Ratnapura, Sri Lanka: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.
Ready to pack for Ratnapura, Sri Lanka? If you're planning to go to Ratnapura, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Ratnapura
- Important essentials for Ratnapura
- Activities for Ratnapura
- Ratnapura in January: weather and what to pack
- Ratnapura in February: weather and what to pack
- Ratnapura in March: weather and what to pack
- Ratnapura in April: weather and what to pack
- Ratnapura in May: weather and what to pack
- Ratnapura in June: weather and what to pack
- Ratnapura in July: weather and what to pack
- Ratnapura in August: weather and what to pack
- Ratnapura in September: weather and what to pack
- Ratnapura in October: weather and what to pack
- Ratnapura in November: weather and what to pack
- Ratnapura in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Ratnapura, Sri Lanka
Based on the climate and weather in Ratnapura, Sri Lanka, the best time to go is January. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Ratnapura, Sri Lanka
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Ratnapura, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Ratnapura, Sri Lanka by month
January
If you are traveling to Ratnapura in January, you will notice that it can be sweltering. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also filters dangerous contaminants:
thisSunglasses
Loose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and help you stay cool.
Waterproof sandals
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and guard against the sun:
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We like:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great 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 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
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 Ratnapura. 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 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
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Ensure that you choose the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel neck support pillow
Our favorite is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
February
February in Ratnapura is sizzling. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) to low 90s F (mid 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Insulated water bottle
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are created for cooling and include UV protection.
- this
Skirts
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are developed for cooling:
Sun protecting pants/skirts
These will keep your legs protected from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Waterproof sandals
Thin short sleeve shirts
Do bring extra, since these easily get wet or dirty.
Sunglasses
Rain poncho
A weatherproof rain poncho to wear over your jacket saves you time and money by protecting your nice jacket. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots essential. These boots are well-suited for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is designed for bad weather.So your belongings remain dry. Even the finest suitcases can let moisture in. We like:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be a lifesaver in a storm.
Health
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 wise to have 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.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you 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 Ratnapura. 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 things.
Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
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 large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Check that you get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.
March
If you are traveling to Ratnapura in March, you will notice that it is scorchingly hot and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (mid 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunglasses
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
Thin short sleeve shirts
You should bring extra, since these easily get wet or dirty.
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are engineered to help you stay cool and offer UV protection.
UV protecting pants/skirts
These will keep your legs safe from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Insulated water bottle
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are developed to help you stay cool:
- this
Rain poncho
A high quality rain poncho to wear over your coat saves you time and money by protecting your main jacket. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a necessity. These boots are great for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is designed for storms.So your stuff stay dry. Even the most durable luggage can let water in. We recommend:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Ratnapura. 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 recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
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
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Check that you choose the correct type. Many adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
Our favorite is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
April
If you are traveling to Ratnapura in April, you will notice that it is sizzling, very rainy and somewhat stormy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (mid 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunglasses
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are specially designed to cool you and include UV protection.
Waterproof sandals
Thin short sleeve shirts
Do bring extra, as these often get wet or dirty.
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are engineered to cool you:
Protecting pants
These will keep your legs protected from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Skirts
- this
Insulated water bottle
Rain poncho
A weatherproof rain poncho to wear over your jacket saves you time and money by protecting your nice jacket. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a necessity. These boots work well for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is designed for stormy weather.So your stuff stay dry. Even the finest luggage can let rain in. We suggest:
Rain pants
These pants can be a lifesaver in a storm.
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Ratnapura. 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 recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
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 prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Take care to get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
May
If you vacation in Ratnapura during May, you will probably find that it can be very hot and very 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 (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about two thirds of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also filters contaminants:
thisBreatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from UV rays:
Bug repellent
Waterproof sandals
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and cool you.
Sunglasses
Loose-fit shorts
Rain poncho
A good rain poncho to wear over your coat will help avoid loads of aggrevation by protecting your nice jacket. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a must. These boots are great for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is built for bad weather.So your belongings stay dry. Even the most durable luggage can let rain in. We like:
Rain pants
These pants can be vital in heavy rain.
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good 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.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Safety + Security
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 recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Ratnapura. 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 things.
Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to find the right kind. Many adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
June
June for Ratnapura can be sweltering and very rainy. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains about two thirds of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Sunglasses
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
Loose-fit shorts
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also cleans contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and help you stay cool.
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from skin damage:
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate 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.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Ratnapura. 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
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck support pillow
A great choice is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to get the right kind. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
July
Traveling to Ratnapura in July, you will notice that it can be very hot and very rainy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also cleans contaminants:
thisSkirts
Waterproof sandals
Bug repellent
Sunglasses
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Loose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and cool you.
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Ratnapura. 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
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. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel pillow
A great choice is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Check that you pick the necessary kind. Most adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.
August
If you visit Ratnapura during August, you might see that it can be sweltering and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about two thirds of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Sunglasses
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also cleans contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from the sun:
Waterproof sandals
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We like:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: 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 Ratnapura. 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 things.
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
Travel pillow
Our favorite is this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Check that you get the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
September
If you vacation in Ratnapura during September, you might find that it is really hot and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about two thirds of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and cool you.
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you cool and guard against the sun:
Waterproof sandals
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also cleans contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Bug repellent
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be essential in heavy rain.
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
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Ratnapura. 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
Travel neck support pillow
An excellent option is this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. It's important that you get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
October
In October, Ratnapura is extremely hot and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Ratnapura, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In October, humidity reaches as high as 80%.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and keep you cool.
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Skirts
Bug repellent
Sunglasses
Rain poncho
A high quality rain poncho to wear over your coat will help avoid loads of aggrevation by protecting your nice jacket. We like this one.
The stormy weather makes rubber rain boots essential. These boots work well for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is made for bad weather.So your belongings don't get wet. Even the finest luggage can let rain in. We recommend:
Rain pants
These pants are a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good 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 bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Ratnapura. 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
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to choose the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
November
November can be very hot and very 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
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also cleans contaminants:
thisSkirts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Waterproof sandals
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Loose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
Rain poncho
A durable rain poncho to wear over your jacket will avoid travel headaches by protecting your nice jacket. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a necessity. These boots are great for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is designed for storms.So your belongings remain dry. Even the best luggage can let water in. We like:
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Safety + Security
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 Ratnapura. 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 always losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
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
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Check that you choose the correct type. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
A good option is this one
December
If you are traveling to Ratnapura in December, you will notice that it can be very hot and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from the sun:
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also cleans harmful contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
Bug repellent
Sunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Rain poncho
A good rain poncho to wear over your coat saves you time and money by protecting your nice jacket. We like this one.
The stormy weather makes rubber rain boots essential. These boots work well for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is designed for storms.So your things don't get wet. The finest suitcases can let moisture in. We recommend:
Rain pants
These pants will be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take 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 airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: 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 things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Ratnapura. 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
Travel pillow
Our fave is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Ensure that you find the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
What to do in Ratnapura, Sri Lanka
Located in the Sabaragamuwa Province of Sri Lanka, Ratnapura is a city known for its rich history and natural beauty. A popular tourist destination, visitors can explore the city’s ancient temples, caves, and museums or head out to discover the stunning waterfalls, forests, and wildlife in the surrounding countryside. To make the most of your trip to Ratnapura, here are the top tourist attractions to visit:
1. Adam's Peak - Adam's Peak, also known as Sri Pada, is a sacred mountain and pilgrimage site located in Ratnapura. It is said that the mountain contains the footprints of the Buddha and Adam, according to Muslim tradition. The climb to the summit is quite challenging, but the stunning views from the top make it all worth it.
2. Udawalawe National Park - Located just outside of Ratnapura, the Udawalawe National Park is a must-see for wildlife enthusiasts. The park is home to elephants, leopards, water buffalo, and a multitude of bird species. Visitors can take a jeep safari to explore the park and see the wildlife up close.
3. Samanala Wewa Dam - The Samanala Wewa Dam is one of the largest irrigation projects in Sri Lanka and is a marvel of engineering. Built in the 12th century, the dam is still in use today, and visitors can learn about its history and construction at the nearby museum.
4. Ratnapura Gem Museum - Ratnapura is known as the “City of Gems” and is the perfect place to learn about Sri Lanka’s thriving gemstone industry. The Ratnapura Gem Museum showcases the history and different types of gemstones found in the region, including rubies, sapphires, and topaz.
5. Cave Temples - Ratnapura is home to several ancient cave temples, including the Maha Saman Devalaya and the Embilipitiya Mulkirigala Raja Maha Vihara. These temples date back to the 3rd century BC and are filled with intricate carvings and murals.
6. Wewurukannala Vihara Temple - The Wewurukannala Vihara Temple is another must-visit attraction in Ratnapura. This temple is home to a giant statue of Buddha, which stands over 160 feet tall. Visitors can climb to the top for a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside.
7. Katugas Ella Waterfall - Located just outside of Ratnapura, the Katugas Ella Waterfall is a beautiful natural wonder that is not to be missed. Visitors can take a refreshing swim in the pool at the base of the waterfall or hike to the top for breathtaking views.
Overall, Ratnapura offers an exciting mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you want to explore ancient temples, go on wildlife safaris, or see stunning waterfalls, there’s something for everyone in this fascinating city. So why not add Ratnapura to your Sri Lankan travel itinerary and experience all the gems this city has to offer!
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.
Check out our guides for these other locations: Yemen, Yemen, Pattaya, Thailand, Silay, Philippines, Ridley Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America, Tönning, Germany, Las Lajas, Panama, Grand Island, New York, United States of America, Perhentian Islands, Malaysia, Lompoc, California, United States of America, Chaweng, Thailand, and Tamura, Japan.