Visa & Entry
Do I need a visa to visit Sri Lanka?
Most travelers require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Check the official site; ensure 6+ months passport validity and onward travel.
Can I extend my stay?
Yes. Apply at the Department of Immigration in Colombo. Start early and bring passport, ETA/visa copy, and accommodation details.
Weather & Seasons
When’s the best time to visit?
SW (Galle–Mirissa) is typically driest ~Dec–Mar; East/NE (Trincomalee–Arugam Bay) ~May–Sep. Highlands are cooler year-round.
What should I pack?
Breathable clothing, light rain jacket, sun protection, insect repellent, modest attire for temples, comfy shoes/sandals, and a Type G adapter.
What's the best way to handle laundry?
Most guest houses and hotels offer affordable overnight laundry services. Local "Laundry" shops are also common in towns.
Money & Payments
What’s the local currency and the best way to pay?
Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Withdraw at bank ATMs; cards in hotels/bigger venues; carry cash for tuk-tuks and markets. Avoid dynamic currency conversion.
Should I tip?
If no service charge is included, 5–10% is appreciated in restaurants and for guides/drivers. Round up small fares.
SIM & Internet
Should I buy a local SIM and where can I get one?
Highly recommended for navigation and ride-hailing (PickMe/Uber). Dialog, Mobitel, and Hutch offer tourist plans at airport arrivals and city stores. Passport required; eSIMs are widely supported.
Is coverage good outside cities?
Generally good on main routes/towns; patchy in remote parks/highlands. Download offline maps as backup.
Getting Around
What’s the easiest way to move between cities?
Scenic trains (reserve seats early for 1st/2nd class), frequent intercity buses, or private drivers/ride-hailing (e.g. PickMe, Uber) for door-to-door convenience.
Can I self-drive?
Yes—Sri Lanka drives on the left. Tourists can get a Temporary Driving Licence (TDL) on arrival at BIA (DMT counter). Bring a full (non-provisional) foreign licence (with English or a certified translation), plus your passport and visa.
Notes
- Covers motorcycles & light vehicles only
- Valid up to 5 months
- Traffic can be hectic; many visitors hire a driver
How to use tuk-tuks fairly?
Request the meter or agree a fare beforehand. Ride-hailing helps with transparent pricing.
Food & Dining
Is the tap water safe to drink?
No. Stick to sealed bottled water or boiled/filtered water. Avoid ice unless you're sure it's from purified water. Many hotels provide safe water in glass bottles.
Is the food very spicy?
Yes, Sri Lankan food can be quite spicy. You can always ask for "mild," but staples like Pol Sambol usually pack some heat!
Can I find vegetarian or vegan options?
Easily! Most rice and curry spreads are naturally vegan (using coconut milk) or can be made so. Dal curry is a daily staple.
Local Customs & Rules
What are Poya Days and can I buy alcohol?
Full Moon Poya days are religious holidays. Selling alcohol and meat is prohibited. While hotels may serve alcohol to guests in their rooms, public bars and restaurants remain closed.
Are there rules for photography in temples?
Yes—never turn your back to a Buddha statue for a photo. Always ask before photographing monks or locals.
Can I fly a drone in Sri Lanka?
Yes, but you need a permit from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and the Ministry of Defence. Flying over sensitive areas and temples is restricted.
Safety & Health
Is Sri Lanka safe for tourists?
Generally. Use hotel safes, be mindful in crowds, use registered taxis/drivers, and follow local advice during festivals/demonstrations.
Health tips I should know?
Use mosquito repellent, hydrate, high-SPF sunscreen, and drink sealed bottled water. Consider travel insurance.
Swimming and wildlife safety?
Heed beach flags; currents can be strong. In parks, keep distance, follow rangers/guides, never feed wildlife.
Power & Tech
What plugs are used and what’s the voltage?
Voltage: ~230V / 50Hz
Plugs: The national standard is Type G (BS 1363). You may still encounter Type D or Type M sockets in older buildings. Some hotels provide multi-standard outlets, but it’s best to carry a Type G adapter (or a quality universal adapter).
Can I rely on public Wi-Fi?
Many cafés/hotels have Wi-Fi but speeds vary. A local data plan is most reliable.
Emergencies
Who can I call in an emergency?
Save key numbers on your phone and keep them offline:
- Police: 119
- Ambulance (Suwaseriya): 1990
- Fire: 110
Note: Numbers and procedures can change. Verify locally or with your accommodation.
This guide is for general orientation only. Requirements and services may change—always confirm with official sources and your accommodation or tour provider.