India, Oct. 13 -- Dark colours absorb infrared radiation and solar heat, forcing your body to sweat significantly more in 35degC tropical heat with high humidity.

Best Fabrics: Stick strictly to 100% Linen, Slub Cotton, and Lightweight Wovens. Avoid dense synthetics like polyester, nylon, and tight denim during daytime.

Temple Pro-Tip: Always carry thick white socks in your daypack - barefoot temple courtyards become scalding hot under the afternoon sun.

Bug Defence: Light pastel shades (sage, blush, sky blue) physically reflect sun heat and attract fewer mosquitoes than dark tones.

Coming from someone whose favourite colour is black and whose wardrobe is easily over 50% black, packing for Sri Lanka's tropical heat was an absolute wak...