Sri Lanka in December: The Definitive Travel Guide for a Luxury Holiday

Planning your holiday in December? Look no further than Sri Lanka, an Indian Ocean island nation often considered one of the most idyllic holiday destinations in Sri Lanka. December marks the start of the high season on the coveted South and West coasts. If you are searching for the ultimate island holiday from hill country to coast, this comprehensive travel guide Sri Lanka will help you discover the perfect luxurious escapes.
 
Weather overview for coastal and hill regions
Understanding Sri Lanka’s climate in December is key to perfect trip planning. December is a transitional month, but largely favourable. The South and West coasts enjoy clear skies, calm seas, and warm, dry weather, making them ideal for beach holidays in Sri Lanka. Conversely, the Northern and Eastern parts of the island experience their monsoon. The Hill Country is cool and often misty—perfect for hiking and cosying up by the fire with a cup of Ceylon Tea. This diversity ensures that no matter what your preference, December offers favourable conditions somewhere on the island.
 
Top Things to Do in Sri Lanka During December
The things to do in Sri Lanka in December are limitless. From cultural immersion to active adventures, here are some highlights:

 
• Beach Sports and Relaxation: Head to the Southern beaches for surfing, snorkelling, whale watching, swimming with turtles or simply relaxing on the sand.
• Cultural Experiences: Explore the temples and relics of the Cultural Triangle or head to the coast and discover the historic UNESCO World Heritage Site of Galle Fort.
• Hiking and Nature: Trek the famous Pekoe Trail through tea estates or visit Horton Plains National Park in the Hill Country.
• Festivals: Experience local Christmas and New Year festivities, adding a vibrant, colourful celebration to your trip.
• Wildlife Safaris: December is a fantastic time for elephant and leopard spotting in Yala National Park.

 
Coastal Villas: Galle, Balapitiya & Bolgoda
For discerning travellers asking where to stay in Sri Lanka in December, our coastal properties offer unmatched luxury and location in the highly desirable Southern and Western provinces.

• 32 Middle Street, Galle Fort: A premier choice for villas in Galle proximity, this boutique property places you steps away from Galle’s best historic sites, retail stores, bars and restaurants within the Fort walls. Guests can enjoy curated walking tours of the Fort itself, whilst having quick access to the best South Coast beaches for swimming and relaxing.
• Villa Thuya, Balapitiya: Located on the South Coast, this is the perfect base for tranquil beach holidays December. A top choice among villas in Balapitiya, it offers privacy, full staffing, and an exclusive beachfront setting, ideal for day trips to neighbouring coastal towns.
• Lily Pod, Bolgoda: Close to Colombo, this lakefront retreat offers watersports and easy access to the city, blending convenience with natural serenity—a great option for families during the December holidays in Sri Lanka. The sprawling villa with a large deck, pier, pool and five bedrooms is also great event venue option for your special occasions in December and all year round.

 
Hill Country Villas – Hanthana & Agarapathana
If you prefer the cool climate and rolling vistas of the hills, our mountain retreats Sri Lanka are ideal places to visit in Sri Lanka in December:

• Dendrobium House, Hanthana (near Kandy): Perched near Kandy, this luxury retreat offers a base for immersive, experiential stays. Immersive experiences here include naturalist-guided treks of the Pekoe Trail, tea estate visits, and exceptional farm-to-plate dining from the onsite farm, all served in a breathtaking setting. The nearby city of Kandy provides access to the famous Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Market and botanical garden visits, as well as and cultural dance performances.
• The Cavern, Agrapathana: A truly unique stay built into a natural cave, offering immersive nature excursions in the surrounding cloud forest and panoramic views of the tea estates—a true centrepiece for any Sri Lanka in December itinerary. Agrapathana is known for its dramatic landscapes and pristine, cool air.

 
Getting Around Sri Lanka: Luxury Travel Logistics
Planning a multi-location itinerary between the coast and the hills requires careful consideration of transport. For a luxury holiday, the two best methods offer comfort, safety, and a chance to truly appreciate the landscape:
 
1. Private Car with Driver
The fastest and most flexible way to travel. A luxury car with a dedicated driver is the most practical choice, particularly if you have luggage or prefer spontaneous stops. Local expert drivers are knowledgeable, ensuring seamless door-to-door transfers around the island, with average travel times taking between four and six hours. This service is highly recommended for busy families or travellers who value privacy and efficiency.

2. Scenic Train Journeys
While slower, taking the train offers one of the most iconic and beautiful travel experiences in the world, particularly the route through the highlands.
Experience: The journey from Colombo to Kandy and onwards on to Hatton’s tea-growing regions offers unparalleled views of lush mountains, waterfalls, and tea plantations. It is a stunning, slow-paced way to see the heart of the island.
We recommend reserving First Class or Observation Car tickets well in advance during the busy season

3. Expedited Air Transfers
For those on a tighter schedule, air travel provides the ultimate luxury in time-saving efficiency. Guests can utilise seaplanes booked through Cinnamon Air, which land directly on water bodies such as Castlereigh Reservoir or Victoria Dam—ideal points of entry for our Hill Country properties like Dendrobium House and The Cavern. For the Southern Coast, seaplane transfers to Koggala are available, placing you just minutes from Galle. The Cavern also boasts its own private helicopter landing pad, offering the most direct and exclusive transfer option for guests requiring absolute speed and discretion.
 
How to Plan Your December Holiday in Sri Lanka
To maximise your time in Sri Lanka in December, we suggest a split itinerary, taking advantage of the favourable climate.

 
• Start with the Culture and Hills (4-5 days): Arrive in Colombo, and travel via a private car transfer or a fast air transfer directly to Dendrobium House (Hanthana) or The Cavern (Agrapathana) for tea experiences, trekking and cultural excursions.

 

• Move to the Coast (5-7 days): Transition to your luxury base on the South Coast, such as 32 Middle Street or Villa Thuya. You can opt for a private car transfer, choose a luxurious train journey from the hills, or take a scenic seaplane transfer, followed by a short private transfer to your coastal villa for relaxing beach holidays Sri Lanka.

 
Remember that December is peak season, so early vacation planning and bookings for your stays are essential to secure your preferred dates and tailored experience.
 
Why Choose Serendipity Retreats
 
When considering where to stay in Sri Lanka in December, Serendipity Retreats guarantees a curated, luxury experience. Our commitment to impeccable service and thoughtfully located properties—offering the best of cultural, coastal and experiential stays—ensuring your holiday is seamless, authentic, and unforgettable. Our properties are your gateway to the best things to do in Sri Lanka in December, providing luxury and adventure in equal measure.