Colombo Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Colombo.
Climate overview of Colombo
Colombo Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Colombo - and find the best time to visit.
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 July, 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 July.
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. 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)
Best Time to Visit Colombo
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: January
- Warmest weather: January, February, March and April
- Most sunshine: March
- Fewest rainy days: January and February
- Best for swimming: Any time of year. The sea stays pleasantly warm year-round.
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Colombo
What is the best time to visit Colombo?
January typically offers the most optimal weather in Colombo. In contrast, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions.
What temperatures can I expect in Colombo?
Daytime highs range from 30°C (86°F) in July to 33°C (91°F) in March. Nighttime lows range from 24°C (75°F) to 26°C (79°F). Temperatures stay relatively stable year-round.
How much rain does Colombo get?
Annual rainfall is around 2608 mm (103 in). October is the wettest month with 355 mm (14 in), while January is the driest with 71 mm (2.8 in).
How sunny is Colombo?
Colombo receives around 2,623 hours of sunshine per year. March is the sunniest month with 276 hours, while September is the cloudiest with just 189 hours. Overall, Colombo enjoys abundant sunshine.
Colombo 3-Day Forecast
Colombo on the map
Colombo is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
Popular this month
Where to go in August - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Colombo
30°C (86°F) Negombo30°C (86°F) Mirissa29°C (84°F) Unawatuna29°C (84°F) Hikkaduwa29°C (84°F) Galle29°C (84°F) Kandy
29°C (84°F) Nuwara Eliya28°C (82°F) 
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