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

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

Contents

When to go to Southern Province, Sri Lanka

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

What to wear/what to pack for Southern Province, Sri Lanka

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

If you visit Southern Province during January, you are likely to notice that it is hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s 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 regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Check that you pick the right type. The majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

February

February in this region is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southern Province. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to find the correct type. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

March

If you visit Southern Province during March, you might notice that it is consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southern Province. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be sure to choose the right kind. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    What we like 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 large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

April

If you vacation in Southern Province during April, you are likely to find that it is extremely hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Take care to choose the necessary kind. Most adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent 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

May

May here is constantly hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southern Province. 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to pick the right kind. Most adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

June

Traveling to Southern Province in June, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southern Province. 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. It's important that you choose the necessary type. Most adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

July

If you vacation in Southern Province during July, you will probably see that it is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southern Province. 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 belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be careful to pick the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

August

If you vacation in Southern Province during August, you are likely to see that it is extremely warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be sure to get the right type. Many adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • 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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

September

In September, Southern Province is hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (high 20s C) and about half of the time jump into the 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Southern Province, with several of the days of the month having rain. In September, humidity reaches as high as 80%. Additionally, it is breezy.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. It's important that you pick the correct type. Many adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money 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

October

In October, Southern Province is extremely warm and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Southern Province, with several of the days of the month having rain. In October, humidity reaches as high as 80%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southern Province. 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 luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option 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 get the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

November

In November, Southern Province is pretty consistently hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the 70s F (mid 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Southern Province, with several of the days of the month having rain. In November, humidity reaches as high as 80%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southern Province. 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 things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be careful to pick the necessary kind. Many adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

December

If you are traveling to Southern Province 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 low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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. Ensure that you get the correct kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy 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 work in most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

What to do in Southern Province, Sri Lanka

Southern Province is one of the most visited locations in Sri Lanka, boasting a plethora of stunning beaches, historic sites, and mesmerizing landscapes. The province is home to some of the most popular attractions in the country, catering to the interests of tourists from all walks of life. If you plan to visit Southern Province anytime soon, the following tourist attractions are must-see places on your itinerary.

1. Galle Fort

Galle Fort is one of Sri Lanka's most historic and significant landmarks. Located in the heart of Galle City, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 14 acres of well-preserved Dutch colonial architecture. The fort dates back over 400 years and houses various historic sites and buildings such as the Dutch Reformed Church, Galle Maritime Museum, and Galle Lighthouse.

2. Mirissa Beach

Mirissa Beach is the perfect destination for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts. It's an idyllic white-sand beach boasting clear turquoise water, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing. The beach is surrounded by greenery and palm trees, which provide natural shade to relax under after a dip in the ocean.

3. Yala National Park

Yala National Park is Sri Lanka's second-largest national park and home to many exotic animals such as leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and a variety of bird species. Visitors can enjoy a jeep safari through the park with a local guide to spot wildlife.

4. Dutch Reformed Church

The Dutch Reformed Church in Galle is an architectural gem built during the Dutch colonial era. The church's tombstones, which date back to the 17th and 18th centuries, tell stories of Dutch settlers' lives in Sri Lanka.

5. Unawatuna Beach

Unawatuna beach is a family-friendly destination with plenty of water activities, including snorkeling, surfing, and diving. It is also one of the best places in Sri Lanka to watch the sunset.

6. Koggala Lake

Koggala Lake is the perfect destination for nature lovers, with its stunning scenery and wildlife. Visitors can explore the lake by hiring a boat or canoe and take in the views of the surrounding jungle, rice paddies, and village life.

7. Stilt Fishermen

Stilt fishing is a unique fishing method practiced in Southern Province, where fishermen climb onto stilts planted in shallow water and fish with a simple rod and line. It's become a popular tourist attraction, and visitors can take photographs of the fishermen in action.

Southern Province offers a wide range of tourist attractions that cater to different interests and tastes. From beaches and wildlife to history and culture, the province has something to offer everyone. It's a must-visit location for anyone planning a trip to Sri Lanka.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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