01
Why Visit Sri Lanka in August?
Sri Lanka in August offers a unique experience, especially if you are looking to avoid the peak tourist season. While the southwest regions experience some monsoon showers, the eastern and northern parts of the island enjoy dry, sunny weather.
This makes them perfect for beach activities like surfing in Arugam Bay and snorkelling in the warm waters at Trincomalee. You can also witness the Kandy Esala Perahera in August, which is one of Sri Lanka's most vibrant cultural festivals. With fewer tourists around, this month offers a great opportunity to explore the island's rich culture and natural beauty at a more relaxed pace, often with better deals on accommodations and tours.
This makes them perfect for beach activities like surfing in Arugam Bay and snorkelling in the warm waters at Trincomalee. You can also witness the Kandy Esala Perahera in August, which is one of Sri Lanka's most vibrant cultural festivals. With fewer tourists around, this month offers a great opportunity to explore the island's rich culture and natural beauty at a more relaxed pace, often with better deals on accommodations and tours.
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Essential Information of Sri Lanka
02
Sri Lanka Weather in August
Sri Lanka in August experiences varied weather due to the southwest monsoon. The southwest region sees frequent rain showers, while the east and north enjoy drier, sunnier conditions. Temperatures range between 27°C to 31°C, making the days warm.
Humidity is higher in the coastal areas, especially after rain. The eastern coast, with its dry weather, is ideal for beach activities. Overall, you can expect a mix of rain and sunshine, depending on the region you visit.
Also Explore & Book: Sri Lanka Tour Package For Couple
Humidity is higher in the coastal areas, especially after rain. The eastern coast, with its dry weather, is ideal for beach activities. Overall, you can expect a mix of rain and sunshine, depending on the region you visit.
Also Explore & Book: Sri Lanka Tour Package For Couple
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03
What To Pack for Sri Lanka in August?
For visiting Sri Lanka in August, pack lightweight, breathable clothing like cotton and linen to stay cool in the heat. Include a rain jacket for sudden monsoon showers and modest attire, such as long skirts or trousers, for visiting temples.
Comfortable walking shoes or sandals are essential for exploring, while swimwear is necessary for beach days. Don’t forget sun protection like a hat and sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle. A travel umbrella and light sweater for cooler highland evenings will also be useful, along with a power bank and waterproof phone case for your gadgets.
You May Also Book: Sri Lanka Group Tour Packages
Comfortable walking shoes or sandals are essential for exploring, while swimwear is necessary for beach days. Don’t forget sun protection like a hat and sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle. A travel umbrella and light sweater for cooler highland evenings will also be useful, along with a power bank and waterproof phone case for your gadgets.
You May Also Book: Sri Lanka Group Tour Packages
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Places to Visit in Sri Lanka in August
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St Anthony's Church
St Anthony's Church in Colombo is one of the best places in Sri Lanka in August for those seeking spiritual solace and cultural insight. Built in the 19th century, this Roman Catholic church is dedicated to St. Anthony of Padua, known for his miraculous powers.
The church is famous for its blend of colonial and traditional Sri Lankan architecture. In August, the church often hosts special masses and events, attracting both locals and tourists. The serene atmosphere provides a perfect setting for reflection and prayer.
The church is famous for its blend of colonial and traditional Sri Lankan architecture. In August, the church often hosts special masses and events, attracting both locals and tourists. The serene atmosphere provides a perfect setting for reflection and prayer.
Location: WVW4+PGM, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Timings: 05:00 a.m. to 08:00 p.m.
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Bentota Beach
Bentota Beach, located on the southwestern coast, is a must-visit destination in Sri Lanka in August. Known for its golden sands and clear waters, Bentota is perfect for both relaxation and adventure. August, despite being part of the monsoon season, still offers plenty of sunny days, ideal for sunbathing or taking part in water sports like jet skiing, windsurfing, and snorkelling.
The nearby Bentota River adds to the appeal with opportunities for boat safaris and birdwatching. This beach is also home to luxury resorts, making it a popular choice for those looking to unwind in comfort.
The nearby Bentota River adds to the appeal with opportunities for boat safaris and birdwatching. This beach is also home to luxury resorts, making it a popular choice for those looking to unwind in comfort.
Location: CXGW+23V, Beach Rd, Bentota, Sri Lanka
Timings: Open 24 hours
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06
St. Clairs Falls, Tawalantenne
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St. Clair's Falls, also known as the "Little Niagara of Sri Lanka," is one of the most picturesque places to go in Sri Lanka in August. Situated in the lush hill country of Tawalantenne, this waterfall is surrounded by tea plantations, creating a stunning landscape. August, with its increased rainfall, ensures that the falls are at their most powerful and spectacular.
The cool, misty climate of the region makes it a refreshing retreat from the coastal heat. You can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, take a short hike to get closer to the falls and explore the nearby tea estates.
The cool, misty climate of the region makes it a refreshing retreat from the coastal heat. You can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, take a short hike to get closer to the falls and explore the nearby tea estates.
Location: XJ2X+M6V, Talawakelle, Sri Lanka
Timings: Open 24 hours
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07
Polonnaruwa Sacred City
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Polonnaruwa Sacred City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a historical treasure trove and one of the top places to explore in Sri Lanka. As the ancient capital of Sri Lanka, Polonnaruwa is filled with well-preserved ruins, including temples, palaces, and statues.
The Gal Vihara, with its massive Buddha sculptures, is a highlight. August’s cooler temperatures, averaging around 28°C, make it comfortable for exploring these ancient sites. The surrounding landscapes of lush fields and serene lakes add to the charm, making Polonnaruwa a must-see for history enthusiasts and cultural travellers alike.
The Gal Vihara, with its massive Buddha sculptures, is a highlight. August’s cooler temperatures, averaging around 28°C, make it comfortable for exploring these ancient sites. The surrounding landscapes of lush fields and serene lakes add to the charm, making Polonnaruwa a must-see for history enthusiasts and cultural travellers alike.
Location: Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: Free
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08
Pinnewala Elephant Orphanage
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is one of the most beloved attractions and a key spot where to visit in Sri Lanka in August. This sanctuary, home to over 80 elephants, provides a rare opportunity to see these gentle giants up close.
Established to care for orphaned and injured elephants, Pinnawala offers daily activities such as feeding and river bathing, which are a delight to witness. August’s warm weather makes it a perfect time to enjoy these experiences. The orphanage also plays a crucial role in elephant conservation, educating the importance of protecting these magnificent animals.
Established to care for orphaned and injured elephants, Pinnawala offers daily activities such as feeding and river bathing, which are a delight to witness. August’s warm weather makes it a perfect time to enjoy these experiences. The orphanage also plays a crucial role in elephant conservation, educating the importance of protecting these magnificent animals.
Location: Rambukkana, Sri Lanka
Timings: 08:30 a.m. to 05:30 p.m.
You will be surrounded with herds of elephants once you reach Udawalawe National Park. The amazing jungle backdrop which this National Park provides will leave you totally mesmerized and will bring you much closer to nature. This National Park was an attempt to protect the wild animals who were displaced because of the construction of the Udawalawe reservoir. Location: South East of Colombo.
Highlights: Elephant Transit Home which is the elephant orphanage which has housed 25 baby elephants who have lost their parents. Pinnewala, is the spot where you can spot elephants quite closely because usually elephants are bottle fed there.
Best time to visit: July and August
Prices: is Rs.2195 along with 12%vat.
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Highlights: Elephant Transit Home which is the elephant orphanage which has housed 25 baby elephants who have lost their parents. Pinnewala, is the spot where you can spot elephants quite closely because usually elephants are bottle fed there.
Best time to visit: July and August
Prices: is Rs.2195 along with 12%vat.
Top Experiences To Do in Udawalawe National park
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An extraordinary experience amidst an ordinary setup lies 65 kilometres from Colombo and is named Bentota beach. Soak yourself in the ordinary golden sand while enjoying the marvellous sound of the mighty Indian Ocean crashing against the shores. The mesmerizing view of the sea will leave you speechless. If you are planning to break the monotony of the routine just try your hands at adventure sports found alongside the palm trees.
Highlights: You can visit Kasgoda Turtle Hatchery and also go on a boat cruise on the Bentota River.
Getting there: Bentota is very well connected with the cities and is very easily accessible. You can ride from Galle or you can take a ride from Colombo. Bentota is approximately 101km south of the airport from Colombo
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Highlights: You can visit Kasgoda Turtle Hatchery and also go on a boat cruise on the Bentota River.
Getting there: Bentota is very well connected with the cities and is very easily accessible. You can ride from Galle or you can take a ride from Colombo. Bentota is approximately 101km south of the airport from Colombo
Top Experiences To Do in Bentota Beach
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$ 47.70
$ 43.73
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Starting from
$ 35.77
$ 31.80
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The Galle Dutch Fort happens to be one of the treasured historical monuments of Srilanka located on the southern coast of the country. The fort was constructed by the Portuguese in the course of their reign in Srilanka and was later renovated by the Dutch. The fort is one of the most important UNESCO world heritage sites out of many in Srilanka. This is because of its wonderful illustration of European Architecture and South Asian Traditions of the 16th and 19th century.
The fort displays an amazing amalgamation of age-old architecture and antiquity in the middle of astounding natural beauty.You will come across a number of lively shops, cafes, exhibition halls, lifestyle stores, and villas, which adds to the beauty of the place. It would be just amazing to move by the walls witnessing the intricate artworks and sheer craftsmanship. At the present time, the fort is still home to multi-ethnic and multi-religious population, as some properties inside the fort are still owned by many Dutch people and local Srilankan people as well.
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The Nine Arches Bridge is one of the most beautiful landmarks of Sri Lanka and amongst the top places to visit in Ella. There is an interesting story behind this bridge. When the British stopped the construction of this bridge mid-way due to lack of steel during World War 1, the locals constructed it using stone and bricks.
The bridge has stood strong without a single piece of steel since then. The setting of the bridge is extremely charming and is amongst the most popular tourist places in Ella. It is located inside a dense forest near a quaint little village with tea plantations surrounding it. Watching the old world trains pass through this bridge is a sight most loved by the tourists.
Location: Between Ella and Damodara Station
Timings: The bridge is approachable all day around. However, early morning sunrise is the best time to visit.
Price: There is no entry fee.
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Gangaramaya Temple is not only one of the most beautiful but also one of the most iconic Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka. It is more than a century since this temple was constructed; however even today, the temple doesn’t stop to surprise tourists and devotees. The pathways and doors that lead into the main sanctum sanctorum contain intricately carved sculptures that are simply breath-taking.
Highlights: The ceilings and walls contain pictures and miniature paintings that explain stories from Buddhism religion. In the main sanctorum, a huge Buddha statue exudes a brilliant sense of calmness in the devotees. Built in a mix of various architectural styles including India, Burmese, Thai and Chinese, this temple also houses a museum.
Location: The temple is located right on the Jinaratana Road in the heart of Colombo city.
Timings: The temple is open from 5.30AM to 10PM.
Price: Entry fee is LKR200 per adult.
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Highlights: The ceilings and walls contain pictures and miniature paintings that explain stories from Buddhism religion. In the main sanctorum, a huge Buddha statue exudes a brilliant sense of calmness in the devotees. Built in a mix of various architectural styles including India, Burmese, Thai and Chinese, this temple also houses a museum.
Location: The temple is located right on the Jinaratana Road in the heart of Colombo city.
Timings: The temple is open from 5.30AM to 10PM.
Price: Entry fee is LKR200 per adult.
