Best time to visit Sri Lanka

Diving in the West and South West in Sri Lanka

You can visit some awesome diving spots close to Colombo

Best time: October–May

Diving in the West and South West
Diving in the West and South West
Diving in the West and South West

Since the climate of Sri Lanka depends on two monsoons that change the weather in the east and west coasts, best diving periods vary with location. During october-May you can discover the best places to dive along the south west and west coast. One of the major destinations is Colombo with a plentitude of wrecks to see.

Other well-known diving spots include Negombo, Beruwala and Bentota with coral reefs and great underwater life. Also you can visit Hikkaduwa with its rocky outcrops, coral Reefs and ship wrecks. Here snorkeling in the lagoon is also very popular.

Practical info

When is the best time to go diving in Sri Lanka?

Due to improved visibility and calm seas, the best time to dive in Sri Lanka ranges from October to May. The months from May to October can be challenging as the East Coast is the ideal destination, with better diving conditions. Diving locations located on the South West and West coast are the best during the preceding months. Show more

Where are the best places for diving in Sri Lanka?

Beruwala, Bentota, and Negombo are popular coastal cities that offer access to a plethora of coral reefs and shipwrecks that are worth exploring. Colombo has some of the best destinations for diving with various shipwrecks, like the HMS Hermes, the first aircraft carrier globally, found here. Hikkaduwa, another famous place, offers perfect conditions, from coral reefs and shipwrecks to an excellent lagoon ideal for snorkeling. Show more

What types of marine life can you see when diving in Sri Lanka?

Visitors can enjoy a wide range of marine life when diving in Sri Lanka, such as manta rays, whale sharks, barracudas, reef sharks, eels, sea turtles, and many more. Sri Lanka is synonymous with marine biodiversity, and the waters here are home to a wide range of vibrant fish and other exotic aquatic animals waiting to be discovered. Show more

When should you avoid diving in Sri Lanka?

Diving is not favorable from May to October because strong winds brought by the monsoon season on the West coast often affect diving conditions. Similarly, it is not the best time to dive on the East coast from November to April. One should go diving in Sri Lanka between October and May, when the seas are calm, and visibility is improved. It is crucial to check tide tables and weather conditions before diving. Show more

How can I prepare for diving in Sri Lanka's waters?

Prepare for diving in Sri Lanka by having the necessary diving gear, including wetsuits, masks, and fins. Ensure that the gear you carry is suitable for the temperature of the water you intend to dive in. It is recommends to be informed of weather forecasts, specific diving conditions of your preferred location, and currents. If you are a beginner, taking diving lessons from certified dive centers is essential. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin