Weather in Sri Lanka in May

Planning that much awaited  spring holiday to Sri Lanka, but unsure of the complex weather pattern? Well, here’s a detailed description of the weather in Sri Lanka in May to help draft the perfect itinerary. May, unlike the first few months of the year, is off season along the touristy South coast of Sri Lanka.

The island receives rainfall from two monsoon winds – Yala monsoon and Maha monsoon. Winds blowing from the Indian Ocean and Bay of Bengal, bring rains to the south and south west coastline of the country. This region is best avoided in the months between May to September. The plus point though, would be the opportunity to explore the untouristed and rather quiet East coast of Sri Lanka. Just as happening and developed as the south coast beaches but still unexplored. For a peaceful escape, this is your go to destination.

Luxury hotels at affordable rates is another added benefit of travelling to the South coast this time of the year. The cultural triangle including the ancient capital city of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and Kandy are also open to tourists. Despite the scorching heat and high temperatures travellers continue to flock to this region of the island. May to September is also a great time to explore the Hill country region of Sri Lanka. With low temperatures and a pleasant weather, the Hill country is perfect for some great treks like Ella Rock and Adams Peak.

The picturesque Hill Country region in Sri Lanka offers some great treks and is a complete treat to the eyes.

South and West coast of Sri Lanka in May

Popular beach destinations like Unawatuna and Mirissa and the famous cities of Galle and Colombo, all lie along this coast. Given that the first winds of the Yala monsoons hit this coast in the month of May, it is best avoided. For sun chasers and adventure enthusiasts, we’d recommend you steer clear off this coast. On the other hand, if you’re looking for some down time and pampering at one of the many luxury hotels, this is the right time to head here. Being off season, accommodation will definitely not take a toll on your pocket and you’re guaranteed a relaxed staycation.

The south and west coast of Sri Lanka experiences rainfall in the month of May. However, it’s a great time for a staycation in one of the luxury hotels available at lower rates than usual. 

East and North-East coast of Sri Lanka in May

The scenic East coast is usually overlooked, not being as popular among tourists. The East coast though is the perfect blend of beautiful beaches, chic hotels, national parks, cultural sites and exciting adventure water sports. The yala monsoons are a great time to explore this region where tourists are few and the ambience is peaceful. If you’re looking to simply relax by the beach head to the beach town of Trincomalee. Here you can explore the beaches of Uppuveli and Nilaveli. Enjoy a good dive or snorkelling experience along the coast at multiple dive sites in and around Nilaveli. For some thrill, head to Arugam Bay for some of the best surfs.

May is a great time for water sports along the East coast. Arugam Bay is a famous surfing destination, ideal for all the thrill seekers. 

The Hill Country and Cultural Triangle in May

If you’re looking for some good deals, Spring is the slowest time for tourism in the cultural triangle region. The advantage is discounted rates for hotels and activities, making it a great time to visit. Humidity and high temperatures are not entirely suitable to explore the ancient cities all through the day. The one way to beat the heat would be to get an early start on the day and break by noon when temperatures are highest. Multiple day trips can also be made from this region to the east coast or to Minneriya national park, This helps escape the high temperatures and overhead sun. 

Temperatures in the Hill country region in the month of May are a lot cooler than rest of the country. Despite occasional downpours, May is still a great time to visit this region. The weather is pleasant, rainfall is minimal and it is a great time to embark on some of the breathtaking treks in this region. It is also a great time to hike to one of the many waterfalls.

The Hill Country region should definitely be on your list if you plan a trip to Sri Lanka in May. 

National Parks of Sri Lanka in May

May is a great time to visit the National parks for a wildlife photographer or simply a wildlife enthusiast or bird watching enthusiasts. You’re likely to spot leopards and elephants or rare birdlife species. The chances of spotting animals may be less as compared to the dry months between December to March, but the experience is worth it. And though exotic birds migrate to Sri Lanka only after August, you still may spot some diverse national birdlife. The best national parks to visit in this season are Yala, Bundalla, Minneriya and Udawalawe national park. 

Spotting the diverse and rare birdlife species in the National Parks of Sri Lanka is one of the best things to do in the month of May. 

To sum it up

May may not be the best month to visit this island country for someone looking to explore all the regions and all that it has to offer. But the cool pleasant weather in most parts, the reduced crowds and great deals on accommodations are definitely a plus point if you plan on travelling to Sri Lanka in May. The weather in Sri Lanka in May has it;s fair set of disadvantages. But making the most of the advantages is what we’re her to help you with.