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

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Ready to pack for Kandy, Sri Lanka? If you're planning to go to Kandy, we've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Kandy, Sri Lanka

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

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

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

If you are traveling to Kandy in January, you will notice that it is hot. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 70s F (low 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 bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kandy. 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 amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be sure to get the necessary type. Many adapters available are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

If you visit a temple, such as Temple of the Tooth, wear:

If you go to Udawattakele Royal Forest Sanctuary, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

February in Kandy is hot. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

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 these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kandy. 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 things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Ensure that you get the right type. Many adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit a temple, such as Temple of the Tooth, wear:

If you go to Udawattakele Royal Forest Sanctuary, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

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 airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kandy. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • 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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Check that you pick the correct type. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

If you visit a temple, such as Temple of the Tooth, wear:

If you go to Udawattakele Royal Forest Sanctuary, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

If you are traveling to Kandy in April, you will notice that it is extremely hot. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 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 repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kandy. 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be careful to find the right kind. Many adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

If you visit a temple, such as Temple of the Tooth, wear:

If you go to Udawattakele Royal Forest Sanctuary, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

If you go to Kandy in May, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • 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.

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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Check that you find the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you visit a temple, such as Temple of the Tooth, wear:

If you go to Udawattakele Royal Forest Sanctuary, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

Traveling to Kandy in June, you will notice that it is extremely warm. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kandy. 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties 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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. It's important that you choose the correct type. Many adapters currently sold are just plug changers 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 countries.

If you visit a temple, such as Temple of the Tooth, wear:

If you go to Udawattakele Royal Forest Sanctuary, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

July in Kandy is hot. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

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 airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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 Kandy. 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

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money 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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be careful to find the necessary type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require 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.

If you visit a temple, such as Temple of the Tooth, wear:

If you go to Udawattakele Royal Forest Sanctuary, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

If you go to Kandy in August, you will notice that it is extremely warm. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in 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 repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kandy. 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 bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Check that you get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

If you visit a temple, such as Temple of the Tooth, wear:

If you go to Udawattakele Royal Forest Sanctuary, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

September here is hot. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

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 Kandy. 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 luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be sure to get the correct kind. Many adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit a temple, such as Temple of the Tooth, wear:

If you go to Udawattakele Royal Forest Sanctuary, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

October in this region is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

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 anywhere: 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 Kandy. 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

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money 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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. It's important that you pick the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

If you visit a temple, such as Temple of the Tooth, wear:

If you go to Udawattakele Royal Forest Sanctuary, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

If you go to Kandy in November, you will notice that it is extremely warm. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kandy. 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 bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

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 neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Check that you choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs 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.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you visit a temple, such as Temple of the Tooth, wear:

If you go to Udawattakele Royal Forest Sanctuary, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

December in this region is extremely warm. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

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.

  • 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 Kandy. 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 nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices 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

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. It's important that you find the correct type. The majority of adapters available are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

If you visit a temple, such as Temple of the Tooth, wear:

If you go to Udawattakele Royal Forest Sanctuary, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Kandy, Sri Lanka

Kandy is a beautiful city nestled in the hills of Sri Lanka, surrounded by lush greenery and flowing rivers. It is a cultural and historical hub of the country, offering visitors a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich heritage. The city has a lot to offer to tourists, and here are some of the must-visit tourist attractions in Kandy.

1. Temple of the Tooth Relic: The Temple of the Tooth Relic, also known as Sri Dalada Maligawa, is one of the most sacred sites in Sri Lanka. It houses the tooth relic of the Buddha and attracts thousands of pilgrims every year. The temple is located in the heart of Kandy and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and fountains.

2. Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens: The Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens is a stunning attraction spread out over 147 acres. It is home to over 4000 species of plants, including orchids, spices, and medicinal plants. Visitors can walk through the beautiful gardens and picnic in the shade of towering trees.

3. Kandy Lake: Kandy Lake is a man-made lake that adds to the charm of the city. It was built in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe and is one of the most beautiful spots in the city. Visitors can take a stroll around the lake, hire a boat, or simply relax on the banks and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

4. Kandy Cultural Show: The Kandy Cultural Show is an entertaining and informative performance that showcases the traditional dances, music, and costumes of Sri Lanka. The show takes place every day in the evening and lasts for an hour. It is a great way to experience the culture and traditions of Sri Lanka.

5. Bahirawakanda Temple: The Bahirawakanda Temple is a beautiful temple situated on a hill overlooking the city of Kandy. The main attraction of the temple is the giant statue of Lord Buddha, which stands 88 feet tall. Visitors can climb up the hill and enjoy breathtaking views of the city.

6. Udawattakele Sanctuary: The Udawattakele Sanctuary is a beautiful nature reserve located in the heart of Kandy. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, deer, and exotic birds. Visitors can take a guided tour of the sanctuary and explore the beautiful flora and fauna of the area.

In conclusion, Kandy is a beautiful city that has a lot to offer to tourists. From stunning temples and gardens to cultural shows and nature reserves, there is something for everyone in Kandy. Visitors can experience the rich heritage and culture of Sri Lanka while enjoying the beautiful scenery of the city.

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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