Weather in Sigiriya

Planning a trip or just interested in the weather in Sigiriya? Here you will find the latest information on weather conditions, as well as forecasts and useful charts.

The climate in Sigiriya, located in Sri Lanka, is characterised as tropical, with high temperatures throughout the year. Annual average temperatures fluctuate only slightly, remaining in a comfortable warm range, which makes the city attractive to visit at any time. Minimum night temperatures rarely drop below 21°C, while daytime highs often exceed 30°C, especially from March to August.

Although Sigiriya does not have sharp seasonal changes like in temperate latitudes, periods with varying amounts of rainfall can be distinguished. The driest months, with minimal rainfall and the fewest rainy days, are June and July, as well as February and March. Conversely, from October to December, there is an increase in rainfall and the number of rainy days, indicating a wetter season. In particular, November stands out as the wettest month.

Overall, the weather in Sigiriya is predictably warm. Even in months with higher rainfall, rains are often short-lived, after which the sun comes out again. This allows for planning excursions and sightseeing, taking into account possible weather changes, especially from October to December.

In Sigiriya, located in Sri Lanka, a tropical climate is observed with high temperatures throughout the year, yet with noticeable seasonal fluctuations. The annual range of average monthly temperatures is quite narrow but perceptible: from the lowest average temperature of 24.7°C in January to the highest of 28.7°C in April. Looking at absolute values, nighttime lows can drop to 21.2°C (in January), while daytime highs reach 33.2°C (in April). Thus, April stands out as the hottest month, while January is the coolest, although it remains very warm by temperate climate standards.

The summer period, if tentatively defined from March to September, is characterised by consistent heat. During these months, average daytime temperatures often fluctuate in the range of 31-33°C, and nighttime temperatures rarely drop below 24-25°C. It is particularly hot from April to August. The "winter" months, from November to February, bring relative coolness. Average daytime temperatures during this period are around 28-29°C, while nighttime temperatures drop to a more comfortable 21-23°C. This makes this period more pleasant for those who prefer less sweltering weather. Daily temperature fluctuations in Sigiriya are moderate, averaging between 6°C and 9°C, meaning that even on the hottest days, evenings and nights bring some relief.

In Sigiriya, located in Sri Lanka, a tropical climate with distinct periods of precipitation is observed, although rains of varying intensity can occur throughout the year. Two main seasons, defined by monsoons, stand out most clearly, bringing changes in the amount of rainfall.

The wettest period in Sigiriya usually falls on the months from October to December. November is the peak of the rainy season, when an average of about 11 mm of precipitation falls, and the number of rainy days reaches 25. It is followed by October with a figure of 8 mm of precipitation and approximately 23 rainy days. December also remains quite wet, bringing about 6 mm of precipitation and characterised by approximately 22 days with rain. During these months, precipitation can be more prolonged and intense.

The driest month of the year is June, when rainfall is minimal – only about 1 mm, with approximately 9 rainy days. The period from February to March, as well as July and August, is also distinguished by a comparatively low level of precipitation (an average of 2 mm per month), with the number of rainy days ranging from 10 to 13. In months such as January, April, May, and September, rainfall amounts to between 2 and 4 mm, but there can be 15 to 16 rainy days, indicating frequent but predominantly light and short-lived rains.

When packing your suitcase for a trip to Sigiriya, plan for the hot and humid weather characteristic of Sri Lanka year-round. Average temperatures here range from 24.7°C (January) to 28.7°C (April), and daytime highs often exceed 30-32°C. Therefore, the foundation of your wardrobe should be light, loose, and breathable clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton or linen. Be sure to bring a hat, sunglasses, and high SPF cream for protection against the intense tropical sun. Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes, such as sneakers or trekking sandals, are an absolute necessity, especially for sightseeing and climbing the famous rock.

Despite the warm weather, Sigiriya is subject to seasonal rains. The highest amount of precipitation (up to 11 mm) and rainy days (up to 25 per month) falls in the period from October to December. April and May can also be quite wet, with rainfall around 4 mm and 15-16 rainy days. During these months, a light raincoat or sturdy umbrella will become your indispensable companions. In drier months, such as January-March (2-3 mm of rainfall, 11-15 rainy days) and June-September (1-2 mm of rainfall, 9-15 rainy days), precipitation is less intense and prolonged, but short showers still occur, so compact rain protection will not go amiss.

The principle of layering in clothing can be useful, although not for warmth in the usual sense. A light long-sleeved shirt or a thin cover-up will protect against the scorching sun during the day and come in handy on cool evenings or in air-conditioned rooms. It is also worth taking insect repellent, especially for evening walks. Don't forget a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated in the hot climate. Since strong winds are not a characteristic feature of the weather in Sigiriya, place the main emphasis when packing on comfort in the heat and protection from the sun and rain.