Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]
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Ready to pack for Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka? If you're planning to go to Nuwara Eliya, this article contains some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Nuwara Eliya
- Important essentials for Nuwara Eliya
- Activities for Nuwara Eliya
- Nuwara Eliya in January: weather and what to pack
- Nuwara Eliya in February: weather and what to pack
- Nuwara Eliya in March: weather and what to pack
- Nuwara Eliya in April: weather and what to pack
- Nuwara Eliya in May: weather and what to pack
- Nuwara Eliya in June: weather and what to pack
- Nuwara Eliya in July: weather and what to pack
- Nuwara Eliya in August: weather and what to pack
- Nuwara Eliya in September: weather and what to pack
- Nuwara Eliya in October: weather and what to pack
- Nuwara Eliya in November: weather and what to pack
- Nuwara Eliya in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka
Based on the climate and weather in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka, the best time to go is February. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Nuwara Eliya, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka by month
January
January is crisp. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light jacket or fleece
Light and heavy skirts
Extra socks
Pants or jeans
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent one.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
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 stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Nuwara Eliya. 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
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 sure to find the right kind. Many adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel pillow
An excellent option is this one
If you go to Hakgala Botanical Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
If you're planning to visit The Lovers Leap waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Swimsuits
Waterproof phone bag
February
Traveling to Nuwara Eliya in February, you will notice that it is chilly. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light and heavy skirts
Light jacket or fleece
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
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 Nuwara Eliya. 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 belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate 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
Travel neck 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 huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money 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. Ensure that you pick the right type. A lot of adapters on sale are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.
If you go to Hakgala Botanical Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
If you're planning to visit The Lovers Leap waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Swimsuits
Waterproof phone bag
March
If you go to Nuwara Eliya in March, you will notice that it is cool. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Pants or jeans
Light jacket or fleece
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light and heavy skirts
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Extra socks
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Safety + Security
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 Nuwara Eliya. 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 belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate 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
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 penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck support pillow
A great choice is this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be careful to choose the right type. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.
If you go to Hakgala Botanical Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
If you're planning to visit The Lovers Leap waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Swimsuits
Waterproof phone bag
April
If you are traveling to Nuwara Eliya in April, you will notice that it is mild. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light jacket or fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Extra socks
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light and heavy skirts
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Pants or jeans
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
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 Nuwara Eliya. 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 things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Sri Lanka has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Check that you pick the necessary kind. Most adapters on sale are just 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 countries.
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. Save money with this
If you go to Hakgala Botanical Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
If you're planning to visit The Lovers Leap waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Swimsuits
Waterproof phone bag
May
If you go to Nuwara Eliya in May, you will notice that it is balmy. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light jacket or fleece
Light and heavy skirts
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Safety + Security
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 Nuwara Eliya. 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 things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
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
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
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Check that you get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply 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 areas.
Travel pillow
Our favorite is this one
If you go to Hakgala Botanical Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
If you're planning to visit The Lovers Leap waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Swimsuits
Waterproof phone bag
June
If you go to Nuwara Eliya in June, you will notice that it is mild. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light and heavy skirts
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light jacket or fleece
Pants or jeans
Extra socks
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, 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 Nuwara Eliya. 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 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
Travel neck pillow
A great choice is this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just 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 work in most locations.
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
If you go to Hakgala Botanical Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
If you're planning to visit The Lovers Leap waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Swimsuits
Waterproof phone bag
July
July here is balmy. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light and heavy skirts
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light jacket or fleece
Extra socks
Health
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 important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags 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 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 Nuwara Eliya. 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
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Check that you find the right type. Many adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
A versatile choice is this one
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
If you go to Hakgala Botanical Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
If you're planning to visit The Lovers Leap waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Swimsuits
Waterproof phone bag
August
Traveling to Nuwara Eliya in August, you will notice that it is mild. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light and heavy skirts
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light jacket or fleece
Pants or jeans
Extra socks
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country 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.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Safety + Security
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 Nuwara Eliya. 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 stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: 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. Ensure that you pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
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
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
A good option is this one
If you go to Hakgala Botanical Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
If you're planning to visit The Lovers Leap waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Swimsuits
Waterproof phone bag
September
If you go to Nuwara Eliya in September, you will notice that it is balmy. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light jacket or fleece
Extra socks
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light and heavy skirts
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Pants or jeans
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
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 Nuwara Eliya. 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 luggage nowadays, 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
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Check that you choose the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like 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
If you go to Hakgala Botanical Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
If you're planning to visit The Lovers Leap waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Swimsuits
Waterproof phone bag
October
If you go to Nuwara Eliya in October, you will notice that it is balmy. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light jacket or fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light and heavy skirts
Extra socks
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Pants or jeans
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Nuwara Eliya. 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.
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 excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow 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. Take care to choose the correct type. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.
If you go to Hakgala Botanical Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
If you're planning to visit The Lovers Leap waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Swimsuits
Waterproof phone bag
November
November in this region is balmy. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Pants or jeans
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Extra socks
Light jacket or fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light and heavy skirts
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
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 airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Nuwara Eliya. 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
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. Save money with this
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be sure to pick the necessary kind. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
If you go to Hakgala Botanical Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
If you're planning to visit The Lovers Leap waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Swimsuits
Waterproof phone bag
December
If you go to Nuwara Eliya in December, you will notice that it is relatively cool. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light jacket or fleece
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light and heavy skirts
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Pants or jeans
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
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 Nuwara Eliya. 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 airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can 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
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. Check that you find the right kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
If you go to Hakgala Botanical Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
If you're planning to visit The Lovers Leap waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Swimsuits
Waterproof phone bag
What to do in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka
Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as "Little England," is a picturesque hill town located in Sri Lanka's Central Province. This charming destination, surrounded by lush green tea plantations and rolling hills, is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With a tranquil atmosphere, cozy climate, and stunning natural beauty, Nuwara Eliya has become a must-visit destination in Sri Lanka.
Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Nuwara Eliya that you shouldn't miss:
1. Horton Plains National Park - One of the most stunning natural parks in Sri Lanka, Horton Plains is known for its dramatic landscapes, including dense forests, rolling hills, and waterfalls. The park is home to many rare species such as the Sri Lankan Leopard, Sambar Deer, and Purple-faced Langur.
2. Tea Plantations - Nuwara Eliya is known for its world-famous tea plantations, where you can witness the production process and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed tea while surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
3. Gregory Lake - A man-made lake created by Governor William Gregory in the 19th century, Gregory Lake is a popular attraction for visitors to Nuwara Eliya. The serene lake offers boating activities, and horse riding.
4. Victoria Park - A beautiful park situated in the center of the town, Victoria Park is a beautiful place for a morning walk. It's home to many species of birds and various kinds of flora and fauna.
5. Galway's Land Bird Sanctuary - A paradise for birdwatchers, the Galway's Land Bird Sanctuary is home to over 20 species of birds, such as Yellow-eared Bulbul, Grey-headed Canary Flycatcher, and Sri Lanka Scimitar-babbler.
6. Seetha Amman Kovil - A Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Seetha, this beautiful temple is located on the outskirts of the town. It is believed that Goddess Seetha was kept captive in this area during the Ramayana era.
7. Pedro Tea Factory - Another fantastic tea plantation, Pedro Tea Factory offers guided tours, and you can learn about tea-making traditions and the history of the tea industry in Sri Lanka.
Nuwara Eliya is a destination that must be on your travel bucket list. From the stunning natural landscapes to the iconic landmarks and cultural attractions, there is something for everyone in this charming town. So, pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey to Nuwara Eliya for an experience of a lifetime.
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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