Things To Do In Sri Lanka In December: Your Complete Travel Guide

December is one of the best months to visit Sri Lanka. The weather clears up across the south, west and central highlands, the beaches sparkle, trains slice through emerald tea country, and there’s a festive buzz in the air as locals and visitors alike celebrate the year-end. Whether you want whale watching, surf, culture, or wildlife, Sri Lanka in December offers a rich mix. Here’s a practical, insider-friendly guide to planning an unforgettable December trip.

Why December is Special

December marks the start of the peak season for Sri Lanka’s south and west coasts and the hill country. The northeast monsoon brings rain to the east coast, so places like Trincomalee and Arugam Bay are quieter. Meanwhile Mirissa, Unawatuna, Hikkaduwa and Bentota are lively and sunny. Cool mornings and misty hills make the tea country especially appealing. The month is also prime time for whale watching and Adam’s Peak pilgrimages.

Weather Snapshot & Where to Go

• South & West Coasts (Colombo, Galle, Mirissa, Hikkaduwa): Dry and sunny — ideal for beaches, surfing and whale watching.
• Central Highlands (Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Horton Plains): Cooler with crisp mornings; great for trekking and tea plantation visits.
• Southeast & Yala/Udawalawe: Generally dry — excellent for safaris and seeing elephants and leopards.
• East Coast (Trincomalee, Nilaveli, Arugam Bay): In the rainy season — many places are quieter or closed for diving/snorkeling.

Top Things To Do In December

1. Go Whale Watching in Mirissa

December to April is the peak season for spotting blue whales and sperm whales off the southern coast. Early morning boat trips from Mirissa offer the best chances. Choose licensed operators, check weather and cancellation policies, and bring sea-sickness medication if you’re prone to motion sickness.

2. Surf and Relax on the South & West Coast

Wave lovers will find consistent surf at:

• Hikkaduwa – lively, reef breaks and nightlife.
• Weligama – beginner-friendly longboard waves.
• Midigama & Mirissa – suited for more experienced surfers.

Rent boards and book lessons locally; December conditions are favorable for most levels.

3. Take the Scenic Train to Ella

The train from Kandy to Ella is consistently rated amongst the world’s most beautiful rail journeys. Book second-class observation seats or first-class reserved seats well in advance. The stretch between Nanu Oya, Nuwara Eliya and Ella goes through tea estates, waterfalls and cloud forests — spectacular in December mornings.

4. Hike Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada)

December is the start of the pilgrimage season up Adam’s Peak, which runs from December to April. Many climbers start at night to reach the summit for sunrise. Temperatures are cool at the top, and the sight of the shadow of the peak during sunrise is unforgettable. Bring warm clothes, a headlamp and sturdy footwear.

5. Explore Galle Fort and the South Coast Culture

Galle Fort combines Dutch colonial architecture, art galleries, boutique hotels and cafés. Wander the ramparts at sunset, shop for locally made crafts, and explore nearby beaches like Unawatuna and Jungle Beach.

6. Safari in Yala or Udawalawe

December’s dry season improves wildlife viewing. Yala National Park is famous for leopards, while Udawalawe is one of the best places to see wild elephants. Opt for early morning or late afternoon safaris and book with reputable guides; park entry limits and zones can change during peak season, so reserve ahead.

7. Tea Country & Nuwara Eliya

Visit tea factories, walk through emerald plantations, and sip freshly brewed Ceylon tea at the source. Nuwara Eliya has colonial charm and cooler weather — pack a warm jacket for the evenings.

8. Cultural Triangle: Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa & Anuradhapura

Although a bit drier inland, the Cultural Triangle remains accessible in December. Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress early to avoid the heat and crowds, and combine with nearby Dambulla cave temples and lesser-known ruins for a full cultural day.

9. Colombo: Food, Nightlife & Festive Events

Colombo has a cosmopolitan restaurant scene and lively nightspots. December often brings Christmas markets, special dining events and year-end parties. Explore Pettah market for a chaotic local shopping experience or visit the Galle Face Green at sunset for kite flying and street food.

Practical Tips for Visiting Sri Lanka in December

• Book early: December is peak season — hotels, popular trains and safari slots fill up quickly. Reserve as soon as your dates are fixed.
• Transport: Trains are scenic but seats are limited; long-distance buses and private drivers are common alternatives. Domestic flights connect Colombo with Jaffna and the east coast outside peak season.
• Park rules & fees: National parks have entry fees and often limit the number of vehicles. Book jeep safaris through licensed operators with good reviews.
• Cash and cards: ATMs are common in towns and cities but carry cash for smaller shops and rural areas. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and restaurants.
• Local SIM & data: Pick up a local SIM at the airport for affordable data to keep maps and bookings handy.

Packing Checklist for December

• Lightweight breathable clothing for coastal heat.
• Warm layers and a light waterproof jacket for hill country and Adam’s Peak.
• Sunscreen, sunglasses and a wide-brim hat.
• Insect repellent (DEET or picaridin) and basic first aid items.
• Swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen and water shoes for snorkeling.
• Camera with extra batteries — the landscapes and wildlife are photogenic.
• Reusable water bottle and purification tablets or filters if you want to avoid buying plastic bottles.

Sample Itineraries

7-Day Classic December

1. Day 1: Arrive Colombo → Galle Fort at sunset.
2. Day 2: Galle & South Coast beaches (Unawatuna/Mirissa).
3. Day 3: Mirissa whale watching; overnight on the south coast.
4. Day 4: Travel to Udawalawe/Yala for afternoon safari.
5. Day 5: Morning safari → Train or drive to Ella.
6. Day 6: Ella hikes (Little Adam’s Peak, Nine Arches Bridge).
7. Day 7: Train to Kandy or fly back to Colombo for departure.

10–14 Day Slow Travel

Include Colombo, Galle, Mirissa, Yala/Udawalawe, Ella, Nuwara Eliya, Kandy and the Cultural Triangle. Add a couple of beach days at the end for rest and snorkeling.

Safety, Health & Responsible Travel

• Tap water is not potable across much of Sri Lanka — stick to bottled or filtered water.
• Sun protection and staying hydrated are essential in December’s strong sun.
• Respect local customs: dress modestly at religious sites, remove shoes when required, and ask permission before photographing people in rural or religious settings.
• Support responsible wildlife tourism — avoid operators that allow close interaction with wild animals or feeding wildlife.
• Carry a copy of your passport and travel insurance details; medical facilities are better in cities than remote areas.

Budgeting Tips

December is high season, so prices for accommodation and private transport rise. To save:

• Book guesthouses or boutique homestays outside the main tourist hubs.
• Use trains for longer journeys where possible — they are affordable and scenic.
• Eat at local cafés and street food stalls for delicious, budget-friendly meals.

Final Tips & Local Insights

• Wake early. Sunrise walks on the western beaches, early morning safaris and sunrise at Adam’s Peak are memories that stick.
• If you want a quieter beach experience but still decent weather, consider the west coast beaches north of Colombo or boutique stays around Galle’s outskirts.
• Be flexible. Even during the dry season, short tropical downpours can happen, especially in the hill country.
• Talk to locals — Sri Lankans are warm and proud of their culture; a friendly conversation often leads to great food recommendations or hidden spots.

December in Sri Lanka blends beach fun, cultural exploration and nature-based adventure. With some planning — especially on train seats, safaris and whale-watching tours — you can enjoy a seamless holiday with awe-inspiring scenery and meaningful encounters.

Disclaimer: This is independant advice and do your own research.