Colombo Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Colombo features a tropical monsoon climate. The city has two rainy seasons and a lot of precipitation in between; an average of more than 2500 mm (98 in) of precipitation annually. Temperatures are almost constant throughout the year: the average daily temperature is around 30°C (86°F). Together with the abundant precipitation, this makes for high humidity. The best time of year to visit Colombo is in January, February, July and August.
Monthly Temperature in Colombo
The climate in Colombo remains fairly constant, offering very warm temperatures throughout the year. Average daytime temperatures reach a very warm 33°C (91°F) in March. In January, the coolest month of the year, temperatures drop to a very warm 30°C (86°F).
At night, temperatures range from around 26°C (79°F) in March to 24°C (75°F) in January.Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Colombo
Colombo is known for its substantial rainfall, with annual precipitation reaching 2608 mm (103 in). Colombo can be quite wet during October, receiving approximately 355 mm (14 in) of precipitation over 16 rainy days.
In contrast, during the driest month (January), you will experience much drier conditions, with 71 mm (2.8 in) of precipitation spread across 5 rainy days days. For more details, please visit our Colombo Precipitation page.The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Colombo
Colombo experiences moderate variation in sunshine hours across the seasons. With 9.2 hours daily sunshine in March, it dips to 6.3 hours in September, offering a balanced mix of sunny and overcast days.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Water Temperature in Colombo
The mean water temperature over the year ranges from 26°C (79°F) in August to 28°C (82°F) in January.
Water temperature over the year
Humidity in Colombo by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Colombo.
The city experiences its highest humidity in June, reaching 79%. In February, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 69%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in Colombo
The average wind speed over the year ranges from 1 m/s (2 knots) to 2 m/s (4 knots). It is lower in February, March, April, October, November and December and higher in January, May, June, July, August and September. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Colombo 3-Day Forecast
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
Best Time to Visit Colombo
In general, temperatures in Colombo range from 30°C (86°F) to 33°C (91°F) across the year, with January, February and March being the best time to visit for those who prefer drier weather.Make your experience more enjoyable by planning to be outside during the cooler parts of the day, either early morning or as the sun begins to set. Wondering where to travel based on your weather preferences? Our recommendation tool helps you find destinations with your ideal climate conditions. Use our weather planner to find your perfect destination.
