Colombo in January
Colombo in January
Colombo, Sri Lanka
Visiting Colombo in January means experiencing the dry season. As a tropical destination, expect warm temperatures year-round with drier conditions and sunny skies.
Weather in Colombo in January
Average highs around 29.8C and lows near 22.6C. 171.6mm average precipitation and about 18 rainy days. January typically sits between December and February conditions, so it is useful for travelers wanting a balanced window in Colombo. Pack quick-dry clothing and a light waterproof layer for January.
Temperature
January brings dry season conditions in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The average temperature is about 26.2C, with lows near 22.6C and highs around 29.8C.
Sunshine Hours
Colombo, Sri Lanka usually gets around 9.2 hours of sunshine per day in January, with roughly 11.8 daylight hours available for sightseeing.
Rain
January sees around 171.6mm of rainfall over about 18 days. Rain can occur for around 5.7 hours per day on average.
Humidity
Humidity in January is generally humid for Colombo, Sri Lanka, especially when rainfall periods increase.
Additional Information
Average winds are around 15 km/h, so pack layers that handle changing conditions. Pack quick-dry clothing and a light waterproof layer for January.
Our January Hotel Picks for Colombo
The Cinnamon Grand Colombo
Stately resort with 16 restaurants & bars, a spa complex & an outdoor pool, plus a shopping mall.
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The Kingsbury Colombo
Elegant rooms & suites in a striking, contemporary hotel offering 4 restaurants, a pool & a spa.
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Jetwing Colombo Seven
Refined hotel featuring a rooftop bar/restaurant & an infinity pool, plus a spa & a gym.
View hotelWhat to Do in Colombo in January
Colombo National Museum
The Colombo National Museum, also known as the National Museum of Sri Lanka, is the country's largest and most prestigious museum, located in the heart of Colombo. Established in 1877 by British Governor Sir William Henry Gregory, it showcases Sri Lanka’s rich cultural, artistic, and historical heritage. The museum’s Italian-style colonial architecture houses an extensive collection of artifacts, including ancient royal regalia, traditional Kandyan attire, centuries-old palm-leaf manuscripts, and Buddhist sculptures. A highlight is the magnificent golden throne and crown of the last King of Kandy, Sri Vikrama Rajasinha. The museum also features galleries dedicated to prehistoric archaeology, ancient inscriptions, and Sri Lanka’s colonial past. Surrounding the museum is a lush garden, providing a serene environment for visitors. As a vital institution for education and research, the Colombo National Museum serves as a gateway to understanding the island’s diverse history, from its ancient kingdoms to modern times.
Explore activity
Bellanwila Park
Explore activity
Liptons Seat
Striking panoramas draw visitors to this overlook & cafe near historic tea-producing farms.
Explore activityTravel tips for Colombo in January
Pack quick-dry clothing and a light waterproof layer for January. Book accommodation earlier when events overlap with peak weekends, and keep an eye on changing weather windows for day trips.
