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

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

Contents

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 go to Kataragama in January, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the low 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 airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be careful to choose the correct type. Many adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

If you check out a temple, such as Kataragama Temple Complex, wear:

February

February for Kataragama is hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s 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.

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

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 neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be sure to get the right kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

If you check out a temple, such as Kataragama Temple Complex, wear:

March

If you vacation in Kataragama during March, you are likely to notice that it can be very hot. 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). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 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.

  • 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 always losing things these days, 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 stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. It's important that you find the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you check out a temple, such as Kataragama Temple Complex, wear:

April

April in Kataragama is extremely hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

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 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 nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support 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 large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • 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 get the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

If you check out a temple, such as Kataragama Temple Complex, wear:

May

Traveling to Kataragama in May, you will notice that it is consistently hot and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the 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 little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly 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 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be sure to pick the necessary kind. Most adapters available are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

If you check out a temple, such as Kataragama Temple Complex, wear:

June

If you vacation in Kataragama during June, you may see that it is hot 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 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, 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 airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to pick the correct type. Most adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate 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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you check out a temple, such as Kataragama Temple Complex, wear:

July

If you go to Kataragama in July, you will notice that it is hot. Expect it to rain regularly. 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 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 always losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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. Be careful to get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

If you check out a temple, such as Kataragama Temple Complex, wear:

August

August is hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in 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.

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • 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. It's important that you find the correct kind. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

If you check out a temple, such as Kataragama Temple Complex, wear:

September

In September, Kataragama is pretty consistently hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (high 20s C) and about half of the time jump into 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 Kataragama, with several of the days of the month having rain. In September, humidity reaches as high as 80%. Additionally, it is breezy.

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 in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be sure to pick the necessary kind. Many adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

If you check out a temple, such as Kataragama Temple Complex, wear:

October

Traveling to Kataragama in October, you will notice that it is extremely warm and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
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 constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate 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.

  • 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

  • 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 find the necessary kind. Many adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

If you check out a temple, such as Kataragama Temple Complex, wear:

November

If you are traveling to Kataragama in November, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 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.

  • 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 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 airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Ensure that you find the correct kind. Many adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics 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

If you check out a temple, such as Kataragama Temple Complex, wear:

December

December here is hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s 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.

  • 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 always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to find the right type. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you check out a temple, such as Kataragama Temple Complex, wear:

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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