Weather in Sri Lanka in July

July ushers in mild temperatures across Sri Lanka, offering a delightful escape from the scorching heat of previous months. With the monsoon season in full swing, expect occasional downpours to refresh the island's lush landscapes. But don't let that dampen your spirits – July also means fewer tourists crowding the scene, giving you more space to uncover Sri Lanka's hidden gems.  Here’s our guide to the weather in Sri Lanka in July.

What is the weather like in Sri Lanka in July?

The weather in Sri Lanka in July means one thing: the southwest monsoon is still in full swing, bringing along hefty rainfall and sticky humidity across the island. Get ready for frequent showers and the occasional rumble of thunder, especially in central and southern parts of the country, with gloomy skies and cooler temperatures. 

Outdoor plans might take a hit thanks to the wet weather — and you’ll definitely want to watch out for flooded roads and landslides, especially in hilly terrain.

July falls into the low season for tourism in Sri Lanka. The persistent downpours tend to keep many tourists at bay, leading to a noticeable drop in visitor numbers compared to the December to February high season. However, some may still choose to visit Sri Lanka during this time to soak up Sri Lanka's unique landscapes amidst the rain.

On average, Sri Lanka receives around 11.81-15.75 inches (300-400mm) of rainfall in July, with the southern and western regions experiencing the highest amounts. It's heavy, it's relentless, and it can lead to some serious flooding and travel disruptions, especially in low-lying areas.

Overall, July isn't exactly the sunniest time to visit Sri Lanka. The rain and humidity might throw a wrench into your plans. That said, if you're up for embracing the lush greenery and cultural events that come with the monsoon season, July could still be a memorable travel experience. Just don't forget that trusty umbrella!

Rough Guides tip: planning a trip to Sri Lanka can be daunting. Rely on our local experts to take care of the planning and reservation for a more enjoyable experience.

Temperatures in Sri Lanka in July

In general, the weather in Sri Lanka in July brings warm temperatures across the island. However, there are some differences depending on the region. The northern parts tend to be a bit warmer and drier, while in the southwest and southeast regions, temperatures are slightly cooler with more rainfall.

North Sri Lanka

In July, North Sri Lanka experiences average high temperatures ranging from 86°F to 90°F (30°C to 32°C), while lows typically hover between 77°F to 81°F (25°C to 27°C). This region receives minimal rainfall during July, with precipitation averaging around 1.97-3.94 inches (50-100mm) throughout the month.

Southwest Sri Lanka

July brings slightly cooler temperatures to Southwest Sri Lanka, cities like Colombo and Galle, compared to the north, with average highs ranging from 82°F to 86°F (28°C to 30°C), and lows averaging between 75°F to 79°F (24°C and 26°C). Rainfall is more prominent here, with precipitation ranging from 7.87-11.81 inches (200-300mm) 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 July range from 82°F to 86°F (28°C to 30°C), with lows of 75°F to 79°F (24°C to 26°C). Rainfall in this region is moderate, with an average of 5.91-9.84 inches (150-250mm) throughout July.

Learn more and compare the weather in different months with our guide to the weather in Sri Lanka.

Is July a good time to visit Sri Lanka?

July can be a bit of a mixed bag in Sri Lanka, mainly due to the influence of the southwest monsoon. This means you're likely to encounter heavy rainfall and high humidity levels across the island. 

You can expect frequent showers and thunderstorms, especially in the central and southern regions. It's not exactly your ideal beach weather, but hey, if you're up for embracing the rain, it could add a unique twist to your adventure.

Despite the wet weather, the lush greenery that comes with the monsoon season can be absolutely breathtaking. So if you're into lush landscapes and don't mind a bit of rain, July could offer a more authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience in Sri Lanka.

Ready to take your trip without the hassle of planning and reservation? See our tailor-made trip service.

What about crowds and costs?

In July, Sri Lanka continues to experience its low tourist season as the monsoon season reaches its peak. That means you're not gonna be elbowing your way through crowds at all those must-see spots and beaches. Plus, prices for places to stay and things to do? They're gonna be pretty low, making July a real wallet-friendly time to explore Sri Lanka.

The catch? You're likely to experience some serious rain and maybe even a storm or two, especially down south and in the middle of the country. 

For those who want to prioritize keeping costs down, and don’t mind the rain, July can be a great time to visit. If you are hoping to experience better weather, you might want to try reservation your trip during the high season (December through March). 

Still planning your trip? Browse our Sri Lanka itineraries for inspiration. 

Festivals and events in Sri Lanka in July

As you prepare for your Sri Lankan adventure, be sure to check if your travel dates coincide with any of the country's vibrant festivals or events. Securing your accommodation well in advance is essential to guarantee a smooth and enjoyable stay, especially during peak seasons. And if you're looking for more inspiration for your trip, don't forget to explore our curated list of the top things to do in Sri Lanka.

Kataragama Festival 

Held in the sacred town of Kataragama, this festival attracts devotees from various faiths, including Hindus, Buddhists, and Muslims. It celebrates the god Kataragama, revered for his powers of protection and healing. 

You can witness colorful processions, fire-walking rituals, and cultural performances that showcase the fusion of different religious and cultural practices. Due to its significance and popularity, reservation accommodations in Kataragama well in advance is advisable.

Colombo Aadi Vel Festival

This Hindu festival, dedicated to Lord Murugan, is celebrated with great enthusiasm by the Tamil community in Colombo. The highlight of the festivities is the chariot procession, where a beautifully adorned chariot carrying the deity is paraded through the streets amidst chanting and music. 

Get ready to witness the devotion of the devotees, enjoy traditional music and dance performances, and indulge in delicious Tamil cuisine offered during the celebrations. 

Mayurapathy Chariot Festival

This festival features elaborately decorated chariots carrying the deities of the Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil through the city streets. Get ready to witness the vibrant spectacle of the chariot procession, accompanied by traditional music and dance performances that offer a unique insight into Jaffna's cultural heritage and religious traditions.

Still looking for options for your summer trip? Explore our list of the best vacation destinations in July.

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 10 days: Ten days allows for a deeper dive, with time for the cultural triangle, tea plantations, and perhaps a safari.
• 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.

Want to learn even more useful information for your upcoming trip to Sri Lanka? Read our travel tips for traveling to Sri Lanka and how to get to Sri Lanka.

Visit Sri Lanka in other months

Planning your trip to Sri Lanka? See what the weather is like in Sri Lanka in other months: 

• January: Experience warm temperatures and manageable crowds, ideal for enjoying Sri Lanka's beaches and cultural sites.
• February:  Sunny skies draw increasing numbers of tourists, seeking pleasant weather and outdoor adventures.
• March: Enjoy dry weather and rising temperatures amidst moderate crowds, perfect for exploring Sri Lanka's diverse attractions.
• April: Embrace hot and humid conditions alongside bustling crowds, as Easter and New Year celebrations attract visitors.
• May: Encounter intermittent rainfall and fewer tourists, providing a quieter atmosphere for discovering Sri Lanka's gems.
• June: Monsoon rains begin, reducing crowds and making it an off-peak period for travelers to indulge in cultural experiences.
• August: Monsoon rains ease, attracting moderate crowds eager to enjoy improved weather conditions and outdoor activities.
• September:  With decreased rainfall and fewer crowds, it's an ideal time for budget-conscious travelers to explore Sri Lanka's wonders.
• October: Mail-monsoon skies clear, welcoming moderate crowds and providing optimal conditions for outdoor adventures and cultural exploration.
• November:  Dry weather and moderate crowds create ideal conditions for exploring Sri Lanka's landscapes and cultural treasures.
• December: Peak tourist season brings warm temperatures and bustling crowds, making it perfect for beach vacations and cultural experiences during the festive season.