Matara Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Matara.
Climate overview of Matara
With consistently stable weather, Matara, Galle District, Sri Lanka, sees little seasonal temperature change. Daytime highs average 30°C (86°F), ranging from 31°C (88°F) in March to 30°C (86°F) in August.
Rainfall is high, totalling around 2135 mm (84 in) per year. November is the wettest month and February the driest. The city also experiences two distinct rainy seasons, April to June and September to December. The sunniest month is March, with 9.0 hours of sunshine per day on average.
Matara Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Matara - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Matara
The climate in Matara remains fairly constant, offering very warm temperatures throughout the year. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a very warm 31°C (88°F) in March, the warmest time of the year, to a comfortable 30°C (86°F) during cooler months like August.
At night, you can expect temperatures ranging from 26°C (79°F) in March to around 24°C (75°F) during August.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Matara
Matara is known for its substantial rainfall, with annual precipitation reaching 2135 mm (84 in). Significant seasonal changes in precipitation occur throughout the year. In the wettest month, November it receives heavy rainfall, averaging 290 mm (11 in) of precipitation, recorded across 14 rainy days. In contrast, the driest month February brings less rainfall, with 80 mm (3.1 in) over 5 rainy days. For more details, please visit our Matara 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 Matara
While the amount of sunshine in Matara varies throughout the year, all seasons offer their own charm. Enjoy up to 9.0 hours of daily sun in March, and experience slightly darker atmosphere in September, with about 6.0 hours of daily sunlight.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Best Time to Visit Matara
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: January, February and March
- Warmest weather: January, February, March, April, May and June
- Most sunshine: March
- Fewest rainy days: January, February and March
- Seasonal pattern: Two distinct rainy seasons, April to June and September to December
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Matara
What is the best time to visit Matara?
January, February and March typically offer the most optimal weather in Matara. In contrast, April, May, June, September, October, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Matara has two distinct rainy seasons, April to June and September to December.
What temperatures can I expect in Matara?
Daytime highs range from 30°C (86°F) in August to 31°C (88°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 Matara get?
Annual rainfall is around 2135 mm (84 in). November is the wettest month with 290 mm (11 in), while February is the driest with 80 mm (3.1 in).
How sunny is Matara?
Matara receives around 2,609 hours of sunshine per year. March is the sunniest month with 270 hours, while September is the cloudiest with just 180 hours. Overall, Matara enjoys abundant sunshine.
Matara 3-Day Forecast
Matara on the map
Matara 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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