Sri Lanka is a characteristically tropical country with distinct dry and wet seasons. It is somewhat complex due to the fact it is subject to two monsoons: the Yala season from May through August, when the southwest monsoon brings rain to the southern, western and central regions; and the Maha season from October to January, when the northeast monsoon brings rain to the north and east sides of the island. Temperatures in the low-lying coastal areas are high year round but they rapidly fall with altitude.
The hottest time of year is from March through June, while November to January is usually the coolest time of the year. Rainfall is the heaviest in the south, southwest and central highlands, while the north and north-central areas are especially dry. The best time to visit the west, south coast and hill country is between December and March. May to September is best on the east coast.
