Sigiriya, Sri Lanka: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2022]
Traveling to Sigiriya, Sri Lanka? If you're planning to go to Sigiriya, this article contains some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Sigiriya
- Important essentials for Sigiriya
- Activities for Sigiriya
- Sigiriya in January: weather and what to pack
- Sigiriya in February: weather and what to pack
- Sigiriya in March: weather and what to pack
- Sigiriya in April: weather and what to pack
- Sigiriya in May: weather and what to pack
- Sigiriya in June: weather and what to pack
- Sigiriya in July: weather and what to pack
- Sigiriya in August: weather and what to pack
- Sigiriya in September: weather and what to pack
- Sigiriya in October: weather and what to pack
- Sigiriya in November: weather and what to pack
- Sigiriya in December: weather and what to pack

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.
When to go to Sigiriya, Sri Lanka
Based on the climate and weather in Sigiriya, the best time to go is January. See below for details.
Important essentials for Sigiriya, Sri Lanka
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Sigiriya, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
COVID-19 ESSENTIALS FOR 2022
Travel insurance
If you or a companion get COVID-19, your amazing trip can be ruined. Good travel insurance can help. See plans
-
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
-
A vaccine card protector
Vaccine cards may get worn. An unreadable vaccination card can cause severe consequences. This vaccine card protector helps avoid that.
-
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
-
N95 masks to use in crowded airports
These N95 masks provide the best level of COVID protection you can have.
-
Kids' KN95 masks
N95 masks are not available for kids. These are a good alternative (and can also be used by adults if N95 masks are not available).
General health necessities
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
-
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
-
Emergency motion sickness relief
Don't forget these
-
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
-
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
-
For families with young children
-
Airplane or car necessities
-
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Sigiriya. 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.
-
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. This one works in most countries, but check with your hotel.
What to wear/what to pack for Sigiriya, Sri Lanka by month
Already know when you're traveling?
January
January in Sigiriya can be sweltering. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you cool and protect you from skin damage:
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also filters harmful contaminants:
-
Skirts
-
Sunglasses
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and keep you cool.
-
Bug repellent
-
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants will be a lifesaver in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We recommend:
If you plan go to a monastery, like Pidurangala Ancient Forest Monastery, take the following:
If you go to Water Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Going to Cobra Hood Cave? You'll need:
-
Fleece jacket
-
Heavy, protective pants
-
High quality trekking boots
These are designed for this type of terrain, and can get wet
-
Backup flashlight
Gear is almost always provided on location, but it doesn't hurt to have a backup flashlight
February
If you vacation in Sigiriya during February, you are likely to notice that it is consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain sometimes.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Skirts
-
Sunglasses
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against the sun:
-
Bug repellent
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and cool you.
-
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also cleans dangerous contaminants:
-
Waterproof sandals
-
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants will be essential in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We like:
If you plan go to a monastery, like Pidurangala Ancient Forest Monastery, take the following:
If you go to Water Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Going to Cobra Hood Cave? You'll need:
-
Fleece jacket
-
Heavy, protective pants
-
High quality trekking boots
These are designed for this type of terrain, and can get wet
-
Backup flashlight
Gear is almost always provided on location, but it doesn't hurt to have a backup flashlight
March
Traveling to Sigiriya in March, you will notice that it is sweltering. Expect it to rain sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (mid 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Personal cooling fan
Bug bite relief
-
Protecting pants
These will keep your legs protected from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
-
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
-
Skirts
-
Insulated water bottle
-
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are created to cool you:
-
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are created to cool you and to provide UV protection.
-
Sunglasses
-
Lightweight 'harem' pants
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Thin short sleeve shirts
Don't forget pack extra, as these often get wet or dirty.
-
Bug repellent
-
Light linen shorts
-
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants are a lifesaver in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We like:
If you plan go to a monastery, like Pidurangala Ancient Forest Monastery, take the following:
If you go to Water Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Going to Cobra Hood Cave? You'll need:
-
Fleece jacket
-
Heavy, protective pants
-
High quality trekking boots
These are designed for this type of terrain, and can get wet
-
Backup flashlight
Gear is almost always provided on location, but it doesn't hurt to have a backup flashlight
April
April in this region is sweltering and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day. It rains regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Protecting pants
These will keep you protected from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
-
Light linen shorts
-
Personal cooling fan
-
Sunglasses
-
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are engineered to keep you cool and can provide UV protection.
-
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Skirts
-
Bug repellent
-
Lightweight 'harem' pants
-
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are specially designed for cooling:
Bug bite relief
-
Insulated water bottle
-
Thin short sleeve shirts
Make sure pack extra, since these get wet or dirty.
-
A rain coat to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants are vital in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We recommend:
If you plan go to a monastery, like Pidurangala Ancient Forest Monastery, take the following:
If you go to Water Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Going to Cobra Hood Cave? You'll need:
-
Fleece jacket
-
Heavy, protective pants
-
High quality trekking boots
These are designed for this type of terrain, and can get wet
-
Backup flashlight
Gear is almost always provided on location, but it doesn't hurt to have a backup flashlight
May
May in Sigiriya is really hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 90s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Bug repellent
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Sunglasses
-
Skirts
-
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also cleans dangerous contaminants:
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from UV rays:
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and cool you.
-
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants can be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We like:
If you plan go to a monastery, like Pidurangala Ancient Forest Monastery, take the following:
If you go to Water Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Going to Cobra Hood Cave? You'll need:
-
Fleece jacket
-
Heavy, protective pants
-
High quality trekking boots
These are designed for this type of terrain, and can get wet
-
Backup flashlight
Gear is almost always provided on location, but it doesn't hurt to have a backup flashlight
June
If you are traveling to Sigiriya in June, you will notice that it can be very hot and dry with little rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Bug repellent
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and help you stay cool.
-
Skirts
-
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against the sun:
-
Sunglasses
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also removes contaminants:
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Waterproof sandals
If you plan go to a monastery, like Pidurangala Ancient Forest Monastery, take the following:
If you go to Water Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Going to Cobra Hood Cave? You'll need:
-
Fleece jacket
-
Heavy, protective pants
-
High quality trekking boots
These are designed for this type of terrain, and can get wet
-
Backup flashlight
Gear is almost always provided on location, but it doesn't hurt to have a backup flashlight
July
If you are traveling to Sigiriya in July, you will notice that it can be very hot and dry with little rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Bug repellent
-
Sunglasses
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Skirts
-
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also filters harmful contaminants:
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and keep you cool.
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from UV rays:
-
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like these 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 belongings remain dry. We suggest:
If you plan go to a monastery, like Pidurangala Ancient Forest Monastery, take the following:
If you go to Water Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Going to Cobra Hood Cave? You'll need:
-
Fleece jacket
-
Heavy, protective pants
-
High quality trekking boots
These are designed for this type of terrain, and can get wet
-
Backup flashlight
Gear is almost always provided on location, but it doesn't hurt to have a backup flashlight
August
If you visit Sigiriya during August, you are likely to find that it is consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
-
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from UV rays:
-
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also filters contaminants:
-
Skirts
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Sunglasses
-
Bug repellent
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Waterproof sandals
-
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a great option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We like:
If you plan go to a monastery, like Pidurangala Ancient Forest Monastery, take the following:
If you go to Water Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Going to Cobra Hood Cave? You'll need:
-
Fleece jacket
-
Heavy, protective pants
-
High quality trekking boots
These are designed for this type of terrain, and can get wet
-
Backup flashlight
Gear is almost always provided on location, but it doesn't hurt to have a backup flashlight
September
September for Sigiriya can be sweltering. Temperatures average in the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains once in a while.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and keep you cool.
-
Skirts
-
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Sunglasses
-
Bug repellent
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also filters contaminants:
-
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We recommend:
If you plan go to a monastery, like Pidurangala Ancient Forest Monastery, take the following:
If you go to Water Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Going to Cobra Hood Cave? You'll need:
-
Fleece jacket
-
Heavy, protective pants
-
High quality trekking boots
These are designed for this type of terrain, and can get wet
-
Backup flashlight
Gear is almost always provided on location, but it doesn't hurt to have a backup flashlight
October
In October, Sigiriya is extremely hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Sigiriya, with several of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Bug repellent
-
Skirts
-
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against the sun:
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Sunglasses
-
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also removes dangerous contaminants:
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and keep you cool.
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants can be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We like:
If you plan go to a monastery, like Pidurangala Ancient Forest Monastery, take the following:
If you go to Water Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Going to Cobra Hood Cave? You'll need:
-
Fleece jacket
-
Heavy, protective pants
-
High quality trekking boots
These are designed for this type of terrain, and can get wet
-
Backup flashlight
Gear is almost always provided on location, but it doesn't hurt to have a backup flashlight
November
In November, Sigiriya is constantly hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 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 Sigiriya, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sunglasses
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
-
Bug repellent
-
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also removes harmful contaminants:
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
-
Skirts
-
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants are vital in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We recommend:
If you plan go to a monastery, like Pidurangala Ancient Forest Monastery, take the following:
If you go to Water Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Going to Cobra Hood Cave? You'll need:
-
Fleece jacket
-
Heavy, protective pants
-
High quality trekking boots
These are designed for this type of terrain, and can get wet
-
Backup flashlight
Gear is almost always provided on location, but it doesn't hurt to have a backup flashlight
December
If you go to Sigiriya in December, you will notice that it is hot 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:
-
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also cleans dangerous contaminants:
-
Skirts
-
Bug repellent
-
Sunglasses
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and cool you.
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
-
Waterproof sandals
-
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants can be a lifesaver in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We recommend:
If you plan go to a monastery, like Pidurangala Ancient Forest Monastery, take the following:
If you go to Water Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Going to Cobra Hood Cave? You'll need:
-
Fleece jacket
-
Heavy, protective pants
-
High quality trekking boots
These are designed for this type of terrain, and can get wet
-
Backup flashlight
Gear is almost always provided on location, but it doesn't hurt to have a backup flashlight
Activities for Sigiriya, Sri Lanka
Here are some activity recommendations and activity-specific packing tips for Sigiriya.
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