Sri Lanka – A World of Wonders in One Island

From misty mountains to golden beaches, Sri Lanka is a destination like no other. In just a few hours’ journey, you can experience dramatic changes in landscape, climate, and culture — from cool highland escapes to tropical coastal bliss. Whether you’re seeking adventure, beachside relaxation, Ayurvedic healing, wildlife encounters, or rich cultural and historical exploration, Sri Lanka has it all. Perfect for families, solo travelers, and couples alike, this island offers a seamless blend of nature, heritage, and hospitality that makes every moment unforgettable.

Quick Snapshot

• Official Name: Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka
• Administrative Capital: Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte
• Commercial Capital: Colombo
• Size: 65,610 km²
• Population: Approx. 20.3 million
• Ethnic Breakdown: 74% Sinhalese, 15% Tamil, 9% Moor, 2% other

A Glimpse into History

Human settlements in Sri Lanka go back hundreds of thousands of years, with historical records dating to the 6th century BC. The legendary arrival of Prince Vijaya and his followers marked the beginning of a royal lineage lasting over 2000 years. Many historical sites and Buddhist relics still reflect this deep heritage.

Airports in Sri Lanka

• International:
  • Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) – near Colombo
  • Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI) – near Hambantota
• Domestic:
  • Ratmalana Airport (RML) – for internal travel, close to Colombo

Entry Requirements

• Passport Validity: Minimum 6 months from entry date
• Visa: All visitors need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Apply at www.eta.gov.lk

All holiday or business travelers to Sri Lanka must have an electronic travel authorization (ETA) to enter Sri Lanka. An ETA is issued only for short visits to Sri Lanka for business, tourism, and transit purposes.

• ETA Validity: 3 months

ETA is valid only for three months, A fresh ETA cannot be obtained using the same passport until the previous ETA expires. If you lose the passport that contains the valid ETA, you may apply for a fresh ETA by paying the relevant fee again.

• Please visit http://www.eta.gov.lk for more information.

Health Requirements

• Sri Lanka has reached elimination levels for youth illnesses (Tetanus, Diphtheria and Poliomyelitis, Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) as well as food and waterborne sicknesses such as Typhoid and Hepatitis A. For those who are traveling to places where there is a risk of infection, like rural areas, engaging in sports like hiking, camping, or remaining for long periods, getting vaccinated against Hepatitis B and Rabies is advisable.
• Standard vacationers ought to have their underlying discussion for vaccinations for Sri Lanka no less than 4 – a month and a half ahead of takeoff. Usually, vacationers remain inside the southwestern corner of the island or venture inland to Kandy. The rate of unfamiliar vacationers creating Malaria after their time in Sri Lanka is considerably low. Consider the season, destinations, and length of the trip when deciding whether to get the necessary Malaria Prophylaxis.

Weather

• Sri Lanka is positioned like a teardrop just south of the equator on the southernmost edge of India. Temperatures are typically over 20 degrees Celsius, and there is generally a fair amount of moisture in the air, especially around the beach resorts. Generally, the tropical monsoon seasons are April, May, and June, followed by October and November. To adapt to the weather circumstances, travelers can carry appropriate clothing. You need your PCP’s written consent to utilize drugs. If possible, make sure to have this ready in your purse in case of spot inspections. Kindly note that every traveler will require specific counsel, and this information provides the topmost essential guidelines.

Clothing Tips

• Lightweight cotton for warmth and humidity
• Modest attire for religious sites (covered shoulders and knees)
• Footwear must be removed when entering temples

When you visit a sanctuary or other revered location, keep in mind that photography shouldn’t be done in a way that causes disrespect. For instance, it is strictly forbidden to photograph any sculptures or paintings. Anybody breaking these guidelines risks being removed from the site. Taking off your shoes is a requirement when entering a place of worship. Avoid wearing any textiles or frills that feature images of the Lord Buddha. You may have to wear long trousers and avoid revealing tops when entering religious sites. The low country is hot and humid, but as you travel to the hill country, the climate becomes cold and mild, and ocean breezes refresh coastal areas.

Currency & Money

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)Notes: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of LKR 5000, 2000, 1000, 500, 200, 100, 50, 20 & 10. Coins are in denominations of LKR 10, 5, 2, and 1.

ATMs & Cards: Visa, MasterCard, and AmEx widely accepted

Foreign Exchange: Foreign currency must be exchanged only at authorized exchanges, banks and hotels.

Customs Guidelines

Duty-free allowance for adults:

• 2 bottles of wine + 1.5L spirits
• Perfume and eau de toilette in small quantities

Prohibited:

• Tobacco, firearms, antiques, ivory, live animals, certain plants
• Declare high-value items (e.g., jewelry) at customs
• It is prohibited to import tobacco products into the country.
• Firearms, explosives, and dangerous weapons, ivory: collectibles, sculptures, and fortunes: old books, creatures/birds/reptiles (in any condition) and parts, tea, elastic, coconut plants, perilous medications.
• Only two people traveling together from the same family are eligible with the expectation of receiving free import stipends.
• Valuable belongings (counting gems), should be announced on appearance in Sri Lanka.
• There is no gift recompense. Unused Sri Lankan cash should be reconverted to foreign currency upon takeoff.

Power & Connectivity

• Electricity: 230–240V, 50Hz; plug types vary (round and square pins)
• SIM Cards: Available for Rs. 1,000; mobile internet is reliable island-wide
• Wi-Fi: Common in hotels, cafes, and public spaces

Local Time & Business Hours

• Time Zone: GMT +4:30
• Banking hours – 09:30 hours to 15:00 hours – Monday through Friday
• Currency Exchange Centers – 10:00 hours to 18:00 hours – daily

• Department stores and shopping malls – 10:00 hours to 19:00 hours – Monday through Saturday
• Business hours – 09:00 hours to 17:00 hours – Monday – Friday 09:00 hours to 12:00 hours – Saturday
• Government offices – 09:00 hours to 16:30 hours – Monday through Friday (1 hour lunch break between 12:00 hours and 13:00 hours)

Cultural Etiquette & Safety

• Respect for religion and tradition is key
• Avoid public criticism and provocative attire
• Public smoking/drinking is restricted
• Homosexuality is illegal
• Fireworks and celebrations are frequent; noise levels may be high
• Overall, Sri Lanka is safe for tourists – avoid solo travel at night

General Travel Tips

• Diarrhea – Unhygienic food preparation. It is important to know to watch out for half-cooked fish or meat.
• Sunburn – Do not forget to use a sunscreen product with a sun assurance element of no less than 15. Keep in mind that you are just 600 km from the equator, so even with sunscreen, you should limit how long you spend in the sun.
• Heatstroke – This is the most well-known condition caused by dehydration that results from spending too much time in the sun.
• Prickly Heat – This rash develops when organs become dormant from excessive sweating or prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. To treat it, scrub the region, use a mild cleanser, and keep the area clean.
• Alcohol & Meat ‘won’t be sold on Poya National specialties.
• Stick to bottled water
• Be cautious of spicy foods if you’re not used to them

Dining & Cuisine

Sri Lankan cuisine is a vibrant fusion of bold spices, rich textures, and tropical ingredients. From crispy hoppers and soft string hoppers to fragrant coconut sambols and fiery curries, every dish tells a story of culture, tradition, and island life. It’s not just food – it’s an experience unlike any other. Ceylon Tea

Sri Lanka’s local flavors go beyond the plate — sip the world-renowned Ceylon tea, taste the natural sweetness of kithul jaggery made from palm sap, and experience the island’s traditional spirits like toddy and arrack, crafted for generations. Each one offers a true taste of Sri Lankan heritage and hospitality. International dining options are abundant in cities like Colombo.