A trip to Sri Lanka is quite adventurous, filled with breathtaking landscapes and a vibrant culture steeped in deep history. But before you get on that plane, here are a few things you need to be ready with to really make the most of your trip. Here are the key things every traveller should know before flying to Sri Lanka, covering topics like currency, visa requirements, local laws, and more.
1. Passport & Visa Requirements
Visas: Most visitors to Sri Lanka need a visa; that is relatively easy to obtain. You can even apply online for an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) before arrival. The ETA, valid for 30 days, enables tourists to stay in the country and may be extended to 90 days. Please be sure that your ETA is valid for the length of time you plan to stay.
Passport Validity: Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from Sri Lanka. Immigration officials can deny you entry if your passport validity is near an expiration date, so double-check before leaving.
2. Money & Currency Matters
Currency: The Sri Lankan Rupee is the official currency in Sri Lanka, denoted by the symbol LKR. Banknotes are available in the denominations of 20, 50, 100, 500, 1,000, and 5,000 rupees. It's a good idea to have some cash on hand, as small vendors, especially in rural areas, may not accept cards.
You can exchange your foreign currency at the airports, local banks, and licensed exchange centers within the cities. But you should have some cash with you because ATMs are widely available, and in some areas, there is no access to ATMs.
Credit/Debit Cards: Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities and touristy areas, with Visa and Mastercard being the most common, followed by American Express in some places. However, local markets and small transactions still very much rely on cash, so it's best to carry a mix of cash and cards.
3. Local Law and Regulation Understanding
Respect Religion and Culture: Sri Lanka is a Buddhist country, so religious sites are to be respected. Dress modestly when visiting temples and other religious buildings of interest—shoulders and knees should be covered—and never turn your back on a Buddha statue for a photo. According to Sri Lankan law, public displays of disrespect toward the Buddha are prohibited, and even having tattoos of the Buddha are illegal.
Drugs and Alcohol: Sri Lankan laws against drugs are very strict, and possession of even small quantities of illegal drugs invites very harsh penalties. Alcohol is legal and is found in licensed bars and restaurants, though public drunkenness is looked down upon, particularly in rural areas.
Photography Rules: Some places, especially religious sites, do not allow photography. Always ask permission before taking pictures of people or inside temples and be careful about taking pictures near government buildings or military personnel.
4. Health & Safety Precautions
Vaccination and Prerequisites: Not necessarily compulsorily vaccinate themselves, but be recommended vaccinations for routine shots, especially Hep A, typhoid, and tetanus. Since, however, cases of both dengue fever and mosquito-borne disease are documented, the vaccine or packs of repellents can and should be provided in order to defend against it.
Travel Insurance: While expensive, travel insurance, in general, is encouraged due to the exorbitant cost of medical-related care. Those planning adventurous activities like hiking or diving may prefer a policy with emergency evacuation.
5. Weather and Best Time to Visit
Climate: The climate in Sri Lanka is tropical, with high humidity and warm temperatures throughout the year. There are two monsoons, the southwest from May to September and the northeast from December to February. Plan your trip depending on the region you are interested in visiting since the monsoons affect different parts of the island.
Best time to visit: December to March would be perfect to visit the west and south coasts. April to September would be ideal to visit the east coast.
6. Language & Communication
Languages: Sinhala and Tamil are the official languages of Sri Lanka, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. It's nice to learn a few basic Sinhala phrases since the locals will appreciate it, though English should be more than enough to get by. SIM Cards and Internet Access: Local SIM cards are affordable and readily available at the airport. Major providers like Dialog, Mobitel, and Airtel offer tourist packages that include data, calls, and texts, making it easy to stay connected. Free Wi-Fi is also available in most hotels, cafes, and restaurants.
7. Transportation Tips
Airport Transfers: The Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) is 35 kilometers from Colombo. You can hire a taxi or an airport shuttle or use ride-hailing apps like PickMe. Prepaid taxis are also available at the airport and will save you from the hassle of negotiating prices.
Getting Around: Buses, trains, tuk-tuks, and private cars are just some of the transportation options offered on the island. For a more authentic experience, try the train rides through the hill country. Tuk-tuks are a fun, affordable way to get around, but make sure to negotiate the fare before starting your journey if the driver doesn't use a meter.
8. Cultural Etiquette and Customs Greeting Locals
A friendly smile and a nod usually suffice as greetings. When visiting homes, one should take off their shoes at the entrance. Avoid public displays of affection; Sri Lanka is generally a very conservative country, especially outside of tourist areas.
Tipping Culture: Tipping isn’t mandatory, but it’s appreciated in the service industry. Many restaurants add a 10% service charge, but you can leave additional change as a gesture. For guides, drivers, and hotel staff, a tip is generally expected based on the level of service provided.
Final Thoughts
If you prepare, you'll be in a good position to enjoy the culture, beauty, and hospitality of Sri Lanka. From knowledge of local customs to securing your travel needs, here are tips that will be helpful in preparing you for your best life-changing experience of traveling. Stay safe while traveling and enjoy your time on this beautiful island of Sri Lanka!
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