Sri Lanka Travel FAQ | Visas, Weather, Safety & Tips

Q: 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

Q: 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).

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.

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

Where do I get a SIM or eSIM?

Dialog, Mobitel, Hutch sell tourist plans at the airport and city stores. Passport required; many devices support eSIM.

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), 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Frequently Asked Questions