Galle, Sri Lanka: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2022]
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Traveling to Galle, Sri Lanka? If you're planning to go to Galle, the following is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Galle
- Important essentials for Galle
- Activities for Galle
- Galle in January: weather and what to pack
- Galle in February: weather and what to pack
- Galle in March: weather and what to pack
- Galle in April: weather and what to pack
- Galle in May: weather and what to pack
- Galle in June: weather and what to pack
- Galle in July: weather and what to pack
- Galle in August: weather and what to pack
- Galle in September: weather and what to pack
- Galle in October: weather and what to pack
- Galle in November: weather and what to pack
- Galle in December: weather and what to pack

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.
When to go to Galle, Sri Lanka
Based on the climate and weather in Galle, the best time to go is June. See below for details.
Important essentials for Galle, Sri Lanka
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Galle, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
COVID-19 ESSENTIALS FOR 2022
-
A vaccine card protector
Vaccine cards may wear away. An unreadable card can have severe consequences. This vaccine card protector helps stop that.
Travel insurance
If you or a companion get COVID-19, your amazing trip can be ruined. Good travel insurance can help. See plans
-
Kids' KN95 masks
N95 masks aren't sold for kids. These are a good alternative (and can also be used by adults if N95 masks are not available).
-
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
-
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
-
N95 masks to use in crowded airports
These N95 masks provide the best level of COVID protection available.
General health necessities
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.
-
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
-
Emergency motion sickness relief
Don't forget these
-
Airplane or car necessities
-
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.
-
For families with young children
-
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
-
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. This one should be appropriate for most areas, but you should check with your hotel.
-
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
What to wear/what to pack for Galle, Sri Lanka by month
Already know when you're traveling?
January
If you visit Galle during January, you are likely to 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 almost every day of the month.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Bug repellent
-
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and guard against the sun:
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Sunglasses
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also filters contaminants:
-
Skirts
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and keep you cool.
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These are essential in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We suggest:
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to visit the stunning Meeran Masjid, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Galle tourism authority.
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to the National Sea Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
February
If you visit Galle during February, you might find that it is really 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 about two thirds of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also filters contaminants:
-
Skirts
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against skin damage:
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and keep you cool.
-
Bug repellent
-
Sunglasses
-
Waterproof sandals
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants can be essential in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We recommend:
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to visit the stunning Meeran Masjid, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Galle tourism authority.
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to the National Sea Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
March
March in Galle can be sweltering. 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:
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Bug repellent
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and keep you cool.
-
Skirts
-
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you cool and protect you from the sun:
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Sunglasses
-
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also filters dangerous contaminants:
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants will be essential in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We like:
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to visit the stunning Meeran Masjid, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Galle tourism authority.
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to the National Sea Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
April
April in Galle can be very 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:
-
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from the sun:
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Skirts
-
Bug repellent
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and cool you.
-
Sunglasses
-
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also cleans dangerous contaminants:
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants are vital in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We recommend:
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to visit the stunning Meeran Masjid, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Galle tourism authority.
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to the National Sea Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
May
In May, Galle can be very hot. 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:
-
Bug repellent
-
Skirts
-
Sunglasses
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from the sun:
-
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also removes contaminants:
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants can be essential in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We suggest:
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to visit the stunning Meeran Masjid, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Galle tourism authority.
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to the National Sea Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
June
If you visit Galle 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 high 70s F (mid 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain once in a while.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Bug repellent
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also filters dangerous contaminants:
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and help you stay cool.
-
Sunglasses
-
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you cool and protect you from the sun:
-
Skirts
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These can be essential in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We recommend:
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to visit the stunning Meeran Masjid, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Galle tourism authority.
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to the National Sea Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
July
If you vacation in Galle during July, you might find 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 about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Skirts
-
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against UV rays:
-
Bug repellent
-
Sunglasses
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and keep you cool.
-
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also cleans contaminants:
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We recommend:
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to visit the stunning Meeran Masjid, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Galle tourism authority.
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to the National Sea Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
August
August in this region is extremely warm. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Sunglasses
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Skirts
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and help you stay cool.
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you cool and guard against the sun:
-
Bug repellent
-
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also filters contaminants:
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These will be essential in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We suggest:
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to visit the stunning Meeran Masjid, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Galle tourism authority.
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to the National Sea Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
September
In September, Galle is constantly hot. Temperatures routinely are in the 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:
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also cleans dangerous contaminants:
-
Bug repellent
-
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from skin damage:
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
-
Skirts
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Sunglasses
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These are a lifesaver in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We like:
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to visit the stunning Meeran Masjid, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Galle tourism authority.
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to the National Sea Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
October
If you visit Galle during October, you may notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can make you comfortable and guard against the sun:
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also filters harmful contaminants:
-
Skirts
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
-
Sunglasses
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Bug repellent
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants are essential in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We suggest:
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to visit the stunning Meeran Masjid, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Galle tourism authority.
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to the National Sea Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
November
November in Galle is constantly hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Skirts
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can make you comfortable and guard against the sun:
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and keep you cool.
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also removes contaminants:
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Bug repellent
-
Sunglasses
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These can be a lifesaver in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We suggest:
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to visit the stunning Meeran Masjid, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Galle tourism authority.
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to the National Sea Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
December
December in Galle is really hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) to 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Skirts
-
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and cool you.
-
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also filters contaminants:
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Bug repellent
-
Sunglasses
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants will be a lifesaver in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a great choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We recommend:
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to visit the stunning Meeran Masjid, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Galle tourism authority.
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to the National Sea Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Activities for Galle, Sri Lanka
Here are some activity recommendations and activity-specific packing tips for Galle.
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