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, here 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
If you visit Dambulla during January, you are likely to see that it is constantly hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (low 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain once in a while.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you cool and protect you from UV rays:
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also filters dangerous contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Waterproof sandals
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
Loose-fit shorts
Skirts
Sunglasses
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are essential in a rainstorm.
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 like:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
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.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, 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.
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 pick the right type. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in 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 top rated pillow is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
February
If you visit Dambulla during February, you might find that it is extremely hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain sometimes.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Loose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also removes dangerous contaminants:
thisCool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Waterproof sandals
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from UV rays:
Skirts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Bug repellent
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These are vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Safety + Security
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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, 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.
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
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be careful to choose the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.
Travel neck pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
March
March for Dambulla can be sizzling. Temperatures average in the low 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day. It rains sometimes.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Lightweight 'harem' pants
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are engineered to help you stay cool and to provide UV protection.
Bug bite relief
Insulated water bottle
Bug repellent
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
Light linen shorts
Sunglasses
Thin short sleeve shirts
Don't forget bring additional, since these easily get wet or dirty.
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
Personal cooling fan
thisCooling tank or crop tops
These are specially designed for cooling:
Sun protecting pants/skirts
These will keep you safe from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We like:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: 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
Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
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
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Take care to pick the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
April
April in Dambulla can be excruciatingly hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
Sunglasses
Bug bite relief
Insulated water bottle
Light linen shorts
Thin short sleeve shirts
Make sure pack extra, as these get wet or dirty.
Waterproof sandals
Bug repellent
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are engineered to keep you cool and to provide UV protection.
Skirts
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are created to keep you cool:
Lightweight 'harem' pants
Personal cooling fan
thisSun protecting pants/skirts
These will keep you safe from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We like:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to bring 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 excellent value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing bags recently, 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.
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
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 find the right kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
May
May in Dambulla is really hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 90s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Waterproof sandals
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and guard against the sun:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and cool you.
Skirts
Sunglasses
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisBug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can 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 bit of protection, 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
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be careful to pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
Our fave is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
June
If you are traveling to Dambulla in June, you will notice that it can be sweltering and dry with little rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Waterproof sandals
Loose-fit shorts
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and guard against the sun:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
Skirts
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also removes harmful contaminants:
thisSunglasses
Bug repellent
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, 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 repeatedly losing things recently, 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
A great choice is this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to find the correct type. Many adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
July
If you vacation in Dambulla during July, you may see 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 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Sunglasses
Waterproof sandals
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from the sun:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and cool you.
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Bug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisA rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We recommend:
Health
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 useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags nowadays, 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 peace of mind, 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
Travel pillow
Our fave is 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. Ensure that you find the correct type. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
August
If you vacation in Dambulla during August, you may notice that it is really hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Bug repellent
Waterproof sandals
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
Skirts
Sunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also cleans contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These are a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have 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.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate 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 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
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to get the right kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
September
September in Dambulla is really hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 90s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Bug repellent
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
Loose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also removes dangerous contaminants:
thisA rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We like:
Health
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
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful 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.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
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 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be careful to find the necessary type. A lot of adapters available online are simply plugs 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 locations.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
October
If you vacation in Dambulla during October, you may 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
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also removes contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can make you comfortable and guard against the sun:
Sunglasses
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Bug repellent
Waterproof sandals
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
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
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 airlines always losing luggage 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.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, 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
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 penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Check that you choose the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.
Travel neck pillow
Our favorite is this one
November
November can be very 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
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Bug repellent
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you cool and guard against the sun:
Sunglasses
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and cool you.
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also filters contaminants:
thisA rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring 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 always losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, 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.
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 get the right type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.
Travel neck support pillow
A good option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
December
If you are traveling to Dambulla in December, you will notice that it is hot and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also cleans contaminants:
thisSunglasses
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from the sun:
Loose-fit shorts
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
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 first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
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.
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 stuff.
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
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Ensure that you choose the necessary kind. The majority of adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
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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