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December is when Sri Lanka's classic season begins. The south-west monsoon has long passed, the west and south coasts settle into calm seas and golden afternoons, and the hill country turns cool and clear. Add whale season off Mirissa, the start of the Adam's Peak pilgrimage and a festive Colombo, and it is easy to see why December – especially the Christmas fortnight – is the busiest time of year on the island. This guide explains where the weather is best, what is happening, and how to plan a December trip that avoids the crowds rather than joining them.
December Weather by Region
West & south coast (Colombo, Galle, Mirissa, Tangalle)
The dry season arrives in earnest. Early December can still bring the odd shower, but by mid-month the coast is typically sunny, the sea calms and conditions settle in for the months ahead. This is the side of the island to choose for a beach-focused December trip.
Hill country (Kandy, Ella, Nuwara Eliya)
Days are pleasantly mild and views are often at their clearest in the mornings. Nights are cool – Nuwara Eliya can drop to around 10°C – so a warm layer is essential. The scenic train between Kandy and Ella is at its most beautiful.
Cultural Triangle (Sigiriya, Dambulla, Polonnaruwa)
The north-east monsoon can bring occasional showers to the dry zone in December, usually short-lived. Climb Sigiriya early in the morning for the best chance of clear skies and cooler temperatures.
East & north coast (Trincomalee, Arugam Bay, Jaffna)
This is the wet season for the east and north. Seas are rough and many east-coast beach hotels operate reduced services. Save these coasts for a trip between May and September.
Where to Go in December
Galle Fort & the south coast
Sunset walks on the ramparts, boutique stays and beaches from Unawatuna to Tangalle.
Mirissa
Whale-watching season is under way, with blue whales often seen on morning trips.
Kandy & Ella
Cool air, tea country and the famous train journey through the hills.
Sigiriya
The Lion Rock at first light, before the heat and the crowds.
Bentota & the west coast
Easy beach time within reach of Colombo, ideal for families.
Read our full guides to Galle Fort, Ella and Kandy.
What's On in December
Christmas
Widely celebrated: Colombo's hotels and streets are decorated, churches hold midnight Mass, and south-coast hotels host festive dinners – lovely for families spending Christmas away.
Unduvap Poya
December's full-moon day is a Buddhist public holiday. Temples fill with worshippers in white and, as on every Poya day, alcohol is not sold in shops or most hotel bars. A beautiful day to visit a temple respectfully.
Adam's Peak season
The pilgrimage season to Sri Pada traditionally begins with the December full moon. Pilgrims climb through the night to watch sunrise from the summit – memorable, if demanding.
From around December, the waters off Mirissa are among the best places in the world to see blue whales. Choose a responsible operator that keeps a respectful distance – we only work with those that do.
A 12-Night Festive Route
A relaxed route that follows the best December weather and ends on the beach for Christmas or New Year:
- Nights 1–2 · SigiriyaLion Rock at dawn, Dambulla Cave Temple, a village experience.
- Nights 3–4 · KandyTemple of the Tooth, the botanical gardens and a Kandyan dance performance.
- Nights 5–6 · EllaThe scenic train through tea country, Nine Arch Bridge and Little Adam's Peak.
- Night 7 · YalaAn afternoon and morning game drive in search of leopards and elephants.
- Nights 8–12 · The south coastGalle Fort, whale watching from Mirissa and a festive celebration by the sea.
Want something shorter? Our 10-day Sri Lanka itinerary works beautifully in December too.
Christmas & New Year Tips
- Book earlyThe best rooms at boutique and luxury hotels for Christmas and New Year typically sell out months in advance. If you are travelling this December, enquire as soon as possible.
- Expect peak pricesHotels charge their highest rates over the festive fortnight, often with minimum stays and compulsory gala dinners on Christmas Eve or New Year's Eve.
- Travel either sideEarly December and early January offer the same excellent weather with better availability and value.
- Plan festive meals aheadIf a special Christmas dinner matters to you, check what your hotel offers before you book.
What to Pack
- Light, breathable clothing for the coast
- A warm jumper or fleece for the hill country evenings
- A light rain jacket for the occasional shower
- Clothing that covers shoulders and knees for temples (shoes and hats are removed)
- High-factor sun cream and insect repellent
Travelling with children? See our best time to visit Sri Lanka guide for how December compares with the February and Easter school holidays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is December a good time to visit Sri Lanka?
Yes. December marks the start of the dry season on the west and south coasts and in the hill country, making it one of the best times for a classic beach-and-hills trip. The east and north coasts are in their wet season, so they are best avoided for a beach holiday.
Is Sri Lanka busy at Christmas?
The two weeks around Christmas and New Year are the busiest of the year, with peak hotel prices. Booking early – or travelling in early December or early January – gives you the same weather with more choice.
Where is the best weather in Sri Lanka in December?
The south and west coasts (Galle, Mirissa, Tangalle, Bentota) and the hill country (Kandy, Ella, Nuwara Eliya) generally have the best weather in December.
Can you see whales in Sri Lanka in December?
Yes. Whale-watching season off Mirissa on the south coast is under way, and blue whales are frequently seen on morning trips.
How hot is Sri Lanka in December?
Expect 27–31°C on the coast and a much cooler 15–22°C in the hill country, where nights can drop to around 10°C in Nuwara Eliya.