A serene view of elephants roaming in Yala National Park's lush greenery.

Yala in May

Yala in May - weather, crowds, and whether to go.

May in Yala averages 32C by day and 25C at night, with 154 mm of rain over about 21 wet days. It is the 4th wettest month of the year. While prices plummet and the park empties of tourists, wildlife viewing becomes extremely challenging.

What to Expect

DetailInfo
Temperature32C by day, 25C at night
Rainfall154 mm, about 21 wet days

Averages for 2015 to 2024 from the Open-Meteo weather archive.

Crowds low season.
Prices low.

Events and Festivals

  • Vesak Day celebrations

What to Do This Season

  • Dramatically reduced prices
  • Lush green landscapes
  • Empty safari vehicles

What to Watch Out For

  • Many roads become impassable
  • Limited wildlife visibility
  • Several safari operators close
  • High chance of cancelled tours

What to Wear

Waterproof clothing, non-slip footwear, quick-dry materials

Pack Heavy-duty rain gear, Waterproof bags for electronics, Mosquito net, Anti-malarial medication.

Is It Worth Visiting Now?

No - monsoon season begins with heavy rains and many areas become inaccessible

Best for Extreme budget travellers, Those interested in monsoon landscapes, Photography enthusiasts seeking dramatic weather shots.

More on Yala

Flexible on dates? Compare Yala in April and Yala in June. The best time to visit Yala sets all twelve months side by side. For what is open and worth it, see the things to do in Yala. The main Yala page covers costs and transport.

We plan trips to Yala and the rest of Sri Lanka. Tell us your dates and we will put a route together. Our routes are on the tours page.

Plan Your Visit to Yala

Let our destination experts help you discover the best of Yala with personalised recommendations and insider knowledge.

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