In May the best beach weather shifts to the east coast around Trincomalee, Uppuveli, Nilaveli and Pasikuda Bay and the rains settle on the west coast. The south coast remains a good bet, the further south east you head.

If you’re interested in wildlife viewing, why not include a couple of nights in Gal Oya National Park in the east of the country, just 3 hours from Kandy or 3.5 hours from the Cultural Triangle. The least visited of Sri Lanka’s many national parks, Gal Oya stands out for its beautiful landscapes, abundant wildlife, atmospheric lodge, fewer tourists and even the chance to spot a swimming elephant on a boat safari! From here the east coast is a short hope away.