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

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

Contents

When to go to Galle, Sri Lanka

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

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

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

If you vacation in Galle during January, you will probably see that it is constantly 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 almost every day of the month.

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 belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Galle. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to 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 yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works 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 pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to see the majestic Meeran Masjid, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; you should check with the Galle tourism authority.

If you go to the National Sea Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

February in Galle is consistently hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) to 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.

  • 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 Galle. 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 airports always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to get the correct type. Many adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient 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

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to see the majestic Meeran Masjid, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; you should check with the Galle tourism authority.

If you go to the National Sea Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

If you vacation in Galle during March, you will probably see that it can be sweltering. 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 (mid 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about two thirds of the time.

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 repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Galle. 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be sure to pick the correct type. A lot of adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • 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 support pillow

    A good option is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to see the majestic Meeran Masjid, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; you should check with the Galle tourism authority.

If you go to the National Sea Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April in Galle is constantly hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) to 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 bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always 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 Galle. 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Check that you find the correct type. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to see the majestic Meeran Masjid, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; you should check with the Galle tourism authority.

If you go to the National Sea Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

In May, Galle can be sweltering. Temperatures routinely are in the high 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Galle, with several of the days of the month having rain.

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 always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Galle. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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 available are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to see the majestic Meeran Masjid, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; you should check with the Galle tourism authority.

If you go to the National Sea Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

June in this region is extremely hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains sometimes.

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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage 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 Galle. 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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be sure to find the necessary type. Most adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to see the majestic Meeran Masjid, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; you should check with the Galle tourism authority.

If you go to the National Sea Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

Traveling to Galle in July, you will notice that it is hot. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things recently, 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.

  • 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 Galle. 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. Take care to pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently available are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to see the majestic Meeran Masjid, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; you should check with the Galle tourism authority.

If you go to the National Sea Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

If you visit Galle during August, 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). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Galle. 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 luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. It's important that you choose the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to see the majestic Meeran Masjid, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; you should check with the Galle tourism authority.

If you go to the National Sea Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September here is really hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags 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 Galle. 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

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite 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 amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. It's important that you pick the correct type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to see the majestic Meeran Masjid, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; you should check with the Galle tourism authority.

If you go to the National Sea Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

Traveling to Galle in October, you will notice that it is extremely warm. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Galle. 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 things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly 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.

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. Be careful to get the correct type. Many adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel neck 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 prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to see the majestic Meeran Masjid, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; you should check with the Galle tourism authority.

If you go to the National Sea Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

If you vacation in Galle during November, you are likely to notice that it is extremely hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 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
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 airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Galle. 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

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be sure to choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • 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

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to see the majestic Meeran Masjid, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; you should check with the Galle tourism authority.

If you go to the National Sea Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December here is really hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

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.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Galle. 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

  • 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 type. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to see the majestic Meeran Masjid, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; you should check with the Galle tourism authority.

If you go to the National Sea Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Galle, Sri Lanka

Galle, a historical city in the south-west of Sri Lanka, is a fascinating destination for tourists. Founded by traders more than 2,000 years ago, Galle is now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is known for its rich colonial history, ancient buildings, and beautiful beaches.

Here are a few of the top tourist attractions in Galle that you should definitely consider visiting:

1. Galle Fort

Galle Fort is an iconic attraction and one of the most important landmarks in the city. Built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, it was later expanded by the Dutch, and serves as a prime example of a fortified colonial city. The fort is a perfect place for a leisurely walk around the old streets, with highlights including the various small shops and galleries, well-preserved colonial architecture, and the views of the tropical Indian Ocean.

2. Dutch Reformed Church

The Dutch Reformed Church, also known as the Groote Kerk, is one of the oldest churches in Sri Lanka. Dating back to the 17th century, it was built by the Dutch during the colonial period. Apart from the stunning architectural design, the church is also popular for its impressive pipe organ and historic tombstones inside the building.

3. Lighthouse

The Galle lighthouse is a standout landmark, and one of the oldest lighthouses in Sri Lanka, constructed in 1939. The lighthouse is located on the southernmost point of the fort, offering sweeping views over the Indian Ocean. The view from the top is well worth the climb, making it an ideal spot to watch the sunset.

4. National Maritime Museum

The National Maritime Museum portrays the country’s maritime history that spans several centuries. The museum is housed in a 17th-century Dutch building and displays numerous artifacts, including old boats, ancient maps, weapons, and nautical equipment. The museum offers an interactive experience that is suitable for both children and adults.

5. Jungle Beach

Jungle Beach, located a few kilometers northeast of Galle, is a serene and secluded beach. It’s a great place to relax and soak up some sun, whilst also being able to enjoy other watersports like snorkeling and paddleboarding. This small cove of the beach is fringed by dense green jungles, adding to the natural beauty of the location.

In conclusion, Galle is a city that truly offers a rich cultural and aesthetic experience, whether you’re seeking history, architecture, local food, or serene natural attractions. It's a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Sri Lanka.

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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