Weather in Sri Lanka in March

The weather in Sri Lanka in March is the prime reason the island attracts maximum number of tourists this time of the year. The weather across the country is pleasant with the monsoon winds approaching the south coast. The country is predominantly dry with occasional spells of rainfall. The temperatures in March vary between 24 °C to 32°C. The perfect weather to relax by the beach, while basking in the sun, showing off those tan lines.

March has the perfect weather to make the most of Sri Lanka’s picturesque beaches and thus the perfect time to plan your holiday.

South and South-West coast of Sri Lanka in March

The South and South-West coast of Sri Lanka is mainly dry during the month of March. Given that this region receives rainfall from the “Yala monsoons” which begin in April/May and last till September. The best time to visit the south coast of the island would be between the months of November to May, in order to avoid the rains and also explore the place in all its glory. You can also indulge in a number of water sports that this island country has to offer, like snorkelling, diving, surfing, kite surfing and so much more. The Mighty blue whales are most likely to be seen between February and mid March on the south coast.

The south coast of Sri Lanka is the best option for the month of March, offering a number of water sports.

East and North-East Coast of Sri Lanka in March

The east and north east coast of Sri Lanka receive rains from the “Maha Monsoons” which begin in the month of October and last till January. For adventure enthusiasts, March may not be the best month to head to the East coast, for it is quite likely that certain activities may still be shut during this time. However, you want to enjoy the lush green landscapes in peace, as there are very few tourists at this time. March until August is the whale watching season in Trincomalee. Alongside whales, you can also spot other marine life  such as Dolphins.

March to August is the whale watching season in Trincomalee.

Hill country and Cultural Triangle in March

The weather in Kandy and the hill country is perfectly warm and it’s not as cold and chilly as compared to the rest of the year. It is also the perfect time for adrenaline junkies to indulge in some of the many treks that commence from this region. December to May have relatively low possibility of rains and hence you can enjoy these treks to the fullest.

The cultural triangle encounters rainfall mainly in the months of October and November, hence the rest of the year is relatively dry and warm making it the perfect time to explore the Unesco World Heritage Sites of the Cultural Triangle. March is also a great time to explore this region, in order to avoid the heat wave that usually occurs between june july to keep at bay the Yala monsoon winds.

March is a good time to explore Kandy as the weather is ideal. The day time temperatures are cool enough to explore the city and night time temperatures are not too low either.

National Parks of Sri Lanka in March

The country has a number of national parks from Wilpattu national park in the north to Yala national park in the south, where you can spot a variety of wildlife from elephants to leopards and many more. The weather in Sri Lanka in March is ideal to visit these national parks as it would be dry across the country, giving you a higher chance to spot the wildlife. You can also visit the untouristed Bundala National park along the south-east coast, as it is the end of the migratory season. It’ll give you the opportunity to spot a variety of exotic birds, along with other animals like elephants, sloth bears and squirrels and also avoid huge crowds. Minneriya National Park is another must visit during this season if you’re looking to spot elephants.

The national parks across the country experience dry weather, making it ideal for a visit and increasing the chances of spotting wildlife.

To Sum it up

Planning a trip to Sri Lanka in March  will allow you to have a great time. You can not only enjoy the perfect sunny days on the splendid beaches but also explore the interiors of the island country. From adventurous treks to exploring the vast national parks, and from ancient ruins to Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage, March would be the perfect month for all the amazing experiences that this country has to offer. Incase you are wondering when to go to Sri Lanka, March would be one of the best months to visit.

Planning a trip to Sri Lanka in March, will give you a chance to relax by the beach and also explore the interiors of the country.