Last updated: March 19, 2025
Experience the enchanting weather of Nuwara Eliya in May, where temperatures gracefully range from a maximum of 28°C (82°F) to a minimum of 16°C (62°F), averaging a pleasant 21°C (71°F). As the lush landscapes vibrate with life, be prepared for an abundance of rain—295 mm (11.6 in) spread across 29 days, creating a vivid tapestry of green. With humidity levels at 79%, the atmosphere is both refreshing and invigorating, inviting you to explore the scenic beauty and vibrant culture of this hill country paradise.
In May, Nuwara Eliya experiences a delightful blend of mild temperatures, making it an excellent time to visit. The average temperature hovers around 21°C (71°F), with nighttime lows at a cozy 16°C (62°F) and daytime highs reaching up to 28°C (82°F). This mild weather is consistent with the preceding months, indicating a gradual warming trend leading into the drier season. As the lush landscapes of this charming town awaken, the inviting temperatures foster perfect conditions for outdoor activities and exploration, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenic beauty of Sri Lanka’s "Little England" in comfort.
May marks a significant shift in the precipitation patterns of Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka, bringing an impressive 295 mm (11.6 in) of rain over 29 days. This surge in rainfall represents a peak in the wet season, as it follows April's lesser, yet substantial total of 197 mm (7.7 in). The nearly constant drumming of rain throughout May creates a lush, vibrant landscape, characteristic of the region’s temperate climate. As the month concludes, the rainfall begins to taper off slightly, indicating that while May is the wettest month, the rainy season continues into the early summer, with June still receiving a notable amount of 142 mm (5.6 in). The frequent rainfall not only enhances the scenic beauty but also is crucial for the lush tea plantations that define this charming hill station.
In May, Nuwara Eliya experiences a marked rise in humidity, reaching 79%, which positions it as a transitional month. Following the steady decline in humidity observed from January to April, where levels dropped from 80% to 69%, May signals a shift towards the imperceptible blanket of moisture that is characteristic of the next few months. As the humidity climbs again, it sets the stage for the heavier, more tropical conditions of the following months, with June peaking at 85%. Thus, May acts as a bridge, reminding residents and visitors alike that the lush, verdant landscapes of this charming hill station are nourished by the very humidity that starts to rise during this time.
In May, Nuwara Eliya maintains an impressively high UV Index of 15, categorizing it within the extreme exposure level, similar to the preceding month of April. This consistent trend of extreme UV levels from January through June emphasizes the critical importance of sun protection, with a swift burn time of just 10 minutes throughout the season. Notably, the UV Index peaks at 16 in March, reflecting the intensity of the sun’s rays as one approaches the mid-year. As you plan your activities in this scenic highland town, remember to stay informed about the UV Index to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. For more details, check the Nuwara Eliya UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
As May arrives in Nuwara Eliya, the sun tends to shine brightly, offering an impressive 316 hours of sunshine. This month reflects a gentle ebb and flow of bright days following the peak of sunlit hours in March, which boasts 331 hours. Notably, May’s sunlight is consistent with the favorable conditions of the previous month, April, where 328 hours bathed the hills in warmth. Moving into the early half of the year, June continues to embrace the brilliance, reaching 334 hours, ensuring that the lush landscapes remain vibrant and inviting. With such abundant sunshine, May in Nuwara Eliya is a perfect time for travelers to explore the floral beauty and serene surroundings.
In May, Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka, experiences a notable dip in sunny weather, with the likelihood of sunshine plummeting to just 11%. This trend is part of a transitional phase as the region shifts from the sunnier spells of January through April, where chances of sunshine hover between 28% and 33%. Following May, the sun doesn't seem to make a grand re-entrance until December, where chances soar to an impressive 40%. Thus, those seeking a sun-soaked getaway in Nuwara Eliya may want to plan their visit for late in the year or explore the early months for a better chance of basking in the sun.
In Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka, the daylight duration exhibits a captivating rhythm throughout the year. Starting with a consistent 11 hours in January and February, the days gradually stretch into March and April, which bask in 12 hours of sunlight. This generous daylight persists across May through August, ensuring plenty of time for exploration and outdoor activities. As the year winds down, the daylight gently recedes back to 11 hours by October, continuing into November and December. This pattern underscores a harmonious balance between light and dark, making Nuwara Eliya a scenic destination for those who cherish both nature and daylight.
In May, Nuwara Eliya begins to feel the embrace of slightly stronger breezes, with an average wind speed of 2.2 m/s (5 mph)—a noticeable increase from the calmer months of April and March. This gentle uptick continues into June, where wind speeds reach 2.6 m/s (6 mph), hinting at the onset of the region's transitional season. As the year progresses, the winds strengthen further, peaking in July at 3.0 m/s (7 mph). The shifting patterns in May not only invigorate the landscape but also create a refreshing atmosphere, making it an ideal time for visitors to enjoy Nuwara Eliya's breathtaking vistas and lush greenery.
The weather in Nuwara Eliya changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of May's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Nuwara Eliya and find detailed weather information for every month.
May and January present distinct weather patterns in Nuwara Eliya. In May, the temperatures range from a minimum of 16°C (62°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), with an average of 21°C (71°F). This month is characterized by high precipitation, measuring 295 mm (11.6 in) over 29 days, resulting in a humid climate with an average humidity level of 79%. In contrast, January is slightly cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (53°F) to a maximum of 26°C (80°F) and an average of 19°C (67°F). It experiences significantly less rain, accumulating 109 mm (4.3 in) over just 12 days and maintaining a similar humidity level of 80%. For more details on January's weather, check out Nuwara Eliya weather in January.
May and February offer distinct weather experiences, with May typically being warmer and wetter. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 16°C (62°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), accompanied by high humidity at 79%. In contrast, February sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 13°C (55°F) and a maximum of 27°C (81°F). February also enjoys considerably less precipitation, averaging 105 mm (4.1 in) over 14 days compared to the much wetter May, which sees 295 mm (11.6 in) over 29 days. For more detailed information, you can check Nuwara Eliya weather in February.
In May, temperatures are generally warmer, with a minimum of 16°C (62°F) and a maximum of 28°C (82°F), while March offers slightly cooler weather with a minimum of 13°C (56°F) and a maximum of 29°C (85°F). Both months feature an average temperature of around 21°C (70°F); however, May experiences significantly more rainfall, with 295 mm (11.6 in) across 29 days compared to March's 126 mm (5.0 in) over 16 days. Additionally, humidity is higher in May at 79%, compared to March's 69%, making May feel much more humid and wet. For more specific insights on March weather, you can visit Nuwara Eliya weather in March.
In comparing the weather of May and April, both months display relatively mild temperatures with an average of 21°C (71°F); however, May experiences slightly higher minimum and maximum temperatures, with a minimum of 16°C (62°F) and a maximum of 28°C (82°F), while April ranges from 15°C (59°F) to a peak of 29°C (85°F). Precipitation levels are notably higher in May, with 295 mm (11.6 in) of rain over 29 days, compared to April's 197 mm (7.7 in) across 19 days. Additionally, May's humidity averages 79%, noticeably higher than April's 69%. For a detailed look at weather conditions during this time, you can refer to Nuwara Eliya weather in April.
May and June in Nuwara Eliya exhibit some notable differences in weather patterns. Both months have a minimum temperature of around 16°C (61°F), and an average temperature of 21°C (71°F). However, May tends to be warmer, reaching a maximum of 28°C (82°F), while June peaks at 26°C (80°F). In terms of precipitation, May experiences significantly more rainfall, with 295 mm (11.6 in) over 29 days, compared to June's 142 mm (5.6 in) spread across 27 days. Additionally, June tends to be slightly more humid, with humidity levels around 85%, compared to May's 79%. For more detailed insights, you can check Nuwara Eliya weather in June.
In comparing the weather of May and July, we find that both months experience relatively mild temperatures, with May having a minimum of 16°C and an average of 21°C, while July sees slightly warmer conditions with a minimum of 17°C and an average of 21°C. The maximum temperatures in May reach up to 28°C, whereas in July, they peak at 27°C. Precipitation is significantly higher in May, totaling 295 mm over 29 days compared to July's 185 mm over 27 days, indicating that May is the wetter month. Humidity levels are comparable, with May at 79% and July slightly higher at 81%. For those considering a visit, more detailed insights can be found at Nuwara Eliya weather in July.
May and August present distinct weather profiles, showcasing the transition from late spring to early summer in Nuwara Eliya. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 16°C to a maximum of 28°C, with an average of 21°C. The month is characterized by considerable precipitation, totaling 295 mm over 29 days, which contributes to a humidity level of 79%. In contrast, August sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 17°C and a maximum of 26°C, while still averaging 21°C. Additionally, August experiences less rainfall at 199 mm over 27 days, resulting in higher humidity at 85%. This comparison highlights the wetter conditions of May compared to the relatively drier August. For more detailed insights, visit Nuwara Eliya weather in August.
In comparison to May, September experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with average highs around 26°C (79°F) compared to May's peak of 28°C (82°F). The minimum temperatures are also very similar, with September starting at 15°C (60°F) and May at 16°C (62°F). Precipitation is a bit lower in September at 265 mm (10.4 in) over 27 days, compared to May's 295 mm (11.6 in) over 29 days, although both months are quite rainy. Humidity remains relatively high in both months, with September at 81% and May at 79%. For a detailed look at September weather, you can visit Nuwara Eliya weather in September.
May and October present distinct weather profiles in Nuwara Eliya. In May, temperatures range from a pleasant 16°C (62°F) to a warm 28°C (82°F), with an average of 21°C (71°F). However, the month is characterized by significant rainfall, accumulating to 295 mm (11.6 in) over 29 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 79%. Conversely, October slightly lowers the temperature range to a minimum of 15°C (59°F) and a maximum of 26°C (79°F), with an average of 20°C (69°F). This month experiences even heavier rainfall, totaling 393 mm (15.5 in) over 28 days, and humidity rises to 89%. For more specific details, you can check the Nuwara Eliya weather in October.
May and November in Nuwara Eliya present contrasting yet similar weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 16°C (62°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), with an average of 21°C (71°F). However, this month also sees significant rainfall, totaling 295 mm (11.6 in) over 29 days, with a humidity level of 79%. Conversely, November tends to be slightly cooler with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 14°C (57°F) to a maximum of 26°C (79°F) and an average of 20°C (68°F). Precipitation is even higher in November, with 394 mm (15.5 in) spread over 25 days, and humidity reaches 88%. This increase in rain and humidity in November can be noted at Nuwara Eliya weather in November.
May and December in Nuwara Eliya exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a cool 16°C (62°F) to a warm 28°C (82°F), with an average of 21°C (71°F). This month sees considerable rainfall, accumulating to 295 mm (11.6 in) over 29 days, while the humidity levels rest at 79%. In contrast, December offers slightly lower temperatures, with a minimum of 14°C (58°F) and a maximum of 25°C (78°F), averaging 20°C (68°F). Precipitation amounts to 180 mm (7.1 in) across 19 days, with higher humidity at 86%. These variations make each month distinctly different in terms of climate. For more detailed information, check Nuwara Eliya weather in December.
May in Nuwara Eliya presents a distinct shift in weather patterns, characterized by a cooler average temperature and significantly higher precipitation compared to other months. The landscape comes alive with lush greenery, thanks to nearly 30 days of rainfall, resulting in a humid atmosphere that accentuates the area's enchanting beauty. While the temperatures remain mild, the increased rainfall marks May as one of the wetter months, providing a refreshing experience for visitors. For a deeper dive into the climate trends and peculiarities of Nuwara Eliya, explore Nuwara Eliya Climate.