Ask a Sri Lankan planner when to marry and they will first ask where. The island has two monsoon seasons that fall on different coasts at different times, so it is never wet or dry everywhere at once.
West and south coast: December to March
Colombo, Galle and the south coast are usually at their driest and sunniest from December to March. It is the busiest wedding season for beach and coastal venues, so popular dates and venues go first. Book early if you want a particular place.
Hill country: January to April
Around Kandy and Nuwara Eliya, the early months of the year are often clear and cool, which suits garden weddings. Evenings can be chilly, so we plan for guest comfort as well as the photographs.
East coast: April to September
While the south-west is wet in the middle of the year, the east coast tends to be at its best. If you want a beach wedding between May and September, the east is worth considering.
The months in between
October and November bring changeable weather across much of the island, often with afternoon storms. Weddings still happen then, and they work well with a firm Plan B and a flexible schedule.
Whatever the month, plan for weather
- Agree a covered or indoor alternative for every outdoor element.
- Decide in advance when the call to switch will be made, and who makes it.
- Brief every supplier on what changes if the alternative is used.
Weather varies from year to year, and no season is guaranteed. If you tell us your date and where you would like to marry, we will tell you what the risks are and how we would manage them.
