Weather in Sri Lanka in February

 The weather in Sri Lanka in February varies by region, but it’s generally dry on the west and south coasts, making it a great time for beach travel. Inland areas like Kandy and Ella stay cooler. This is one of the most popular times to visit, with warm days, calm seas, and good wildlife sightings in national parks.

Sri Lanka in February at a glance

• February is one of the most reliable months weather-wise in Sri Lanka, especially along the south and west coasts.
• Temperatures typically stay between 77 to 86°F (25 to 30°C), with warm days and lower humidity than later in the year.
• It’s a very good time to visit for beaches, cultural sites, and travel through the hill country.
• Crowds are high, as February falls in peak season.
• Prices are also high, particularly for hotels in coastal areas and major tourist hubs.

What is the weather like in Sri Lanka in February?

February is one of the most reliable months for good weather across much of Sri Lanka. The west and south coasts are especially dry and sunny. Inland areas like Kandy and Ella are cooler.

The sea is calm along the southern and western coasts, so it's a great time for swimming, surfing, and whale watching. You’ll have good visibility for spotting blue whales off the coast near Mirissa. National parks like Yala are also in good shape this time of year, with dry trails and decent chances of seeing wildlife.

It’s high season on these coasts, so beaches like Unawatuna and Hikkaduwa get busy, and accommodation prices are noticeably higher. Meanwhile, the east coast is still in the middle of its rainy season, so it’s not ideal for beach time over there.

Rainfall is low overall, with the south and west coasts getting around 2 inches (50mm), and even less in the dry zone at about 1.2 inches (30mm).  This is a great month to plan your Sri Lanka itinerary. 
 

Average daily temperatures in February

If you’re heading to Sri Lanka in February, expect warm days, manageable humidity, and mostly dry skies, especially on the west and south coasts. Colombo and Galle usually sit between 87 to 90°F (31 to 32°C) during the day, with nights around 74 to 76°F (23 to 24°C). Up in Kandy and the cultural triangle, it’s a little cooler. And in the hill country near Nuwara Eliya, you’ll want a jacket at night—temps drop to around 50 to 54°F (10 to 12°C).

It’s the dry season in the most popular regions, so you’ll get plenty of beach time without worrying about monsoon rains. Rainfall is low this month, especially in the south and west, and humidity hovers around 70%, which feels comfortable for the tropics.
The sea stays warm, around 82 to 84°F (28 to 29°C), and you’ll get a full 12 hours of daylight. February is one of the best times to visit Sri Lanka if you want reliable sunshine, calm seas, and easy travel conditions.

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Is February a good time to visit Sri Lanka?

February is one of the best times to move around Sri Lanka. The west and south coasts stay sunny and dry, which means long beach days in places like Mirissa, Unawatuna, or Tangalle. If you're into wildlife, it's peak season for whale watching off the southern coast.

Inland, the weather stays hot but manageable, so it's a good time to explore the Cultural Triangle. Sites like Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa are easier to tour without the monsoon rains or summer heat.

In the highlands, places like Ella and Nuwara Eliya are cooler, with crisp mornings and wide views over tea plantations. Crowds haven’t peaked yet, but it’s still busy, so you’ll want to book ahead for popular routes. For more tips, see our guide to how to plan a trip to Sri Lanka.

• Excellent beach weather on west and south coasts
• Peak whale watching season in Mirissa
• Ideal conditions for Cultural Triangle exploration
• Perfect balance of good weather and manageable crowds
• Comfortable temperatures for hiking in hill country

What about the crowds & cost?

February brings perfect weather to the west and south coasts, creating peak season crowds and prices. Beaches from Mirissa to Bentota fill with Europeans escaping winter.

Hotels charge maximum rates, often 100% above monsoon season. Cultural Triangle sites like Sigiriya see heavy traffic. Hill country tea plantations enjoy clear skies but cool nights. The east coast remains quiet due to the monsoon. For value, visit during May-July when the southwest monsoon brings rain but 50% price drops. The October-November shoulder season balances good weather with moderate costs. March extends peak season conditions before April heat arrives.  If you're still deciding, see our guide to the best time to visit Sri Lanka. 
 

Where to go to Sri Lanka in February

February brings ideal weather across Sri Lanka. Here are some of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka. 

Colombo and west coast beaches

Colombo is sunny and warm in February, which makes it a good time to explore on foot. You can walk along Galle Face Green or through the Fort district, then grab something to eat near Beira Lake. Beaches down the coast like Bentota and Mirissa are calm and clear. Mirissa is also where whale watching tours leave from most mornings. 

Cultural Triangle

The dry season means it’s easier to move between the ancient cities without getting stuck in the rain. Sigiriya is the highlight, with views from the top and rock paintings partway up. Dambulla’s cave temples are packed with statues and colorful ceilings. In Anuradhapura, you can walk between crumbling temples and see the Bodhi tree that’s said to be a cutting from the original in India. Polonnaruwa is smaller but easier to explore in a day. Elephants gather at the Minneriya reservoir around this time too. This is often where you will find the best food in Sri Lanka.

Hill Country

February brings clear skies and cooler air to the tea-growing hills. Kandy’s Temple of the Tooth is still busy with daily ceremonies, and the train to Ella winds through tea estates and forest-covered hills. In Nuwara Eliya, you’ll find old colonial buildings and English-style yards. Tea factories are open for tours and tastings, and Adam’s Peak is still in season for pilgrims. Climbers start in the dark and reach the top for sunrise and the mountain’s long shadow stretching across the valley.
 

What to do in Sri Lanka in February

With dry weather on both coasts, February is one of the best times to travel around Sri Lanka. Here are some of the best things to do in Sri Lanka.

Blue whale watching in Mirissa

Southern Sri Lanka sees incredible blue whale activity in February. Boats head out early from Mirissa, often returning before lunch with sightings under their belt. You might also see sperm whales or spinner dolphins. The trips are smooth, the sea is calm, and the whales often swim surprisingly close thanks to the deep drop-off near shore.

Yala National Park safari

Dry weather pulls animals toward watering holes, so February is one of the best months for spotting leopards in Yala. Game drives start early or run late in the afternoon when animals are most active. There’s a good mix of wildlife, from elephants to crocodiles, and your guide will likely point out signs you’d miss otherwise—paw prints, alarm calls, and fresh scat. For more advice, see our Sri Lanka travel tips.

Traditional mask making

In towns like Ambalangoda, you can learn about Sri Lanka’s traditional masked dances through workshops and small performances. The masks are handmade and painted with bright colors, each one tied to a specific folklore or healing ritual. In places like Kandy, cultural centers hold daily shows with drumming, fire walking, and dance—but village ceremonies, when you find them, feel much more personal. If you're planning a family vacation, be sure to see our guide to Sri Lanka with kids.
 

Planning your itinerary

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.