The island is composed of many terrains at different levels, making the dry season - from December to March - the best time to visit the west and south coasts, as well as the central mountains. If you decide to pay a visit to the east coast however, May to September offers the best chance of good weather.
You should also be prepared for big differences in temperature between the coastal towns and resorts and those found further inland. In the mountains, especially if you decide to climb Adam’s Peak, you’ll need to bring a substantial jumper when darkness falls at the summit. The same applies for evenings spent in the large tea plantations, where temperatures drop rapidly after the sun has set.
One of Sri Lanka’s great advantages is its size. Varied and easy to travel, the island offers several public transport options which, though often slow, provide a great way to get to know the landscapes in all their wondrous diversity. In just a few hours, you can go from arid savannahs to luscious rainforests, from peaceful beach to vibrant cityscape.
The majority of large hotels are to be found on the west coast between Colombo and Galle, but the country as a whole is warming up more and more to tourism and you can find some beautiful guesthouses on the south and south-east coasts. A firm favourite is Arugam Bay, with its great surf, beachside eateries and charming local population. You’ll also find it a great base for exploring the verdant countryside further inland.