Guide to Sri Lanka in December
Sri Lanka in December is one of the best times of year to visit the island. The monsoon fades, the landscape is lush and green, temperatures are warm and dry across most of the country, and the wildlife is exceptional. Whether you’re planning a family Christmas escape, a romantic winter break or simply chasing the sun, December delivers.
The southwest and central regions are at their best this month, and the south coast in particular comes into its own, with whale watching season in full swing off Mirissa and the surf building along the beaches around Arugam Bay. Inland, the cultural triangle is clear and comfortable to explore, and the tea country is at its most atmospheric.
Our Sri Lanka specialists have put together this guide to help you make the most of the month, from the best things to do to the weather region by region and the local celebrations worth planning around.
Train from Nuwara Eliya to Kandy among tea plantations in the highlands of Sri Lanka
December is one of the most popular months to visit Sri Lanka, and with good reason. The first two weeks are particularly good value, before prices rise sharply in the run-up to Christmas. If flexibility allows, arriving before 20 December gives you the best of the weather and the island without the peak-season premium.
Christmas itself is celebrated warmly across Sri Lanka, especially in the smaller boutique hotels and private villas that ETG tends to recommend. It is worth noting that flights and accommodation around Christmas and New Year book up fast. For the best options, planning 10 to 12 months ahead is advisable.
View of Sigiriya in the Cultural Triangle
Weather is often a key consideration when it comes to a December holiday, particularly when you’re hoping to escape the typical English winter doom and gloom.
Thankfully, Sri Lanka weather operates on a different pattern, with the monsoon season typically fading into hot, dry weather by mid-December.
While a few showers might find you ducking for cover in the first weeks, particularly in northern areas like Jaffna and Trincomalee, the whole country is usually warm and dry for your December exploration.
December is one of the best months for leopard sightings at Yala National Park.
With warm weather, lush vegetation and beautiful natural scenery, there are plenty of unique experiences not to be missed in Sri Lanka in December – whether you’re interested in culture, history, adventure, food, watersports or wildlife.
Our in-house ETG Sri Lanka experts have provided their insider tips for unmissable experiences and all the best things to do in Sri Lanka in December.
Adam’s Peak at Sunrise with the perfect triangle
Located in the tea plantations of the island’s famous hill country, Adam’s Peak is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in Sri Lanka.
Climbing Adam’s Peak is one of the best things to do in December as this is when the pilgrimage season begins. Pilgrims from across the country gather to undertake this 5 hour trek by night, mostly made up of rocky steps, in order to achieve a breath-taking view of the sunrise in the early hours of the morning at the summit.
A very holy site, the top of Adam’s Peak is home to the Buddha’s footprint, or Lord Shiva’s, depending on your religion; and this is where pilgrims pay their respect at the end of the climb.
Pilgrims welcome all tourists on this climb, however as this is a fairly moderate trek we recommend that you are prepared for the climb before beginning.
With plenty of places to stop along the way, you’ll never be rushed up the mountain and when travelling with ETG, we also ensure that the rest of your day is free for relaxation.
You can descend knowing that a massage awaits you upon return to flat ground!
Blue and sperm whales are regularly spotted off Mirissa on the south coast during December.
Another unmissable Sri Lankan experience in December is whale watching. Whale watching season begins in the late autumn in Sri Lanka, so by December tours and sightings are in full swing.
Beaches along the south coast, Mirissa in particular, are the best places to board a boat ride to catch a glimpse of these stunning creatures.
You’ll mainly find blue whales in December, however other species, like sperm whales, are sometimes spotted too.
At ETG we provide recommendations for boat tours with the best safety and ethics practices on board.
Flamingos in Jaffna; north Sri Lanka
The ending of the monsoon season means that Sri Lanka in December is lush and green, making it an excellent time to explore both the countryside and its wildlife.
Travelling across the country, with your chauffeur guide, train ride or even seaplane, is a great way to take in the stunning natural landscapes.
Certain animals are more likely to be spotted in December, such as leopards at Sri Lanka’s famous Yala National Park.
December in Sri Lanka also provides perfect bird watching opportunities, with thousands of birds migrating from autumn to spring. The sheer variety and number of birds make this another one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka in December.
Smaller nature parks, like Bundala National Park and Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary, offer this huge variety without the heaving crowds, which you might encounter at Hortons Plains or Yala National Park.
Regardless of whether you’re an avid bird watcher, glimpses of colourful flamingos or huge birds of prey are not to be missed.
Not a bad place to play cricket…at Kumu Beach
If you wish to visit Sri Lanka in December but still want to mark the festive period, this is not a problem – far from it.
Despite Sri Lanka not being a Christian country, Christmas is still widely celebrated in Sri Lanka, though perhaps not in the same way you may be accustomed to – which we think makes things more fun!
If a Christmas Eve or Christmas Day visit to church is a requirement for your trip, ETG can assist in finding these in Christian pockets of Sri Lanka, usually in Colombo or Negombo – a Christmas service in a different country is sure to create memories you never forget.
In addition, there are more traditional celebrations to be aware of in Sri Lanka in December. You might not know that Sri Lanka has more public holidays than any other country in the world. Unduwap Poya in December is celebrated and you may see small temple processions.
Tourists are encouraged to join these social celebrations, and tuck into food and drink with the locals. Unduwap Poya is a truly authentic Sri Lankan experience – we recommend making the most of this unique holiday during your visit to the island in December.
In larger resorts, Christmas is celebrated in a big way, typically with more extravagant or cheesy decorations and food. When staying in smaller, boutique hotels in Sri Lanka, celebrations are more understated and authentic – for example, you’re more likely to watch fire dancers and eat candy than watch Christmas films and eat a full roast dinner.
Private villas, particularly on the south coast, are ideal for large family holidays and gatherings at Christmas. These are often fully staffed and great value for money for larger groups, though booking at least 10 – 12 months in advance is recommended to reserve your ideal location, especially in the most popular beach destinations.
The south coast beaches, including Kumu near Bentota, are at their best in December.
Sri Lanka is a country of huge variety. Whether you’re looking to visit the main attractions of the country or after something more unique, Sri Lanka in December is sure to deliver the weather and wonder to suit any holiday preference.
December is also a great time to get involved with local Sri Lankan traditions and celebrations, which is one of the best way to discover this authentic and fascinating country and culture.
You can browse our luxury holiday ideas to Sri Lanka or get in touch on 0203 993 8496 .
Alternatively, fill out an online enquiry form to start your journey.
