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Travel Guide

Best Time To Visit Sri Lanka

The best time to visit Sri Lanka depends on which part of the country you plan to explore, because the island has two monsoon seasons affecting different regions at different times:

South and West Coasts + Hill Country (e.g., Colombo, Galle, Ella, Nuwara Eliya)

  • Best time:December to April
  • Why: Sunny weather, calm seas, ideal for beach holidays and exploring the central highlands.
  • Popular destinations during this time: Galle, Mirissa, Unawatuna, Bentota, Ella, Kandy.

North and East Coasts (e.g., Trincomalee, Arugam Bay, Jaffna)

  • Best time:May to September
  • Why: Dry and sunny conditions, perfect for surfing, snorkeling, and cultural visits.
  • Popular destinations during this time: Arugam Bay, Nilaveli, Passikudah, Jaffna.

Visa

All nationalities planning to visit Sri Lanka, you can apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online before your trip. This process is straightforward and eliminates the need to visit a Sri Lankan embassy or consulate.

How to Apply for a Sri Lanka ETA

  1. Visit the Official ETA Website:
    Access the official Sri Lanka ETA portal: gov.lk.
  2. Choose Your Visa Type:
    • Tourist ETA: For holidays, visiting friends/family, or medical treatments like Ayurveda or yoga.
    • Business ETA: For attending meetings, conferences, or short-term business activities.
    • Transit ETA: For layovers under 48 hours.
    • Complete the Application:
    • Provide your personal details, passport information, and travel itinerary.
    • Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your intended date of entry into Sri Lanka.​
  3. Pay the Processing Fee:
    • Use a credit or debit card to pay the visa fee.
    • Note: As of October 1, 2024, Sri Lanka has introduced a free 30-day tourist visa for travelers from 35 countries, including Australia, as part of a six-month pilot program to boost tourism.
  4. Receive Your ETA:
    • Once approved, you’ll receive your ETA via email.
    • Print a copy to carry with you during your travels.

Flights

 Several reputable airlines offer one-stop or two-stop routes

  • SriLankan Airlines: Provides flights with connections through major hubs, offering special rates for extra legroom and luggage.
  • Singapore Airlines: Offers flights with a layover in Singapore, providing award-winning inflight services and state-of-the-art amenities.
  • Qantas: Operates flights with layovers in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, or Singapore, depending on the route. ​
  • Malaysia Airlines: Offers flights with a stopover in Kuala Lumpur.​
  • Emirates: Provides flights with a layover in Dubai.

Currency, Credit card

In Sri Lanka, using money is pretty straightforward for travellers,but there are a few key things to know so you’re not caught off guard. Here’s a breakdown

Currency in Sri Lanka

  • Official currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
  • Denominations: Notes come in LKR 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000, 2000, and 5000.

Exchange Tips:

  • Bring AUD, USD, EUR, or GBP for exchange—widely accepted.
  • Best exchange rates are usually at:
    • Licensed money changers
    • Banks
    • Airport counters (convenient, but sometimes slightly lower rates)
  • Avoid street exchanges—they’re illegal and often scams.

Pro tip: Exchange just enough at the airport for initial expenses (taxi, SIM, snacks), then do the rest at a bank or hotel.

Credit & Debit Card Usage

  • Widely accepted in major cities, tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, and shops.
  • Commonly accepted cards: Visa & Mastercard. AmEx is accepted in high-end places but less commonly.
  • Contactless payments are growing but not universal.
  • In rural or smaller towns, cash is king, especially at local eateries, tuk-tuks, and markets.

ATMs:

  • Easy to find in cities and tourist hubs.
  • Many international banks operate in Sri Lanka (HSBC, Standard Chartered, etc.).
  • Most ATMs accept foreign cards (Visa/Mastercard).
  • Check with your bank about foreign transaction fees and ATM withdrawal charges before your trip.

Tip: Let your bank know you’re traveling to Sri Lanka to avoid card blocks.

Watch Out For:

  • Some shops add a credit card surcharge (1–3%), so check before paying.
  • In remote areas, always carry enough cash for transport, entrance tickets, or small shops.

Insurance

Getting travel insurance before heading to Sri Lanka is highly recommended—even if it’s not mandatory for entry (as of now). It gives you peace of mind in case something unexpected happens like medical emergencies, lost luggage, or trip disruptions.

Why You Need Travel Insurance for Sri Lanka

1.   Medical emergencies

•      Private hospitals in Sri Lanka offer good care, but treatment can be expensive for foreigners.

•      Insurance covers doctor visits, hospital stays, medication, and medical evacuation if needed.

2.   Trip cancellations or delays

•      If your flight is canceled or you need to cut your trip short due to illness or an emergency, insurance can reimburse you.

3.   Lost or stolen belongings

•      Coverage for lost luggage, stolen passports, or valuables.

4.   Adventure activities

•      Planning to surf in Arugam Bay, hike in Ella, or go on a safari? Make sure your policy covers adventure sports.

5.   COVID-19-related coverage (still good to have):

•      Some policies include expenses related to quarantine, trip cancellation, or medical treatment due to COVID-19.

Air Ports

Sri Lanka hosts several airports, with three primary ones serving international and domestic travel needs​

  1. Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) – Katunayake

Located approximately 32.5 kilometers north of Colombo in Katunayake, Bandaranaike International Airport is Sri Lanka’s main international gateway. It handles over 10 million passengers annually and serves as the hub for SriLankan Airlines. The airport comprises three passenger terminals, with Terminal 1 dedicated to international flights.

  1. Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI) – Hambantota

Situated in Mattala, about 18 kilometers from Hambantota in the Southern Province, this airport was inaugurated in 2013. Despite its modern facilities, it has been underutilized, averaging only a few flights per month. In an effort to improve its viability, Sri Lanka transferred its management in 2024 to Indian and Russian companies for a 30-year period.

  1. Colombo International Airport, Ratmalana (RML)

As Sri Lanka’s first international airport, Ratmalana Airport is located just 15 kilometers from Colombo’s city center. While it primarily handles domestic flights today, it offers a quieter alternative for travelers and is conveniently close to business centers and hotels.

How To Get Around

Getting around in Sri Lanka is fairly easy, with options that suit every travel style and budget. Here’s a quick guide

Private Car & Driver

  • Most convenient way to explore at your own pace.
  • Ideal for families or travelers with limited time.
  • You can hire via travel agencies

By Train

  • Scenic and iconic – the hill country routes (like Kandy to Ella) are especially stunning.
  • Classes: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd; first class often includes A/C and reserved seating.
  • Booking: Reserve early for scenic routes via (train ticket link need to include) or at train stations.

By Bus

  • Affordable and frequent, reaching almost every corner of the island.
  • Types: Government-run (SLTB) and private buses – the latter can be faster but sometimes chaotic.
  • Luxury buses (like A/C intercity coaches) run between major cities like Colombo, Galle, and Kandy.

By Taxi or Ride-Hailing

  • PickMe and Uber operate in Colombo and some major cities.
  • Great for airport transfers or city travel.
  • Tuk-tuks can also be hailed via PickMe or directly from the street (negotiate fare or ask for the meter).

By Tuk-Tuk

  • Fun and local! Best for short trips around towns.
  • You can also rent your own tuk-tuk (if you have an International Driving Permit) via companies like TukTuk Rental.

By Bicycle or Scooter

  • Great in coastal or rural areas like Galle, Hiriketiya, or Anuradhapura.
  • Helmets and safe riding are a must.

Entering Religious or Place of worship

Entering religious places in Sri Lanka is a beautiful cultural experience, but it comes with respectful customs you should follow. Here are the key do’s and don’ts

General Etiquette for All Places of Worship

✅ Do:
  • Dress modestly: Shoulders and knees must be covered. A sarong or shawl works well.
  • Remove shoes and hats before entering temples or shrines.
  • Speak softly and behave respectfully.
  • Ask before taking photos, especially of people or inside inner sanctums.
  • Walk clockwise around Buddhist stupas and shrines.
  • Stand, not sit, when monks or religious leaders enter a space.
❌ Don’t:
  • Don’t turn your back to Buddha statues – even for selfies. Step away backward if needed.
  • Don’t touch statues or sacred objects.
  • Don’t touch monks (especially if you’re a woman).
  • Don’t wear clothing with Buddha images, as it is considered disrespectful.
  • Don’t show public affection (hugging, kissing) in or near religious sites.

Specifics by Religion:

  • Buddhist Temples: Most common in Sri Lanka. Respect is paramount. Even casual disrespect (like tattoos of Buddha) can cause offense or legal trouble.
  • Hindu Temples: Often vibrant and active; shoes and sometimes shirts must be removed. Women may be restricted from certain inner sanctums.
  • Mosques: Dress conservatively. Women may need to cover hair. Avoid visiting during Friday prayers unless invited.
  • Christian Churches: Usually open and welcoming. Modest attire and silence during services are expected.

Photography

Photography in Sri Lanka is generally welcomed, especially since the country is rich with stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and historic architecture. But there are a few important guidelines and cultural sensitivities to keep in mind

Where Photography Is Allowed and Encouraged

  • Nature and Landscapes: Beaches, tea plantations, waterfalls, and national parks are perfect for photos.
  • Street Life and Markets: Colorful and lively – just ask before photographing people.
  • Architecture & Historic Sites: Colonial buildings, ancient ruins, and scenic train routes (like Nine Arches Bridge) are popular.

Where to Be Cautious or Avoid Photography

Religious Sites
  • You can take photos of temples, stupas, and shrines from outside and in designated areas.
  • Do NOT take selfies or photos with your back turned to Buddha statues – this is considered deeply disrespectful and can result in fines or arrest.
  • Some temples (like the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy) may restrict or prohibit indoor photography.
  • Always check for signs or ask politely.
Military or Government Buildings
  • Avoid photographing military personnel, police, and sensitive locations (like airports, checkpoints, or government offices).
Taking Photos of Locals
  • Most Sri Lankans are friendly, but it’s polite to ask permission first, especially in rural or traditional communities.
  • Don’t photograph monks or children without consent.
Drones
  • Permitted with approval – drone use is regulated.
  • You need clearance from the Civil Aviation Authority and Ministry of Defence for most locations.
  • Strictly prohibited near airports, military areas, or UNESCO sites without special permission.

What To Bring

Packing for Sri Lanka depends a bit on the season and where you’re going (beach, hill country, cultural triangle), but here’s a solid checklist to keep things easy and stress-free

Essential Travel Items

  • Passport + Visa (ETA can be applied online)
  • Travel Insurance
  • Credit/debit cards & some USD cash (exchange is easy at the airport or local banks)
  • International driving permit (if you plan to drive or rent a scooter)

Clothing

  • Lightweight, breathable clothes (cotton/linen) for hot & humid coastal areas
  • Modest clothing for temples (cover shoulders and knees)
  • Warm layer or jacket for the hill country (like Nuwara Eliya, Ella – it gets chilly!)
  • Rain jacket or umbrella, especially during monsoon season
  • Swimwear, but only for the beach or pool
  • Sarong or scarf – handy for temple visits and sun protection

Footwear

  • Comfortable walking shoes/sandals
  • Flip-flops or slides for the beach
  • Slip-on shoes are useful since you’ll often remove them to enter temples

Health & Toiletries

  • Sunscreen (strong sun, even on cloudy days)
  • Mosquito repellent
  • Personal medications (and copies of prescriptions)
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Hand sanitizer and tissues (public toilets may not always have supplies)

Tech & Accessories

  • Universal power adapter (Sri Lanka uses Type G, same as the UK)
  • Unlocked phone + SIM card (Dialog and Mobitel are reliable)
  • Portable charger
  • Camera or GoPro for landscapes and wildlife

Vaccination

Staying healthy on your trip to Sri Lanka is important! Here’s a breakdown of recommended vaccinations and general health precautions for travelers.

Recommended Vaccinations for Sri Lanka

Most travelers should consider the following:

✅ Routine Vaccines (make sure you’re up to date):
  • MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
  • DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis)
  • Polio
  • Influenza (especially if traveling during flu season)
Travel-Specific Vaccines:
  • Hepatitis A – recommended for most travelers (spread via food/water)
  • Typhoid – also food/waterborne; especially if traveling to rural areas or staying with locals
  • Hepatitis B – for longer stays, medical treatment abroad, or close contact with locals
  • Rabies – optional, but worth considering if you’ll be doing outdoor activities, around animals, or visiting rural areas
  • Japanese Encephalitis – usually for long-term travelers or those spending lots of time in rural areas during monsoon season
Mosquito-Borne Diseases
  • Dengue fever is present, especially in cities — no vaccine for most travelers, so use repellent and cover up.
  • Malaria risk is very low in most parts of Sri Lanka now, and prophylaxis isn’t usually recommended unless you’re heading to very remote areas (check with your doctor).
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