Colombo guide
🇱🇰 Packing List
What to pack for Colombo
In November, Colombo is typically warm, heavy rain (24°C - 30°C). Pick the month you travel and the list changes with it.
Colombo essentials
- Modest outfits that cover shoulders and knees for town and religious sites
- Sarong or shawl for temple visits
Documents
- Photo ID
- Passport (valid 6+ months)
- Visa / e-visa printout
- Return / onward flight tickets
- Travel insurance policy
- Hotel booking confirmations
- Passport-size photographs (2-4)
- Photocopies / phone photos of passport and tickets, stored separately
Clothing
- Casual day outfits
- One smart-casual outfit for dinners
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Very light, breathable cotton or linen clothing
- Sunglasses
- Reusable water bottle
- Light rain jacket or poncho
- Compact umbrella
- Quick-dry footwear
- Undergarments and sleepwear
- Enough outfits for 7 days (6 sets)
Toiletries & health
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, and toiletries
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Personal medication with prescription
- Basic first-aid: band-aids, painkillers, ORS
- Hand sanitiser and wet wipes
- Insect / mosquito repellent
Electronics
- Phone and charger
- Power bank
- Camera (optional)
- Power adaptor: Type D/G/M plugs, 230V. UK-style common. Bring adaptor.
Money
- Debit / credit cards
- Local currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
- LKR cash mostly. Cards at hotels.
Local know-how
- Local SIM: Dialog, Mobitel, Airtel. Buy at airport or in city.
- Overcharging tourists
- November highlights: Deepavali celebrations; Rains easing
Trip gear
- Waterproof dry bag for electronics