February is a pleasant month as the weather transitions from cold to warm. Shutting between 25°C to 30°C you will never see a setback when it comes to enjoying your holidays. Beach time, wildlife safari, adventure activities, relaxation, exploration, you name it Sri Lanka has it! This period falls in the dry season for much of the island, especially on the west and south coasts and the central highlands, making it ideal for beach holidays and outdoor activities. With a huge diversity, the country welcomes all kinds of travellers throughout the year making it one of the top-notch places to visit in Asia. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or culture, Sri Lanka in February promises an unforgettable experience with its tropical beauty and vibrant spirit. Give this blog a quick read so that you can have a better and more enjoyable time during your trip to the nation.
Is February a good time to visit Sri Lanka?
Yes, February is an excellent time to visit Sri Lanka. The weather is at its best, with warm, sunny days and minimal rainfall, especially in the west, south, and central regions. Temperatures hover between 25-30°C, making it ideal for enjoying the country’s beautiful beaches, like Bentota, Mirissa, and Unawatuna, where calm seas are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and whale watching. For nature lovers, February offers fantastic wildlife safaris in Yala or Udawalawe National Parks, with opportunities to see elephants, leopards, and exotic birds. The central highlands, including Ella and Nuwara Eliya, are lush and inviting for trekking and sightseeing. With its pleasant weather and variety of activities, February is one of the best months to explore Sri Lanka.
Overview of weather in Sri Lanka in February
In February, Sri Lanka experiences pleasant weather, making it an ideal time to visit. The average temperature ranges from 25-30°C in most regions, with cooler temperatures in the central highlands like Nuwara Eliya, where it can drop to around 15°C at night. Coastal areas and the lowlands are warmer, with plenty of sunshine. February falls in the dry season for the west, south, and central regions, ensuring minimal rainfall and perfect conditions for outdoor activities. The average rainfall is low, with western and southern coasts receiving less than 100mm. However, the northeast may still experience some residual rain as it transitions out of its monsoon season. Overall, February offers warm, dry, and sunny weather across most of Sri Lanka.
What to wear in Sri Lanka in February?
Packing for Sri Lanka in February is pretty easy because you will have to just pick the cotton and breathable clothes from your wardrone! As you are aware of the fact that the weather remains warm and sunny, so stick to loose cotton or linen clothes to stay comfy. T-shirts, shorts, sundresses, and light skirts are perfect for the heat. If you’re heading to the cooler hill country like Ella or Nuwara Eliya, pack a light sweater or jacket for the evenings it can get surprisingly chilly! Comfortable shoes or sandals are a must for sightseeing and don’t forget swimwear if you’re planning to hit the beaches. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen will be lifesavers under the tropical sun. For temple visits, carry a scarf or shawl to cover your shoulders and knees it’s a cultural must.
Visitor arrivals: Is Sri Lanka crowded during February?
Sri Lanka can be moderately crowded in February, as it’s one of the most popular months to visit. The weather is ideal, with sunny skies and dry conditions, attracting both international tourists and locals enjoying the season. Popular beach destinations like Mirissa, Bentota, and Unawatuna, as well as cultural hotspots like Sigiriya and Kandy, can feel busy, especially during weekends or peak hours. That said, the crowds are manageable, and it’s easy to find quieter spots if you plan strategically or explore off-the-beaten-path areas. Hill country towns like Ella or tea estates in Nuwara Eliya offer a more relaxed vibe. Booking accommodations and tours in advance is a smart move to ensure a hassle-free experience during this popular month.
Average costs of a trip to Sri Lanka in February
The cost of a trip to Sri Lanka in February can vary depending on your travel style, but it’s generally affordable compared to many destinations. Here’s a breakdown of the key expenses in GBP: Airfare: Return flights from the UK to Colombo typically range from £500 to £800 in February, depending on when you book and the airline. Budget carriers or early bookings may offer lower fares.
1. Accommodation
Sri Lanka offers options for all budgets. Mid-range hotels or charming boutique guesthouses cost around £30-£80 per night. Luxury resorts, especially along the south coast or in the hill country, range from £100 to £300 per night, offering stunning views and premium facilities. Backpacker hostels or budget stays are available for as little as £10-£20 per night.
2. Transfers
Transport is very affordable. Hiring a private driver for a full day costs around £40-£60, ideal for sightseeing. Tuk-tuks for short trips are a fun and cheap option, costing just a few pounds. Long-distance trains and buses are even cheaper, with scenic train journeys (like Kandy to Ella) costing around £5-£10 in first class.
3. Daily Expenses
Meals in local restaurants are inexpensive, averaging £2-£5 per meal, while fine dining may cost £15-£30 per person. Entry fees to cultural sites like Sigiriya are around £20-£25, and safaris cost £30-£50 per person. In total, a 10-day mid-range trip for two could cost around £1,200-£1,800, excluding flights. Budget or luxury choices will adjust the total accordingly.
Things to Do in Sri Lanka in February
February is a fantastic time to explore Sri Lanka, offering endless opportunities to experience its diverse attractions. With warm, dry weather across much of the island, visitors can enjoy everything from scenic landscapes to cultural wonders. The pleasant climate is perfect for exploring lush hill country, relaxing on stunning beaches, and spotting unique wildlife. February’s vibrant festivals and events add a lively cultural touch to the experience. Whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquility, or history, Sri Lanka in February has something for every traveller to enjoy.
| Things to Do in Sri Lanka in February | |
| Relax on the beaches of Bentota, Mirissa, and Unawatuna | Visit the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy |
| Go whale watching in Mirissa | Explore tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya |
| Explore the cultural sites of Sigiriya and Dambulla | Take a scenic train ride from Kandy to Ella |
| Hike to Ella Rock and visit Nine Arches Bridge | Attend the Navam Perahera festival in Colombo |
| Go on a safari in Yala or Udawalawe National Park | Visit the UNESCO-listed city of Anuradhapura |
| Trek through Sinharaja Forest Reserve | Enjoy water sports in Hikkaduwa and Negombo |
Where to Stay in Sri Lanka in February?
Sri Lanka offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every traveller in February. Coastal areas like Bentota, Mirissa, and Unawatuna boast beachfront resorts and boutique hotels, perfect for a relaxing beach holiday. The cultural city of Kandy offers charming guesthouses and luxury hotels, while Nuwara Eliya in the hill country provides cosy cottages and high-end resorts with scenic views. For wildlife lovers, staying near Yala or Udawalawe National Parks offers safari lodges and eco-friendly stays. No matter where you go, there’s a range of choices to suit your style and budget.
| Best Resorts and Hotels in Sri Lanka | |
| Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort (Tangalle) | Cape Weligama (Weligama) |
| Cinnamon Grand Colombo (Colombo) | Amangalla (Galle) |
| The Fortress Resort & Spa (Koggala) | Heritance Kandalama (Dambulla) |
| The Kingsbury (Colombo) | Jetwing Lighthouse (Galle) |
| Ulagalla by Uga Escapes (Anuradhapura) | Ceylon Tea Trails (Hatton) |
| Shangri-La’s Hambantota Resort & Spa (Hambantota) | Madulkelle Tea and Eco Lodge (Kandy) |
What to eat in Sri Lanka in February?
It offers an array of delicious local dishes that are perfect for savouring under the warm sun. Rice and Curry is the staple, served with a variety of curries like dhal (lentil curry), chicken, beef, or fish curry, and side dishes such as pol sambol (coconut sambol) and mallung (herb salad). Hoppers (appa), crispy bowl-shaped pancakes, are great for breakfast or dinner, often paired with a spicy egg curry or sweet kiri hodi (milk curry). For a snack, try samosas or isso wade (prawn fritters). Don’t miss kottu roti, a flavourful stir-fry of chopped roti, vegetables, and meat. For dessert, watalappan (coconut custard) and curd with treacle are must-tries.
What to pack in Sri Lanka in February?
When packing for Sri Lanka in February, keep in mind the warm and sunny weather. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing like cotton or linen shirts, t-shirts, dresses, and shorts to stay comfortable in the heat. If you’re heading to the hill country, bring a light sweater or jacket for cooler evenings. Don’t forget swimwear for beach days and sun protection essentials like sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. Comfortable shoes are a must for sightseeing you can consider sandals for the beach and sturdy shoes for hikes. A scarf or shawl will be useful for visiting temples. Finally, pack a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and a camera to capture the island’s beauty!
Hacks & tips to visit Sri Lanka in February
Let’s take a dip into some hacks and tips that would help every visitor enjoy their trip to Sri Lanka in February:
- Book flights early to get the best deals, as February is a popular travel month.
- Pack light, breathable clothes and bring layers for cooler evenings in the hill country.
- Carry cash as many smaller establishments don’t accept credit cards.
- Use local SIM cards for affordable mobile data and better coverage.
- Avoid peak tourist spots during the day to beat the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Book accommodations in advance, especially for popular beach resorts and cultural sites.
- Use tuk-tuks for short distances, but agree on the fare beforehand.
- Stay hydrated and drink bottled water to avoid stomach issues.
- Respect local customs by dressing modestly when visiting temples and sacred sites.
- Try local street food, but make sure it’s freshly prepared to avoid any health issues.
- Plan your safaris early to secure a spot in national parks like Yala and Udawalawe.
- Explore by train for scenic and affordable travel, especially between Kandy and Ella.
Read Also: Best time to visit Sri Lanka | Best places to visit in Sri Lanka
Things to do in Sri Lanka | Boutique hotels in Sri Lanka | Beaches in Sri Lanka
