What to Pack
Light cotton for the heat, a warm layer for the hills, modest clothes for temples and a few extras that make a trip easier.
Clothing for the climate
Most of the island is warm all year, so pack lightweight, breathable cotton or linen and a sun hat. In the hill country around Nuwara Eliya, Ella and Horton Plains, early mornings and evenings can be cool, so bring a sweater or light jacket. A compact rain jacket is worth having in any season.
Dress for temples
Cover your shoulders and knees, and expect to take off your shoes and hat before you enter a Buddhist or Hindu temple. Light trousers or a long skirt and a shirt with sleeves work well. A sarong or large scarf is light, cool and useful for temples and the beach alike. Keep beachwear for the beach.
Evenings
Many hotels and restaurants are relaxed, but some elegant venues and clubs have a dress code, such as long trousers and closed shoes for men. Pack one smart outfit if you plan to dine out.
A simple checklist
- Lightweight shirts or T-shirts, and light long trousers or skirts
- Swimwear and a quick-dry towel
- A sweater or fleece for the hills
- Comfortable walking shoes or sturdy sandals, and socks for hot temple floors
- Sun hat, sunglasses and high-factor sunscreen
- Insect repellent, and leech socks if you will walk in rainforest in wet weather
- A reusable water bottle, a power bank and a universal plug adapter
- Copies of your passport, insurance and travel authorisation
- Prescription medicines in their original packaging, and a small first-aid kit
This guide is general advice and is not medical, legal or financial advice. Entry rules, health recommendations and prices change, so please check official sources and ask us if you are unsure.