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Polonnaruwa Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Polonnaruwa.
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Climate overview of Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa, in Sri Lanka's Polonnaruwa District, maintains fairly consistent very warm temperatures throughout the year with little seasonal variation. The area experiences heavy rainfall spread across the seasons, with distinct monsoon periods bringing intense downpours. People come to Polonnaruwa to visit the ancient royal capital and see impressive ruins including a massive Buddha statues carved from solid rock. Let's explore the climate details to provide you with a complete overview on when to visit.
Polonnaruwa Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Polonnaruwa - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Polonnaruwa
The temperature in Polonnaruwa remains steady throughout the year, providing a consistently very hot climate. Average daytime temperatures reach a very hot 36°C (97°F) in May. In January, the coolest month of the year, temperatures drop to a comfortable 30°C (86°F).
At night, temperatures range from around 27°C (81°F) in May to 22°C (72°F) in January.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa has a relatively rainy climate with high precipitation levels, averaging 1213 mm (48 in) of rainfall annually. Polonnaruwa can be quite wet during November, receiving approximately 246 mm (9.7 in) of precipitation over 15 rainy days.
In contrast, during the driest month (June), you will experience much drier conditions, with 20 mm (0.8 in) of precipitation spread across 7 rainy days. For more details, please visit our Polonnaruwa Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Best Time to Visit Polonnaruwa
Compared with the rest of the year, the most comfortable conditions in Polonnaruwa are usually found in February. Conditions are generally least comfortable in March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December.
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
Jan
mixed
Feb
good
Mar
very hot
Apr
very hot
May
very hot
Jun
very hot
Jul
very hot
Aug
very hot
Sep
very hot
Oct
very hot
Nov
very wet
Dec
very wet
- Best overall: February
- Warmest weather: April, May, June, July, August and September
- Fewest rainy days: January, February and March
- Wettest months: January, October, November and December, when rainfall is highest.
- Seasonal pattern: Distinct dry (June to August) and wet (October to December) seasons
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Polonnaruwa
What is the best time to visit Polonnaruwa?
February typically offers the most optimal weather in Polonnaruwa. In contrast, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Polonnaruwa has distinct dry (June to August) and wet (October to December) seasons.
What temperatures can I expect in Polonnaruwa?
Daytime highs range from 30°C (86°F) in January to 36°C (97°F) in May. Nighttime lows range from 22°C (72°F) to 27°C (81°F). Temperatures stay relatively stable year-round.
How much rain does Polonnaruwa get?
Annual rainfall is around 1213 mm (48 in). November is the wettest month with 246 mm (9.7 in), while June is the driest with 20 mm (0.8 in).
Polonnaruwa 3-Day Forecast
Polonnaruwa on the map
Polonnaruwa is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
Popular in October
Where to go in October - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Colombo
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