Sri Lanka in February: Beach Weather and Excursions
Visiting Sri Lanka in February introduces you to a plethora of travel opportunities and cultural tours. Days are clear and temperatures are warm during this time, and activities on the beaches of Bentota are plentiful. February is also a great time to explore the hills of Ella and the temples of Kandy. Lush jungles full of exotic wildlife, ancient ruins, historic architectural marvels, and plenty of beaches await you in Sri Lanka in February.
Sri Lanka Weather in February
February is the high season in Sri Lanka. Except for the chances of light showers, the overall weather in Sri Lanka in February is mostly calm. Temperatures are warmer in the cities compared to the hills. For instance, mercury can soar up to 32℃ in cities like Colombo and Kandy. Similar conditions can be found in northern cities such as Jaffna and the island’s central cultural triangle, including Sigiriya and Dambulla. In the higher altitude region of Nuwara Eliya, temperatures can range between 10℃ to 20℃.
For a seasonal overview, go through our guide on the best time to visit Sri Lanka.
Weather in Sri Lanka in February - Rainfall and Temperatures
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Daily (°C) | 31 | 31 | 32 | 32 | 31 | 30 | 30 | 30 | 30 | 30 | 30 | 30 |
| Avg Nightly (°C) | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 26 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 24 | 23 | 23 |
| Avg Daily (°F) | 87.8 | 87.8 | 89.6 | 89.6 | 87.8 | 86 | 86 | 86 | 86 | 86 | 86 | 86 |
| Avg Nightly (°F) | 71.6 | 73.4 | 75.2 | 77 | 78.8 | 78.8 | 77 | 77 | 77 | 75.2 | 73.4 | 73.4 |
| Avg Rainfall (mm) | 62 | 69 | 130 | 253 | 382 | 186 | 125 | 114 | 236 | 369 | 310 | 168 |
Why Visit Sri Lanka in February
Sri Lanka boasts sunny days and warm weather in February. This is the perfect time to head for the beaches in Mirissa and Bentota, where the waters are ideal for swimming. The bustling towns of Kandy and Galle also invite visitors to experience their culture and lifestyle during this time. Here are some more reasons why you should visit Sri Lanka in February:
- Wildlife spotting: February is a transitional period between the two monsoon seasons in Sri Lanka. Visit Yala National Park or Minneriya during this drier month. You have a better chance of spotting elephants, leopards, and crocodiles at their watering holes during this time.
- Hiking the hills: February’s weather is ideal for hiking in Sri Lanka’s picturesque tea plantations in the town of Ella and up to the beautiful Adam’s Peak, which offers clear views of the surrounding jungle and landscape.
- Festival season: Sri Lanka celebrates its independence on the 4th of February. On this day, the capital Colombo will be bustling with festivities, featuring some of the best Sri Lankan food. The traditional festival of Gangaramaya Navam Perahera also takes place in February and is known for its elaborate elephant parade and carnivalesque spectacle.
- Beautiful beaches: Since many of Sri Lanka's beaches experience choppy water throughout the year, swimming and snorkeling are not permitted. But the conditions are perfect for water activities in February. Bentota, Weligama, and Polhena have some of the top sites for swimming and snorkeling.
Where to go and what to do
February offers a break from the battering monsoon in Sri Lanka. This is an ideal time to explore every nook of the vibrant Kandy and nearby cities before heading north to the cultural triangle. Further north, you can go to the bustling metropolis of Jaffna. Here, you can visit the Hindu temples, witness the elaborate colonial architecture, and sample some of the best south Indian cuisines.
For cooler weather, head to the mountains of Ella by train to see the famous tea estates. The region is also known for the pilgrimage route that leads to the top of Adam’s Peak.
In southeast Sri Lanka, book a sunrise jeep tour to explore the breathtaking Yala National Park. But if you are short on time, head to the sandy beaches for a relaxing holiday. Weligama and Bentota are tourist hotspots with plenty of water activities. You can also find abundant local cafes and eateries where you can try a variety of fresh seafood.
With warm weather conditions and very few rain showers, you can venture to almost all destinations in Sri Lanka in February. You can experience city life and explore charming towns and villages, venture deep into the wilderness and be one with nature, or just enjoy the sunny beaches and warm inviting waters of the Indian Ocean.
If you need help with planning a customized trip to Sri Lanka in February, reach out to our local travel experts who can devise a tailored itinerary for you. There is no end to exciting adventures if you visit Sri Lanka in February.
Note: Exercise caution during your travel to Sri Lanka, as the security situation might be a bit sensitive because of the country’s economic and political crisis.
