Joanna James
As Sri Lanka’s most popular hill station, Kandy is a destination most travellers will find themselves in during a trip to the island. Whether you’re visiting the sacred city on a romantic honeymoon or a cultural tour, here’s what every holidaymaker should pack for a trip to Kandy.
Your holiday wardrobe in Kandy depends on the timing of the getaway as the weather conditions vary significantly based on the time of year. Those who are planning a day trip to Kandy during the peak travel season in Sri Lanka, for example, will find that the climate is cool and dry during this period meaning t-shirts, lightweight materials and shorts will suffice for a tour of Kandy. Although conservative outfits or cover-ups are essential for temple tours, casual cotton clothing will serve you well if you’re travelling to the sacred city in July and August to witness the Esala Perahera at the Temple of the Tooth as this is another dry and humid time in Kandy. If your trip to Kandy coincides with the wet and rainy season, however, it is necessary to pack more layers and jackets so as to stay warm. While sandals and flip-flops are ideal for sightseeing activities, it is prudent to pack hiking shoes or sneakers if you intend to explore Moon Plains or the Udawattekele Sanctuary.
While Earls Regency and other similar luxury hotels in Kandy will provide their guests with the basics in terms of hygiene products including shampoo and conditioner, it is crucial to pack your own personal care items. Toothbrushes, toothpaste, body wash and moisturizer are must-haves while those with sensitive skin may also want to pack sunscreen as it can get quite sultry during the daytime even if temperatures do not soar to match Colombo’s heat. Insect repellent and lip balm should also be on hand for outdoor excursions.
As a city that’s renowned for intermittent showers and rainy conditions even in the midst of a dry spell, an umbrella or a raincoat will also prove useful to visitors regardless of the timing of their Kandyan expedition. A wide-brimmed hat or cap may also be necessary when navigating the hiking trails and tea estates around Kandy as keeping the sun at bay, even in this cool mountainous region, can prove to be a challenge. This is why sunglasses are also essential.
In addition to your smartphone and eReader, a digital camera is also crucial for documenting the beauty of this heritage hotspot’s dramatic landscapes. Chargers for each device as well as a travel adapter must also be packed carefully as the voltage specifications in Sri Lankan electricity sources will differ from most European and American power outlets. A power bank may also come in handy if you’re planning to capture video recordings of the trip as you will be spending less time inside the confines of your hotel room to charge devices for hours on end.
While Kandy’s pharmacies are more than capable of filling out prescriptions, it is necessary to pack any medication that you need on a daily basis. Refillable water bottles, guide books and other reading materials should also be placed in a day bag that you can use for sightseeing tours and other expeditions. A first-aid kit with basic medical supplies is also a must-have if you’re travelling with children.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
