Weather in Sri Lanka in September

Uncertain whether the weather in Sri Lanka in September is suitable for travel? In case you’re wondering if travelling to Sri Lanka in September is a good idea, then the answer is a definite yes. Given Sri Lanka’s weather pattern, picking the best time to visit Sri Lanka can be tricky. Ideally It is a year-round destination with a tropical climate. Since this country experiences two monsoon seasons at different times of the year,planning your itinerary depends on when you plan on visiting the country. September, October, November are three months where rainfall and overall climate is highly unpredictable, irrespective of the region. Visiting the east coast can be your safest bet, with the least possibility of rainfall. Being the inter-monsoon month, the south and south west coast still receive rainfall from the retreating winds of the Yala Monsoons. The average temperature is about 29°C throughout the country.

South and West Coast of Sri Lanka in September

In September, the south-west coast, including the capital city of Colombo, experiences bare minimum rainfall, given that it falls under the inter-monsoon period. But,it is still considered off season for tourists. Don’t hesitate to take complete advantage of this. Be it huge discounts on accommodation or the peace and calm at otherwise crowded, tourist hot spots. Explore the region at it’s best. Yala national park that happens to be the busiest and biggest national park in the country is shut in the month of September for maintenance. Swimming can get risky since the seas along this coast are rough and many hotels even have their red flags out. But the beach is dry with warm temperatures, perfect for that summer tan.

North and north-east coast of Sri Lanka in September

The east and north-east coast is seeing its last few weeks of good weather, however you can expect some rainfall towards the end of September. If you are looking for some beach time then visiting the east coast is the best option, head to Passikudah or Trincomalee. A variety of whale species (including blue whales) can be spotted off the east coast near Trincomalee during September. Water sports like diving are possible along this coast during this time of the year. The weather in Sri Lanka in September along this coast, marks the last month of peak tourist season. October marks the beginning of the monsoon season in this region of the island. 

Hill country and Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka in September

September is not the best time to go trekking in the hill country region. The weather conditions can be unpredictable and the view from the top may just end up being nothing but fog. The upside of visiting this picturesque region in September is the waterfalls that will be breathtakingly beautiful and the vast stretches of lush green landscapes. It truly lives up to the phrase “heaven on earth”.

The weather in Sri Lanka in September in the islands Cultural Triangle continues to receive ample sunlight and can be explored in all its glory. However, it would be best to tour the city in the morning and evenings, to avoid the afternoon heat. Climb the Pidurangala rock early morning to escape the crowds and witness the surreal sunrise. For a spectacular view of the sunset, climb the Sigiriya rock fortress right before closing time, between 4-5pm. 

National Parks of Sri Lanka in September

Yala National park in the south coast is shut in the month of September for maintenance. This region also tends to receive heavy rainfall from the northeast monsoon winds between September to December and hence this may not be the best time for wildlife spotting on the south coast. Uda Walawe and Wilpattu National park towards the north-east coast are totally worth a visit and a great time to spot wildlife. It is also the last month for the exclusive elephant gathering that takes place in Minneriya National Park. So all you wildlife enthusiasts, you know exactly where to spot these magnificent creatures.  

To sum it up

Given the weather in Sri Lanka in September, it is a good time to visit the island. In order to avoid the rains, we’d recommend traveling at the beginning of the month. And heading towards the east as opposed to going down south is a better idea. You are guaranteed to have a good time by the pristine beaches along the east and north-east coast. Being tourist season, you will also come across infinite beach parties that last all night long. If you plan on travelling to the south coast, make the most of discounted rates on luxury hotels while you bask in comfort. 

If you’re still uncertain of what region to visit and how to plan your trip. Looking to explore all of Sri Lanka in the best possible way? simply get in touch with us. We’ll help plan the ideal trip for you that caters to all your requirements and suits your travel style.