December is one of the most popular months to visit Sri Lanka warm tropical weather, golden beaches, wildlife experiences, and festive vibes across the island. After the recent Ditwah Cyclone, many travellers are wondering whether it’s still safe to visit.
The good news?
Sri Lanka’s coastal and major tourist zones remain completely safe and open for travel.
Here’s the most updated, EllaHype traveler’s guide.
Coastal Areas Are Safe & Operating Normally
All major beach destinations in Sri Lanka were not affected by the cyclone’s main impact and are welcoming visitors as usual.
- Colombo
- Hikkaduwa
- Galle / Unawatuna
- Weligama
- Matara
- Tangalla
- Yala (National Parrk(
- Pasikuda
- Arugam Bay
- Trincomalee
If you’re visiting to enjoy warm sunshine and some beachside fun, this is still a great season to experience it. Hotels, restaurants, surf schools, safari operators, and transport services in these regions are functioning smoothly.
If your Sri Lanka trip focuses on beaches, wildlife, culture, and city experiences you can continue your plans without worry.
Colombo Airport (BIA) – Fully Operational
Currently Bandaranaike International Airport (Colombo International Airport) is running normally with no damage reported. Flights are operating on schedule, and passenger movement is unaffected.
Kandy–Ella–Badulla Train Line: Temporarily Closed
One important update for travellers:
⚠️ Due to floods and landslides, the Kandy–Ella–Badulla railway line suffered significant damage and is temporarily closed.
This famous scenic train journey will remain suspended until repairs and safety clearance are completed. Authorities are already inspecting tracks and stabilizing affected areas, but no reopening date has been announced yet.
If you’re planning to travel to Ella, Haputale, Nanu Oya, or Badulla, consider using private vehicles or intercity buses instead of trains.
For now, it’s best to avoid buying Kandy–Ella train tickets from third-party sites until the service officially resumes. If you’ve already made a booking for the coming months, we recommend requesting a refund from your provider. The railway repairs may take some time, and this way you can plan your hill-country trip without any worries.
Hill Country Road Access -Partially Affected
Some high-altitude regions experienced landslides and debris along the roads, especially around:
- Nuwara Eliya
- Mandaram Nuwara
- Matale
- Kotmale
- Padiyapelella
- Ragala
- Gampola
⚠️Roads in these areas are being cleared, but certain routes may still have:
- Single-lane traffic
- Temporary closures
- Debris clearing work
- Rerouting
- Occasional travel delays
Travelling Colombo to Kandy, however, is completely safe and accessible. From Kandy onwards to the deeper hill country, check updates before departure specially if you are a solo traveler.
Weather in December – Still a Great Time to Visit
Sri Lanka is now transitioning back to sunny December conditions:
- South & West Coasts: Mostly sunny
- East Coast: Clear and calm
- Hill Country: Cool with occasional showers
Perfect for beach holidays, surfing, wildlife safaris, cultural exploration, and photography.
Where You Can Travel Freely Right Now
Here’s a simple list of fully safe, tourist ready destinations:
Safe & Accessible
- Colombo
- Negombo
- Galle
- Mirissa
- Weligama
- Hiriketiya
- Matara
- Tangalle
- Hambantota
- Yala / Udawalawa Safari
- Sigirya / Dambulla
- Anuradhapura
- Arugam Bay
- Pasikuda
- Trincomalee
Travel With Caution
- Nuwara Eliya
- Ella
- Badulla
- Gampola
- Matale
- Mandaram Nuwara
- Haputale
- Padiyapelella
Should You Still Travel to Sri Lanka in December?
Absolutely.
Sri Lanka remains one of the safest and most beautiful tropical countries to visit in December especially for beach lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, foodies, and cultural travellers.
Only the hill-country railway line and a few mountain roads are temporarily affected.
The rest of the island including the entire southern and eastern coastline is fully open and welcoming visitors.
Traveller Tips (2025 Update)
- Avoid make reservations to Kandy to Ella train journey until the service resumes.
- Check hill-country road updates if heading to Nuwara Eliya or Ella.
- Expect the coastal belt to be lively, sunny, and free of disruptions.
- Choose flexible booking options for up-country accommodations.
If your Sri Lanka itinerary includes beaches, culture, food, and coastal adventures, your trip will be smooth and unforgettable. For hill-country adventures, simply stay updated on railway and road restorations.
