Sri Lanka Itineraries · By month
Sri Lanka in May
Updated 10 October 2026 · by the GoTourRide team
The south west monsoon begins, bringing rain and rough seas to the west, south and hill country west side. The east coast and the Cultural Triangle, which stay drier. Avoid long beach stays on the south coast.
Weather in Sri Lanka in May
The south west monsoon begins, bringing rain and rough seas to the west, south and hill country west side.
Sri Lanka has two monsoons, so the best coast changes with the month. Your driver can adjust the plan if the weather turns.
Where to go in May
The east coast and the Cultural Triangle, which stay drier. Avoid long beach stays on the south coast.
Events and things to know
Vesak (May full moon): lanterns and a public holiday, with alcohol sales paused.
Routes for this trip
- Colombo Airport (CMB) to Trincomalee (260 km, 5.5 to 6 hours)
- Colombo Airport (CMB) to Arugam Bay (320 km, 8 to 9 hours)
- Colombo Airport (CMB) to Sigiriya (170 km, 4 to 4.5 hours)
Keep reading
- Best time to go to Sri Lanka
- Best time to visit Sri Lanka: weather guide
- How to hire a private driver in Sri Lanka
- Trip cost calculator
- Find a private driver
More itinerary ideas
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FAQs
Is May a good time to visit Sri Lanka?
The south west monsoon begins, bringing rain and rough seas to the west, south and hill country west side. The east coast and the Cultural Triangle, which stay drier. Avoid long beach stays on the south coast.
Which coast is best in May?
The south west monsoon begins, bringing rain and rough seas to the west, south and hill country west side.