Packing

What to pack for Sri Lanka

Light layers for heat, hills, temples and jeep mornings.

Clothing

Pack breathable fabrics for lowland heat and a light fleece or long sleeves for Ella evenings and dawn jeeps. Include at least one modest outfit (covered shoulders and knees) for Kataragama and other sacred sites.

  • Neutral safari colours for jeep days
  • Rain shell (monsoon showers are quick)
  • Sun hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen
  • Swimwear for the east or south coast

Footwear & kit

Closed shoes with grip for Ella paths; sandals for town. Reef-friendly shoes help if you surf. Bring insect repellent, any personal medication, and photocopies or phone photos of your passport ID page for park tickets.