Sri Lanka in July is not bad at all because…

The southwest will be experiencing the final downpours from the monsoon but it will be lighter than before.

Some key places: Trincomalee (beach), Arugam Bay (beach), Kuchchaveli, Passekudah (beach), Nilaveli.

The southwest will be experiencing the final downpours from the monsoon but it will be lighter than before. Nevertheless it is better to avoid the southwest in July. Galle and Negombo are also better avoided at this time.

The best thing to do in July is to head to Minneriya to see the world famous event known as “The Gathering”. This event sees hundreds and hundreds of elephants gather around the Minneriya Tank. It is thought to be the largest gathering of Asian elephants in the world. Other options for travellers in July include checking out Sri Lanka’s incredible Cultural Triangle or seeking out animals in the national parks. Yala, Uda Walawe and Minneriya are all great choices.

All main sites in the highlands are hit by rain and best avoided (cold, rainy and windy; horrible hiking conditions). Adam’s Peak will be less popular as pilgrimage season tails off but the weather won’t be ideal for hiking and the view may be obscured by mist.

The Kataragama Festival is an exciting and colourful but auspicious event that takes place in Kataragama in the South (not too far away from Yala National Park). The festival is part of the Esala Perahera celebrations and involves fire-walking, dancing, parades and more.