Kataragama, Sri Lanka: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]
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Ready to pack for Kataragama, Sri Lanka? If you're planning to go to Kataragama, this is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Kataragama
- Important essentials for Kataragama
- Activities for Kataragama
- Kataragama in January: weather and what to pack
- Kataragama in February: weather and what to pack
- Kataragama in March: weather and what to pack
- Kataragama in April: weather and what to pack
- Kataragama in May: weather and what to pack
- Kataragama in June: weather and what to pack
- Kataragama in July: weather and what to pack
- Kataragama in August: weather and what to pack
- Kataragama in September: weather and what to pack
- Kataragama in October: weather and what to pack
- Kataragama in November: weather and what to pack
- Kataragama in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Kataragama, Sri Lanka
Based on the climate and weather in Kataragama, Sri Lanka, the best time to go is February. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Kataragama, Sri Lanka
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Kataragama, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Kataragama, Sri Lanka by month
January
If you visit Kataragama during January, you are likely to notice that it is hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also filters harmful contaminants:
thisSkirts
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against skin damage:
Waterproof sandals
Sunglasses
Loose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: 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 Kataragama. 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.
Sri Lanka has some specific safety 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Ensure that you get the right type. Many adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
February
If you visit Kataragama during February, you may notice 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 low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain once in a while.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Skirts
Sunglasses
Waterproof sandals
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Loose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and cool you.
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also cleans contaminants:
thisBreatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against the sun:
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, 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 repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kataragama. 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.
Sri Lanka has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
A great choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be sure to get the right type. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
March
March is extremely hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains occasionally.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Sunglasses
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Loose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Waterproof sandals
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
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 bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kataragama. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Sri Lanka has some specific safety 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
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be careful to get the right type. The majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. 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 excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
April
April in Kataragama is constantly hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also removes harmful contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you cool and guard against UV rays:
Sunglasses
Bug repellent
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and help you stay cool.
Skirts
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We like:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly 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 Kataragama. 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.
Sri Lanka has some specific safety 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 pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Take care to find the correct kind. Many adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
May
May here can be very hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Loose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and help you stay cool.
Sunglasses
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also filters contaminants:
thisBreatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against the sun:
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
Bug repellent
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Safety + Security
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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly 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 Kataragama. 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.
Sri Lanka has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel neck support pillow
A versatile choice is this one
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 sure to choose the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.
June
If you vacation in Kataragama during June, you will probably find that it is extremely warm and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
Bug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also removes contaminants:
thisBreatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you cool and guard against UV rays:
Sunglasses
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, 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.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kataragama. 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.
Sri Lanka has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Ensure that you choose the right kind. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.
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
Travel pillow
Our fave is this one
July
If you are traveling to Kataragama in July, you will notice that it is extremely warm. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
Sunglasses
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also cleans contaminants:
thisCool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you cool and protect you from skin damage:
Loose-fit shorts
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We like:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
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 airports 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 Kataragama. 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.
Sri Lanka has some specific safety 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 pick the right type. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.
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
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
A great choice is this one
August
If you go to Kataragama in August, you will notice that it is extremely warm. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Waterproof sandals
Loose-fit shorts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and keep you cool.
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also cleans harmful contaminants:
thisSkirts
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against UV rays:
Bug repellent
Sunglasses
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kataragama. 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 things.
Sri Lanka has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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 excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to get the right type. Most adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
September
If you are traveling to Kataragama in September, you will notice that it is extremely warm and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunglasses
Loose-fit shorts
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and help you stay cool.
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also removes contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you cool and guard against UV rays:
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We like:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
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 useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kataragama. 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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Sri Lanka has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be sure to get the right kind. Many adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your devices to change 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
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
October
In October, Kataragama is hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Kataragama, with several of the days of the month having rain. In October, humidity reaches as high as 80%.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also filters harmful contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can make you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
Sunglasses
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We like:
Health
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 easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Safety + Security
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 Kataragama. 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 bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Sri Lanka has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to find the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.
Travel neck support 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
November
If you visit Kataragama during November, you may find that it is pretty consistently hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunglasses
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also filters contaminants:
thisCool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from UV rays:
Bug repellent
Skirts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Waterproof sandals
Loose-fit shorts
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
These are essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
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.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kataragama. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Sri Lanka has some specific safety 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 find the right kind. Many adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
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 support pillow
An excellent option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
December
In December, Kataragama is extremely warm and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 80s F (high 20s C) and about a third of the time jump into the 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Kataragama, with several of the days of the month having rain. In December, humidity reaches as high as 80%.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and cool you.
Sunglasses
Loose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisBreatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from the sun:
Waterproof sandals
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We like:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kataragama. 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.
Sri Lanka has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Take care to find the correct kind. Most adapters currently available are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.
Travel pillow
A good option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
What to do in Kataragama, Sri Lanka
Kataragama, a small town in southeastern Sri Lanka, is an important pilgrimage site for many Hindus, Buddhists, and Muslims. It is also a popular tourist destination, famous for its vibrant culture, religious history, and natural beauty. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Kataragama.
1) Kataragama Devale - The highlight of Kataragama is the ancient temple complex known as Kataragama Devale. It is considered one of the most sacred places in Sri Lanka and attracts thousands of pilgrims every year. The temple is dedicated to the god Skanda (also known as Kataragama or Murugan) and his consort, Thevani. The elaborate rituals and offerings during the annual Kataragama festival in July and August are a must-see.
2) Kirinda Beach - Just a few kilometers away from Kataragama is the scenic Kirinda Beach, which offers golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and spectacular sunsets. The beach is also home to the ancient Kirinda temple, the ruins of a historic palace, and a large rock outcrop that provides excellent panoramic views of the coastline.
3) Yala National Park - For nature lovers, a trip to the nearby Yala National Park is a must. It is one of the oldest and most important wildlife reserves in Sri Lanka, home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including leopards, elephants, crocodiles, and hundreds of species of birds. Safari jeep tours are available for those who want to explore the park's vast wilderness.
4) Sella Kataragama - Sella Kataragama is a lesser-known but equally important spiritual site located about 6 km from Kataragama. It is believed to be the spot where Skanda first appeared and is now home to a shrine and meditation center. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful retreat here, away from the crowds of Kataragama Devale.
5) Tissamaharama - The nearby town of Tissamaharama is a popular stopover for those visiting Kataragama. It is known for its ancient ruins, including the restored Tissamaharama Stupa, which dates back to the 1st century BC. Visitors can also explore the town's bustling markets, relax in the peaceful Dagoba Lake, or go birdwatching in the nearby wetlands.
In conclusion, Kataragama is a fascinating destination that offers a unique blend of spirituality, history, and natural beauty. Whether you're a pilgrim seeking spiritual enlightenment or a traveler seeking adventure, there is something for everyone in Kataragama. So pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey to this magical town in southeastern 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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