Sri Lanka in July: Season of Monsoon and Mists

Temperatures in Sri Lanka in July stay reasonably constant, thanks to its proximity to the equator. But the monsoonal rains vary depending on where you are. In the capital, Colombo, expect a daily high of 30℃ and a low of 25℃ at night with 16 days of rain. Jaffna’s temperature ranges between 26℃ and 32℃ and sees three rainy days across the month on average. In Kandy, which is located in the central highlands, the weather is pleasant, with a temperature high of 24°C. Galle also experiences cool temperate conditions, with the mercury hovering around 20℃. But the rain may hinder holiday plans to the beaches on the southern coast.

For more in-depth weather information, check out our guide on the best time to visit Sri Lanka.

Despite the monsoon conditions, Sri Lanka offers a variety of adventures and destinations. Here are a few reasons to visit Sri Lanka in July:

• Take the Tea Train: Most of Sri Lanka's tea plantations are located within its cultural triangle. You can see every hillside covered with dense plantations of Camellia sinensis. Take the seven-hour tea train from Kandy to Ella into the depths of the tea-growing region. In July, tea harvesting is in full swing.
• Explore the Streets of Colombo: Colombo’s back streets are full of markets, selling a colorful profusion of fruit, vegetables, street food, and fabrics. The Pagoda Tea Rooms, established in 1884, is a great place to visit for a refreshing cuppa. After dark, you can sample the fiery Sri Lankan curries and stroll down the waterfront to watch the day end under piles of Monsoon clouds lit with sunset colors.
• Vibrant Festivals: Festivals occur year-round in Sri Lanka. There are plenty of small festivals to get immersed in if you are traveling to Sri Lanka in July. Visit Kandy to observe the Esala Poya Perahera Buddhist Festival, featuring processions of elephants accompanied by blaring horns. Head to the town of Kataragama to experience the grand festival of Esala.

Cooler weather conditions call for wildlife exploration in Sri Lanka's national parks. The animals in the Sri Lankan national parks are more active during the day, the game is plentiful and predators abound. Take a trip to Wasgamuwa National Park, known for its large population of elephants. Those who are into birdwatching can head to Udawalawe National Park to observe Kashmir flycatchers and Indian blue robins as they busy themselves building nests for the breeding season.

The monsoon season in Sri Lanka in July fills the waterfalls that cascade from the hills around Nuwara Eliya—the highest town in the country. Situated at an altitude of 1,900 meters, Nuwara Eliya flaunts its iconic red letter boxes, flower gardens, and puttering Morris Minors giving the town a British feel. The area around the town, locally known as the city of light, is where the orange pekoe variety of tea is grown.

In Trincomalee, enjoy the pristine beaches and the shallow sea with few tourists around. Many of the beaches in Trincomalee feature simple thatched cottages overhung with graceful coconut palms. You can rent these shelters at affordable rates this time of year. En route to Trincomalee, do not forget to bathe in the hot springs at Kanniya.

Despite monsoon rains, there are plenty of areas to explore in Sri Lanka. Just head out to the drier regions to seek exploration opportunities. With fewer tourists around, you will find accommodation bargains to make your travel budget go further.

If you need help planning a customized trip to Sri Lanka, you can reach out to our local travel experts and create a tailored itinerary that best fits your needs. For instant inspiration, check out our tours to Sri Lanka in July.