You are sitting on the beach, your feet sinking into the warm sand while the sun glows on the horizon. A light breeze carries the gentle sound of the waves to you and you think to yourself: this is paradise. Welcome to Sri Lanka in February!
February is the perfect time to discover this tropical gem. Why? It's simple: while the winter chill dominates Europe, you can expect dream weather in Sri Lanka. The south and west coasts of the country glow in golden sunshine, while the central highlands beckon with cool freshness.
Here you can relax on endless beaches in the morning and immerse yourself in the rich culture in the afternoon. Believe me, there is hardly a better time to travel to Sri Lanka. And the best part? Whether you're a beach lover, a culture vulture or a nature enthusiast, February has something for everyone.
Weather overview: Tropical paradise in February
Have you ever experienced how the sun bathes the country in a golden light in the early morning? In Sri Lanka in February, you can enjoy exactly that every day. The weather here is an adventure in itself - exciting, varied and, above all, pleasant.
Sri Lanka may be small, but it is a real phenomenon when it comes to climate. The country is influenced by two monsoon systems that produce different climates depending on the season. Regions touch. In February, the weather on the south and west coasts and in the cultural triangle is usually dry and warm - perfect for beach days and outdoor adventures.
The temperatures on the coast are pleasantly warm - around 27 to 31 degrees Celsius. The nights are mild, ideal for evening walks on the beach. In the central highlands around Nuwara Eliya and Ella temperatures are around 20 degrees during the day and cool down to 10 to 15 degrees at night. A sweater is enough to keep you comfortable. Rain is rare and is limited to short, refreshing showers. This means plenty of sunshine and lots of adventure.
Best travel destinations in February: where the weather is at its best
In February, Sri Lanka shows its sunniest side - at least in the right regions. The south and west coasts as well as the central highlands invite you with perfect conditions, while the cultural triangle History and adventure. Here are the best travel destinations you shouldn't miss in February.
The sun-drenched south and west coast invites you to spend relaxing days. Imagine lying on a dream beach with golden sand, while palm trees sway gently in the wind and the turquoise water invites you to dive in. Places like Mirissa, Galle and Bentota offer everything your heart desires. You can go whale watching in Mirissa, stroll through the historic alleyways in Galle and enjoy water sports in Bentota. The conditions are ideal: plenty of sunshine, hardly any rain and a pleasant sea breeze.
The cultural triangle offers perfect conditions for exploring in February. SigiriyaThe impressive Lion Rock, Anuradhapura with its ancient temples and the cave temple of Dambulla are highlights that you should not miss. The dry weather makes it easy to spend long days outside without being caught out by rain.
A completely different Sri Lanka awaits you in the central highlands. Here you will find cool air, lush tea plantations and picturesque hiking trails. Nuwara Eliya, also known as "Little England", impresses with its colonial charm, Ella offers breathtaking views and the Horton Plains promise unforgettable hikes. Start early to experience the morning mist and enjoy the cool, clear air.
What to watch out for in February: weather tips for travelers
To make your trip to Sri Lanka in February a complete success, you should be well prepared. Here are a few practical tips to help you get the most out of your adventure.
Pack light, breathable clothing for the warm coastal regions, but don't forget a sweater or jacket for the cooler highlands. A rain jacket or small umbrella is also useful in case you experience a short shower. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for sightseeing and hiking. For the tropical sun, you should definitely bring a Sun cream with a high protection factor, a hat and sunglasses. Mosquito repellent is essential, especially in the evening and near bodies of water.
Activities such as beach days and cultural explorations can be enjoyed without hesitation, but plan hikes and sightseeing in the early hours if possible to avoid the midday heat. The beaches on the south and west coasts are ideal for swimming, surfing and snorkeling, as the sea is calm and visibility underwater is excellent.
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Last updated on 2025-02-01 / Affiliate links / Images from the Amazon Product Advertising API
"This is the weather in Sri Lanka in February"
The weather in February on the south-west coast
Districts: Colombo, Galle, Matara, Kalutara, Hambantota
Known places: Bentota, Galle, Mirissa, Unawatuna, Tangalle
Daytime temperature: 30-31°C, ideal for beach days and outdoor activities.
Night temperature: 23-25°C, warm and pleasant for relaxing evenings by the sea.
Hours of sunshine: 8-9 hours a day, perfect conditions for a sun-drenched vacation.
Rainy days: 2-4 days a month. Short showers provide refreshment and rarely disrupt the daily routine.
Water temperature: 27-28°C, perfect for swimming, snorkeling and diving.
Special features: February is the best time to visit the south and west coast. Calm seas, bright sunshine and a pleasant sea breeze invite you to enjoy activities such as whale watching, boat trips and exploring historical sites.
Typical activities:
- Whale watching in Mirissa: The season is at its peak, with excellent chances of seeing blue whales and dolphins.
- Historic Galle Fort: Stroll through the old town with its colonial buildings and enjoy the sunset from the fortress walls.
- Water sports in Bentota: Jet skiing, snorkeling or kayaking - there is something for every adventurer here.
The weather on the north and east coast in February
Districts: Trincomalee, Batticaloa, Ampara, Mullaitivu, Jaffna, Kilinochchi
Known places: Nilaveli, Arugam Bay, Jaffna, Trincomalee
Daytime temperature: 27-29°C, warm, but occasionally cloudy.
Night temperature: 22-24°C, pleasantly cool for a restful sleep.
Hours of sunshine: 5-6 hours a day, the sun appears between the rain showers.
Rainy days: 8-12 days a month. Regular showers ensure a green landscape.
Water temperature: 26-27°C, suitable for swimming, but partly with currents.
Special features: While the rainy season limits the main activities, the east coast offers an impressive natural backdrop in February. The beaches are often deserted, and cultural highlights in Jaffna still make the region worthwhile.
Typical activities:
- Visit to Jaffna: Discover the Nallur temple and the culinary specialties of the region.
- Quiet beaches in Nilaveli: Ideal for relaxed walks and birdwatching.
- Nature exploration: After the rains, the landscape blossoms and shows its most beautiful side.
The weather in February in the Central Highlands
Districts: Nuwara Eliya, Kandy, Badulla, Matale, Ratnapura
Known places: Ella, Nuwara Eliya, Horton Plains, Kandy
Daytime temperature: 20-22°C, pleasantly fresh for hiking.
Night temperature: 10-12°C, cool - a light jacket is recommended.
Hours of sunshine: 6-7 hours a day, often clear skies in the morning.
Rainy days: 5-7 days a month, light rain possible in the afternoon.
Special features: In February, the central highlands beckon with clear air and breathtaking views. Mornings are the best time for hikes before the fog spreads in the mountains.
Typical activities:
- Hike to "World's End" in Horton Plains: The clear view makes the descent down the dizzying cliff unforgettable.
- Tea tasting in Nuwara Eliya: Visit one of the many tea factories and learn more about the tea production process.
- Train ride from Kandy to Ella: The route is considered one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world.
The weather in February in the cultural triangle
Districts: Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Kurunegala, Matale
Known places: Sigiriya, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Dambulla
Daytime temperature: 28-30°C, warm and dry, ideal for historical explorations.
Night temperature: 20-22°C, mild and pleasant.
Hours of sunshine: 8-9 hours a day, perfect conditions for outdoor activities.
Rainy days: 2-4 days a month, hardly any rain.
Special features: February is the ideal time to discover the impressive UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Cultural Triangle. The weather is dry and warm, ideal for long exploratory tours.
Typical activities:
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress: Climb the Lion Rock and enjoy the breathtaking view.
- Bicycle tour in Polonnaruwa: Discover the ancient ruins in an environmentally friendly and active way.
- Dambulla cave temple: Admire the colorful murals and Buddha statues in the caves.
Sri Lanka Weather
from January to December