The western and southern coastal areas of the island, as well as the Tea Country, remain under the influence of the summer monsoon, creating high rainfall, although this is less than in previous months. Despite the monsoon, it is not unusual to go a number of days without any rain or just the odd tropical downpour in the afternoons, making beach days still very much a possibility.
It’s a different story in the north and along the east coast, with dry and bright weather expected. Further north in the Cultural Triangle, temperatures remain high, and rainfall is at a minimum. Hot and dry winds sweep over the flat plains at times.
Whilst it’s difficult to predict the end of the monsoon rains, the south and west of Sri Lanka sees less rainfall and clearer skies as July progresses, although short, sharp showers should still be expected. On the flip side, the north of the island and the eastern beaches of Trincomalee and Passekudah are experiencing dry, bright weather and sun-worshippers should head here for guaranteed sunshine.
Pleasant average temperatures of 29-30°C can be expected across the whole of the island during July, although the Cultural Triangle region will be warmer than the coast, and the hills around Tea Country and Kandy will be a little cooler, especially in the evenings.
The south-west (the section south of Negombo & Colombo) and the entire south coast: Monsoon season (starting to improve by the end of the month).
The entire east coast: Peak season.
The central and northern section of the west coast (from Negombo northwards): Peak season (sunshine expected but with high winds and sea’s).