The best time to visit Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s ancient capital and UNESCO World Heritage Site, is during the summer months from juin à août, when the dry weather and minimal rainfall create the perfect conditions for exploring its historic ruins. This period allows travellers to walk comfortably among the city’s impressive stone temples, palaces, and Buddha statues without the disruptions of heavy rain or muddy paths. The dry season also highlights the beauty of Polonnaruwa’s archaeological wonders, from the Gal Vihara rock-cut statues to the Royal Palace complex. Since this season coincides with peak tourist months, it’s wise to book your accommodation, transport, and guided tours in advance to avoid last-minute stress. Visitors can also combine their cultural journey with wildlife safaris in nearby Minneriya National Park, famous for the Elephant Gathering, which usually takes place during this same period. While the weather is hot, carrying water, sun protection, and wearing light clothing will ensure a comfortable trip. By planning, travellers can fully experience Polonnaruwa’s charm, uncovering centuries of Sri Lankan history in the most favourable climate. Whether you are a history enthusiast, cultural explorer, or photographer, June to August remains the ideal time to visit Polonnaruwa.

Polonnaruwa enjoys warm, tropical weather year-round, but the climate varies notably through the seasons:

Janvier à mars: Warm and relatively drier — daytime highs range from ~29–32 °C (84–90 °F), with nighttime lows around 23–25 °C. Rainfall is moderate at 38–47 mm, with around 13–16 rainy days per month.
d'avril à juin: Hottest period. April sees peak temperatures up to ~34.9 °C (95 °F), and May and June remain around 33 °C (91 °F). Rainfall drops to as low as 15 mm in June; June also has the fewest rainy days (~7.8 per month). Humidity decreases slightly, hovering around 67%.
juillet à septembre: Still hot — highs remain around 32–33 °C with similar nighttime lows (~25 °C). Rain increases modestly: average rainfall of 26 mm in July and 29 mm in August, but still fairly dry. Sunshine remains plentiful, with July averaging up to 16 sunny days.
d'octobre à décembre: Marked by increased rainfall — October is the wettest month with around 214 mm of rain, followed by ~166 mm in November and ~127 mm in December. Rainy days spike — November sees about 24 rainy days per month. Despite the wetter days, temperatures remain warm (highs ~30–31 °C, lows ~23–24 °C).

Why This Matters for Planning

Warmest & Driest (Apr–Jun): Ideal for archaeological exploration — minimal rain, clear skies, and long sunshine hours. However, expect intense heat and high UV exposure — sun protection is essential.
Peak Sunlight (July): Offers excellent visibility and light for photography, though humidity remains high.
Rainy Season (Oct–Dec): Lush landscapes and fewer tourists, but frequent rain may disrupt sightseeing plans.

What is the best month to visit Polonnaruwa?
The best time to visit Polonnaruwa is from juin à août, during the dry season. The warm, sunny weather makes it perfect for exploring ancient ruins without interruption from heavy rain.

Is Polonnaruwa open year-round?
Yes, Polonnaruwa is open throughout the year. However, the dry months are more comfortable for sightseeing, while October to December can be wetter with frequent showers.

What is the best weather for exploring Polonnaruwa?
Dry and sunny weather (June – August) is ideal. With minimal rainfall and clear skies, visitors can comfortably tour historic sites such as Gal Vihara, Rankoth Vehera, and the Royal Palace.

Should I visit Polonnaruwa in the rainy season?
You can visit Polonnaruwa in the rainy season (October – December), but be prepared for wet conditions and slippery pathways. On the plus side, the landscapes are lush and green, offering a unique atmosphere for photography.

How crowded is Polonnaruwa in peak season?
During June to August, Polonnaruwa experiences higher tourist activity, so booking accommodation and transport in advance is advisable. Early mornings are the best time to avoid large crowds.

Résumé:
Choosing the best time to visit Polonnaruwa depends on your preferences. For dry, hassle-free exploration, juin à août is the perfect season. For greenery, fewer crowds, and cooler conditions, the d'octobre à décembre period offers a different yet charming experience.