Sri Lanka is a year round destination. The central parts of the country tend to have a fairly stable climate whilst the coast is impacted by monsoons but at different times of year in the north-east and south-west. Therefore you can nearly always find perfect beach weather. The exception is in October & the beginning of November when there can be an inter-monsoon affecting the whole country.

The south-west monsoon which affects visits to Yala (& its leopards) as well as the south-west coast, runs from May to September. Therefore the best time to visit these areas is from December to March with daytime temperatures averaging 30°C.

The north-east monsoon which affects visits to Minneriya (& its elephants) as well as the east coast, runs from October to January. Therefore the best time to visit these areas is from May to September with daytime temperatures averaging 28°C.

The cultural triangle is good to visit year round except November and December and it's worth bearing in mind that the hot winds blow in June and July with temperatures averaging 30°C. At a higher elevation than the rest of Sri Lanka, the Tea Country has a much cooler climate averaging around 18-20°C. For snorkelling with blue whales, March and April are the only months these trips run. To see the famous elephant gathering in Minneriya National Park, July and August are the best time to visit.