It might be tempting to look for winter sun abroad during the gloomy and chilly month of December. Sri Lanka in December is a wonderful holiday location, with a warm tropical environment and a variety of enjoyable activities for all ages and interests.
December’s fantastic weather in Sri Lanka makes it the perfect time to enjoy traditional Sri Lankan activities like trekking, bird- and whale-watching, surfing, and Christmas parties at numerous hotels.
The Top 10 Locations in Sri Lanka in December are listed below:
1. Nuwara Eliya
Nuwara Eliya, a 19th-century hill station in Sri Lanka, is one of the most picturesque tourist destinations because it has Mock-Tudor structures, a golf course, and gentlemen’s clubs. It is among the most stunning places in Sri Lanka to take a scenic train journey.
While riding the train from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, take in the breathtaking views of the nearby tea plantations, waterfalls, and imposing mountains. The journey would be too enjoyable to finish! You may enjoy trekking in Kandy as you discover the natural beauties.
Highlights: Known as “Little England,” this hill station is famous for tea plantations, colonial architecture, and cool temperatures.
Things to Do:
- Visit a tea estate and factory for tasting and learning about Sri Lankan tea.
- Take a stroll around Gregory Lake for scenic views.
- Explore the Hakgala Botanical Gardens, home to a variety of flora.
Best Time to Visit: December offers cool, misty weather, ideal for exploring the lush landscapes.
Nearby Attractions: Horton Plains National Park, Lovers Leap Waterfall.
2. Kandy
When traveling to Sri Lanka in the winter, from December to February, Kandy is another popular tourist destination. Kandy is renowned for its temples and spiritual attraction; for an unforgettable holiday, explore the gorgeous locations to see there.
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, National Museum of Kandy, Royal Botanical Gardens, Kandy Lake, Hulu River Waterfall, Udawattakele Forest Reserve, and Royal Palace of Kandy are a few of the prominent Kandy wintertime attractions.
Highlights: A cultural hub and home to the Temple of the Tooth, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Things to Do:
- Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, a sacred Buddhist site.
- Walk around Kandy Lake for beautiful views and relaxation.
- Explore the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya.
Best Time to Visit: December is dry and cool, making it perfect for sightseeing.
Nearby Attractions: Udawattakele Forest Reserve, Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue.
3. Yala National Park
In Sri Lanka, it is among the most pleasant places to visit during the colder months. The park is home to many species, including Sri Lankan creatures, sloth bears, golden palm civets, fisher cats, toque macaques, and unusual creatures.
In this wild and breathtaking place, visitors may also spend three days camping. One of Yala National Park’s attractions is the safari, which allows you to see various animals. It is vital to see the Magul Maha Viharaya and Sithulpawwa in this national park.
Highlights: Known for its high leopard density, Yala offers a thrilling wildlife safari experience.
Things to Do:
- Take a safari to spot leopards, elephants, and diverse bird species.
- Visit Sithulpawwa, an ancient rock temple within the park.
- Enjoy a picnic at one of the park’s designated areas with scenic views.
Best Time to Visit: December is part of the dry season, ideal for safaris.
Nearby Attractions: Kataragama Temple, Kumana National Park.
4. Bentota Beach
The well-known and more comfortable Bentota beach is situated 65 kilometers southwest of Colombo. It is the proper and ideal location in Sri Lanka for you to come to if you want to relax in the warm sun or are ready for daring water activities like snorkeling.
Due to its stunningly picturesque sunsets, Bentota draws tourists’ attention. You may take a dip in the inviting water or take a relaxing riverboat ride. Winter is the most incredible season for water sports activities, making it the finest time to visit Bentota beach.
Highlights: A beautiful beach with a laid-back vibe, popular for water sports and luxury resorts.
Things to Do:
- Try water sports like jet skiing, windsurfing, and parasailing.
- Relax on the beach and enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants.
- Take a river safari along the Bentota River.
Best Time to Visit: December is perfect for beach activities with warm, sunny weather.
Nearby Attractions: Brief Garden, Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery.
5. Adams Rock
Another stunning site with a cone-shaped summit that is primarily a pilgrimage path is Adams Rock. For the purpose of viewing the sunrise, pilgrims trek to the top of the hill in the early morning hours. It should take them around three hours.
At the summit, there is a footprint that some claim to be that of Adams, others claim to be that of Lord Shiva, and others still claim to be that of Buddha. December through May are the ideal times to travel to this location.
Highlights: A sacred pilgrimage site for Buddhists, Hindus, and Muslims, known for its “sacred footprint” at the summit.
Things to Do:
- Climb Adam’s Peak at night to reach the summit for sunrise views.
- Experience the pilgrimage atmosphere with locals and fellow travelers.
- Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Best Time to Visit: December to May is the pilgrimage season; ideal for clear weather.
Nearby Attractions: Hatton (base town), Maskeliya Reservoir.
6. Colombo
The nation’s capital city blends the vibrant indigenous and colonial histories of the nation with contemporary metropolitan comforts. As an important stop on the world’s spice trade routes, Sri Lanka has maintained its strategic importance to European commercial powers.
These influences may be experienced in the cuisine, observed in the built environment and the arts, and felt in the city of Colombo. Several museums and other attractions in the city may introduce you to Sri Lankan culture. Read Also: 10 Famous Things To Do In Colombo, Sri lanka.
Highlights: The bustling capital, Colombo offers a mix of colonial architecture, modern buildings, and vibrant street life.
Things to Do:
- Visit the National Museum to learn about Sri Lankan history and culture.
- Shop and dine at the famous Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct.
- Explore Galle Face Green, a popular beachside promenade.
Best Time to Visit: December’s warm weather is ideal for city exploration.
Nearby Attractions: Gangaramaya Temple, Viharamahadevi Park.
7. Galle
A two-hour trip on one of Sri Lanka’s first modern superhighways will get you to the city of Galle from Colombo. This historic commercial port is centered around a sizable fort built on the beachfront in the 17th century, reflecting the region’s colonial past.
Galle Fort is a whole walled town that has been restored; it is now crowded with upscale lodgings, stores, and eateries. All of it is a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site. Since there are no cars everywhere in the Fort area, it’s a terrific spot to explore on foot.
Highlights: A UNESCO-listed colonial town with a well-preserved fort area and charming streets.
Things to Do:
- Walk around Galle Fort and explore its Dutch-era architecture.
- Visit the Galle Lighthouse and Maritime Archaeology Museum.
- Shop for crafts and souvenirs in Galle’s quaint boutiques.
Best Time to Visit: December’s weather is ideal for walking tours.
Nearby Attractions: Unawatuna Beach, Japanese Peace Pagoda.
8. Hikkaduwa Beach
For those who enjoy water activities, this beach close to Colombo is a famous location. Renting any of the equipment is simple at one of the seashore stands. The greatest waves come in winter, making it one of the most well-liked surfing spots in the nation.
The beach never appears unduly crowded because of its vastness. If you choose to spend the night, several seaside stalls provide a variety of mouthwatering local street cuisine. Additionally, there are a lot of modest hotels and guesthouses.
Highlights: A popular beach destination known for snorkeling, surfing, and coral reefs.
Things to Do:
- Go snorkeling to see vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
- Try surfing on Hikkaduwa’s waves, suitable for beginners and experts.
- Visit the turtle sanctuary and rehabilitation center.
Best Time to Visit: December offers sunny weather for beach activities.
Nearby Attractions: Hikkaduwa Coral Sanctuary, Seenigama Temple.
9. Tangalle
Since Sri Lanka is an island, it has beaches all around it, so there is truly something for everyone. Travel to the Tangalle region for a wide variety of beach experiences. It is a well-liked resort area located near the island’s southern coast center.
You may choose from various beaches, including massive, windswept expanses of open sand and tropical coves. Along with secluded beaches where you’re nearly assured to be alone, there are also beaches with amenities, shops, and beachside kiosks.
Highlights: Known for its secluded beaches and calm bays, ideal for relaxation and scenic beauty.
Things to Do:
- Relax on Tangalle Beach and explore nearby coves.
- Visit the Mulkirigala Rock Temple, an ancient Buddhist site.
- Explore Rekawa Beach, known for turtle nesting.
Best Time to Visit: December is warm and sunny, perfect for beach relaxation.
Nearby Attractions: Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary, Medaketiya Beach.
10. Bundala National Park
One of the greatest spots in the world to go bird watching is at this national park and wetland refuge, which has dunes, lagoons, and sizable freshwater bodies of water. You may see several species of birds, some unique in Sri Lanka within those places.
From as far afield as Siberia, many birds travel here seasonally. Along with the numerous birds, there are also numerous elephants and crocodiles, both of which like eating birds. Four of the five sea turtle species in Sri Lanka prefer to deposit their eggs on the beaches.
Highlights: A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its wetland habitat and birdwatching opportunities.
Things to Do:
- Take a safari for birdwatching, with species like flamingos, storks, and pelicans.
- Spot elephants, crocodiles, and other wildlife in the park’s lagoons.
- Enjoy a guided nature walk to learn about the park’s unique ecosystems.
Best Time to Visit: December, as migratory birds flock to Bundala.
Nearby Attractions: Kirinda Temple, Yala National Park.
Things to Do in Sri Lanka in December:
Those who want to hike this month can spend the night ascending Adam’s Peak. It is an important Buddhist pilgrimage destination, and its name is Sri Pada. The imprint of Lord Buddha, according to devotees, may be found at the peak.
Most pilgrims decide to climb the mountain overnight and catch the dawn at the top, which takes around five hours. The path is made more lively by luminary booths and refreshments. Traditionally, the full moons in December and April mark the beginning and closing of the pilgrimage season.
The majestic Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, Colombo’s culinary and nightlife scenes, Galle Fort’s Dutch colonial town, and the fantastic 165-foot-tall Buddha statue in the village of Dikwella are all great options for visitors to Sri Lanka in December.
Events in Sri Lanka in December:
In Sri Lanka, where the populace practices many different religions, there are celebrations and holidays all year long, including in December. A significant day for Sri Lankan Buddhists, the full moon marks the start of the Adam’s Peak pilgrimage season.
The Catholic communities of Sri Lanka also observe Christmas on December 25. These settlements are mostly concentrated around Colombo. With the importation of customs like Christmas trees from Western nations, Christmas has also been extensively embraced as a secular celebration.
In Conclusion
Sri Lanka is an amazingly varied country. Travelers can find the weather and amazement they want in Sri Lanka in December. One of the finest ways to learn about this natural and enjoyable nation and culture is to participate in local Sri Lankan customs and festivals, which is possible in December.
For more details, visit Sri Lanka:
- Top 10 Destinations to Visit in Sri Lanka in November
- Sri Lanka Tourist Places to See in January
- Travel Places in Sri Lanka to Visit in February
- Top 10 Wildlife Destinations in Sri Lanka
- Sri Lanka Most Beautiful Beaches
- 10 Places and Things To Do in Sri Lanka In August 2025
- Top 10 Adventure Destinations in Sri Lanka
- Sri Lanka’s 5 Most Beautiful Hill Stations to See
- 10 Popular Wildlife Places in Sri Lanka
- Sri Lanka Yoga Retreats and Wellness Center
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What are the best destinations to visit in Sri Lanka in December?
Some top destinations are Nuwara Eliya, Kandy, Colombo, Yala National Park, Bentota Beach, and Galle.
2. Is December a good time to visit Sri Lanka?
Yes, December is ideal as the weather is mostly dry in popular tourist regions, especially in the south and west.
3. What is the weather like in Sri Lanka in December?
December typically has warm, sunny days in the west and south, while the north and east may experience some rain.
4. Are beaches a good option in Sri Lanka during December?
Yes, beaches on the south and west coasts like Bentota, Mirissa, and Unawatuna are great to visit in December.
5. Can I visit cultural sites in December?
Definitely! December is a wonderful time to explore cultural sites like Kandy’s Temple of the Tooth and Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
6. What are the best wildlife destinations to visit in December?
Yala and Udawalawe National Parks are excellent for wildlife safaris to see elephants, leopards, and other animals.
7. Is December good for hiking in Sri Lanka?
Yes, Horton Plains and Ella are popular for hiking, with cool, pleasant weather in December.
8. Can I explore tea plantations in December?
Yes, Nuwara Eliya offers beautiful tea plantations to visit, and December’s cooler weather enhances the experience.
9. Is it crowded in Sri Lanka during December?
December is a popular month, especially around Christmas and New Year’s, so it can be crowded in major tourist areas.
10. What are the top beaches to visit in December?
Bentota, Mirissa, Hikkaduwa, and Unawatuna are top beach destinations with favorable weather.
11. Can I experience any festivals in December?
Christmas is widely celebrated in Sri Lanka, particularly in Colombo, where you’ll find festive decorations and events.
12. Is whale watching available in December?
Yes, whale watching in Mirissa is popular in December, where you can spot blue whales and dolphins.
13. Is it a good time to visit Colombo in December?
Yes, Colombo has a vibrant atmosphere in December, with shopping, dining, and festive celebrations for the holiday season.
14. Can I visit national parks in December?
Yes, December is a great time to visit Yala and Udawalawe National Parks for safari tours.
15. What should I pack for a December trip to Sri Lanka?
Pack light clothing, sunscreen, beachwear, and a jacket if you’re visiting hill stations like Nuwara Eliya, where it’s cooler.
