Visit Sri Lanka in December
What to Pack for December
- Light summer clothing and swimwear for the coast
- Sunscreen and a hat — December sunshine is strong
- Smart casual outfits for festive hotel dinners
- Layers for the hill country (Ella, Nuwara Eliya)
- Book whale watching and safaris well in advance
- Carry cash — ATMs in remote areas can be unreliable during peak season
Weather in December
December kicks off the peak tourist season with dry, sunny weather on the west and south coasts. It is the most popular month for international visitors, coinciding with Christmas and New Year holidays. Beaches, cultural sites, and wildlife parks are at their best, but prices and crowds peak towards month's end.
Temperature
24-30°C
Rainfall
Low (West), High (East)
Humidity
Moderate
West Coast
Great time to visit
East Coast
Monsoon season
Hill Country
Great time to visit
North
Monsoon season
South Coast
Great time to visit
Cultural Triangle
Great time to visit
Festivals & Events in December
Christmas
Celebrated across the island, especially in Colombo, Negombo, and Galle. Hotels and restaurants host festive dinners, and churches hold midnight mass services. A blend of tropical and traditional Christmas spirit.
View Destination →Unduvap Poya
Full moon day celebrating the arrival of the Bo tree sapling in Anuradhapura. Special ceremonies at the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree.
View Destination →New Year's Eve
Major celebrations in Colombo, Galle, and beach towns across the south coast with fireworks, beach parties, and gala dinners at hotels.
View Destination →Best Destinations in December
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Things to Do in December
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Blue Whale & Dolphin Watching
Board a boat to witness blue whales — the largest animals on earth — in their natural ocean habitat off the southern coast.
Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Ascend the 5th-century citadel past ancient frescoes and the famous mirror wall to panoramic summit views.
Coconut Tree Hill Sunset
Walk to this picture-perfect headland where leaning coconut palms frame a golden Indian Ocean sunset.
Colombo City Food Tour
A guided walking tour of Colombo's best street food, from hoppers to kottu roti.
Colombo Harbour Cruise
Enjoy a relaxing sunset cruise around Colombo harbour with views of the city skyline.
Divurumpola Temple
The sacred site where Sita proved her purity through the "Agni Pariksha" (fire ordeal) as described in the Ramayana. A deeply revered temple among Hindu pilgrims on the Ramayana trail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan Your December Trip to Sri Lanka
Let SL RIDE arrange your perfect December itinerary with a private chauffeur, handpicked hotels, and the best experiences for the season.