Each of Sri Lanka’s nine provinces and twenty five districts offer rural travel opportunities. For most rural destinations in the South, Central Sri Lanka, Northern, West and East Sri Lanka, can be at its most enjoyable in the drier seasons; the best time to travel to the west, south and upland areas of the island is during December to March, while the recommended travel season for the east coast region is April to September. The island is certainly a year-round destination as there is usually one region of the country experiencing good weather, while others are hit by poorer conditions. The diverse topography of Sri Lanka allows for balmy beach holidays on the east coast from April to November, while the west is ideal for hitting the beach from December to March. However, be aware that Sri Lanka weather can be unpredictable during any season.
Generally speaking, upland areas of Sri Lanka are cooler and more temperate, with a yearly average around 16-20ºC (60-68ºF), and coastal areas are warmer with average temperatures around 27ºC (80ºF). By March, temperatures can already rise to over hundred degrees Fahrenheit, while the temperatures in November-January are a few degrees lower at around 24ºC (75ºF) at the coast. Humidity is typically rather high in Sri Lanka, averaging out at around 80% year-round.
