What to pack for Colombo in January
- light, breathable clothing
- sun protection (hat, SPF 50)
- a compact umbrella or rain shell — rain is frequent
- expect humid, sticky conditions
Humidity averages 79%; max daily wind around 16 km/h.
How January compares
Best months in Colombo: January–February & June–October. See the full best time to visit Colombo guide.
Colombo in January: the details
In January, Colombo sees average daytime highs of 30°C (87°F) and overnight lows of 23°C (73°F). Rainfall totals roughly 104 mm across 14 rainy days, and the sun shines about 10.2 hours per day with 11.6 hours of daylight mid-month. Relative humidity averages 79%.
In context: January is the 4th-warmest month and the 10th-wettest in Colombo. The sunniest month is February (11.1 h/day).
| Metric | January average |
|---|---|
| Daytime high | 30°C / 87°F |
| Overnight low | 23°C / 73°F |
| Rainfall | 104 mm over 14 rainy days |
| Sunshine | 10.2 h/day (11.6 h daylight) |
| Humidity | 79% |
| Travel score | 5.3 / 10 |
These figures are climate normals computed from the ERA5 weather reanalysis (2019–2024) for Colombo, Sri Lanka (6.94, 79.85) — see our methodology. Actual conditions vary year to year.
Not set on Colombo? Browse the best places to visit in January ranked by travel score.
Frequently asked questions
How hot is Colombo in January?
Daytime highs in Colombo in January average 30°C (87°F); nights drop to about 23°C.
Does it rain in Colombo in January?
Expect around 14 rainy days and 104 mm of rainfall in January.
Is January a good time to visit Colombo?
January is a fair shoulder-season month in Colombo — decent conditions with some trade-offs. Overall travel score: 5.3/10. The best months are January–February & June–October.
Also good in January, near Colombo
Where should you go next month?
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