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

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

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

Contents

When to go to Kurunegala, Sri Lanka

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

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

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

January in Kurunegala is balmy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) to 60s F (high 10s 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to a temple, such as Algama Kanda Ancient Cave Temple, wear:

If you go to The Kurunegala Lake, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

February in Kurunegala is mild. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines 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 Kurunegala. 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Ensure that you find the correct kind. The majority of adapters available online are just plugs 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 countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to a temple, such as Algama Kanda Ancient Cave Temple, wear:

If you go to The Kurunegala Lake, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

If you go to Kurunegala in March, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain occasionally. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kurunegala. 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 these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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.

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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. It's important that you get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you go to a temple, such as Algama Kanda Ancient Cave Temple, wear:

If you go to The Kurunegala Lake, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

April in Kurunegala is balmy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C) to 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kurunegala. 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 frequently losing bags recently, 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Check that you pick the correct type. Many adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • 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 top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you go to a temple, such as Algama Kanda Ancient Cave Temple, wear:

If you go to The Kurunegala Lake, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

Traveling to Kurunegala in May, you will notice that it is balmy and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s 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 airports always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, 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 Kurunegala. 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 huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be sure to pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

If you go to a temple, such as Algama Kanda Ancient Cave Temple, wear:

If you go to The Kurunegala Lake, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

June in this region is cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kurunegala. 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 frequently losing luggage 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

  • 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. Check that you find the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you go to a temple, such as Algama Kanda Ancient Cave Temple, wear:

If you go to The Kurunegala Lake, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

July here is chilly. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage 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.

  • 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 Kurunegala. 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 adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. It's important that you find the necessary kind. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    What we like 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. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to a temple, such as Algama Kanda Ancient Cave Temple, wear:

If you go to The Kurunegala Lake, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

In August, Kurunegala is cool. Temperatures routinely are in the 60s F (high 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Kurunegala, with a few of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kurunegala. 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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Take care to find the necessary kind. Many adapters available online are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to a temple, such as Algama Kanda Ancient Cave Temple, wear:

If you go to The Kurunegala Lake, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

September is crisp. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • 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 bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kurunegala. 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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Take care to find the necessary type. Most adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    A great 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

If you go to a temple, such as Algama Kanda Ancient Cave Temple, wear:

If you go to The Kurunegala Lake, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

October in Kurunegala is balmy and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) to 60s F (high 10s 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 luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kurunegala. 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • 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. It's important that you choose the correct type. A lot of adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

If you go to a temple, such as Algama Kanda Ancient Cave Temple, wear:

If you go to The Kurunegala Lake, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

If you are traveling to Kurunegala in November, you will notice that it is mild and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be careful to get the right type. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to a temple, such as Algama Kanda Ancient Cave Temple, wear:

If you go to The Kurunegala Lake, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

If you visit Kurunegala during December, you might notice that it is mild. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kurunegala. 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 pillow

    A good option 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 large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be careful to pick the correct type. Many adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

If you go to a temple, such as Algama Kanda Ancient Cave Temple, wear:

If you go to The Kurunegala Lake, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Kurunegala, Sri Lanka

Located in the North Western Province of Sri Lanka, Kurunegala is a city brimming with history, culture and natural beauty. The city is known for its impressive rock formations, temples with intricate architecture, and artifacts that date back to the ancient kingdom of Sri Lanka. Here are the top tourist attractions in Kurunegala that you must visit during your trip to Sri Lanka.

1. Kurunegala rock

Kurunegala rock is the main attraction of the city. This imposing rock formation stands as a natural fortress in the center of Kurunegala. The rock is accessible by a winding staircase with over 500 steps leading to the summit. On the top of the rock, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the surrounding hills. The rock is also home to the ancient Buddha statue, which is one of the most significant landmarks of Sri Lanka.

2. Ridi Vihara Temple

Ridi Vihara Temple is an ancient temple that dates back to the 2nd century BC. The temple is known for its intricate carvings and the sacred relic of Lord Buddha. The temple's architecture is a fusion of Sri Lankan and Indian styles, making it a unique attraction in Kurunegala. The temple complex also features a beautiful gateway, a white dagoba, and a shrine room that houses the sacred relic.

3. Diyabeduma Vihara Temple

Diyabeduma Vihara Temple is a lesser-known temple located in Kurunegala. The temple is situated at the top of a hill, offering stunning views of the surrounding area. The temple is known for its rare Buddha statue, which is said to be one of the earliest depictions of Lord Buddha in Sri Lanka. The temple also has ancient murals depicting various stories from Buddhist mythology.

4. Giragama Tea Factory

Kurunegala is known for its tea plantations, and visiting the Giragama Tea Factory is a must-do activity while in the city. The factory offers a fascinating insight into the tea-making process, from the plucking of the leaves to the packaging of the final product. You can also taste different types of tea at the end of the tour and purchase some to take back home.

5. Kurunegala Elephant Rock

Kurunegala Elephant Rock, also known as Hathigiriya or 'elephant rock,' is a fascinating rock formation that resembles a massive elephant. The rock is located near the Kurunegala town and offers a great view of the town's skyline. Visitors can climb the rock to explore its unique features and take memorable photos with the majestic pachyderm-shaped rock.

In conclusion, Kurunegala is a city of fascinating and ancient history, natural wonders, and unique cultural experiences. The top five tourist attractions mentioned above take visitors on a journey of exploration into the city's past and present, making it an exciting destination on any Sri Lankan itinerary.

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.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Surendranagar, India, Herculaneum, Italy, General Santos, Philippines, North Ridgeville, Ohio, United States of America, Montagu, South Africa, South Cameroon Plateau, Cameroon, Costa Rica, Costa Rica, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States of America, Bushehr, Iran, Arnhem, Netherlands, and Łukta, Poland.