Weather in Sri Lanka in July

Plan on travelling to Sri Lanka in July for the holidays? here’s an overview of the weather in Sri Lanka in July. A guide to give you a better understanding about which places to visit and which ones to avoid during this time of the year. Besides looking at the essentials, like getting around the country or visa application procedures, weather is another important factor to account for. The island country of Sri Lanka is pretty much a year-round destination. The south and the south-west coast receive rainfall between April to September. The north-east coast receives rainfall from November to January. The entire country receives rainfall from the inter monsoon winds in the month of October.

The Kandy to Ella train ride is said to be the most scenic train ride in Sri Lanka offering spectacular views.

South and South – West coast of Sri Lanka in July

The south and south – west coast of Sri Lanka is hit by the ‘Yala Monsoon’ winds in the months between Mid April to September. This region also receives heavy downpours in the month of October from the inter monsoon winds. The months of June, July and August witness least precipitation. However, you can still encounter a few light showers during these months. These showers occur intermittently for only short intervals.

You can expect a few short and light showers on the south and south west coast in July.

North – East coast of Sri Lanka in July

The north and north – east coast of Sri Lanka completely falls out of the Monsoon season between the months of March to September. The region receives plenty of sunshine and temperatures are at a stable average of 30°C. For all the beach bums looking to simply unwind, it is the ideal time to head to the beaches along this coast. You can indulge in a number of activities whether it’s surfing in Arugam Bay or diving in Nilaveli. Indulge in other adventure water sports like snorkelling along the beaches of Batticaloa and Trincomalee. For a rather laid back time, find a spot at one of the many beach shacks, sit back, enjoy a good book while sipping on pina coladas.

Visit the gorgeous beaches along the east coast of Sri Lanka that have the perfect weather in July.

The Hill Country and Cultural Triangle in July

The scenic Hill Country region of Sri Lanka receives a good amount of rainfall from the south-west monsoon winds in the month of July. The nights can be chilly with temperatures that can go down to 13°C. If you intend on trekking, this time of the year is better avoided, given the unpredictable rainfall and slippery terrain. 

On the other hand, exploring the Cultural triangle at this time of the year would be ideal. The region experiences the dry season and you can find plenty of sunshine at moderate temperatures. Tip of advice, start your day early whether you’re climbing the Sigiriya rock or exploring the ruins of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, to avoid the overhead sun post noon. Rainfall in the month of July in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle is highly unlikely. Despite the heat, being able to avoid the rains is the prime reason tourism is at an all time high in this region.  

Explore the Cultural Triangle that experiences a dry season in July, but make sure you start your day early in order to avoid the harsh heat in the afternoons.

National Parks of Sri Lanka in July

July is the best time for wildlife enthusiasts looking to explore the National Parks of Sri Lanka. There is a high chance of spotting leopards at Yala National Park and also sloth bears and elephants. In the north – east region, east of Sigiriya, lies Minneriya National Park. Here you can spot hundreds of elephants, gathering around the tank due to the dry season. This unique event is called ‘The Gathering’ which  starts towards the end of July and lasts till mid September. A spectacular site to witness if you’re in the country this time of the year. Exotic bird species however, only migrate to Sri Lanka’s popular bird watching national parks in the months between October to April. 

There are high chances of spotting wildlife in the National Parks of Sri Lanka in July, paradise for all the wildlife enthusiasts.

To sum it up

All in all, travelling to Sri Lanka in July is a great idea. The east and north-east coast is at its peak tourist season as the beaches receive plenty of sunshine with no rainfall. The Cultural triangle can also be explored during this time of the year. The south and south – west coast receive intermittent spells of rainfall. South coast beaches like Galle, Mirissa and Tangalle are usually avoided, but the weather is unpredictable and not necessarily bad.Being off season, you can make the most of the discounted rates at the best of hotels. Those looking to spot rare wildlife species, at some of the best National parks of Sri Lanka, are definitely in for a treat given the weather in Sri Lanka in July.