Travel advice for Sri Lanka
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Sri Lanka
written by
Dre Roelandt
updated 16.01.2026
Sri Lanka is known for its palm-fringed beaches, ancient ruins, lush greenery, and some of the most vibrant cultures you'll ever encounter. April is the shoulder season and brings a unique blend of tropical warmth, occasional showers, and vibrant festivities. But before you pack your bags, let's talk about the weather in Sri Lanka in April — because nobody wants to be caught in a downpour when they're exploring a new destination. Many Sri Lanka trip packages take seasonal weather into account, helping you make the most of your time on the island.
Sri Lanka in April at a glance
April is a great time to visit Sri Lanka, with hot sunny weather across much of the island and excellent conditions for beaches, wildlife, and hill country scenery.
- The weather is generally warm and bright, with increasing humidity and occasional showers as the month goes on.
- Average temperatures are around 80 to 91°F (27 to 33°C) in coastal areas like Colombo and the south, and about 60 to 75°F (16 to 24°C) in the hill country like Nuwara Eliya.
- April is a very good time to visit because many regions still have strong beach weather and good visibility for exploring and safaris.
- Crowds are moderate to high, especially around Sinhala and Tamil New Year in mid April, with busy domestic travel in popular beach towns.
What is the weather like in Sri Lanka in April?
April in Sri Lanka can feel intense. It's hot, humid, and full of energy, especially around the Sinhala and Tamil New Year in the middle of the month. If you're up for early starts and long beach afternoons, this is still a great time to travel. The east coast is just beginning its dry season, so spots like Trincomalee and Arugam Bay get sunnier by the day.
On the west and south coasts, the weather starts shifting, with more afternoon storms rolling in. Inland areas like Kandy and the Cultural Triangle stay hot, but mornings are still good for sightseeing before the heat sets in. Crowds are moderate, and prices can be reasonable depending on where you go.
If you plan to visit several regions, keep an eye on how the monsoon patterns are changing. For travelers chasing sunshine and waves, the east coast starts coming into its own this month. This can be a great time to plan your Sri Lanka itinerary.
Sri Lanka, Kandy © Shutterstock
Average daily temperatures in April
In general, the weather in Sri Lanka in April brings warm to hot temperatures across the country, creating perfect conditions for exploration and adventure. However, there are some regional differences to keep in mind. The northern parts of Sri Lanka tend to be slightly warmer and drier, while the southwest and southeast regions experience slightly cooler temperatures with higher rainfall.
| Location | Daytime temperatures | Nighttime temperatures |
|---|---|---|
| North Sri Lanka | 90-93°F (32-34°C) | 79-82°F (26-28°C) |
| Southwest Sri Lanka (Colombo, Galle) | 86-90°F (30-32°C) | 75-79°F (24-26°C) |
| Southeast Sri Lanka (Batticaloa, Trincomalee) | 86-90°F (30-32°C) | 75-79°F (24-26°C) |
| Coastal regions (general) | 86-93°F (30-34°C) | 75-82°F (24-28°C) |
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North Sri Lanka
In April, North Sri Lanka experiences average high temperatures ranging from 90°F to 93°F (32°C to 34°C), while lows typically hover between 79°F to 82°F (26°C and 28°C). This region sees minimal rainfall during April, with precipitation averaging around 1.97-3.94 inches (50-100mm) throughout the month.
Southwest Sri Lanka
April brings slightly cooler temperatures to Southwest Sri Lanka (cities like Colombo and Galle) compared to the north, with average highs ranging from 86°F to 90°F (30°C to 32°C), and lows averaging between 75°F to 79°F (24°C and 26°C). Rainfall is more prominent here, with precipitation ranging from 5.91-9.84 inches (150-250mm) during the month.
Southeast Sri Lanka
The southeastern part of Sri Lanka like Batticaloa and Trincomalee experiences temperatures similar to the southwest. Average highs in April range from 86°F to 90°F (30°C to 32°C), with lows of (75°F to 79°F (24°C to 26°C). Rainfall in this region is moderate, with an average of 3.94-7.87 inches (100-200mm) throughout April.
Sri Lanka Bus © Shutterstock
Is April a good time to visit Sri Lanka?
Yes, April is a fantastic time to visit Sri Lanka. This month offers a winning combination of favorable weather and vibrant cultural festivities. As the inter-monsoon period bows out and the southwest monsoon season steps in, you can expect warm temperatures and the occasional shower, mostly in the afternoons or evenings.
During April, Sri Lanka transitions from the cooler months to warmer days. While you’ll likely run into some rain, it typically doesn't disrupt travel plans significantly. Instead, it adds to the lush greenery and picturesque landscapes.
Additionally, April is jam-packed with cultural celebrations and festivals across Sri Lanka, offering a unique insight into the rich heritage and traditions of the country. From the colorful Sinhala and Tamil New Year celebrations to various religious festivals, April is a great time to experience Sri Lanka’s rich heritage and traditions. For more tips, see our guide to how to plan a trip to Sri Lanka.
- Favorable weather during inter-monsoon transition
- Vibrant Sinhala and Tamil New Year celebrations
- Lush greenery and picturesque landscapes
- Warm temperatures with occasional brief showers
- Rich cultural festivals throughout the month
What about crowds and costs?
In April, Sri Lanka marks the transition from the shoulder season into the low tourist season — especially at the end of the month. Tourist crowds thin out, giving you more space to enjoy the country's popular spots without feeling like you're in a crowd.
Plus, accommodation and activity prices usually take a dip compared to the high-season months, making April a savvy choice for budget-conscious travelers.
But don't pack away that sunscreen just yet! The weather in Sri Lanka in April is warm, but as the month progresses, so does the chance of rain. Traveling during this month means keeping an eye out for those occasional showers, especially in the evenings, to dodge getting caught in a surprise downpour.
If you're all about beating the crowds while still enjoying good weather, you might want to consider slipping into Sri Lanka during March or May, the shoulder months. If you're still deciding, see our guide to the best time to visit Sri Lanka.
The weather in April in Sri Lanka is great for seeing nature © Shutterstock
Where to go in Sri Lanka in April
April is hot and humid across much of Sri Lanka, with clear skies in some regions and pre-monsoon showers in others. It’s the tail end of the dry season in the southwest, and a shoulder season in the east. Sinhala and Tamil New Year also brings unique cultural energy mid-month. Here are some of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka.
South Coast
April is the last good month to visit Sri Lanka’s south coast before the monsoon sets in. Beaches like Mirissa, Unawatuna, and Hiriketiya still have calm seas, ideal for swimming and beginner surfing. Guesthouses stay open, and there’s a laid-back rhythm as the tourist season winds down. If you're planning a family vacation, be sure to see our guide to Sri Lanka with kids.
Kandy
Kandy stays hot and steamy in April, but it’s still worth visiting. The lakeside setting, botanical yards, and the Temple of the Tooth make it a cultural anchor inland. During Sinhala and Tamil New Year, the city buzzes with processions, games, and firecrackers. Expect heat, traffic, and celebration. This is often where you will find the best food in Sri Lanka.
Arugam Bay
On the east coast, Arugam Bay starts warming up for surf season. April is still early, so the town feels quieter, with fewer crowds and decent room rates. Surfers start trickling in, but there’s space to spread out. You’ll likely get a mix of sun and short rains as the dry season builds.
What to do in Sri Lanka in April
April is a transitional month. You’ll need to plan around heat and some unpredictable rain, but there’s still plenty to do. With New Year celebrations mid-month, you’ll also see a different side of everyday life. Here are some of the best things to do in Sri Lanka.
Celebrate Sinhala and Tamil New Year
The New Year is one of the most important vacations in Sri Lanka. Towns empty out, families gather, and traditional games take over streets and parks. You’ll see firecrackers, sweet rice cooking on open flames, and local stores closed for days. It’s not touristy—it’s personal, festive, and fascinating if you’re invited in.
Visit tea country in the hills
April is a great time to head for cooler air in places like Nuwara Eliya or Ella. The highlands stay lush and green, and temperatures are more comfortable than the coast. You can tour tea estates, hike through forested hills, or just ride the scenic train through rolling plantations.
Spot wildlife in national parks
Parks like Yala and Udawalawe are still open in April, though it’s heading toward the drier end of the season. Water levels drop, which means better chances of spotting elephants, leopards, and birdlife around watering holes. Early morning or late afternoon safaris are best to beat the heat. For more advice, see our Sri Lanka travel tips.
Sri Lankan kiribath © Shutterstock
Plan your trip with our Sri Lanka itineraries
Our Sri Lanka itineraries are crafted to help you experience the best of the country, stress-free. Think of them as a starting point — perfect for planning, but flexible enough to adjust to your own pace and interests. After all, travel is about freedom, but a little planning goes a long way.
- Sri Lanka itinerary 7 days: A week in Sri Lanka lets you see the highlights, including ancient cultural sites and beautiful beaches.
- Sri Lanka itinerary 14 days: Two weeks gives you a comprehensive look at Sri Lanka’s diverse regions, from bustling cities to national parks and coastal towns.
