Sri Lanka Weather in June | Climate, Travel Tips & Safari Info

June marks the start of the southwest monsoon season in Sri Lanka, and many travellers wonder what to expect if they’re planning a visit during this time. Whether you’re heading to the beach, exploring ancient ruins, or planning a wildlife safari, understanding the Sri Lanka weather in June is key to enjoying your trip.

This year, June travel to Sri Lanka offers a mix of tropical rains, lush green landscapes, and fewer crowds, especially for those looking to explore national parks like Udawalawe. 

While some regions experience heavier rain, others remain dry and perfect for safaris and cultural tours. This guide will help you decide where to go, what to expect, and how to prepare for a smooth journey during the June travel season in Sri Lanka.

What is Sri Lanka’s Weather Like in June?

June in Sri Lanka falls right in the middle of the southwest monsoon season, which mainly affects the western and southern coastal areas. 

Regions like Colombo, Galle, Bentota, and the hill country around Nuwara Eliya typically experience frequent afternoon or evening showers, cloudy skies, and higher humidity.

But not all of Sri Lanka gets soaked in June. The eastern and southeastern regions, including destinations like Arugam Bay, Trincomalee, and Udawalawe, often remain much drier and sunnier, making them ideal for safaris and beach trips.

Regional Weather Overview in June

• Colombo & West Coast: Heavy showers, high humidity, occasional flooding. (Affected by southwest monsoon)
  
• Galle, Bentota & South Coast: Rainy, especially in the afternoons. Travel is possible, but can be disrupted.
  
• Nuwara Eliya & Central Highlands: Cool, misty, and wet. Ideal for scenic views, but rain gear is essential.
  
• Eastern Sri Lanka (Arugam Bay, Trincomalee): Warm and dry—great for surfing and beach holidays. (Not affected by the southwest monsoon)
  
• Southeast (Udawalawe, Kataragama): Mostly dry and open for safaris. Good wildlife visibility and fewer tourists.

On average, June temperatures in Sri Lanka range from 26°C to 31°C (79°F to 88°F) in coastal zones and 18°C to 24°C (64°F to 75°F) in the highlands. 

Rainfall varies greatly, with western areas receiving 150–300mm, while eastern zones often stay under 50mm.

Is June a Good Time to Visit Sri Lanka?

The answer depends on where you plan to go. While June brings rain to some regions, it can still be a great time to visit Sri Lanka, especially if you’re looking to avoid the crowds and don’t mind occasional showers.

Why June Can Be a Good Month to Visit

• Fewer tourists – enjoy popular sites and national parks with less crowding.
  
• Lush greenery – landscapes are fresh and vibrant due to the early rains.
  
• Lower travel costs – hotels and tours often offer off season discounts.
  
• Good conditions in the East and Southeast – places like Udawalawe, Arugam Bay, and Trincomalee are generally dry and sunny.

What to Watch Out For

• Rain in western and southern coastal areas can disrupt beach plans.
  
• Hill country may be misty and slippery, affecting hiking or scenic views.
  
• Occasional floods in some low lying regions.

If you’re planning a safari, surfing, or a peaceful cultural trip without crowds, June travel in Sri Lanka might surprise you in a good way.

Can You Go on a Safari in June?

Yes, and June can actually be one of the best months to go on safari in certain parts of Sri Lanka!

While the southwest monsoon brings rain to some areas, wildlife parks like Udawalawe National Park and parts of Yala National Park (excluding Block 1, which is closed for animal welfare and road maintenance) remain open and are still great for safari experiences.

Why June Is Still Great for Safaris

• Udawalawe is in the dry zone, meaning it usually gets little or no rain in June.
  
• Fewer tourists, quieter safaris, more relaxed animal sightings.
  
• Lush scenery makes wildlife photography especially beautiful.
  
• Wild elephants, water buffalo, crocodiles, and birds are active, especially near water sources.

Safari Travel Tips in June

• Book with a reliable jeep operator who knows how to navigate wet or muddy paths if needed.
  
• Wear light, quick drying clothes and bring a rain poncho; occasional light showers may occur.
  
• Early morning and late afternoon safaris are best for spotting wildlife.

Even if you’re travelling during the monsoon season, don’t skip the chance to explore Sri Lanka’s wildlife, especially in Udawalawe, one of the best dry-zone parks in the country.

If you’re planning your safari this June, here’s some good news: Our verified safari service provider is offering a 15% discount throughout the month!

You can claim this deal by booking directly through their website or by contacting their WhatsApp booking agent.

Best Places to Visit in June in Sri Lanka

If you’re wondering where to go in Sri Lanka in June, the good news is that many regions offer sunshine, dry weather, and unforgettable experiences, even during the monsoon season. From wildlife safaris to beach getaways, here are the top destinations in Sri Lanka to visit in June with ideal weather and great travel conditions.

So, if you’re planning to travel during the monsoon, these dry zone destinations in Sri Lanka for June offer the best mix of weather, value, and unique experiences. You can enjoy nature, culture, and coastlines without the hassle of heavy rain.

What to Pack for Sri Lanka in June

Packing smart is essential when visiting Sri Lanka in June. Since it’s the monsoon season in the southwest and dry in the east and southeast, your packing list should cover both warm sunny days and unexpected tropical showers.

Whether you’re heading to Udawalawe for a safari, Arugam Bay for surfing, or Trincomalee for snorkelling, here’s what you’ll need for a comfortable and enjoyable trip.

Clothing

• Lightweight, breathable clothes (cotton or linen work best)
  
• A light rain jacket or poncho – for quick showers, especially in the west
  
• A sarong or scarf – useful for temple visits and sun protection
  
• Modest clothes for cultural sites (covering shoulders and knees)
  
• A light sweater or hoodie – for cooler mornings in the hill country

Footwear

• Comfortable walking shoes – ideal for safaris and historical sites
  
• Water-resistant sandals or flip-flops – good for beach and hotel use
  
• Covered shoes with grip – if visiting wet or slippery terrain

Essentials

• Mosquito repellent – especially near water and forested areas
  
• Sunscreen (SPF 30+) – UV is strong even on cloudy days
  
• Reusable water bottle – stay hydrated in the heat
  
• Power bank – for charging devices during safaris or long drives
  
• Dry bag or waterproof pouch – to protect electronics from sudden rain

Safari Specific Gear (for Udawalawe visitors)

• Binoculars – for spotting animals and birds from a distance
  
• Camera with zoom lens – perfect for capturing wildlife
  
• Hat and sunglasses – to protect from the sun during open jeep rides
  
• Small backpack – for snacks, water, and essentials on safari

Pro tip: Pack layers and be prepared for both sun and rain, depending on your destination. If you’re staying along the east coast or Udawalawe, the weather is mostly dry, so you can pack light, just keep rain protection handy if travelling through the western regions.

Travel Tips for Visiting Sri Lanka in June

Travelling to Sri Lanka in June can be a rewarding experience if you plan wisely. With monsoon rains in the southwest and sunshine in the east and southeast, you can enjoy a diverse and comfortable trip by following these helpful travel tips.

Choose Destinations in the Dry Zones

• Focus on places like Arugam Bay, Trincomalee, Udawalawe, and the Cultural Triangle, where the weather is typically dry in June.
  
• Avoid the southwest coast (Colombo, Galle, Bentota) if you want to steer clear of heavy rain.

Book Your Safari and Transport in Advance

• Safari tours in Udawalawe are popular in June thanks to fewer crowds and great wildlife sightings.
  
• For long distance travel, consider a private taxi service for flexibility and comfort during unpredictable weather.
  

Keep an Eye on the Weather

• Use weather apps like AccuWeather or Windy to track regional conditions daily.
  
• Sudden afternoon showers are common in some areas; keep a light poncho or umbrella with you.

Plan Activities for Mornings and Evenings

• Safaris, hiking, and sightseeing are best in the early morning or late afternoon, when the sun is mild and wildlife is most active.
  
• Avoid midday outdoor activities in inland and eastern areas due to the heat.

Check Sunrise and Sunset Times

• In June, sunrise is around 5:45 AM and sunset is around 6:30 PM.
  
• Start safaris and sightseeing early to make the most of your day, especially in national parks like Udawalawe.

Take Advantage of Off Season Deals

• Many hotels, tour companies, and transport providers offer discounted rates in June.
  
• Booking directly can help you save more and receive personalised service.

FAQs – Sri Lanka Weather in June

Conclusion

While the southwest monsoon brings rain to areas like Colombo, Galle, and Bentota, June in Sri Lanka is far from a washout. It’s a great time to explore the dry zones like Udawalawe, Arugam Bay, Trincomalee, and the Cultural Triangle. These regions remain mostly dry and are ideal for safari adventures, surfing, snorkelling, and cultural sightseeing.

So, don’t let the word “monsoon” scare you off. Sri Lanka weather in June is not a reason to cancel your plans, especially if you’re visiting places like Udawalawe, where the wildlife is active, the skies are clear, and the crowds are few.