Is this your first time visiting Sri Lanka? Or maybe you’re a seasoned traveller returning for more adventures in paradise! This Sri Lanka Travel Guide, will answer all your burning questions and help you to plan an unforgettable adventure.
This tiny island, is packed with so much to see and do, from pristine beaches and lush tea plantations, to vibrant culture and mouthwatering food, Sri Lanka really is a gem not to be missed.
We’ve been visiting Sri Lanka annually for 15 plus years, so we have experienced it all, the stresses of setting a budget, discovering the best ways to get around, ensuring our trip is safe and stress-free and discovering everything from bustling cities to hidden gems.
We will cover everything you need to know, from must-visit destinations and cultural tips to practical advice on transportation, budget and staying safe. Whether you’re a solo traveller, a couple on a romantic break, or family looking for an adventure, this guide has something for everyone.
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Table of Contents
Sri Lanka travel guide
Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka: A Seasonal Guide.
Sri Lanka is a tropical island, with year-round warm temperatures, making this a year-round destination.
However, there are two main monsoon seasons a year which affects different parts of the country at different times. To avoid the wetter months, you should plan your visit around these times.
The more popular regions of Sri Lanka are the west and south of the country, with beautiful beaches lining the coast. The Yala Monsoon hits this region between May and September.
Go off the beaten path and head to the northern and eastern regions of the country, including Jaffna and Trincomalee. The Maha monsoon hits the region between October and January.
Between March and April and October and November, there is an Inter monsoon, which can bring unpredictable but calmer conditions with the occasional thunder storm.
Temperatures will range between 28 – 32°C year-round in most regions, while the hill country is much cooler with temperatures ranging from 10 – 20°C.
Best time to visit depending on the regions
The West and South coast of Sri Lanka, such as Colombo, Galle, Mirissa, Bentota etc are best visited during November and April.
This is normally the height of the tourist season, with dry sunny weather conditions ideal for spending time beside the beach, diving, surfing and whale watching.
If you’re planning to go off the beaten path and visit the North and East coast of Sri Lanka, such as Jaffna, Trincomalee, Arugam Bay etc, then May to September is the ideal time to visit.
This is the perfect time for surfing, beach relaxation and snorkelling off Pigeon Island.
The hill country is far cooler than the coastal regions, this includes Ella, Nuwara Eliya, Kandy etc. To escape the heat and see less rainfall, then December to April is the perfect time to visit.
In the hill country, you can explore, tea plantations, waterfalls (post monsoon during May and June), ancient rocks and more.
Both the West/South and East coast experience opposite high season, making Sri Lanka a great destination for year-round travel, providing you can be flexible with the location.
Should you avoid the monsoon season?
Not necessarily! Visiting any country during the rainy season can be off putting, but the rain is often short-lived, still leaving plenty of time for sightseeing and exploration.
Travel during the monsoon season often means less crowds and cheaper accommodation prices.
We have experienced both the monsoon rain and the hot dry conditions of Sri Lanka. And each experience had its own charm. Of course, during the monsoon rain, we had to pack an umbrella but this didn’t prevent us from experiencing the beautiful lush green landscape.
In contrast to the hot dry season, in which the conditions can feel unbearable. Cooling off in the crisp sea waters, is the perfect rest bite.
Pro tip: by understanding the seasonal variations and planning your trip, you’ll find Sri Lanka a magical place, no matter when you visit.
Is Sri Lanka safe?
While there are always challenges when visiting a new country, Sri Lanka remains a popular and generally a safe destination to visit, although you should always take precautions just as you would in your home country.
If you are a:
Solo traveller
Sri Lanka is a safe destination for solo travellers. The Majority of the people of Sri Lanka are friendly and helpful.
It is always recommended to stick to well-populated and well-lit areas. If you are a solo female, try and avoid going out in the evening or when it is dark, unless you are travelling with a group of friends as you may find you’ll get unwanted attention.
Whether you’re visiting the large cities like Colombo, Kandy, Galle, or the sights of Sigiriya Rock, Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura, you should always take precautions for your safety.
Safety tips:
- Take the common-sense approach and avoid poorly lit streets, travelling alone at night and take care of your belongings
- Stay in reputable and well-known accommodation, that provide security
- Join group tours or activities to meet new people and avoid isolation
We have created a detailed guide on how to stay safe while travelling, with helpful tips to avoid any mishaps.
Travelling with children
In our view, Sri Lanka isn’t an overtly family friendly destination, especially if you are travelling with young children. Although it hasn’t stopped many families from visiting.
There are a few select hotels and resorts that are family friendly, and going on safari, visiting temples, relaxing on pristine beaches are suitable for all ages.
There are a few struggles in the country with the infrastructure, especially so in rural areas, this could cause some challenges, such as travel conditions, medical care, etc.
If you’re travelling with children, then you’ll need some entertainment to keep them occupied? These car games for kids, will be ideal.
Safety tips:
But if this doesn’t put you off, you and your family can still stay safe:
- Choose family friendly accommodation, with good facilities
- Be very cautious over local food and water, avoid tap water and eat at places that seem busy with locals and tourists. Twice Shams has become unwell from eating or drinking something that hasn’t agreed with her and I have become unwell once.
- Take a note of emergency contact numbers, hospitals, especially in remote regions. Enquire with your accommodation regarding how to contact the local doctor in case a family member becomes unwell.
Travelling as a couple
Sri Lanka is a popular destination for couples or honeymooners, with plenty of romantic spots around the island.
While it is perfectly safe to travel as a couple, you should always be aware of your surroundings and try to avoid unwanted attention.
Sri Lanka is still a conservative country and you could experience some unwanted stares or comments, if you show any kind of affection, such as kissing in public.
Same sex couples may want to hold off from any form of public affection, as it is still illegal. While we haven’t experienced any problems on our travels, we are mindful of the cultures in Sri Lanka and keep any personal affection behind closed doors. We would recommend the same, whether you’re travelling as a same sex couple or not.
Safety tips:
- Avoid secluded or isolated places especially after dark
- Keep an eye on your valuables while exploring beaches and other tourist spots
- If hiking or visiting national parks, go with a guide or part of a group.
Need more safety tips, then check out our guide on how to stay safe while travelling.
How long should I visit Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka is such a diverse country, with so many things to do just packed into this tiny island off the coast of India.
Whether you want to hit the beaches, visit ancient sites, go on a wildlife adventure, dive into culture and so much more, there is something for everyone.
BUT the ideal duration to spend in Sri Lanka is going to depend on your travel goals, interest, pace and what time you have available.
In our experience, spending a minimum of two weeks in Sri Lanka, will allow you to explore many of the top hot spots and still have time to relax on a secluded beach.
However, if time is not on your hands, then one week will allow you to explore some areas of the country, anything less and it really isn’t worth spending the money on flights etc, just for a short weekend trip.
If on the other hand you have more available time, then three plus weeks will allow you to slow travel around the country and take in more off the beaten path destinations.
Suggested itineraries based on duration
Consider this suggested 14 day Sri Lanka itinerary for a comprehensive experience. You’ll explore Sri Lanka’s culture, nature and wildlife. Ideal for those who want a balance of activities and relaxation.
Day 1
Arrival to Sri Lanka. Check into your hotel in Colombo. Take the day to relax and adjust to the new time zone.
Day 2
Explore the capital of Colombo
Day 3
Head out to Kandy and spend the day exploring the Temple of the Tooth and cultural performances
Day 4
Visit Dambulla Cave temple and climb Sigiriya Rock.
Day 5
Head north to Anuradhapura and explore the ancient ruins
Day 6
Visit Polonnaruwa and explore the ancient kingdom
Day 7
Visit the hill country, where the climates are cooler. Your first stop is Nuwara Eliya, nicknamed Little England.
Take a tour of a tea plantation and learn more about the humble cup of tea
Day 8
Head south to Ella, make a point of stopping at Nine Arch Bridge for incredible views.
Day 9
Visit either Yala National Park or Udawalawa National Park for a wildlife safari.
Day 10 and 11
After rushing around, the last 3 days is simple, with a relaxing beach resort. Stay in Mirissa, a popular tourist beach destination.
If you want to avoid the crowds, then choose a more secluded beach destination on the south coast of Sri Lanka
Day 12
Head to Galle and explore the Old Dutch Fort. Make a point of stopping at A Minute by Tuk Tuk, located in the Old Dutch Hospital, where you’ll find the best food.
Day 13
Make your way back to Colombo, or stay in Negombo which is close to the airport.
Day 14
Departure
If you have a shorter time of five to seven days, then you could do the same itinerary as above, but cut some destinations out. So, for example, you could follow the itinerary as:
Day 1 to 6
Colombo, Kandy, Dambulla, Sigiriya, Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa
Day 7 to 10
Mirissa and Galle
Ideally if you have longer, you could discover the northern and eastern regions of the country such as Jaffna and Trincomalee, while spending longer in each destination.
How to plan your trip to Sri Lanka
Planning your trip to Sri Lanka is key to ensure you have a hassle-free trip, while making the most of your time available.
Here are a few tips to help you plan your trip:
Flights
Sri Lanka’s international airport is Bandaranaike International Airport, which is located around one hour’s drive from Colombo. It is actually closer to Negombo than Colombo.
Depending on your arrival flight and how long you have in Sri Lanka, you could either check into your accommodation in Negombo or go straight to Colombo.
Sri Lanka’s airport is well connected with the rest of the world. The countries main carrier is Sri Lankan Airlines, which covers most of Europe, Asia and the Middle East. And normally offering a direct route.
Other airlines such as Emirates, Qatar Airways and Singapore Airlines are popular choices. We will usually use Emirates or Qatar Airlines, with a stop in the Middle East.
If you are travelling from Asia, you could use budget friendly airlines such as AirAsia.
For affordable flights to Sri Lanka, we would suggest considering a layover, as these ticket prices are cheaper than direct flights.
Shop around for affordable flights and be as flexible as you can to pick up the best deal.
Visa requirements
You must obtain an ETA visa before arriving in Sri Lanka; however, you can purchase a visa on arrival.
An ETA is an Electronic Travel Authorization, which is required by most visitors.
Citizens of Singapore, Maldives and the Seychelles are exempt from obtaining an ETA visa.
The process to obtain a visa to Sri Lanka, is super easy and quick, it takes me about 30 minutes to complete the online form and receive confirmation that my visa has been granted.
To apply for an ETA visa to Sri Lanka, then start by visiting the official ETA website. Click the link to apply.
Complete the online application, which includes entering your details, including passport information, travel dates, etc. Pay the processing fee, which is in USD. You will need a credit card for this.
You’ll then receive an email acknowledging receipt of the application. Although the official website claims that the processing will take about 24 hours and if you don’t hear anything from them within that period of time, to contact them.
From my experience, it takes around 15 minutes or less to receive confirmation that the visa is granted. This is based on my experience alone.
I have only once experienced issues with obtaining a visa online and this was during the troubles, in which they changed the visa process a couple of days after I applied online. I simply arrived in Sri Lanka and obtained a visa on arrival. I did pay twice for the visa, but it allowed me entry non the less.
The visa issues have since been resolved and six months after that error, I applied again to visit Sri Lanka and received acknowledgement and acceptance within a matter of minutes.
Pro tip: make sure you are purchasing the visa from the official Sri Lankan ETA website and not an unofficial or scam website.
The link I share above is not only the link I have used for the last 15 years, but is the official website. If you are unsure, do some research prior to using the website.
Health and vaccinations prior to departure
It is important to stay up to date with your routine vaccinations, such as Measles, Mumps and Rubella, Diphtheria and tetanus, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Japanese encephalitis, Polio, Rabies, Typhoid and Varicella.
You should seek medical advice from your GP or local travel clinic to establish if and what vaccinations you may require. You should do this six weeks before you travel.
Health care is very good in Sri Lanka, with private hospitals available should you require medical treatment.
Do research prior to departure to establish where the nearest hospital is and if it is private or free. In our experience, private treatment will outweigh a visit to a free hospital.
On our last trip to Sri Lanka, we came down with the bad case of flu. Which kept us housebound and bed ridden for a few days, which set us back. To get us back on track, we visited the local private hospital and was seen within less than 15 minutes and was given a mild antibiotic to help recover.
Within less than 24 hours of taking the medication, we were back on our feet, exploring and enjoying our trip in Sri Lanka.
The cost of going private set us back around Rs 10,000. This equates to less than $40.00 for the appointment and the medication for the two of us.
While this is an added expense, this is something we wouldn’t get back home, and we had a contingency fund in the event of becoming unwell.
Pro tip: When setting a budget, include at least 10-15% of your total budget for a contingency fund, in case of an emergency. As an example, if we set a $1000 budget for fourteen days in Sri Lanka, we should include $100-$150 on top of our budget for the emergency fund. So, our total budget would be a maximum of $1150.00.
If you have travel insurance, most providers will reimburse you for any emergency medical treatment required while travelling. Travel insurance, doesn’t just cover you for medical treatment, it can also cover you for cancelled holiday and lost or damaged items.
If you need more advice on travel insurance, we have written a detailed guide on the importance of travel insurance and where to get it from. You can check out the guide here on do I need travel insurance?
Since the outbreak of Covid 19, many countries require proof of vaccination or a negative test. While Sri Lanka hasn’t enforced this over the last 12 months or more, you may wish to carry proof of vaccination in the event you are asked to prove it.
Travel first aid kit
Do you pack a travel first aid kit with you on your travels? If not, we would recommend you start packing one.
Packing a mini first aid kit, is essential in our opinion.
Should you suffer a minor injury or illness that doesn’t require medical treatment, you can treat yourself and get back on the road quickly.
As Sri Lanka is a tropical island, you’re likely to need more remedies than anywhere else. Mainly mosquito repellent and anti-itching cream for the bites.
I will be honest, every trip I take to Sri Lanka, I get bitten by mosquitos and then I suffer from the itching after. Shams is lucky and escapes the majority of the bites.
So having a mini first aid kit that includes mosquito repellent and cream is a preventative and aids with the recovery.
We also have sun screen, painkillers, plasters, bandages, etc packed in our mini first aid kit.
It is also practical to have Imodium or something similar, to help alleviate the symptoms of diarrhea.
There is that saying, prevention is better than cure. And in this case, having all the right things packed in a mini first aid kit, will help you to still enjoy your holiday without too much of an inconvenience.
Want to know exactly what you should pack in your mini first aid kit? Then check out our detailed guide on what to pack in your DIY first aid kit.
How to get around Sri Lanka
The public transport infrastructure is good, but it is somewhat different to what you may expect in a Western country.
The roads are chaotic and dusty and very rural regions are not covered by public transport.
But don’t let this put you off from exploring Sri Lanka, as most of the popular routes are covered by either train or bus.
If you want to travel with a little more convenience and ease, you could hire a vehicle and driver, yet this can become costly.
Let’s breakdown the best ways to get around Sri Lanka.
Train
Travelling by train offers an affordable, scenic and authentic way to travel around Sri Lanka.
You can really dive into the authentic way of life, depending on the route you take via train.
On one journey from Colombo down to Kalutara, we travelled via train, which offered some incredible coastal views, while sharing the journey with locals carrying all manners of fishing nets and metal. Not quite what we were expecting on the journey, but great fun none the less.
If you want to experience one of the most famous and best scenic train routes in Sri Lanka, then take the train from Kandy to Ella. Enjoy views of lush tea plantations and mountain vistas.
The cheapest ticket for the train is third class, but on the popular routes, you’ll be packed into a carriage, with very limited space and for most of the journey if not all, will be stood up.
If you are prepared to spend a little extra on tickets, then second class is a little more comfortable, while first class is the more expensive of the three options, but you’ll travel in a little more luxury with air-conditioning.
Pro tip: Book your tickets in advance online, to avoid disappointment. We use The Train Line, to check and book train tickets. You can book your tickets here.
Buses
Buses are the ideal way to stick to a really tight budget, they are really cheap and an excellent way to get around.
Buses also cover destinations that are not always covered by train.
There are challenges with taking the public buses in Sri Lanka. Many are overcrowded and not all of them have air-conditioning.
We have taken a fare few buses in Sri Lanka. We have taken a comfortable airconditioned bus from Colombo down to Galle for a day trip, which was comfortable and quick. Although this is a little more expensive as you’re travelling in a luxury bus.
On the other end of the scale, we have travelled on a cheap bus, with no air-conditioning and what felt like a roller coaster ride. The drivers, drive at breakneck speed, overtake other buses with vehicles and buses travelling in the opposite direction.
If you are up for an adventure, then you’ll definitely want to travel on the cheaper buses.
We would recommend, that if you’re travelling long distances on a bus, then travel in more comfort, with an air-conditioned bus.
For the shorter distances, then choose the cheaper death-defying bus.
Tuk-Tuks
Tuk-tuks, rickshaws or three wheelers, as they are called depending on who you speak to and the country you visit.
They’re a great way to get around on short distances, such as city exploration or reaching nearby attractions.
In many cases, the driver can double as an informal tour guide. But picking a driver that knows the city well, is an advantage, providing they know the area.
Pro tip: negotiate fares before taking a tuk-tuk, or make sure they have a meter that is working. Try and haggle with the driver, but keep it reasonable and know how much it will cost for the journey. If need be, walk away and find another driver.
Apps to use to book tuk-tuks and taxi’s: Uber is a popular tool to book taxi’s and tuk-tuks, but the Sri Lankan option to this is PickMe. It works in the same way as Uber, you select the pickup destination and drop off destination and it will determine the price of your journey depending on the vehicle you pick. We have used PickMe and Uber while travelling in Sri Lanka and each time, we were able to book a taxi without any issues.
Car and driver
The final option on getting around Sri Lanka, is to hire a vehicle and a driver. Although the driver isn’t mandatory, but could be helpful since they are more familiar with the roads and if this is your first time in Sri Lanka, a driver might be the option to take.
The advantages of hiring a vehicle and driver, is the flexibility. You can stop or ask the driver to stop, where ever you like. You can create a more flexible itinerary, rather than be restricted by bus, train and tuk-tuk.
The only caveat, is that it doesn’t come cheap, compared to the other options.
If you choose to hire a driver, you may need to think about accommodation for the driver as well as you. Some hotels and accommodation providers have drivers’ quarters available.
You can hire vehicles and drivers through reputable travel agencies and online platforms. Make sure you read the reviews and do thorough research. Include this in your budget, if you choose this option.
Practical tips for navigating public transport
Research and planning are key. Have a clear itinerary in mind, research and check schedules where possible. Create a plan on how to get from one destination to the next.
Stay as flexible as possible as delays are likely to occur. Include extra time in your itinerary for these delays.
Try and avoid peak travel times. It can get very crowded on a bus or train and in many cases, it is standing-room-only. This can become uncomfortable during long distance travel.
While public transport maybe different to what you are custom too back home, embrace the experience, as you are being taken on a journey into the authentic lifestyle of Sri Lanka.
Where to stay in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka can offer some incredible places to stay, from luxury 5* accommodation, to budget friendly hostels and homestays. Looking for unique places to stay too, then you could also stay in treehouses, eco-resorts and even beach huts. The options are endless, depending on the experience you are seeking.
Luxury hotels
Luxury accommodation is the ultimate comfort, with exceptional services and world-class amenities.
Do you see yourself relaxing by the pool, wandering along your private beach, enjoying delicious food and taking a workout in the gym. Then this is the style of travel you’ll want to book into while visiting Sri Lanka.
We have stayed in some incredible places in Colombo and Kandalama just to name a few.
Here are our recommendations on where to stay for luxury:
Colombo:
Kandalama:
Balapitiya
Ahungalla
Luxury accommodation is ideal for honeymooners, family vacations or travellers seeking some indulgence.
Budget friendly accommodation
On the other end of the scale is the budget friendly options. Choosing budget friendly options can still mean a little bit of comfort, but you may have to compromise on the luxury of a pool and private beach.
Hostels are the cheapest in Sri Lanka, with the cost of a bed in a dorm room, as little as $20.00 per night.
If you are looking for more of the authentic Sri Lanka style of living, then a homestay could be what you need.
They are affordable, with a bed, shared bathroom but in some cases, you might be offered a private bathroom and home-cooked meals.
Popular budget friendly destinations in Sri Lanka are, Kandy, Mirissa and Hikkaduwa.
Unique stays
Yes, Sri Lanka offers unique places to stay too, such as a treehouse or beach hut. There is more research to seek these places out, but they are there.
Just imagine sleeping amidst the lush greenery and among the wildlife. We have done this in Kalpitiya and near Yala National Park and what an exciting experience it was.
Best places to visit in Sri Lanka
From the moment you step onto Sri Lankan soil, you’ll be captivated by the sheer diversity and timeless beauty.
The teardrop-shaped island offers plenty of action-packed things to do, from ancient kingdoms, vibrant culture, to breathtaking landscapes and plenty of wildlife and beaches.
Sri Lanka is home to eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ancient cities, sacred temples and famous landmarks such as Sigiriya, which is often known as the Eighth Wonder of the World.
Ready to plan your trip to Sri Lanka, then these are our recommended places to visit:
Must see attractions
These should be added to your Sri Lanka itinerary:
Sigiriya Lion Rock
One of Sri Lanka’s most famous landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage site. We love this spot so much that we have climbed it twice.
You’ll walk through landscaped gardens, before climbing over 1,000 steps to the top, while passing beautiful frescoes and the Lion Paws. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views and what remains of King Kashyapa palace.
After the king’s death, the palace and the capital was abandoned. It is also said, that a bridge connected Sigiriya Rock with the nearby rock called Pidurangala.
To avoid the midday heat, climb the rock early morning, or in the evening.
You can purchase tickets at the entrance for around $35.00 per person.
It is classed as a moderately challenging hike and we would recommend appropriate footwear for the climb.
Dambulla
Not far from Sigiriya Rock and ideal to cover off in one day. This Cave Temple is home to the largest and best-preserved complex in Sri Lanka.
Tickets to Dambulla Cave Temple are at the rear. Once you have purchased the tickets, make your way up the steps to the top of the temple.
Take your time to take in the spiritual atmosphere, Buddha Statues and murals, before making your way back down the rock face.
On the way up and down, enjoy the stunning landscape and views of Sigiriya Rock in the distance.
You’ll need some level of fitness to reach the top of the rock. This isn’t suitable for anyone with accessibility issues.
Although there is shaded spots, it is recommended to avoid the midday sun, as it can get very hot.
As this is a temple, you should wear the appropriate clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Also remove your footwear.
Pro tip: you can wear socks around the temple to protect your feet from the hot stone.
If you need more tips on temple etiquette, then check out our detailed guide on Temple Do’s and Don’ts.
Yala National Park
Yala National Park is known for its incredible wildlife, including leopards, elephants and birds.
Spend either a morning, afternoon or full day on safari. See how many different animals you spot throughout the trip.
We travelled as part of a group and did a full day on safari, stopping for lunch with a warm rice packet. We spotted many heard of elephants, birds, monkeys and we did spot one leopard crossing the road in front of us.
This is an adventure that should be included into your itinerary.
Cities you must visit in Sri Lanka
This will give you a snapshot into urban exploration of Sri Lanka:
Colombo
The bustling capital city, has a mix of old-world charm and modern sophistication. Colombo is the gateway to the islands rich culture, history and contemporary lifestyle.
You’ll only need 24 hours in Colombo, visiting Independent Square, Galle Face Green and the bustling Pettah Market.
While the historical routes can be seen throughout the city, Colombo has embraced modernity, with contemporary cafes, luxury hotels and more.
Colombo invites you in with open arms and charming personality.
Want to discover more? Then check out our detailed guides on visiting Colombo:
Galle
Located on the south western coast of Sri Lanka and about 2 hours’ drive away. Ideal for a day trip from Colombo, or a short stop on your way down south.
The highlight of Galle is Galle Fort. Originally built by the Portuguese, before the Dutch transformed it into what you see today.
Take a wonder around the fort, stop by at the Old Dutch Hospital. The number one place to eat in Galle is A Minute by Tuk Tuk, providing both Western and traditional Sri Lankan food.
Want to discover more of Galle? Then check out our detailed guides:
Kandy
Although possible to do on a day trip from Colombo, we would recommend spending at least 24 hours here and use this as a base to visit the Cultural Triangle.
The famous Temple of the Tooth is based here, in which it is said that a fragment of Buddha tooth is kept here. You can also watch traditional dance performances known as Kandyan dance.
The climate in Kandy is a lot cooler and a great rest bite from the heat along the east and southern coast.
Want to discover more of Kandy? Then check out these detailed guides:
Detailed guides on Sri Lanka
Need more help with planning your trip to Sri Lanka? Then check out these guides on visiting Sri Lanka:
What to pack for Sri Lanka
As Sri Lanka is a tropical island, you’ll need to pack the essentials that will keep you comfortable throughout your journey.
This includes clothing that is lightweight and breathable, such as cotton or linen to keep you cool during the hot and humid conditions.
We would suggest packing T-shirts, shorts, dresses and skirts.
If you’re heading into the hill country, you will need a light jacket or shawl for the cooler evenings or for air-conditioned restaurants and hotels.
Sunscreen is super important, especially if you are prone to sunburn. A high SPF will protect you during the hot sun and even on cloudy days, when sun burn is still possible.
As I am fair, I burn very easily and if you haven’t experienced sun burn before, it is very painful and will damage the skin. It can also lead to health problems, such as skin cancer.
It is therefore important to protect yourself from the harmful rays.
Hats are another way of protecting you from the sun. Wide-brimmed hats or caps will shield you and your face from the sun. Hats can also add an extra level of style to your outfits.
The sun is very bright, especially during midday. Include a pair of sunglasses with UV protection, you’ll be thankful that you packed these.
Looking for a more comprehensive list of what to pack for your trip to Sri Lanka? We have created a detailed guide on what to pack, including clothing to wear to a religious site, insect repellent and travel adapters and more. PLUS, you can grab your hands on our FREE packing check list.
Food and drink in Sri Lanka
Sri Lankan cuisine is packed with flavour and spices, with dishes ranging from mild to fiery hot. For those of you who are vegetarian, or vegan, Sri Lanka is the ideal location.
Many dishes are naturally vegetarian, such as dhal curry (lentil curry), pol sambol (coconut condiment), potato curry, jackfruit curry, all served with rice.
Most of the dishes are made with coconut milk rather than dairy, making it completely vegan.
The dishes you should try are:
Rice and curry – Rice and curry are the Sri Lankan staple. It consists of steamed rice, a meat curry and a few vegetable curries.
Hoppers – These bowl-shaped pancakes are served normally at breakfast. Made from rice flour and coconut milk, with a variety of plain or egg.
Kottu Roti – This is the ultimate street food, made from chopped up roti and fried with vegetables, eggs and meat.
Want to learn more about traditional Sri Lankan cuisine. Then visit our detailed guide on staple foods of Sri Lanka. We dive deep into the foods you’ll come across in Sri Lanka, so you can try something different each day.
Practical tips for visiting Sri Lanka
To help you make the most of your trip to Sri Lanka, we’ve compiled some practical tips you should consider, including money, staying connected and respecting local customs.
Whether this is you first visit or a return journey, these insights will ensure your trip goes smoothly and enjoyable.
Currency and money
The currency in Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (Rs). $1 is about Rs292.09 (Please note, currency conversions change regularly).
Cash is the preferred method of payment over card transactions. It is important to have plenty of cash with you for every day transactions, such as local markets, tuk-tuks and street food vendors.
ATMs are available in major cities and tourist hot spots. We would recommend using a reliable bank for withdrawing cash, such as Commercial Bank, Bank of Ceylon, etc.
Just be aware of any ATM fees, or fees from your bank for withdrawing cash from ATMs outside your home country.
Hotels, restaurants and stores, accept debit or credit card payments. However, many shops prefer cash payments, so much so, that they reward cash payments with a discount.
If you have a large payment to make, it could be beneficial to pay by card payment, but if it is a low value bill, you might find it better to pay by cash.
Pro tip: Due to the current economic situation in Sri Lanka, it is impossible to exchange currency outside of Sri Lanka. This will mean, you’ll need to take either US dollars, GB pounds or Euros to Sri Lanka and then exchange the currency while you are there.
On arrival in Sri Lanka, you can exchange some currency in the arrivals at Bandaranaike Airport. We would only recommend converting some of the currency initially. If you convert it all and don’t use it, you won’t be able to convert it back when you leave.
You can visit many banks or currency exchange places in large cities and tourist spots, to convert your currency as you go. Or use ATMs to withdraw cash.
Staying connected in Sri Lanka
The best way to stay connected is by purchasing a local sim card with mobile data. You can purchase a sim card on arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport. Dialog, one of the best network providers is located in the arrivals hall. You’ll find it located at the rear just to the left of the exit.
Dialog is in our opinion one of the best providers, alternatively Mobitel is another great network provider.
It’s possible to purchase a tourist sim card, which is ideal if you’re visiting Sri Lanka for a short period, with different packages available. From 5g data all the way up to unlimited data. If you do run out of data, you can top up the balance. In Sri Lanka, this is called reload.
You choose the desired data package and pay the premium for the reload.
Pro tip: to save your data, use Wi-Fi where possible, such as in hotels, cafes, etc. But just be careful as this isn’t always safe, especially if you are using a public Wi-Fi that isn’t locked.
Budget and cost
This is probably one of the burning questions, commonly asked, as most will want to know how much it will cost to visit Sri Lanka.
Well, Sri Lanka is an affordable destination. If you are savvy with where you stay and eat, you could spend less than $30.00 per person a day.
If on the other hand, you like the luxury life style, then you could spend anything between $200-$400.00 a day.
The key for any trip is to set a realistic budget, which you will stick to.
To create a realistic budget, you should do some research on accommodation costs, transportation options, food and dining, activities and sights and miscellaneous expenses.
If you need help on creating a travel budget, then check out our detailed guide on how to set a budget and a few tips on how to save money while you’re travelling.
We also offer a FREE budget and savings tracker, to help you establish if you kept to your budget or not. You can download your free copy here.
Sri Lanka Travel CostsConclusion
Sri Lanka promises to provide every traveller with an unforgettable journey through vibrant cultures, stunning landscapes and warm hospitality.
As you dream of taking your next getaway, let the allure of Sri Lanka inspire you to plan a journey filled with discovery and wonder.
And planning is made easier with this Sri Lanka travel guide. You are now armed with the knowledge of when to pick the best time to visit, what to pack and all the must-see spots in Sri Lanka that you simply can’t miss.
Are you ready to make it happen? If so, then mark your calendar with your travel dates, start researching and planning your trip, craft your itinerary and get packing.
Your adventures are just beginning, with a chance to immerse yourself in a world of wonder.
Have you visited Sri Lanka before? What was your favorite part of your trip, or is there something you’re most excited to see? If you have any tips or hidden gems we missed, share them in the comments below! We’d love to hear your experiences and recommendations to make this guide even better for fellow travelers. Let’s chat about all things Sri Lanka!
