Sinharaja Forest Reserve, Sri Lanka: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Sinharaja Forest Reserve, Sri Lanka? If you're planning to go to Sinharaja Forest Reserve, the following is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Sinharaja Forest Reserve
- Important essentials for Sinharaja Forest Reserve
- Activities for Sinharaja Forest Reserve
- Sinharaja Forest Reserve in January: weather and what to pack
- Sinharaja Forest Reserve in February: weather and what to pack
- Sinharaja Forest Reserve in March: weather and what to pack
- Sinharaja Forest Reserve in April: weather and what to pack
- Sinharaja Forest Reserve in May: weather and what to pack
- Sinharaja Forest Reserve in June: weather and what to pack
- Sinharaja Forest Reserve in July: weather and what to pack
- Sinharaja Forest Reserve in August: weather and what to pack
- Sinharaja Forest Reserve in September: weather and what to pack
- Sinharaja Forest Reserve in October: weather and what to pack
- Sinharaja Forest Reserve in November: weather and what to pack
- Sinharaja Forest Reserve in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Sinharaja Forest Reserve, Sri Lanka
Based on the climate and weather in Sinharaja Forest Reserve, Sri Lanka, the best time to go is January. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Sinharaja Forest Reserve, Sri Lanka
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Sinharaja Forest Reserve, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Sinharaja Forest Reserve, Sri Lanka by month
January
January for Sinharaja Forest Reserve is consistently hot. Temperatures average in the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also cleans harmful contaminants:
this
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you cool and protect you from skin damage:
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
Sunglasses
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Loose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
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 have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Sinharaja Forest Reserve. 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 things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Take care to get the correct kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck pillow
What we like is this one
February
February in Sinharaja Forest Reserve is blindingly hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 90s F (mid 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sun protecting pants/skirts
These will keep your legs safe from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Sunglasses
Thin short sleeve shirts
Remember to bring additional, since these get wet or dirty.
Skirts
-
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are engineered to cool you and include UV protection.
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are created to cool you:
Insulated water bottle
thisWaterproof sandals
Rain poncho
A high quality rain poncho to wear over your jacket can be a lifesaver by protecting your coat. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a necessity. These boots work well for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is designed for storms.So your things remain dry. Even the most durable luggage can let water in. We recommend:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in heavy rain.
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Sinharaja Forest Reserve. 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.
Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel pillow
Our fave is this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Take care to find the right type. Most adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
March
Traveling to Sinharaja Forest Reserve in March, you will notice that it is a scorcher and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (mid 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
-
-
-
Thin short sleeve shirts
Remember to pack additional, since these get wet or dirty.
- this
-
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are developed to keep you cool:
Protecting pants
These will keep your legs protected from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are specially designed to keep you cool and can provide UV protection.
Insulated water bottle
Sunglasses
-
Rain poncho
A quality rain poncho to wear over your jacket saves you time and money by protecting your nice coat. We like this one.
Rainy weather makes rubber rain boots a must. These boots are well-suited for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is made for bad weather.So your belongings don't get wet. Even the finest luggage can let rain in. We like:
Rain pants
These will be vital in heavy rain.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Sinharaja Forest Reserve. 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.
Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
A good option is this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be sure to pick the right type. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.
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
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
April
Traveling to Sinharaja Forest Reserve in April, you will notice that it is sweltering, very rainy and somewhat stormy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (mid 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
-
Sun protecting legwear
These will keep your legs safe from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are engineered for cooling:
-
-
Sunglasses
Thin short sleeve shirts
You should pack extra, since these get wet or dirty.
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
-
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are created to cool you and to provide UV protection.
-
Insulated water bottle
- this
Rain poncho
A good rain poncho to wear over your coat saves you time and money by protecting your nice jacket. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots essential. These boots work well for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is designed for bad weather.So your belongings stay dry. Even the best suitcases can let water in. We like:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be essential in a storm.
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little 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 Sinharaja Forest Reserve. 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.
Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel 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 expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
May
May in this region can be very hot and very rainy. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains about two thirds of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and cool you.
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you cool and protect you from UV rays:
Sunglasses
Skirts
Loose-fit shorts
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also removes harmful contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Waterproof sandals
Bug repellent
Rain poncho
A weatherproof rain poncho to wear over your coat can be a lifesaver by protecting your main jacket. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a necessity. These boots are well-suited for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is designed for bad weather.So your belongings don't get wet. Even the finest suitcases can let moisture in. We suggest:
Rain pants
These are vital in a rainstorm.
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing things these days, 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 Sinharaja Forest Reserve. 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
Our fave is this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be careful to get the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
June
June is really hot and very rainy. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains about two thirds of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunglasses
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Waterproof sandals
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also filters dangerous contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and help you stay cool.
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and guard against the sun:
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
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.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Sinharaja Forest Reserve. 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 things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel 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 neck support pillow
Our favorite is this one
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 adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to get the correct kind. Many adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
July
July in Sinharaja Forest Reserve is extremely hot and very rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
Loose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also cleans contaminants:
thisA rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
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 useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: 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 Sinharaja Forest Reserve. 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.
Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel 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
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. It's important that you choose the necessary kind. Many adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck support pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
August
If you visit Sinharaja Forest Reserve during August, you will probably see that it can be very hot and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about two thirds of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and keep you cool.
Sunglasses
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you cool and protect you from skin damage:
Waterproof sandals
Loose-fit shorts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also removes contaminants:
thisSkirts
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are essential 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:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
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 take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Sinharaja Forest Reserve. 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 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 always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel 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 support pillow
Our favorite is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to pick the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently available 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 is sufficent for most places.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
September
Traveling to Sinharaja Forest Reserve in September, you will notice that it is constantly hot and very rainy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and cool you.
Bug repellent
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against the sun:
Sunglasses
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also filters harmful contaminants:
thisA rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
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 Sinharaja Forest Reserve. 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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel 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 choose the correct type. A lot of adapters on sale are simply 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 places.
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 penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
October
If you vacation in Sinharaja Forest Reserve during October, you may see that it can be sweltering and very rainy. 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). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about two thirds of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and help you stay cool.
Skirts
Loose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also cleans contaminants:
thisBreatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against the sun:
Bug repellent
Waterproof sandals
Rain poncho
A quality rain poncho to wear over your coat saves you time and money by protecting your main jacket. We like this one.
Rainy weather makes rubber rain boots a must. These boots are great for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is designed for bad weather.So your belongings remain dry. Even the finest luggage can let moisture in. We like:
Rain pants
These pants can be vital in heavy rain.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Sinharaja Forest Reserve. 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 repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel 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 penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Ensure that you choose the necessary type. Many adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
Travel pillow
Our favorite is this one
November
If you are traveling to Sinharaja Forest Reserve in November, you will notice that it is consistently hot and very rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from UV rays:
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also removes harmful contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Bug repellent
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
Rain poncho
A high quality rain poncho to wear over your coat can be a lifesaver by protecting your coat. We like this one.
The stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a must. These boots work well for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is built for stormy weather.So your stuff don't get wet. Even the most durable suitcases can let rain in. We recommend:
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in heavy rain.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Safety + Security
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.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Sinharaja Forest Reserve. 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 these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to get the correct type. The majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
December
If you are traveling to Sinharaja Forest Reserve in December, you will notice that it is consistently hot and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also filters dangerous contaminants:
thisBreatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can make you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and cool you.
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Loose-fit shorts
Rain poncho
A quality rain poncho to wear over your coat saves you time and money by protecting your nice coat. We like this one.
The stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a necessity. These boots are well-suited for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is built for storms.So your things don't get wet. The best luggage can let water in. We suggest:
Rain pants
These will be essential in a rainstorm.
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, 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 things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Sinharaja Forest Reserve. 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.
Given current world events, Sri Lanka has travel 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
Travel neck support pillow
Our fave is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be careful to choose the right type. Most adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.
What to do in Sinharaja Forest Reserve, Sri Lanka
Sinharaja Forest Reserve is a protected reserve and a world heritage site located in the southwest corner of Sri Lanka. It is one of the last remaining rainforests in the country and is home to an incredible array of flora and fauna. The forest reserve is a popular destination for tourists due to its stunning natural beauty and the numerous activities that visitors can enjoy.
Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Sinharaja Forest Reserve.
1. Bird Watching
Sinharaja is a bird watchers paradise with over 160 species of birds, making it an incredible destination for bird lovers. Visitors can expect to see exotic birds like Sri Lanka blue magpie, red-faced malkoha, green-billed coucal, and many more.
2. Trekking
Trekking is one of the most popular activities in the reserve, providing visitors the opportunity to fully explore the forest. The trails are well marked and offer different levels of difficulty to suit all kinds of travelers. The Sinhajara forest reserve is known for its hiking trails that offer magnificent panoramic views of the forest canopy.
3. Waterfalls
In the middle of the jungle, visitors can find hidden waterfalls surrounded by wild vegetation. Among others, some of the biggest waterfalls in Sri Lanka, like the Donugala and Lankagama waterfalls, are located in the Sinharaja forest reserve.
4. Wildlife
The Sinharaja forest reserve is home to a diverse range of wildlife including mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and butterflies. Many endemic species can be found here, such as purple-faced langurs, Sri Lankan leopard, and the Sri Lankan sambar deer.
5. The Kudawa Conservation Centre
The Kudawa Conservation Centre is the starting point for most eco-tourist activities in the Sinharaja forest reserve. Visitors can learn about the natural wonders and rich biodiversity of the rainforest through interactive exhibits and educational programs.
6. Cultural Attractions
Embedded in lush tropical forests, visitors can find historical ruins that include abandoned temples and shrines. The Eth Panala meditation centre is an excellent place to get away from the crowds and marvel at the cultural values of the forest.
Overall, the Sinharaja forest reserve offers visitors an unforgettable experience of the tropical wonderland in Sri Lanka. Whether it’s bird watching, trekking, or soaking in waterfalls, the forest reserve has something for everyone. To truly appreciate the beauty and diversity of Sri Lanka’s natural heritage, one must experience the wonders of Sinharaja.
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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