What is the best time for a motorcycle tour in Sri Lanka?

December through March, motorcycle touring is usually a good bet in Sri Lanka’s west and south. May to September often brings more reliable riding on routes along the east. The best months depend on where you plan to go, and on how rain behaves in that area.

Sri Lanka does not follow one simple weather pattern. Monsoons shift across the island. The southwest monsoon typically runs from May to September. It hits the west, the southwestern coast, and parts of the central highlands. The northeast monsoon often falls from December to February. During that time, eastern and northern areas tend to get more rain.

October and November fall between these seasons and can still see heavy storms. Weather in the hills can also change fast. Plan your route using local forecasts for each region. Do not assume the whole island rides the same way in the same months.