Dambulla, Sri Lanka: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Dambulla, Sri Lanka? If you're planning to go to Dambulla, the following is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Dambulla
- Important essentials for Dambulla
- Activities for Dambulla
- Dambulla in January: weather and what to pack
- Dambulla in February: weather and what to pack
- Dambulla in March: weather and what to pack
- Dambulla in April: weather and what to pack
- Dambulla in May: weather and what to pack
- Dambulla in June: weather and what to pack
- Dambulla in July: weather and what to pack
- Dambulla in August: weather and what to pack
- Dambulla in September: weather and what to pack
- Dambulla in October: weather and what to pack
- Dambulla in November: weather and what to pack
- Dambulla in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Dambulla, Sri Lanka
Based on the climate and weather in Dambulla, Sri Lanka, the best time to go is January. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Dambulla, Sri Lanka
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Dambulla, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Dambulla, Sri Lanka by month
January
January is constantly hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains sometimes.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and cool you.
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against UV rays:
Skirts
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisA rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Dambulla. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be sure to get the correct type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.
Travel pillow
Our favorite is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
February
February in Dambulla can be very hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (high 20s C) to high 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunglasses
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also filters dangerous contaminants:
thisBug repellent
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Waterproof sandals
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Loose-fit shorts
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We like:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Dambulla. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Check that you pick the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.
Travel neck support pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
March
March in Dambulla is unbearably hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 90s F (mid 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are developed to keep you cool:
Insulated water bottle
UV protecting legwear
These will keep your legs protected from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are specially designed to help you stay cool and offer UV protection.
Thin short sleeve shirts
Make sure bring additional, as these easily get wet or dirty.
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
Sunglasses
- this
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Dambulla. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
Our favorite is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Ensure that you get the necessary type. Many adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
April
If you visit Dambulla during April, you are likely to notice that it is sweltering and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
- this
Protecting pants
These will keep your legs safe from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are engineered to help you stay cool:
Skirts
Sunglasses
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are specially designed to cool you and offer UV protection.
Waterproof sandals
Thin short sleeve shirts
You should bring extra, as these easily get wet or dirty.
Insulated water bottle
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We like:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent one.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Dambulla. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Ensure that you find the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
May
May in Dambulla can be sweltering. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C) to low 90s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Waterproof sandals
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against skin damage:
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also filters contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Skirts
Sunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and cool you.
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We like:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Dambulla. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Check that you get the right type. A lot of adapters available online are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.
June
If you vacation in Dambulla during June, you are likely to notice that it can be sweltering and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunglasses
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from the sun:
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
Loose-fit shorts
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also filters harmful contaminants:
thisWaterproof sandals
Bug repellent
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Dambulla. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be careful to choose the correct type. The majority of adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
July
July in Dambulla is extremely hot and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
Loose-fit shorts
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
Waterproof sandals
Sunglasses
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also filters contaminants:
thisA rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
These are vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Dambulla. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Ensure that you choose the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.
Travel neck support pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
August
August in Dambulla is really hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C) to low 90s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also removes harmful contaminants:
thisBreatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and guard against the sun:
Skirts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and keep you cool.
Bug repellent
Sunglasses
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We like:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Dambulla. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Take care to get the right type. Most adapters available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
September
September for Dambulla is extremely hot. Temperatures average in the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains occasionally.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and cool you.
Bug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Skirts
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also removes dangerous contaminants:
thisWaterproof sandals
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from skin damage:
Sunglasses
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Dambulla. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be sure to choose the right kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.
October
If you visit Dambulla during October, you will probably find that it is constantly hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 70s F (low 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
Waterproof sandals
Loose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also removes dangerous contaminants:
thisSkirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
Bug repellent
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We like:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Dambulla. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be sure to choose the correct type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
Travel neck pillow
What we like is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
November
November in this region is consistently hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and help you stay cool.
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Loose-fit shorts
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you cool and protect you from the sun:
Skirts
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also removes harmful contaminants:
thisWaterproof sandals
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We like:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent one.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Dambulla. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. It's important that you choose the correct kind. Many adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.
December
In December, Dambulla is hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Dambulla, with several of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisSkirts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Loose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Waterproof sandals
Sunglasses
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Dambulla. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be sure to get the right type. Most adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.
What to do in Dambulla, Sri Lanka
Dambulla is a small city located in the central province of Sri Lanka. With its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes and ancient structures, it is a popular tourist destination for people from around the world.
Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Dambulla:
1) Dambulla Cave Temple - This is one of the most famous and biggest cave temples in Sri Lanka. Consisting of a network of five caves, the temple holds numerous Buddhist statues, frescoes, and carvings. It is also famously known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla.
2) Sigiriya - Sigiriya is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is known for its mesmerizing views and stunning architecture. The site provides stunning views of the surrounding jungle and is commonly known as the Lion Rock due to a statue of a lion located at the entrance.
3) Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium - This is a multi-use stadium that hosts popular international cricket matches in Sri Lanka. It is located in Dambulla and is popular among the tourists who wish to experience the thrill of the game.
4) Pidurangala Rock - While many people visit Sigiriya for the grandeur of the Lion Rock, another lesser-known rock fortress, Pidurangala Rock, also offers grand panoramic views. This is a must-visit attraction in Dambulla for tourists who wish to escape crowds and explore wilderness.
5) Ironwood Forest - Ironwood Forest is an ecologically important location that is home to a wide range of wildlife and flora. It is visited for its serene ambiance and to experience eco-tourism in Sri Lanka. Some bird species, including the junglefowl which is Sri Lanka’s national bird, can be spotted here.
6) Golden Temple at Gadaladeniya Temple - Gadaladeniya Temple is a 14th-century Buddhist temple located about 14 kilometers from Dambulla. One of the main attractions at the temple is the Golden Temple located on the upper floor. Visitors can marvel at the intricate details of the temple and its gold-plated figures of Lord Buddha.
7) Kandy - Although Kandy is not situated in Dambulla, it is nearby and is a must-visit place on the itinerary of any tourist visiting Dambulla. The city is famous for the Temple of the Tooth Relic, which is considered to be one of the most sacred places in Sri Lanka, as it houses a tooth relic of Lord Buddha.
Dambulla offers a unique mix of culture, architecture, nature, and wildlife making it a complete tourist destination. A visit to Dambulla is an unforgettable trip that can easily be cherished for a lifetime.
About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
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