Colombo Weather in December

Colombo in December averages 31°C (88°F) during the day and 24°C (75°F) at night. December is part of the rainy season, so frequent rainfall is typical.

Rainfall in Colombo in December

Colombo is in the rainy season in December, with rain on around 10 days and an average of 185 mm (7.3 in). Showers during the rainy season tend to be heavy and can come down intensely. An umbrella is often not enough, so a poncho or waterproof jacket is a better choice.

Temperature in Colombo in December

Colombo in December gets highs of 31°C (88°F) during the day and drops to 24°C (75°F) at night. If you're spending a lot of time outdoors, it helps to plan around the warmer part of the day. Nights stay warm at around 24°C (75°F), so light bedding and good ventilation are worth thinking about.

Sunshine in Colombo in December

Expect sunny days throughout the month, with an estimated 217 hours of sunshine. Despite being the rainy season, it could still be a nice time to visit. Rain often arrives later in the day, keeping most of the days sunny.

Wind Speed in Colombo in December

December has wind speeds averaging 1 m/s (2 knots). You can expect very gentle conditions with light air movement on typical days. Since this is an average, daily weather varies from perfectly still moments to some breezier days.

Average water temperature in December

With water at 27°C (81°F), you can expect warm, pleasant conditions for any water activity. There's no adjustment period — it feels comfortable straight away.

December in Colombo has its charm. However, if you're seeking pleasant, dry and sunny weather, our weather planner can help you explore other destinations in the world.

Select a Month

Check the conditions for any month of the year.

• January
• February
• March
• April

• May
• June
• July
• August

• September
• October
• November
• December

For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit Sri Lanka, check out our Colombo's climate page.

Colombo Temperature in December

Min Temperature 24°C (75°F)  

Max Temperature 31°C (88°F)  

Water Temperature 27°C (81°F)  

Chance of Rain 34%  

Precipitation 185 mm (7.3 in)  

Rainy days 10 days  

Humidity 72%  

Windspeed 1 m/s (2 knots)  

Sunshine 217 hours  

Percentage Sunshine  

Daily Historical Temperatures

45-year average (1976-2025)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Colombo typically stay consistent throughout December, with daily highs averaging around 31°C (88°F). Nights are warm, with lows around 23°C (73°F).

Average temperatures in December

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Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

‹ January February March April May June July August September October November December ›

Daily Historical Precipitation

45-year average (1976-2025)

Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.

Average precipitation in December

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Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

‹ January February March April May June July August September October November December ›

Historical weather for Colombo in December

Browse day-by-day weather records for Colombo spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.

Historical weather Temperatures Precipitation

‹ 2026 2025 2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987 1986 1985 1984 1983 1982 1981 1980 1979 1978 1977 ›

‹ January February March April May June July August September October November December ›

Colombo historical weather extremes in December

Based on 25 years of weather observations in Colombo between 2000 and 2025, these are the recorded extremes.

• On December 25, 2017, temperatures climbed to 36°C (97°F), marking the warmest December day on record.
• The lowest daytime temperature in December was 25°C (77°F), recorded on December 20, 2014.
• The coldest night in December in Colombo was on December 30, 2019, with a minimum of 16°C (61°F).

What to Wear in Colombo in December

Warm weather calls for comfortable, breathable clothing in December. Cotton t-shirts, shorts, light dresses, and sandals are perfect. You might still want a light layer for evenings or air-conditioned places (for example buses). Also bring a poncho, it will rain a lot! Waterproof everything you can. The water temperature sits at about 27°C (81°F), making it perfect for swimming and water activities. Don't forget to pack your favorite swimwear and perhaps some snorkel gear. Don't forget sun protection, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. These are all good ideas with this much sunshine.

What To Do in Colombo in December

We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.

Swimming

8/10

Cycling

7/10

Walking

7/10

Camping

6/10

Outdoor sports

7/10

Select a Month

Check the conditions for any month of the year.

• January
• February
• March
• April

• May
• June
• July
• August

• September
• October
• November
• December

For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit Sri Lanka, check out our Colombo's climate page.

More climate data for Colombo

Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity Wind Speed Water Temp

See the full Colombo climate overview or explore weather in Sri Lanka.