Colombo, Sri Lanka: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Colombo, Sri Lanka? If you're planning to go to Colombo, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Colombo, Sri Lanka

Based on the climate and weather in Colombo, Sri Lanka, the best time to go is February. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Colombo, Sri Lanka

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Colombo, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Colombo, Sri Lanka by month

January

January here can be very hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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 Colombo. 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 help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. It's important that you find the right kind. Many adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for 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

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the beautiful Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the building; it is best to check with the Colombo tourism authority.

If you see the National Museum of Colombo, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

Traveling to Colombo in February, you will notice that it is really hot. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Colombo. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. It's important that you pick the right type. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties 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

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the beautiful Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the building; it is best to check with the Colombo tourism authority.

If you see the National Museum of Colombo, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

March in this region is extremely hot. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate 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 Colombo. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Ensure that you get the right kind. The majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the beautiful Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the building; it is best to check with the Colombo tourism authority.

If you see the National Museum of Colombo, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April in this region is really hot and somewhat stormy. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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 Colombo. 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 always losing bags recently, 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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 kind. Most adapters available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties 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

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the beautiful Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the building; it is best to check with the Colombo tourism authority.

If you see the National Museum of Colombo, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May in Colombo is extremely hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C) to high 80s F (low 30s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can 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 things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Colombo. 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.

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. Make sure to choose the correct kind. Most adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the beautiful Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the building; it is best to check with the Colombo tourism authority.

If you see the National Museum of Colombo, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

If you visit Colombo during June, you may see that it can be sweltering. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 80s F (high 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Colombo. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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 surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow 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. It's important that you find the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the beautiful Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the building; it is best to check with the Colombo tourism authority.

If you see the National Museum of Colombo, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

If you go to Colombo in July, you will notice that it is extremely warm. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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 things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Colombo. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be careful to get the correct type. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the beautiful Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the building; it is best to check with the Colombo tourism authority.

If you see the National Museum of Colombo, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

August is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Colombo. 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 luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be sure to pick the right kind. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • 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 neck pillow

    A good option is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the beautiful Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the building; it is best to check with the Colombo tourism authority.

If you see the National Museum of Colombo, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September in Colombo is hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Colombo. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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 penalties 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 available are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the beautiful Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the building; it is best to check with the Colombo tourism authority.

If you see the National Museum of Colombo, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

If you vacation in Colombo during October, you will probably see that it is extremely warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you 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 Colombo. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Take care to find the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the beautiful Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the building; it is best to check with the Colombo tourism authority.

If you see the National Museum of Colombo, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November for Colombo is extremely warm. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, 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 Colombo. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be careful to pick the correct kind. Many adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the beautiful Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the building; it is best to check with the Colombo tourism authority.

If you see the National Museum of Colombo, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

Traveling to Colombo in December, you will notice that it can be sweltering. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Colombo. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be careful to choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the beautiful Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the building; it is best to check with the Colombo tourism authority.

If you see the National Museum of Colombo, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Colombo, Sri Lanka

Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka, is a vibrant and lively place with a mixture of modern and traditional charms. Known for its rich culture, historical landmarks, culinary delights, and breathtaking scenery, Colombo is a popular tourist destination. If you are planning a trip to Sri Lanka, here are some top tourist attractions in Colombo.

1. Galle Face Green

Galle Face Green is a vast expanse of greenery located in the heart of the city, stretching along the coast for about 5 kilometers. This is a popular spot among locals and tourists alike, offering a picturesque view of the Indian Ocean, sunset walks, and street food vendors. You can also enjoy other activities such as kite flying, cricket, and picnicking.

2. National Museum of Colombo

The National Museum of Colombo is the largest and oldest museum in Sri Lanka, showcasing the country's rich history and cultural heritage. The museum has several galleries with artifacts ranging from ancient artifacts, including religious artifacts, to colonial-era artwork.

3. Gangaramaya Temple

Gangaramaya Temple is a Buddhist temple that represents the harmonious blend of traditional and modern architecture. The temple is situated near Beira Lake and attracts numerous visitors, including locals, tourists, and devotees. The temple features an impressive collection of Buddhist statues and carvings, several Buddha statues, and murals with intricate designs.

4. Temple of Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Kovil

The Temple of Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Kovil is a Hindu temple that's one of the largest in Colombo. It features intricate architecture with colorful carvings, mural paintings, and statues representing the Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, and Goddesses Parvati.

5. Viharamahadevi Park

Viharamahadevi Park is one of the oldest parks in Colombo that's popular among visitors for its serene atmosphere and well-manicured gardens. The park features ponds, fountains, and several different types of flora and fauna, making it an ideal spot for a picnic, stroll, or photography session.

6. Old Parliament Building

The old Parliament building is a colonial-era building that now serves as the Presidential Secretariat. The building is an excellent example of Gothic architecture, incorporating traditional Sri Lankan architecture into the design. The building also features a stunning marble staircase, intricate woodwork and carvings, and a striking copper dome.

7. Pettah Market

Pettah Market is the heart of Colombo's trading activities, offering a vast array of goods to locals and tourists alike. Here, you will find everything from spices, textiles, jewelry, and handicrafts. Bargaining is the norm, so be prepared to haggle to get the best price.

Conclusion

Colombo is a destination that offers a wide range of activities for tourists, from historical landmarks to ethnic markets and more. If you're planning a trip to Sri Lanka, the top tourist attractions in Colombo are worth considering as a start for experiencing the city's treasures.

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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