country.
Two monsoons:
- Yala Monsoon (May–June): rain in the South & West.
- Maha Monsoon (October–January): rain in the North & East.

On paper, you just need to pick the right coast at the right time. In reality? After four years here, I can tell you that the climate no longer follows clear rules.

May and June: usually wet in the South.
October: often rainy across the whole island.
Even in December and January (high season), heavy showers sometimes arrive.

So instead of chasing “perfect weather,” it’s smarter to consider what you really want from your trip: fewer crowds, lower rates, and the chance to slow down.

South Coast Sri Lanka in Low Season

Personally, I love summers here in Ahangama and along the South Coast. The ocean is wilder, the beaches are quieter, the rhythm slows down.

And the sunsets? In low season they are some of the most spectacular: skies painted in pink and orange, without crowds blocking the view. Just you, the ocean, and a few palm silhouettes.

Casa Tikiri: Open All Year

At Casa Tikiri Boutique Hotel and Paddy Lodge, we stay open year-round because we believe Sri Lanka is beautiful in every season.

During low season, we host creative retreats — writing, photography, and wellness — for travelers who want a deeper experience, far from the crowds.

See our upcoming retreats
Thinking of organizing your own? Write to me at hello@casatikiri.com.

Things to Do in Sri Lanka if It Rains

Yes, in low season you might face a sudden tropical shower. But that doesn’t mean your day is ruined. Here’s what I recommend:

An Ayurvedic massage with warm oil.
A local cooking class to learn Sri Lankan recipes.
Reading or journaling with an ocean (or pool) view.

Sustainable Travel: Why Off-Season Matters

Traveling in the off-season is also a more sustainable choice. It:

Supports local businesses throughout the year.
Prevents overtourism in peak months.
Spreads tourism benefits more evenly.

In an island where overtourism is becoming real during high season, choosing the low season means embracing a slower, more conscious way of travel.

FAQ: Traveling to Sri Lanka in Low Season

Is August a good time to visit Sri Lanka?
Yes — on the South Coasts, August is usually dry and sunny. You’ll also find fewer tourists compared to the high season months of December–March.

What is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?
It depends on the coast. The South & West are best from December to April, while the East Coast shines from May to September. But the whole island is worth visiting year-round.

What are the advantages of visiting Sri Lanka in low season?
Lower hotel rates, cheaper flights, empty beaches, and a calmer vibe. It’s also a more sustainable way to travel.

Will it rain a lot in low season?
You may get sudden showers, but the sun usually comes back quickly. Plus, there are plenty of activities to enjoy indoors, from massages to cooking classes.

Sri Lanka in Low Season: Why Off-Season Travel Can Be the Best Choice