Colombo in December
Great time to visit
Weather improves dramatically just in time for holiday crowds and peak prices. Christmas atmosphere adds charm, but expect to pay premium rates for the privilege.
Weather
December sees the northeast monsoon beginning to weaken with decreasing rainfall and humidity dropping to around 75%. Clear spells become more frequent, especially in the latter half of the month. Temperatures cool slightly with better sea breezes returning.
30°C high22°C low8 rain days
Crowds & Cost
peak crowds
~$95/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Christmas celebrations
- •Unduvap Poya Day
- •New Year preparations
December Tips
- •Book Christmas dinner reservations well ahead at hotel restaurants
- •Galle Face Green comes alive with evening crowds and food stalls
- •Prices spike after mid-month for holiday season
All Months
December through March gives you the dry season with temperatures around 27-30°C. This is peak tourist season, so guesthouses charge more and Galle Face Green gets crowded with families.
July and August bring the southwest monsoon, but it's not the city-stopping rain you'd expect. Afternoon showers clear the air and cool things down. Hotel prices drop 30-40% and you'll have temples mostly to yourself.
Avoid April through June – it's hot, humid, and miserable. May hits 35°C with crushing humidity. September through November brings unpredictable weather, but also the best fruit season. Mangoes and rambutans are everywhere and cheap.
Colombo Scores
Solo
7/10
Couples
6/10
Families
6/10
Adventure
6/10
Budget
9/10
Luxury
5/10
BUILD YOUR COLOMBO PLAN
Insider picks, smart timing, and a plan ready when you are.