The Hill Country, Sri Lanka
Kandy's tropical climate means lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen work best all year due to high humidity. These materials help you stay comfortable in the warm daytime temperatures. For daytime wear, pack t-shirts, light shirts, shorts, capris, or light trousers. Kandy's elevation means evenings and early mornings can feel cooler, especially from December to February. A Light jacket, sweater, or Shawl is a good addition for these times. You will find this layering good, especially when dining outdoors or taking evening strolls.
When visiting religious sites, especially the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, follow cultural dress rules. Shoulders and knees must be covered. Men should wear long trousers or sarongs, and women should wear long skirts or trousers and tops with sleeves. Generally, modest dressing is good throughout your visit to Kandy out of respect for local customs, especially outside tourist-specific areas. For activities like hiking, comfortable Sturdy hiking shoes or sandals with good grip are good.
For Udawatta Kele Sanctuary or nearby trails, comfortable, sturdy Hiking shoes or sandals with good grip are needed. The terrain can be uneven and sometimes slippery.
Standard Swimwear is fine if your accommodation has a pool. Kandy does not have beaches. For formal events, smart-casual clothing usually works.
No particular specialty items are unique to Kandy experiences beyond culturally appropriate attire. General Travel gear works for most activities. Focus on what is practical and comfortable.
Careful organization of your documents before and during your trip reduces stress. First, be sure you have your original passport, valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay in Sri Lanka. Also, carry a printed copy of your Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) approval. Immigration may have your details electronically, but a physical copy can help make arrival smooth. Keep these documents in a secure, easy-to-reach place, separate from your main luggage.
Power adapters are a must-have for Kandy. Sri Lanka uses Type D, M, and G power sockets. The voltage is 230V at 50Hz. A Universal travel adapter, like the EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter, is very good. This device lets you connect your electronics no matter the socket type, making charging simple. Be sure your devices are compatible with 230V; most modern electronics are dual voltage, but check chargers for labels like "Input: 100-240V."
Consider your camera equipment. A camera good in low light is useful for temple interiors. A Lightweight tripod could be good for scenic shots, especially at sunset or sunrise from viewpoints. Always bring extra batteries and memory cards so you don't run out during your explorations.
Consider a VPN for secure browsing and accessing content. Popular choices include NordVPN and ExpressVPN.
For easy data access, especially for short trips, consider an eSIM service like Airalo. This skips physical SIM card changes.
For any camera or electronics needs before your trip, B&H Photo is a reliable retailer.
Pack a destination-specific First aid kit. Beyond standard items, include useful medications for Sri Lanka. Anti-diarrhea medication and rehydration salts are good for common stomach upsets. Antihistamines help with insect bites or allergic reactions. A compact kit, like the Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .7 Medical Kit, is practical. This helps you manage small ailments without needing to find a pharmacy immediately.
High-strength Insect repellent is a needed item. Mosquitoes are present, and products with DEET (like REPEL 100 Insect Repellent with 40% DEET) work well to prevent bites, lowering the risk of dengue fever. Broad-spectrum Sunscreen with a high SPF (like EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 46), Sunglasses, and a Wide-brimmed hat are also good for Sun protection.
If hiking or trekking is on your agenda, a Small daypack is good for carrying water, snacks, a Light rain jacket, and personal items. Comfortable and sturdy hiking shoes are needed for trails in Udawatta Kele Sanctuary or Hanthana Mountain Range.
Decide what you will rent versus what you will bring. Bicycles are sometimes available for rent from guesthouses or local shops in Kandy. For specialized activities like white-water rafting (in Kitulgala), equipment typically comes from the tour operator.
No particular specialty items are unique to Kandy experiences, beyond culturally appropriate attire for temple visits. A sarong or shawl can work well for this and is easy to carry. Otherwise, general Travel gear suits most activities in and around the city.
Comfort items for transportation significantly make long journeys better. A Neck pillow, Eye mask, and Earplugs make long train rides, like the scenic journey to Ella, or bus trips more comfortable. The TravelRest Ultimate Inflatable Travel Pillow, for example, gives compact support.
Reusable items contribute to sustainable travel and can save you money. A Hydro Flask Stainless Steel Water Bottle lets you refill water and reduce plastic waste. A BAGGU Standard Reusable Shopping Bag is good for market visits and souvenir shopping, cutting down on single-use plastic bags. Consider bringing Reusable utensils if you plan to eat street food often, minimizing waste.
Reduces plastic waste. (Hydro Flask)
For markets and souvenirs. (BAGGU)
For street food to reduce disposables.
An eco-friendly alternative.
Carry a large scarf or sarong in your daypack. This lets you quickly cover your shoulders and knees before entering temples, showing respect for religious sites.
Opt for layers. Kandy's climate varies, so adaptable clothing allows comfort from cooler mornings to warm afternoons.
