Polonnaruwa Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Polonnaruwa.
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 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
For a more comfortable experience, start your day early when the weather is cooler, or take advantage of the gentle breezes in the late afternoon.
The rainy season occurs during October, November and December, when the area experiences its heaviest rainfall. Ready to plan your travels but need destination ideas? Our smart tool recommends places based on the climate conditions you prefer. Start planning with our destination weather tool.
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 3-Day Forecast
Polonnaruwa on the map
Polonnaruwa is highlighted — select any city to see its climate.
Popular this month
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