australia travel advice to sri lanka

23 things you need to know before going to Sri Lanka

Oct 14, 2023 • 11 min read

Get to grips with Sri Lanka's complex culture with these top tips on health, safety and etiquette © Cavan Images / Getty Images

Floating in tropical waters off the southern tip of India, Sri Lanka is defined by its gentle Buddhist culture, friendly people and laid-back way of life despite its troubled recent history.

A little knowledge goes a long way when it comes to having an easy trip to this Indian Ocean island. For such a small nation, Sri Lanka is hugely diverse. Surf-pounded coastlines rise to forested national parks , temple-studded plains and jungle-covered highlands - with the added perk that nowhere is that far from a beach .

Most visitors start on the coast and duck inland to tea gardens, ancient cities and national parks, but navigating Sri Lanka 's frenetic public transport system and cultural sensitivities can be confusing for new arrivals. To help you out, here are some of the things you need to know before traveling to Sri Lanka.

1. Apply for a visa in advance

As a first step, check the latest visa requirements for Sri Lanka. Most nationalities need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) in advance of travel, but fortunately, they're not hard to get.

2. Check your travel vaccinations

Sri Lanka is a tropical destination, so check with your doctor to make sure you're up to date with your travel vaccinations. Recommended vaccinations for Sri Lanka include diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B and polio. Long stayers might also consider getting vaccinated against typhoid and rabies (although rare, rabies can be fatal, and it's carried by dogs, cats and monkeys in Sri Lanka).

3. Plan your trip according to the monsoons

Between May and September , the south coast and west coast of Sri Lanka are lashed by the southwest monsoon, which brings plenty of rainfall and choppy seas, while northern and eastern parts of the island are fine and dry. When the northeast monsoon hits Sri Lanka between November and March, the south and west are at their best, and it's the northern and eastern parts of Sri Lanka that see the showers.

In fact, monsoon rainfall in Sri Lanka is quite sporadic – expect short, sharp downpours interspersed with long, hot sunny spells. Traveling to different parts of Sri Lanka during their rainy "off-seasons" has its rewards – visitor numbers fall and hotel rates drop quite significantly.

Sri Lankan Buddhists gather at a temple building in front of burning insence

4. There's no alcohol for sale on full moon days and religious events

Sri Lanka has a huge number of bank holidays, and almost half of these are poya days, marking the arrival of the full moon, an auspicious event in Sri Lankan Buddhism. All poya days are dry days – alcohol is not sold in shops, restaurants or bars (though you can still access your hotel room’s minibar). The ban on alcohol also extends to other religious events such as the Buddhist festival of Vesak in May.

5. Carry cash: the currency is the Sri Lankan rupee

Stock up on rupees on arrival in Sri Lanka, not before, and don't change more than you need. Sri Lankan rupees are hard to exchange outside of Sri Lanka. ATMs are widespread all over the country – stick to Bank of Ceylon ATMs where possible as they don't charge a fee. Card machines are common in larger hotels, restaurants and tourist-oriented shops.

Try to build up a stash of lower denomination notes wherever possible (for example, withdraw LKR5900 rather than LKR6000). You'll need small bills to pay for tuk-tuks and buy things from local shops and markets and for tipping. Carrying some cash in dollars, euros or pounds sterling is also useful – all are widely accepted in tourist areas.

6. Be realistic about how much ground you can cover

It takes a surprising amount of time to travel around Sri Lanka thanks to winding routes and the limited number of roads crossing the interior of the island. Traffic also has to navigate a variety of hazards including badly surfaced roads and roaming wildlife (buffaloes, cows, feral dogs and even elephants). To do the island justice, don’t rush. You’ll need at least a month for a circuit of the island with detours to national parks, ancient cities and tea plantations inland.

Thanks to Sri Lanka’s improving expressway network, road travel from Colombo to southern towns such as Galle , Matara and Tangalla is fairly rapid. With its twisting, congested roads, the Hill Country is the most time-consuming region to navigate (consider taking trains to explore instead).

Two young children run out of the sea towards their parents on a sandy beach backed by palm trees

7. Pack the right gear for Sri Lanka’s hills and religious sites

Sri Lanka’s mountains reach elevations of over 2,000m (6,560ft) and temperatures are lower in the highlands than on the coast. Pack a light jumper for cooler nights and early morning starts (particularly between December and March). Also bring a sarong – you can use it as a beach blanket or towel, as a shawl or skirt to cover your shoulders or knees when visiting temples, and as a warm layer when traveling on air-conditioned buses or for pre-dawn safari jeep drives.

8. Plan ahead for the hill country trains

Sri Lanka Railways runs the nation's trains, including services on the spectacular Main Line, which slices east from Colombo through the island’s highest mountains, cloud forests and tea estates. It’s a stunning journey and hugely popular with tourists and locals alike, particularly the section between Kandy and Ella .

Book tickets in air-conditioned first class or fan-cooled second class well ahead to guarantee a seat, either in person at stations or online via booking sights such as 12GoAsia . Tickets are released 10 days prior and sell out quickly.

9. Swimwear is for the beach only

For the most part, Sri Lankans are socially conservative and deeply religious. Swimwear is fine for the beach, but not when wandering about town. Going nude or topless is not permitted on any Sri Lankan beaches.

10. Avoid public affection and disruptive behavior

Public displays of affection are frowned on, as is loud or brash behavior, and losing your temper in public (keep this in mind when haggling – this should never be an angry process).

Two bare-foot monks enter the ruins of a temple building

11. Dress respectfully when visiting temples

When making trips to religious sites, wear clothing that covers the legs and upper arms and shoulders. Remove your shoes and headwear before entering any Buddhist or Hindu temple or mosque, even if the site is a historic ruin. Socks are allowed (and you'll need them on scorching hot sunny days).

Tourists are less common in Jaffna and the north where a distinct Sri Lankan Tamil Hindu culture predominates. Respect local etiquette when visiting Hindu temples – ask for permission before entering as non-Hindus are barred from entering some shrines. Some temples also require men to remove shirts and enter bare-chested (for example, Jaffna’s vast Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil ).

12. Show respect to Buddha images

Sri Lankan Buddhists take depictions of the Buddha very seriously and these should always be treated with respect. People have been deported from Sri Lanka for displaying "disrespectful" Buddha images, so avoid wearing clothing with Buddha images and if you have tattoos of Buddhist iconography, keep these covered. The same rules apply to statues – posing for selfies with a Buddha statue is a definite no-no, as is turning your back toward a Buddha image.

13. Be considerate when taking photographs

When photographing people, always ask for permission first. Note that if you photograph the famous stilt fishers at Koggala, you may be asked for payment (genuine stilt fishers are a rare breed nowadays). Flash photography isn’t allowed in temples (nor in the vicinity of military sites) and taking photos may be banned entirely at some Hindu sites. If you are photographing temples, be careful not to stand with your back toward a Buddha statue while you are snapping.

14. Use your right hand to eat

Traditionally, Sri Lankans eat with their right hand, using the tips of their fingers to mix rice and curry into little balls, and their thumb to gently push the food into their mouths. You may be encouraged to try this if you are invited into a local home for a meal, but always wash your hands first for hygiene reasons. Avoid eating (or shaking hands) with your left hand as it is used for less sanitary tasks such as personal ablutions.

15. Tipping is customary

Tipping is a way of life in Sri Lanka and many restaurant workers rely on the extra income this practice brings. Most larger hotels and restaurants add a 10% tip as standard; use this as a guide for how much to tip in places that don’t.

Tourists photographing elephants from vehicles in grassland

16. Give wildlife space

In 2017, a British journalist died after being snatched by a crocodile at a lagoon near Arugam Bay . Such attacks are rare, but they happen so be vigilant in rivers and lagoons. Dangerous sharks are not a problem in Sri Lanka, but poisonous snakes are found in waterlogged areas on land such as paddy fields.

Keep a keen lookout for elephants on roads leading to national parks or when walking or driving in the hills. If you see one, keep your distance and be ready to back away. Never feed a wild elephant – this habituates elephants to associate humans with food and act aggressively.

17. Take standard safety precautions

Sri Lanka is one of the safest countries in Asia when it comes to petty crime. Violence against tourists is very rare, and theft and robberies are uncommon, though they do happen occasionally. As a precaution, wear a money belt and use your hotel safe.

Female travelers should avoid traveling alone at night, particularly on public transport, and take care walking alone on empty beaches. Given Sri Lanka’s conservative culture, long sleeves and dresses are culturally appropriate and will reduce the chance of being harassed.

18. Do not drink the tap water

Sri Lanka's tap water could theoretically be used for brushing your teeth but we don't recommend it, and it's certainly not safe for drinking. Bottled water is plentiful and better hotels provide clean drinking water for guests. If you do buy bottled water, check that the seal is intact and look for the Sri Lanka standards certification mark. Always dispose of empty bottles responsibly – filling your own drinking water bottle from a large bottle is better than buying lots of small plastic bottles.

A beachside fort with a tall watch tower

19. Beware of scams and pickpockets

Scammers are active in Galle Fort , Kandy and Colombo’s Galle Face Green , looking for tourists to cheat or charm out of money. Never buy gems hawked on the street – they will almost certainly be convincing fakes made from colored glass – and be dubious of any shop trying to sell you gems to "sell at a profit back home." Seek out information from official tourist offices and directly from operators rather than trusting agents, particularly if they seek you out first.

Keep your money and valuables out of sight when on busy trains and buses, and when exploring crowded areas streets such as Colombo’s Pettah market district . Tuk-tuks have a habit of overcharging tourists – ask drivers to use the meter (and take another tuk-tuk if they refuse), or order a ride via Uber or local app, PickMe .

20. Protect yourself against mosquitoes

Mosquito bites are one of the biggest health concerns in Sri Lanka. Although malaria has been eliminated, mosquitoes can carry debilitating dengue fever, a painful illness that can have serious side effects. No vaccinations are available for dengue and treatment can only reduce symptoms. Protect yourself by covering up at dawn and dusk, sleeping under a mosquito net and wearing strong repellent containing high levels of DEET ( diethyltoluamide ).

21. Be road-safe in Sri Lanka

Traffic is one of the biggest dangers facing visitors to Sri Lanka. Accidents involving motorcycles and lorries are common, and bus collisions – often involving pedestrians – are also a problem. Common causes of accidents include dangerous overtaking, overloading and pulling in suddenly to pick up passengers on the roadside.

Private bus company drivers tend to drive more recklessly than their government-run, SLTB counterparts. Don’t expect vehicles to stop at pedestrian crossings and keep your wits about you when walking beside any roads (sidewalks are rare in Sri Lanka).

A surfer stands on the edge of a sandy beach looking out to sea

22. Never underestimate the ocean

Sri Lanka's beaches may be idyllic, but there are few lifeguards and strong currents are a danger (particularly during the monsoon seasons). Many beaches shelve steeply and drowning is the second most common cause of death among tourists after road accidents. Seek local advice before swimming in unfamiliar water.

23. Natural disasters are a risk

Sri Lanka was one of the countries worst affected by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, which swept away more than 35,000 people and devastated many coastal areas. Following the disaster, early warning systems have been put in place in major towns and resorts, but not in rural, isolated areas, so be alert to signs of earthquakes and tsunamis.

The most common natural disaster in Sri Lanka is localized flooding during the southwest and northeast monsoons, which can cause landslides in highland areas. Sri Lanka is also vulnerable to tropical cyclones and periods of drought. For up-to-date weather warnings and situation reports, bookmark the country’s Disaster Management Center website .

This article was first published March 2022 and updated October 2023

Explore related stories

Philippino beaches or see elephants in Sri Lanka

Feb 14, 2024 • 8 min read

We asked a pair of passionate writers to make the case for two of Asia’s most fabulous destinations.

Nov 9, 2023 • 9 min read

Nov 7, 2023 • 8 min read

woman taking a picture of her friends at the iconic Nine Arch Bridge

Oct 29, 2023 • 6 min read

Oct 15, 2023 • 3 min read

Jun 2, 2023 • 8 min read

Algarve region in south of Portugal is very popular tourist destination

May 26, 2022 • 18 min read

Jan 2, 2024 • 11 min read

Nov 4, 2023 • 6 min read

Oct 16, 2023 • 8 min read

Sri Lanka Travel Restrictions

Traveller's COVID-19 vaccination status

Travelling from Australia to Sri Lanka

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Open with restrictions

Not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

Documents & Additional resources

Ready to travel, find flights to sri lanka, find stays in sri lanka, explore more countries on travel restrictions map, destinations you can travel to now, netherlands, new zealand, philippines, south korea, united arab emirates, united kingdom, united states, know when to go.

Sign up for email alerts as countries begin to open - choose the destinations you're interested in so you're in the know.

Can I travel to Sri Lanka from Australia?

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Sri Lanka.

Can I travel to Sri Lanka if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from Australia can enter Sri Lanka without restrictions.

Can I travel to Sri Lanka without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from Australia can enter Sri Lanka without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Sri Lanka?

Visitors from Australia are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Sri Lanka.

Can I travel to Sri Lanka without quarantine?

Travellers from Australia are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Sri Lanka?

Mask usage in Sri Lanka is not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Sri Lanka?

Restaurants in Sri Lanka are open with restrictions. Bars in Sri Lanka are .

Is it safe to travel to Sri Lanka?

Woman looking g out of a train window at the view going through mountain in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is, on the whole, a safe country to visit. It hasn’t always been, thanks to a long civil war and sporadic terrorist attacks, but government travel advisories have relaxed their travel warnings and Sri Lanka is once again experiencing a huge growth in tourism.

The Sri Lankan Civil War lasted some 25 years from 1983 until 2009. It was fought between the Sri Lankan government and the Tamil Tigers, who claimed to represent the Tamil minority in Sri Lanka (as opposed to the Sinhalese majority). The vast majority of the fighting took place in the east and north of the country, with more than 100,000 civilians and 50,000 soldiers killed from both sides.

Though the war has ended, the Australian Government warns that there are marked and unmarked minefields in the Northern and Eastern provinces. If travelling through these regions, it’s important to stay on main roads and follow any warning signs.

In April 2019, on Easter Sunday, Islamist militants bombed a series of targets focused in Colombo that killed over 250 people. The targets included churches and high-end hotels and tourism ground to a halt as a result.

In response to the attacks, the Sri Lankan government stepped up security across the country and authorities made several arrests. Operations focused on national security are ongoing.

While the threat of terrorism is ongoing, travel warnings to Sri Lanka have been relaxed. The Australian government recommends avoiding crowded areas, remaining alert, monitoring the media and following the advice of local authorities.

Exercise normal safety precautions if you are visiting as a solo or female traveller. Stay to well-lit areas at night, keep your valuables (especially your passport) safe and travel in groups if you can.

Register with the High Commission

The Sri Lankan High Commission in Canberra would like to keep in touch with Sri Lankans and persons of Sri Lankan origin living in Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu and other Pacific Islands as well as Sri Lankan community organisations in those countries.

If you are a current/former Sri Lankan or an office bearer of a Sri Lankan community organisation we invite you to register with the High Commission.

Sri Lanka High Commission 61, Hampton Circuit Yarralumla ACT 2600

Quick Links

Cancel Policy
Make a claim

Planning a trip to Sri Lanka: everything you need to know

Where can you find the rugged coasts of Hawaii, the diverse wildlife of Africa and the lively beach towns of Bali, all in the one place? Sri Lanka has built a reputation as a one-stop-shop for adventure travel, where you can unwind on pristine beaches one day and explore ancient temples the next.

Formerly called Ceylon and now affectionately known as the 'Teardrop of India', the Southeast Asian country was actually named Lonely Planet's #1 destination to visit for 2019, thanks to its wide appeal to travellers of all tastes.

In this article, we dive into all you need to know about this booming tourist hot spot. We'll cover when, where and why to go, practical information on visas, language and currency, and offer some helpful tips on accommodation, food, festivals and etiquette.

About Sri Lanka

But before we get to all of that, let's review what makes the small island nation tick.

Located just beneath the southeastern coast of India, Sri Lanka is fairly small in geography but rich in history, culture and natural splendour. It has 1,340 kilometres of coastline, a population of over 21 million people, and countless religious sites.

Sri Lanka is of a mostly Buddhist faith, which values goodwill, humanity and patience. You'll notice many colourfully decorated roadside shrines celebrating both Buddhist and Hindu deities on your travels.

The official currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee, and the predominant language is Sinhala, although English is commonly spoken throughout the country.

Getting there: the basics

Most flights to Sri Lanka involve a stopover in Malaysia, Singapore or Hong Kong, followed by a short flight to the nation's capital, Colombo. From there, a rail service connects travellers to several popular tourist areas, like the west and south coast beaches of Hikkaduwa, Mirissa and Galle, and the inland attractions of Kandy. We'll offer more tips about the railways a little later on in this article.

Sri Lanka experiences monsoons throughout the year, which bring heavy rain and storms to certain parts of the country at different times. The west coast of the country, which includes popular towns like Hikkaduwa, experiences monsoon weather from around April-October.

On the other hand, the east coast , including regions like Arugam Bay, experiences its monsoon season from around October-April.

Depending on where you plan to travel, it's important to check the weather and adjust your itinerary according to these seasons. During monsoons, many popular tourist towns are almost deserted of travellers. You'll find discounted accommodation, but also very few of the amenities available during the high season (not to mention the persistent rain!).

Visa requirements

Australian citizens need an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) visa to travel in Sri Lanka, which can be obtained from the ETA website. This is valid for 30 days from arrival, although can be extended for up to six months on request.

There have been cases of unsuspecting travellers being ripped off by phoney websites claiming to sell Sri Lankan visas. Ensure you only use the official ETA website and not a third-party. Note that your visa will be emailed to you once complete, but it’s best to keep a printed copy with you while you travel.

Vaccinations

Smartraveller recommends a vaccination for Japanese encephalitis when travelling to Sri Lanka. It also warns against illnesses like:

Dengue fever
Leptospirosis

Discuss your travel plans with your GP and seek their advice regarding necessary health precautions.

Dengue fever is common in the country, which is transmitted by infected mosquitoes like many other travel diseases. Remember to use insect repellent and wear long, loose fitting clothing to protect yourself from bites.

Where to go: top five tourist spots in Sri Lanka

For a small country, it's startling just how many incredible places there are to visit in Sri Lanka. Here are five of our top picks, which will appeal to families, honeymooners and backpackers alike.

1. Beaches in the south

Best for: A tranquil coastal holiday with a twist

Sri Lanka's beaches rival anywhere in the world, and those in the south of the country are some of the most picturesque. Mirissa, Hikkaduwa and Weligama are just a few of the popular strips of sand in the region, where you'll find a mix of upscale resorts and budget beach shacks.

Wherever you choose to put your feet up, the southern beaches have great snorkelling, photogenic seascapes and plenty of room for exploration. Remember to protect yourself from the sun and stay hydrated - the tropical heat can be extreme at certain times of the year.

Best for: Lovers of grandiose temples, sprawling gardens and intriguing histories

The historic town of Kandy lies in the middle of the hill country, bordered by dense jungle and home to some of the most significant historical sites in Sri Lanka.

No visit to the town would be complete without exploring the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic; the home of a tooth of the Buddha. Although visitors don’t actually see the tooth itself, the temple and surrounding shrines are truly breathtaking to behold. Remember to remove your shoes and wear modest clothing that covers your legs and shoulders when visiting.

3. Arugam Bay

Best for: Younger travellers hitting the waves

Known as Sri Lanka's premier surfing destination, Arugam Bay has everything you'd expect from a small surf town.

Great waves, cheap food, rustic hostels and a beach party every night make this east coast gem a favourite among backpackers and travelling surfers.

Best for: An unforgettable view of the jungle

Located just south of Arugam Bay, Yala National Park is Sri Lanka's second largest and most popular nature reserve.

If it's wild elephants, leopards and crocodiles you're looking for, chances are you'll find them on a Yala safari tour. Remember to only book your tour of the park with a licensed and experienced operator.

Best for: An authentic view into modern-day Sri Lanka

Many visitors see Colombo only as an entry point to the country, not as a destination worth exploring. However, the capital has its fair share of temples, museums and restaurants to keep all travellers entertained.

The National Museum, Viharamahadevi Park and Dutch Period Museum are all worth a visit. As in many crowded cities, tourists can often become easy targets for pickpockets, so stay mindful of your valuables while out and about.

Getting around

As a fairly small place, many of Sri Lanka’s tourist destinations are easily accessible. Let’s look into some of the most popular ways to navigate the country.

Tuk tuks are undoubtedly the go-to form of transport for short journeys. These three-wheeled scooters are everywhere, and often decked out in psychedelic colours or over-the-top sound systems, to the delight of travellers.

Tuk tuks are great for zipping around town but won’t be incredibly comfortable for a longer trip. Their open sides also make them quite dangerous and they have a poor reputation for road safety. If your driver is too gung-ho with their accelerator, don’t be afraid to politely ask them to slow down.

Private drivers/taxis

Private drivers can be the most comfortable and convenient way to travel in Sri Lanka, and a necessity depending on where you’re visiting. If you’re travelling from Colombo to east coast towns like Arugam Bay, public transport can be a multi-day affair, whereas a driver can get you there in half the time (and half the stress).

The Sri Lankan railway is a favourite among travellers and connects to many popular regions, like the southern beaches and Kandy in the centre of the country.

From Colombo, you can travel the scenic railway south to towns like Hikkaduwa and Galle, east through the hill country and onto Kandy, or north to cities like Jaffna. The scenery is breathtaking on each of these routes, and the trip can be a relaxing way to soak in the countryside (depending on what class fare you choose).

First and second class seats can be reserved when you buy your ticket, but third class cabins are a first-come-first-serve situation that can be overwhelming for tourists. If you’d rather spend your energy admiring the view than worrying about being squeezed into an un-airconditioned tin box, we recommend you spend the extra few dollars to travel first class!

There have been unfortunate instances where travellers have had valuables stolen by pickpockets on Sri Lanka’s railways. Take extra care of your valuables while in transit and consider using a money belt that you wear beneath your clothing.

Where to stay and what to pack

Many Sri Lankan towns have accommodation options to suit most travellers, whether you're looking for high-end luxury retreats or budget beach shacks to share with other backpackers.

However, even lower-budget options should have air conditioning (or a ceiling fan), mosquito nets, and bottled water readily available to make your stay safe and enjoyable.

When writing your packing checklist , don’t forget the tropical essentials like:

Mosquito repellent
Sunscreen and zinc
A wide brim hat

How to eat like a local in Sri Lanka

Like their Indian neighbours to the north, Sri Lankans love spice and familiar favourites like rice and curry. However, there are also a few distinctly local dishes to tempt your taste buds.

One such dish is the legendary kottu roti; a street food made from fried and chopped roti mixed with vegetables, spices and a protein like chicken or seafood. Kottu is often called the ‘hamburger of Sri Lanka’ for its easy preparation and delicious taste, but most famous for the way it’s cooked. Kottu chefs clang their large knives rhythmically to chop the roti, which is a sound that’ll become mouth-wateringly familiar when passing local restaurants.

Other Sri Lankan favourites include:

Fish ambul thiyal, a sour fish curry
Hoppers, a pancake-esque finger food
Pol sambol, a coconut relish that seems to go with everything.

Street food safety

Enjoying the local cuisine is one of the best things about travelling to new and exotic locations. However, that experience can quickly turn sour if you’re not careful with what you eat. Remember to exercise street food safety, like:

Avoiding raw and undercooked foods
Avoiding food which should have been hot but has gone cold
Avoiding anything containing ice (such as iced coffees)
Avoiding foods which may have been washed under tap water (such as salads)
Sticking to busy street vendors – often a sign the food is good
Sticking to vendors where you can see the kitchen (and that look hygienic)

Sometimes even these precautions aren’t enough to avoid an upset stomach, especially when you’re eating unfamiliar foods. Talk to your GP about whether dietary supplements or tablets like Travelan or activated charcoal may help.

Festivals in Sri Lanka

Also like their Indian neighbours, Sri Lankans love religious festivals and celebrate 25 public holidays throughout the year. These include Buddhist observances like the Poya festival (festival of lights), which falls on the first full moon of March, and Hindu holidays like Maha Shivaratri, which celebrates the Hindu god Shiva in June.

Other festivals like Diwali (Hindu festival of lights) and Ramadan (Muslim festival of fasting) are also celebrated during the year, reflecting the multicultural nature of the country.

Cultural etiquette tips

Sri Lankans are widely regarded as warm and welcoming people, however travellers should do their best to respect local norms regardless. This includes:

Not balking at the idea of eating with your hands
Passing money using your right hand
Not patting the top of children’s heads
Not turning your back to Buddhist statues, or posing alongside them
Not wearing traditional clothing, or showing tattoos that borrow from Buddhist culture
Wearing modest clothing when visiting temples
Observing ‘no photography’ signs
Avoiding excessive public displays of affection
Unfortunately, same-sex relationships are still illegal in Sri Lanka, so LGBTQ travellers should take note

As you can see, Sri Lanka offers an exciting and exotic alternative to long-time favourites like Bali, Thailand and Hawaii. Its stunning wildlife, photogenic landscapes, lively culture and concentration of magnificent tourist attractions have propelled its popularity in recent years, and many who visit can’t wait to go back.

Do you have a tip for planning a holiday to Sri Lanka? We’d love to hear it! Send us an email at [email protected] and tell us more.

We won’t use this information for any other purpose than marketing, and we won’t identify you unless you say we can. If you’d like to access a copy of the personal information we hold about you, please send us an email at [email protected] .

The content of this article is general and provided for information purposes only. It is not intended to be medical advice. Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) doesn’t guarantee or warrant the accuracy, completeness or currency of the articles.

This article may contain hyperlinks to other websites owned or operated by third parties, or references to third party products or services. SCTI isn’t responsible for, and makes no recommendation about, the content or accuracy of any third party website, or for the suitability or performance of any product or service. The inclusion of a link in this article doesn’t imply that SCTI endorses the website or third party product/service.

Fishermen on stilts in silhouette at the sunset in Galle, Sri Lanka

Beyond Wild Places

Your guide to the wilder side of life

26 Sri Lanka Travel Tips: Everything You Need to Know

Sri Lanka has emerged as one of the latest “it ” countries to visit in Asia. Whether for a beach holiday, surf trip or a solo backpacking adventure, the small tear shaped island offers such a variety of incredible places, attractions, and landscapes. This blog post breaks down all of my top Sri Lanka travel tips for those planning a trip.

After originally planning on spending a month in Sri Lanka, I soon extended and ended up staying three months. So, you could say I really liked Sri Lanka (a massive understatement). I did little research before landing in Colombo, and there’s plenty of things I wish I’d known before booking my flight. This guide is filled with my top Sri Lanka travel tips, including everything you need to know about visiting the island nation, from transportation to food and budget.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links which means I get a commission if you buy a product through my link at no extra cost to you. By doing so, I can keep this blog going and continue to create helpful guides for you. Read more: Privacy Policy

Quick Facts About Sri Lanka

Population: 22 million
Capital: Colombo
Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
Dialling code: +94
Official languages: Sinhala and Tamil
Religion demography: 70% Buddhist, 12.5% Hindu, 10% Muslim, 7.5% Christian

Practical Sri Lanka Travel Tips

These are the essential travel tips for Sri Lanka, including the things you need to know before landing. From visas, to climate and internet connectivity, here’s what you need to know.

Organise Your Visa Prior to Arrival

You must arrange an e-visa prior to arrival in Sri Lanka. Head to the official e-visa website to get your visa about a week or two before flying. You will need a valid passport and a digital passport size photograph.

A standard entry visa is for 30 days, costing $75 for non-SAARC countries and $35 for SAARC citizens.

You can now apply for longer visas , including a 1 Year Multiple Entry Visa (90 Days Stay Limit) or 2, 5 and 10 Years Multiple Entry Visas (all with 180 Days Stay Limit). Prices range from $200-1000, available online as well.

Allow Enough Time on Your Itinerary (It’s Small But Packed with Attractions)

While Sri Lanka is a very small country in comparison to many in Asia, it packs a lot of punch with a wide variety of attractions, activities and places to visit. It’s easy to make the mistake of not allowing enough time to really do the country justice; I met plenty of people just visiting for a week or two.

You can easily visit for a week if you’re just looking to relax on the beach somewhere, but if you’re planning on doing much sightseeing, you’ll need more time. I’d recommend at least a month to really tick off all the best attractions in both north AND south Sri Lanka. However, if you don’t have the luxury of that much time, then you can stick to focusing on either the north or the south with these itineraries:

Ultimate 2 Week South Sri Lanka Itinerary
Essential 10 Day North Sri Lanka Itinerary

You Can Visit All Year Round (But Be Aware of the Monsoon Seasons)

Sri Lanka is incredibly unique in that it can be visited all year round, with no particularly bad time to visit. The island nation has two monsoon seasons, one in the southwest that moves to the northeast, meaning that you can plan your trip to avoid the wet weather.

Southwest Monsoon (May – October): This is the main monsoon season affecting the south and west coasts of Sri Lanka and is characterised by rainy, humid and cloudy weather. These months are low season in the south, but high season in the north and east of Sri Lanka, including places like Trincomalee, Arugam Bay, and Jaffna, where the weather remains dry for the most part.

Northeast Monsoon (November – April): The monsoon moves to the north and east coasts from the end of October onwards. The weather dries out along the entire south coast, meaning it’s high season for tourists in places like Galle, Mirissa, and Ella.

It’s Always Hot, Prepare to Sweat

Despite the monsoon seasons, Sri Lanka is hot all the time. Average temperatures range between 26-32 Celsius most months across the country, with humidity almost always high (although higher at the beginning of the monsoon seasons, when the weather is changing).

The heat of the sun is strong, and you’ll find walking around in the middle of the day can be tiring and sweaty work. I recommend planning to do most sightseeing early in the morning (before 10am) or late in the afternoon (after 4pm), with sunrise and sunset being popular times for hikes to avoid the heat.

It can be pretty uncomfortable if you’re doing any long day trips, but you’ll find relief in some places like Ella, Nuwara Eliya, and Kandy, where the air is a little cooler in the hills .

Colombo or Negombo When Arriving? Stay in Colombo

The main entry point into Sri Lanka is Bandaranaike International Airport , which is quite inconveniently about 32km north of Colombo. The airport is in fact located closer to the beach suburb of Negombo, so many travellers opt to avoid Colombo all together and stay in Negombo before/after their flight.

However, I didn’t find Negombo overly nice and unless you’re flying in the middle of the night, I’d recommend heading into Colombo to at least explore some of the city’s sights, if you have time. Read my Colombo guide here .

A taxi from the airport into Colombo Fort should cost around 4500 LKR (US$15), but be prepared to bargain hard. Otherwise, the cheapest way to Colombo city centre is No. 187 bus which departs from Avariwatta Bus Stand (750m away from the airport) in Katunayake. Tickets cost around 200 LKR (AU$2) per person and the journey takes about an hour. The buses only run from 6am until 8pm, so if you’re arriving in the night, you’ll have to take a taxi.

My accommodation recommendations for both Colombo and Negombo:

Hostel Republic at Galle Face // A budget-friendly hostel with dorm rooms not far from Galle Face Green
Srilax // A beautiful boutique guesthouse on Independence Avenue and surprisingly affordable at less than $100 per night
Island Life // A new, clean guesthouse about 20 minutes from the airport and not far from the beach, perfect for a one night stay at budget prices
Terrace Green Hotel & Spa // A boutique hotel ideal for couples with private spas and a classy restaurant, only 20 minutes from the airport

Sri Lanka is Pretty Safe (And There’s Plenty of Solo Female Travellers)

Sri Lanka is one of the friendliest countries you can visit. Local people are incredibly hospitable and welcoming, with petty crime rates quite low. Still, it pays to be careful of your valuables, especially in crowds and in markets. Use your common sense, but you don’t have to be overly on guard.

It’s also worth noting that solo travellers , and in particular solo female travellers, are incredibly common in Sri Lanka. In fact, I met far more solo female travellers in Sri Lanka than almost any other country. It does standout as a particularly great place for first time travellers or solo travellers to gain some confidence and explore alone without too much hassle.

However, it can be worth noting that the occasional sexist slur can be heard. This tends to happen in less visited parts of the country like Jaffna, but I didn’t find it overly intimidating as a female like other South Asian countries can be.

English is Widely Spoken

While the national languages are Sinhala (mostly spoken in the south) and Tamil (mostly in the north), English is also very widely spoken. I was quite surprised to have hardly any problems getting around or communicating in almost any part of the country, with most people of all ages speaking at least basic English.

You’ll find that even bus conductors or staff at local restaurants will speak even a little English, so you shouldn’t have much trouble trying to communicate what you want or need.

WiFi is Pretty Weak, But SIM Cards Work Well

The Wi-Fi infrastructure across the country is not great. In fact, most internet you find in accommodation isn’t very reliable, with exceptions for places that are set up specifically for digital nomads . If you rely on good Wi-Fi, I recommend finding coworking spaces or digital nomad hubs which are basically the only places that have good internet connection.

I highly recommend that you get a local SIM card on arrival in Sri Lanka, because the 4G network is quite good and you’ll be able to use your own internet when Wi-Fi isn’t reliable. I went with Dialog , which is the largest network and best performing company across the country. It’s pretty reasonable, with prices for the SIM card + 50GB data package costing 2000LKR (US$7).

Plan For Some Day Trips

Sri Lanka does have some incredible day trips that you should allow in your itinerary. You’ll find that places like Ella, Sigiriya and Jaffna are good bases to explore deeper into the beautiful nature and get off the beaten track a bit. I highly recommend getting out of the towns and cities and hiring a tuk tuk for the day or navigating public transport to get to see some unique sights.

My favourite day trips include:

How to Visit Ambuluwawa Tower From Kandy
Swimming in Diyaluma Falls (Second Highest in Sri Lanka) Near Ella
Snorkelling at Pigeon Island National Park Near Trincomalee
Day Trip to Polonnaruwa Ruins From Sigiriya
How to Visit Delft Island Off the Coast of Jaffna
Yala National Park Full Day Safari

Sri Lanka Travel Tips: Budget and Money

If you’re trying to stick to a tight budget or interested in how much a trip to Sri Lanka will cost, I will break down everything you need to know about money.

Sri Lanka is Affordable (But Not as Cheap as Other South Asian Countries)

Sri Lanka is an incredibly affordable country to travel in and you can live quite comfortably on a budget. However, it’s not quite as cheap as other South Asian countries like India and Nepal, so you might need to adjust your budget if you’re coming from either of those places.

In general though, I found that the quality of accommodation was high for the average price and you can find some very cheap local eats as well. You’ll find that prices tend to be inflated during the main high season on the south coast (December-February), when things can double pretty quickly. Otherwise, outside of these months, prices are pretty stable.

You can easily save money by staying in homestays or hostels and seeking out local restaurants. But, there’s also plenty of options to splurge if that’s what you’re looking for. Western style cafes and upscale resorts are plentiful on the south coast especially, and still for a reasonable price considering the standard.

On average, this is what you can expect from a daily budget:

Accommodation: $10-15 for basic guesthouse or hostel, $40 for boutique hotel, or $60+ for luxury
Food: $5 per meal at budget/local places or $10 per person at more Western style places
Alcohol: Beer can cost $2 but wine and cocktails are more expensive at $5+ per glass
Transport: $2-5 per bus or train ride, while day trips with a private tuk tuk can cost $35+

Make Sure You Have Cash (and Keep Small Change)

Cash is still king in Sri Lanka and it’s best to carry local currency, Sri Lankan rupees. However, some of the major tourist attractions such as Sigiriya Lion Rock Fortress and Polonnaruwa will accept USD or card payments. Otherwise, I found it much easier to use ATMs and withdraw cash (ATMs are everywhere and easy to use).

Try to also keep plenty of small change . This will come in handy when dealing with local tuk tuk drivers who often do not have change and get annoyed if you’re trying to pay a 200LKR ride with a 5000LKR note. But in general, bus ticket sellers, shop vendors, and restaurant owners will have change for you.

Entrance Fees For Main Attractions are Steep

One of the biggest changes in the last few years in Sri Lanka has been the sudden and dramatic increase in entrance fees for the major tourist attractions. It’s a common talking point amongst travellers, because the foreigner prices for almost all of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites are very pricey now.

For some examples, Sigiriya Rock Fortress is US$36 for adults, Polonnaruwa is US$30 per adult, and Anuradhapura is US$25 per adult. These quickly add up and for budget backpackers , many are choosing to skip these sights in favour of cheaper options or saving the money all together.

This is a hard topic, because I understand the government’s attempt to make money on these attractions, but there’s always the question of where the money actually goes. Still, I found that the ticket prices were still worth paying for most sights, it’s just a matter of factoring them into your budget.

View of Sigiriya Rock from Pidurangala Rock

Tipping Isn’t Really Expected

Tipping isn’t much a part of the culture in Sri Lanka. It’s not an expectation to tip restaurants, accommodation, or tuk tuk/taxi drivers. However, I tended to round up the bill sometimes if it was a small amount, especially at local or family run restaurants in tourist areas. Otherwise, I rarely tipped at all and I wouldn’t encourage changing this culture, as it will only increase expectations of other tourists down the track.

Sri Lanka Travel Tips: Transport and Getting Around

It’s fairly easy to get around Sri Lanka, with ample transport options for such a small country. If you’re trying to plan your itinerary, here’s some tips for using the buses, trains, and tuk tuks.

Use PickMe App or Uber

PickMe is the main app used in Sri Lanka for booking tuk tuks and taxis to get you around. It works very similarly to Uber and will set the price for you for your chosen trip. This does help a lot by avoiding the bargaining that you’d otherwise have to do with local drivers. Some people also used PickMe or Uber to book long haul trips between towns, but this can sometimes be unreliable, with drivers cancelling trips last minute.

If you do end up hailing a tuk tuk on the curb or side of the road, expect to bargain hard with the driver. Always ask the price first and know that it will be inflated to begin with. The official price for tuk tuks is set at 120LKR per km , but you’ll find drivers asking for much more than this. If you stick to this as a guide, you’ll pay close to the local rate.

Buses are Quicker Than Trains (Mostly)

While the trains are definitely iconic in Sri Lanka, the buses are actually quicker and more efficient for the most part. The train network does extend to many corners of the country, but they’re often delayed and slow and the schedule is usually limited to just a few departures per day.

On the other hand, the local buses run to a regular timetable throughout the day for most routes and they tend to leave right on time regardless of how many passengers are on board. I actually found the buses quicker and less stressful to use, especially because you just simply need to rock up at the bus station and hop on the next bus (there’s no need to book in advance).

This is not to say not to use the trains at all (obviously, the Kandy to Ella train ride is famous), but you’ll probably find yourself opting for the buses more often than the trains for the majority of your trip.

Bus Rides Can Be a Little Wild (But Efficient)

I may have just sung the praise of the buses in Sri Lanka, but they can be a little wild. It seems like some bus drivers have a death wish, as they screech around corners and put the foot down to pass every vehicle in front. You’ll also have luggage and passengers all over the aisles, loud music blaring from the TVs and colourful decorations sometimes covering the windscreens. Sometimes it feels more like a party bus.

Some travellers find the buses can be a little too hairy, but in general, I still tended to go for them over the trains. If you do opt for the bus, there are some important tips to know about how they work:

You simply just have to rock up at the bus station and hop on the bus ( no pre-booking is required)
Pay for the ticket on the bus (not at the bus station)
In between bus stations, buses do stop at designated bus stops on the side of the road (not just anywhere like they do in India)
Each bus route has a number which is displayed on the windscreen to distinguish between them, for example bus #49 is Colombo to Trincomalee, bus #15 is Colombo to Anuradhapura, bus #87 is Colombo to Jaffna etc.
Luggage compartments are not used in general, so you’ll have to throw your luggage next to the driver (pictured below right)

Get Third Class Unreserved Tickets for the Trains

If you want to experience the trains in Sri Lanka, my top tip would be to simply go for the third class unreserved tickets. It might not be the most comfortable ride, but it is the easiest and least stressful way to get on a train (for the most part).

First class and second class tickets tend to sell out quicker, and in general, you’ll have to book them in advance, especially for popular routes. For the famous Kandy to Ella train ride , for example, first and second class tickets can sell out weeks in advance. On the other hand, third class tickets are plentiful, and in fact unreserved tickets are unlimited and can be bought right up until the train departs.

The downside is that you won’t be guaranteed a seat. So, while these tickets are cheap and easy to get, you may have to stand for some or all of the journey. However, third class carriages have open windows and doors , which also makes it quite scenic.

For short trips along the coast, for example between Galle and Weligama, third class unreserved tickets will be fine. You’ll likely even get a seat. For longer journeys like the 8 hour trip from Kandy to Ella, be prepared to stand for the entire journey if you opt for third class unreserved tickets. The alternative is booking in advance , which you can certainly do if you can plan ahead.

Sri Lanka Travel Tips: Food and Health

Let yourself be surprised by Sri Lankan cuisine; I definitely was. It’s some of the most delicious food I’ve ever had. If you’re wondering what to expect with food, water and other health things, here are my main tips.

Right Hand for Eating (Sri Lankan’s Eat With Their Hands)

One of the little details of eating in Sri Lanka is that locals tend to eat almost exclusively with their hands: the right hand to be specific. Everything from rice and curry to hoppers and dosa is eaten with your hands, no cutlery .

While I was used to eating dosas and other South Indian snacks with my hand, rice and curry took a bit more of getting used to. Most local restaurants won’t even serve cutlery to you, so I suggest to embrace it .

But an important thing to note is to only use your right hand to eat, as culturally the left hand is used for wiping and is considered dirty.

Filter the Tap Water

I met some travellers who drank some tap water in Sri Lanka and were fine, however I wouldn’t suggest it. It is chlorinated, especially on the coast, but I wouldn’t assume that it’s completely safe to drink without filtering. To avoid purchasing plastic bottles, I recommend taking a LifeStraw filter bottle with you.

You can drink any water straight through the straw and it’ll be safe. I’ve used one for years and it’s saved me contributing to the already out of control plastic pollution problem .

In saying that, I drank fresh juices at local restaurants and ate salads and never got sick. Most Sri Lankans understand that foreigners can’t drink the tap water safely and they always used filtered water.

Vegetarians, Vegans and Gluten Free Travellers Will Find Plenty to Eat

The cuisine in Sri Lanka is dominated by fresh produce, plenty of vegetables, and all flavours tends to come from natural spices. This makes it both incredibly healthy , but also great for vegetarians, vegans, and gluten free travellers.

For vegans, you’ll be glad to know that basically every curry is made from coconut milk and spices , with no animal products. Meat and poultry is also not heavily consumed, so it’s easy to find plenty of vegetarian dishes on the menu. Fish is common on the coast, but most local restaurants will still have basic vegetable curries on offer too.

Sri Lanka is also one of the best countries to visit for gluten free travellers, in my opinion. Rice is the main staple, plus you also have interesting additions like dosa (savoury rice and gram flour pancake), hoppers (rice flour bowls), and string hoppers (rice noodles). Find more gluten free and vegan food options in my guide below.

Read more: A Complete Gluten Free Sri Lanka Travel Guide

Mosquito Repellent is Essential (Bring From Home)

Mosquito repellent is an essential for any Sri Lanka packing list. With such hot and humid weather, mosquitoes are a big problem almost everywhere across the country. They’re incredibly pesky and every traveller usually finds themselves covered in bites within days.

I suggest bringing your own repellent from home because the quality of the ones available in Sri Lanka is questionable. Try a natural mosquito repellent to avoid toxic chemicals like DEET.

Sri Lanka Travel Tips: History and Culture

Sri Lanka has an ancient history dating back centuries, with a complex and diverse culture that differs from south to north. There are some important things to know about the culture in Sri Lanka before travelling, here are my tips:

Take Shoes Off in Temples and Religious Places (Always Pack Socks!)

Almost all religious sites in Sri Lanka require you to take your shoes off as a sign of respect. There’s usually a shoe rack outside temples or stupas where you can keep your shoes while you explore. You’ll likely get tired of taking your shoes on and off all the time, so it’s smart to wear sandals or something easy to put on and off when sightseeing.

But my top tip is actually to always carry some socks with you, especially when exploring outdoor religious sites. In the middle of the day the ground can be boiling hot and there were many times when my feet were being cooked while walking around a stupa. The best way to avoid this is put socks on, as this is allowed and it will protect your feet (thank me later!).

Culture is Conservative (Dress Appropriately)

The culture in Sri Lanka is still quite conservative. The local population are generally quite religious and devoted to cultural practices , and this is something you’ll observe if you find yourself in any religious sites or festivals across the country.

Most people also dress relatively conservatively , with most women covering their legs and avoiding anything too revealing. I suggest trying to dress appropriately to show some respect to the local communities. While you’ll find tourists wearing bikinis on the south coast, it’s thoughtful if you at least opt to cover up while getting to and from the beach.

While Sri Lankans are incredibly friendly and understanding, it’s about respecting the local people and their culture. Small villages like Hiriketiya Beach have transformed dramatically because of tourism, but they are trying to keep their culture in tact and it’s only fair if we try to respect that.

North and South are Different (Both Worth Visiting)

You’ll often hear people saying that north and south Sri Lanka are quite different, and they’re right. The largely Sinhalese south is predominately Buddhist, while the Tamil north is predominately Hindu and shares more similarities with neighbouring South India. This makes it quite fascinating to visit both the north and south, if you have time.

The south of Sri Lanka is by far the most visited and is definitely what draws the crowds, with its stunning beaches, surf spots, pretty forts and lighthouses and access to the hill country around Ella. However, don’t completely disregard the north of the country.

Jaffna and surrounds are completely raw and authentic, and the locals are welcoming and friendly, especially because they don’t see as many tourists. If you have extra time or are considering a trip to Sri Lanka in the middle of the year, then definitely plan a trip to the north and east coasts – you won’t regret it.

Impacts of the Civil War are Still Felt

The Sri Lanka civil war was a long and bloody drawn out conflict that lasted from 1983 until 2009 . It was mostly fought between the Sinhalese majority and the Tamil minority, with the latter fighting for an independent Tamil state.

Since the end of the war, the country has moved on and people tend to live quite peacefully together. However, the wounds of the civil war are not completely healed, particularly in the north , where you’ll find some people are still bitter with the end result.

I wouldn’t suggest bringing the topic up with locals unless they prompt it. I found people in the north were far more likely to mention the war and share memories of terrifying attacks. But if you’re making a short visit to the south, you may not even hear it being mentioned.

Sri Lanka is Changing Rapidly (Especially the South Coast)

Sri Lanka has burst onto the tourist scene in Asia in the last decade. Since the end of the civil war in 2009, tourists have started to flock back to the beautiful island in the Indian Ocean. However, this of course means that the small country is changing rapidly.

I’ve met those who visited Sri Lanka in 2017 when it was still a little off the beaten track and it’s incredible how much it’s changed just since then. I would say most of the development has happened along the south coast, where small beach towns have exploded into tourist centres with eyesore, large-scale resorts and hotels (looking at you Marriott Resort in Weligama).

Even a small village like Hiriketiya Beach was unheard of until a few years ago when surfers discovered the consistent break in the bay. It’s now become a digital nomad hub buzzing with people. It’s inevitable, but it can be hard to see quiet places transform so quickly.

If you want to be a responsible traveller and support local businesses , I suggest opting for homestays or small-scale boutique hotels over resorts, seeking out local restaurants, finding locally owned surf camps instead of international companies, and hiring local tuk tuk drivers for day trips.

Where to Visit: My Sri Lanka Travel Guides

Sigiriya: Ultimate Guide to Sigiriya: Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle
Ella: 10 Best Things to Do in Ella: An Essential Guide
Kandy: 10 Best Things to Do in Kandy: An Essential Guide
Jaffna: 10 Best Things to Do in Jaffna
Trincomalee: Trincomalee Travel Guide: Underrated Beach Destination in Sri Lanka
Colombo: Best Things to Do in Colombo in 24 Hours
Galle: 2 Days in Galle Fort: Best Things to Do in Galle
Hiriketiya: Hiriketiya Beach: A Guide to Sri Lanka’s Little Coastal Paradise
Weligama: Layback Surf Camp Review in Weligama
Delft Island: How to Visit Delft Island: Sri Lanka’s Remote Island Near Jaffna

Pin this post

A Complete Gluten Free Sri Lanka Travel Guide

Day Trip to Pigeon Island: Best Snorkelling in Trincomalee

10 Best Things to Do in Ella, Sri Lanka: An Essential Guide

10 Best Things to Do in Jaffna, Sri Lanka

beautiful place!

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

Passports, travel and living abroad
Travel abroad
Foreign travel advice

Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.

Sri Lanka: 10 tips for first-time visitors

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

roughguides.com
first-time-sri-lanka-travel-tips

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

written by Chloe Cann

updated 22.04.2024

Sri Lanka’s heady mix of beautiful landscapes, incredibly friendly locals and British colonial heritage make it a beguiling destination. With turbulent years behind Sri Lanka , 2021 is the perfect time to visit. Here are ten Sri Lanka travel tips to help first-time visitors.

1. Prepare to go slow

2. go to relax, not to rave, 3. treat yourself, 4. go north to get away from the crowds, 5. focus on food, 6. consider colombo, 7. plan around the seasons, 8. get active, 9. make the most of your money, 10. understand the culture, tailor-made travel itineraries for sri lanka, created by local experts.

12 days / from 2250 USD

Sri Lanka: Off the Beaten Track

The ideal itinerary for everyone planning to go on a Sri Lankan adventure. Hike historic temples, become part of a Sri Lankan village for a day, visit tea factories, and many more activities included before spending the last few days relaxing on the beach.

11 days / from 3400 USD

Affordable Luxury

Join us on a once-in-a-lifetime voyage exploring stunning sunny beaches; lush green mountains; unspoilt forest trails and breath-taking world heritage sites. This all-encompassing itinerary includes accommodation, private transportation and a variety of excursions and activities.

10 days / from 2520 USD

Discover Sri Lanka

There is so much to see and do in Sri Lanka! This 10-day trip will take you around some of the most exciting parts of the country; spot Elephants in their natural habitat, discover the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and learn more about the famous Ceylon Tea plantations.

Although infrastructure is improving and transport options are plentiful, getting around this modestly sized country, with its tightly winding roads and engine-testing inclines, can feel a little trying at times.

The Hill Country is particularly notorious for eating away time. Whether travelling by bus, tuk-tuk or train, expect to inch from one tea plantation to the next at speeds of around 12-15 miles per hour. For many travellers, hiring a car and driver will be a good alternative. Rough Guides can connect you with a local expert in Sri Lanka to organise everything from a private driver to excursions, accommodation and more.

rickshaw-sri-lanka-shutterstock_563786062

A tuk-tuk approaching Galle Fort, Sri Lanka © eFesenko/Shutterstock

Outside of Colombo , and a few beach resorts, hostels with dorm rooms tend to be thin on the ground. Family-run guesthouses are much more common. This makes it easy to meet locals but harder for solo travellers hoping to make friends on the road.

As an emerging honeymoon hotspot, Sri Lanka also attracts a lot of couples. Those looking for nightlife to rival Bangkok’s Khao San Road will leave unfulfilled: beach bars pepper Arugam Bay on the east coast and Hikkaduwa on the west, but these are mellow affairs and many shut down out of season.

With the ancient traditions of Ayurveda medicine being very much alive and lived in Sri Lanka, it is also the ideal destination to leave your stressful life behind, join a retreat and enter a state of bliss - through meditations, yoga and Ayurvedic treatments.

If you've got Sri Lankan rupees to spare there are plenty of new luxury hotels and resorts where you can spend them. International names such as Aman have already set up shop on the island, and Shangri-La operates two hotels on the island, one in Colombo and one in Hambantota . But it’s the home-grown, luxury hotel mini-chains that you ought to keep your eye on. Uga Escapes, with for example the Chena Huts in Yala , and Resplendent Ceylon with properties such as Cape Weligama are just two examples of burgeoning local brands that offer more than just copy-and-paste properties.

Vallipuram Alvar temple near Jaffna, Sri Lanka © Saiko3p/Shutterstock

Formerly off-limits, the country's Northern Province is prime territory for those who want to roam off the beaten path. Once a Tamil Tiger stronghold, it was one of the last areas on the island to reopen to tourists, and has yet to succumb to the same wave of hotels, resorts and other developments – or to receive the same flurry of foreign visitors.

If you’re after deserted golden beaches, remote temples and colonial port towns – go north. The sample itinerary ' Jaffna and Western Sri Lanka ', created by local expert Hazan, is a good sample of what to explore from Jaffna and surroundings. Best of all it is, as all our sample itineraries, 100% customisable to fit your preferences. Simply click 'modify this itinerary' to connect with Hazan directly.

The Rough Guides to Sri Lanka and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Outside of these months it’s still possible to hike to the summit, but the myriad tea shops that line the path will be closed. You’ll also tackle the peak with a handful of tourists instead of hundreds of local devotees, meaning much of the atmosphere and camaraderie among climbers is lost.

adam-peak-sri-lanka-shutterstock_256117486

Adam's Peak in Sri Lanka © Melinda Nagy/Shutterstock

Sri Lanka might be known for its stupas, beaches and tea plantations, but it’s also crammed with adrenaline-packed activities . Why not try surfing in Arugam Bay , hiking the Knuckles Mountain Range or white-water rafting in Kelaniya Ganga, Kitulgala. Cycling holidays are also becoming increasingly popular. Why not mix it all and create your own adventure tour in Sri Lanka? Hiking, trekking, cycling - all included in Frank's Adventure Lovers sample itinerary . Or simply take a day tour biking in Colombo's countryside .

By western standards, Sri Lanka is still a cheap destination, but prices are rising. For everyday items such as tea and toothpaste, head to the supermarkets in big cities where you can rest assured that you’re not paying over the odds. In the corner shops of smaller cities simply check the packaging, which has the price printed next to the letters "Rs." (meaning rupees).

sri-lanka-tea-plantation-picker-shutterstock_220291930

Tea pickers in Sri Lanka © Rawpixel.com/Shutterstock

At its closest point, only 18 miles of water separate Sri Lanka and India – but there’s a world of difference between the two. The pace of life in Sri Lanka feels much less frantic than that of its neighbour. This makes Sri Lanka the ideal choice for those intrigued, yet intimidated, by India.

Few locals bat an eyelid at western visitors and while covering up is always appreciated (and necessary at places of worship), wearing shorts and vests is unlikely to attract much attention.

Top image: Tea pickers in Sri Lanka © Rawpixel.com/Shutterstock

Nature & Wildlife
Authentic Experiences
History Culture Heritage
Off the Beaten Track
Romance & Honeymoon
Travel Tips

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

Travel advice for Sri Lanka

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Sri Lanka

Crime and personal safety tips Sri Lanka
Culture and Etiquette in Sri Lanka
Eating and drinking in Sri Lanka
How to get to Sri Lanka
Getting around Sri Lanka: Transportation Tips
Travel Health Sri Lanka
Sports and Outdoor activities in Sri Lanka
Travel Tips Sri Lanka for planning and on the go
Best time to visit Sri Lanka

Find even more inspiration for 11 here

Ready to travel and discover sri lanka, get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

Where to stay
Itineraries
Travel advice

You are using an outdated browser. Upgrade your browser today or install Google Chrome Frame to better experience this site.

Sri Lanka Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Sri Lanka. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

Updated Dengue in Asia and the Pacific Islands April 18, 2024 Dengue is a risk in many parts of Asia and the Pacific Islands. Some countries are reporting increased numbers of cases of the disease. Travelers to Asia and the Pacific Islands can protect themselves by preventing mosquito bites. Destination List: Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, Sri Lanka
Global Measles March 22, 2024 Many international destinations are reporting increased numbers of cases of measles. Destination List: Afghanistan, Angola, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Malaysia, Mauritania, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Qatar, Republic of South Sudan, Republic of the Congo, Romania, Russia, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Togo, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Yemen, Zambia

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

Chickenpox (Varicella)
Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
Flu (influenza)
Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see Your COVID-19 Vaccination for more information.

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Sri Lanka.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Sri Lanka. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Sri Lanka.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Japanese Encephalitis

Recommended for travelers who

Are moving to an area with Japanese encephalitis to live
Spend long periods of time, such as a month or more, in areas with Japanese encephalitis
Frequently travel to areas with Japanese encephalitis

Consider vaccination for travelers

Spending less than a month in areas with Japanese encephalitis but will be doing activities that increase risk of infection, such as visiting rural areas, hiking or camping, or staying in places without air conditioning, screens, or bed nets
Going to areas with Japanese encephalitis who are uncertain of their activities or how long they will be there

Not recommended for travelers planning short-term travel to urban areas or travel to areas with no clear Japanese encephalitis season.

Japanese encephalitis - CDC Yellow Book

Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine for US Children

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Sri Lanka. If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Sri Lanka, there may be limited or no rabies treatment available.

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Sri Lanka.

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

Mosquito bite
Avoid Bug Bites

Leishmaniasis

Sand fly bite

Airborne & droplet

Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
Bite from an infected rodent
Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
Avoid rodents and areas where they live
Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Sri Lanka, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Sri Lanka. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
2-undecanone
Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Sri Lanka include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
Do not dive into shallow water.
Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Sri Lanka. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
Go to a doctor right away.
Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

Use latex condoms correctly.
Do not inject drugs.
Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Sri Lanka’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Sri Lanka. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

Wear a seatbelt at all times.
Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Sri Lanka may be poor.
Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
If you choose to drive a vehicle in Sri Lanka, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Traffic flows on the left side of the road in Sri Lanka.

Always pay close attention to the flow of traffic, especially when crossing the street.
LOOK RIGHT for approaching traffic.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
Follow all local laws and social customs.
Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Sri Lanka for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

Other Destinations

If you need help finding travel information:

Message & data rates may apply. CDC Privacy Policy

File Formats Help:

Adobe PDF file
Microsoft PowerPoint file
Microsoft Word file
Microsoft Excel file
Audio/Video file
Apple Quicktime file
RealPlayer file
Zip Archive file

Exit Notification / Disclaimer Policy

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cannot attest to the accuracy of a non-federal website.
Linking to a non-federal website does not constitute an endorsement by CDC or any of its employees of the sponsors or the information and products presented on the website.
You will be subject to the destination website's privacy policy when you follow the link.
CDC is not responsible for Section 508 compliance (accessibility) on other federal or private website.

Update April 12, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

Travel Advisories |
Contact Us |
MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Before You Go

Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

Share this page:

Travel Advisory September 5, 2023

Sri lanka - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued after periodic review with updates to protest information.

Exercise increased caution in Sri Lanka due to civil unrest , and terrorism.

Country Summary: Protests over the economic and political situation in Sri Lanka could erupt at any time. In some instances, police have used water cannons and tear gas to disperse protesters. U.S. citizens are reminded to avoid all gatherings, even peaceful ones, that could turn violent with little or no warning.

Terrorist attacks have occurred in Sri Lanka, with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, hospitals, and other public areas.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in remote areas.

Read the country information page .

If you decide to travel to Sri Lanka:

Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues.
Follow the instructions of local authorities.
Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
Review the Crime and Safety Report for Sri Lanka.
U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Must be valid for six months from expected date of departure from Sri Lanka.

One page required for entry stamp.

Yellow fever vaccine is required for individuals above nine months of age who are traveling to Sri Lanka from a country designated by the World Health Organization (WHO) to have a risk of yellow fever transmission, including transit more than 12 hours in an airport located in such a country. For more information, please refer to WHO .

Foreign currency over USD 15,000 must be declared.

If exiting with foreign currency over USD 5,000, the full amount brought in or acquired in Sri Lanka must be declared.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy colombo.

210 Galle Road, Colombo 03, Sri Lanka Telephone: +(94) (11) 202-8500 Fax: +(94) (11) 202-7345 Email: [email protected]

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Sri Lanka for information on U.S.- Sri Lanka relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

U.S. citizens visiting Sri Lanka must have either an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) or a visa to enter Sri Lanka.

U.S. citizens intending to visit Sri Lanka for purposes of tourism or transit require an approval notice from Sri Lanka’s Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) System), onward/return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds. The ETA system is available online or at the port of entry; however, visitors are strongly urged to use the online system to avoid lengthy delays at the port of entry. This travel authorization allows entry for up to 30 days.

U.S. citizens intending to visit Sri Lanka for short-term business activities such as participating in business meetings, engaging in business negotiations, or attending conferences and workshops are required to obtain a business ETA. Business ETAs are not available online. Business travelers must obtain travel authorization either from the nearest Sri Lankan Embassy or Consulate before arrival in Sri Lanka, or at the port of entry in Sri Lanka.

U.S. citizens intending to visit Sri Lanka for religious or volunteer work or for local employment must obtain entry visas from the nearest Sri Lankan Embassy or Consulate before arrival in Sri Lanka. These visas are not available at the port of entry or through the online system.

All visitors staying beyond the expiration date of their visa must obtain a visa extension from the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo and pay the relevant visa fees.

Specific inquiries regarding entry and exit requirements should be addressed to the Embassy of Sri Lanka , 3025 Whitehaven Street NW, Washington DC 20008, telephone (202) 483-4025, fax (202) 232- 2329. Contact the Sri Lankan Embassy by e-mail ; the Sri Lankan Consulate General in Los Angeles at 3250 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 2180, Los Angeles, CA 90010, telephone (213) 387-0210; or the Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka to the United Nations in New York City, 820 Second Avenue, 2 nd Floor, New York, NY 10017, telephone (212) 986-7040, fax (212) 986 1838. There are several honorary Sri Lankan consuls general and consuls in the United States. Visit the Embassy of Sri Lanka website for current visa information.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Sri Lanka.

Safety and Security

Terrorism: Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to target crowds more effectively. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
Places of worship
Shopping malls and markets
Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

The last terrorist attack in Sri Lanka occurred on April 19, 2019, when terrorists carried out coordinated bombings of hotels and churches in Colombo and Batticaloa, killing more than 250 people and injuring more than 500 more. The terrorists were Sri Lankan nationals associated with the Islamic groups National Thowheeth Jama’ath Millathu Ibraheem. Authorities believe the perpetrators of the attack are dead or have been captured. Many hotels and shopping areas increased their physical security presence in response to the bombings and security screenings of guests and bags has become standard in many locations.

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Most crimes against U.S. citizens continue to be petty crime and crimes of opportunity (e.g., pickpocketing, hotel room thefts, and fraud). There is some organized criminal activity, which can involve drug-related crimes and gang-on-gang violence, but these events do not tend to involve foreign travelers.

There are occasional reports of credit card fraud. Authorities have arrested foreign nationals and organized groups for complicity in financial crimes. Avoid situations where your card is removed from your view. There have been reports of employees at reputable businesses (e.g., restaurants or chain grocery stores) wearing data skimming devices in their clothing and scanning a victim’s credit card or using other methods to steal credit card information. ATM skimming is also a threat. If you use an ATM, be on the lookout for skimming devices. Cover keypads with your hand.

Street hustlers are common around popular hotels, shopping areas, and other tourist sites. There are occasional reports of snatch and grab theft of purses or jewelry owned by tourists, but no recent reports of armed robberies. Beware of tuk-tuk or taxi drivers offering “special” tours or access to festivals or gem shops. This common scam often results in tourists being heavily pressured to buy “gems” that are either cut glass or are worth much less than the price being asked.

Likely due to Sri Lanka’s economic situation, there is a scam in which a tuk-tuk driver charges your ride using an app on their phone, claiming the meter is broken. When you get close to the destination, the phone either slips down or the app closes, and they charge a much higher amount than the routine cost. If a tuk-tuk does not have a meter, agree on a price before beginning the ride, and try to have the correct amount of cash so you do not need change.

Surf schools are known to run scams where they claim renters damaged their boards and demand exorbitant prices to repair the damage. Examine and take pictures of your surfboard before taking it into the water.

Sexual harassment is pervasive. Both foreigners and locals, more commonly women, report instances of cat calls and physical harassment (grabbing of body parts) while in crowded areas and/or public transportation.

Demonstrations occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events.

Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
Past demonstrations have turned violent. Police may deploy water cannons and/or tear gas in response to violent protests.
Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

In general, demonstrations in Sri Lanka are peaceful, resulting only in traffic congestion. However, some have ended in violence between the protestors and police or opposition groups. Demonstrations can involve confrontations with police, resulting in the use of water cannons and tear gas to disperse crowds. Large political rallies are common. These rallies are generally peaceful but can disrupt traffic.

International Financial Scams: See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information.

Internet romance and financial scams occasionally occur in Sri Lanka. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited text messages and WhatsApp messages. Common scams include:

Romance/Online dating
Contracts with promises of large commissions
Work permits/job offers

Tips to avoid scammers:

Look for red flags like their location is far away, their profile was recently created or seems too good to be true, the pace of the relationship is moving too quickly, or they ask for money.
Set up a phone call/video chat in the initial stages.
Do a reverse image search on the profile picture.
If they ask for help, you should refer them to the closest U.S embassy or consulate so we can assist them.

Be cautious of using dating apps/online dating websites abroad as U.S. citizens can be targeted by scammers. Make sure to inform your friends and family of your whereabouts, meet at a well-known public location, and do not consume suspicious food or drinks. Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs.

Technology Usage Abroad: Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and physical damage anywhere in the world. Best practices prior to traveling abroad are keeping all software (operating system and apps) updated, and use virtual private network and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications if possible. Make sure that all VPN/VoIP are reputable, and U.S. based. Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi.

Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact both the tourist police (hotline: 1912 or 011-242-1451) and the U.S. Embassy (011-202-8500) for assistance. Report crimes to both the tourist police and the U.S. Embassy. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

Help you find appropriate medical care ;
Assist you in reporting a crime to the police;
Contact relatives or friends with your written consent;
Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion;
Provide a list of local attorneys ;
Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S. ;
Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution;
Help arrange flights home; and
Replace a stolen or lost passport .

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. If you break local laws in Sri Lanka, your U.S. passport will not help you avoid arrest or prosecution. It’s very important to know what is legal and what is not where you travel.

In places like military checkpoints, you may be taken in for questioning if you do not have your passport with you. When arriving in Sri Lanka, ensure your luggage does not contain prohibited or restricted items, such as weapons, ammunition, explosives, gold, narcotics, and pornography. In some places, it is illegal to take pictures of certain buildings.

Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Sri Lanka are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Under the Cultural Prosperity Act and the Antiques Ordinance, the unlicensed export of antiques from the country is considered a criminal act.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask the police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries and they may be illegal according to the local laws. Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. You may be subject to fines and/or have to give up counterfeit and pirated goods if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website and U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Special Circumstance : Sri Lanka recognizes limited dual nationality . For further information, please contact the Sri Lankan Embassy in Washington, D.C., the Consulate General in Los Angeles, or the Sri Lankan Mission to the United Nations in New York City.

The Sri Lankan police and military maintain several checkpoints throughout the country. U.S. citizens are advised to always carry identification such as their passports with them while in Sri Lanka. Photography is prohibited in designated high security zones and near many government facilities such as offices and military installations.

U.S. citizens who arrive by yacht or private boat should be aware that all marine harbors are high security zones. Travelers arriving by sea should be prepared for Sri Lankan Navy officials to inspect their vessels and should always wait for radio clearance before coming into port.

Religious Laws: Tourists should be mindful of restrictions and observances when planning to visit any religious establishment, whether Buddhist or Hindu temples, mosques, churches, or other locations considered sacred by the local population. Posing for a photograph with your back to a statue of Buddha is a serious offense in Sri Lanka, punishable by a fine or arrest. Travelers should also be cognizant of displaying religious imagery, including tattoos of Buddha, while traveling to and transiting within the country, as foreign nationals have been arrested or denied entry to Sri Lanka due to such tattoos.

Faith-Based Travelers: See our following webpages for details:

Faith-Based Travel Information
International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
Human Rights Report – see country reports

International Volunteers:

Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

Women Travelers: If you find yourself in a life-threatening situation, you are encouraged to call the tourist police immediately (hotline: 1912 or 011-242-1451) and follow up with a call to the U.S. Embassy (011-202-8500). We can sometimes connect you with a non-governmental organization in Sri Lanka that may be able to provide assistance. If you are victimized overseas, you may be entitled to receive compensation for counseling and/or other services such as relocation back to the United States. For further information, visit the U.S. Department of Justice's Office on Violence Against Women .

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes committed in Sri Lanka. See our tips for Women Travelers .

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

LGBTQI+ Travelers : See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights Report for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: While in Sri Lanka, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different from what you find in the United States. The Sri Lankan Supreme Court has directed that steps be taken to provide easy access for persons with disabilities to public buildings. Although there are regulations on accessibility in place, lack of wheelchair access in most buildings limits access for people with disabilities. Potholes and sidewalks in poor repair can make movement very difficult. The road network in Sri Lanka is improving, but many roads remain in medium to poor condition. Sidewalks and road crossings in most major towns tend to be congested with vendors, stray dogs, and groups of people loitering on street corners.

Ambulance Services: For ambulance services in the Sri Lanka, dial 1990.

Ambulance services are widely available, but response times vary, and training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards. Ambulances are typically not staffed with trained paramedics and often have little medical equipment. Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

We highly recommend that all travelers review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Travelers’ Health webpage and general Traveler Advice for Sri Lanka. 

Review all sub-sections including the Travel Health Notices, Vaccines and Medicines, Non-Vaccine-Preventable Diseases, Stay Healthy and Safe, Healthy Travel Packing List, and After Your Trip.  
Reasons for Travel (for example: Adventure Travel, Spring Break Travel)  
Travelers with Special Considerations (for example: Allergies, Long-Term Travelers and Expatriates)  
General Tips (for example: Traveling with Medications, Travel Vaccines)

The Department of State, U.S. embassies, and U.S. consulates do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance overseas. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

The Department of State strongly recommends supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Medical Facilities: There are six large hospitals in the Colombo area, including four facilities with emergency medical and trauma service: Asiri Surgical Hospital; Lanka Hospital; Asiri Central Hospital; and the government-run National Hospital of Sri Lanka. Medical facilities outside Colombo are limited. Hospitals and doctors typically require payment “up front” prior to service or admission. The availability of medical supplies is uneven; therefore, travelers should always carry any prescription medications with them. Serious medical conditions can require evacuation to the United States or to a nearby country with more advanced medical facilities, such as Thailand or Singapore. Neither Thailand nor Singapore require U.S. citizens to have entry visas.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Pharmaceuticals: Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescriptions in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments. Please visit U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with Sri Lanka's Ministry of Health to ensure the medication is legal in Sri Lanka.

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

Water Quality: In many areas, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.

Infectious Diseases: Several mosquito-borne diseases, including dengue fever, Chikungunya, and Japanese encephalitis are present in Sri Lanka. Dengue fever, in particular, is widespread in Sri Lanka’s Western Province, where the capital Colombo is located. Adequate mosquito protection is strongly advised to prevent this serious illness.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Recommended vaccines that are specific to this region include Japanese encephalitis and typhoid (and rabies pre-exposure prophylaxis for some travelers).

For additional health information about Sri Lanka, please visit:

World Health Organization
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: While in Sri Lanka, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. Vehicular traffic in Sri Lanka moves on the left (British style). Traffic in Colombo can be congested. Narrow two-lane highways, overloaded with trucks, poorly driven buses, and a variety of conveyances on the road, ranging from ox carts and bicycles to new four-wheel-drive vehicles, make driving dangerous. Unexpected roadblocks and one-way streets are common and may not be clearly marked. Many visitors hire cars and drivers for long trips through the country. Individuals who choose to hire three-wheeled vehicles (“tuks” or “three wheelers”) should use metered vehicles or negotiate prices beforehand to avoid confrontations upon arrival. If you are renting a vehicle, you should specifically request one with working seatbelts.

Heavy rains sometimes cause flooding which can make roads inaccessible for several days and bring with them the risk of landslides.

GPS Navigation Apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country. Prior to using the GPS app make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe. The GPS navigation app may give you the shortest route without safety considerations.

Public Transportation: While public buses are readily available, the U.S. Embassy does not recommend using them due to safety concerns.

See our Road Safety page for more information. Visit the website of Sri Lanka’s national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight: As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Sri Lanka, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Sri Lanka’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA's safety assessment page.

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Sri Lanka should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings .

For Additional Travel Information

Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
Follow us on Twitter and Facebook .
See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act (ICAPRA) report.

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, sri lanka map, learn about your destination, enroll in step.

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

Make two copies of all of your travel documents in case of emergency, and leave one with a trusted friend or relative.

Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba

Bosnia and Herzegovina

British Virgin Islands

Burkina Faso

Burma (Myanmar)

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Cote d Ivoire

Curaçao

Czech Republic

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Dominican Republic

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Eswatini (Swaziland)

Falkland Islands

France (includes Monaco)

French Guiana

French Polynesia

French West Indies

Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy (French West Indies)

Guinea-Bissau

Isle of Man

Israel, The West Bank and Gaza

Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands

Netherlands

New Caledonia

New Zealand

North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

Republic of North Macedonia

Republic of the Congo

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sao Tome and Principe

Saudi Arabia

Sierra Leone

Sint Maarten

Solomon Islands

South Africa

South Korea

South Sudan

Switzerland

The Bahamas

Timor-Leste

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkmenistan

Turks and Caicos Islands

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Vatican City (Holy See)

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

Tourism News
Wildlife Streaming
Board of Directors

Tourism Hotline: 1912

An island escape awaits you

Welcome to sri lanka.

See what's waiting for you on your next island getaway. Savour the unique experiences this island treasure has to offer.

All you need to know when travelling to Sri Lanka

'Safe & Secure' Certified Tourism Service Providers

What the world has to say

A year in Review 2020

Sri Lanka Tourism Operational Guidelines

One of the Best Countries to Travel - Conde Nast Traveller 2021

The best destinations to travel to in 2023 mentions Sri Lanka as one of the tourist hotspots this year.

Golden Paradise Visa - Department of Immigration and Emigration, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka Pavilion at EXPO 2020 in Dubai

Sri Lanka Pavilion at EXPO DUBAI 2020

Discover Sri Lanka

From a thrilling safari adventure in the depths of Yala, to a soothing yoga session among tea bushes in the cool countryside, Sri Lanka has a special experience for every traveller. So dive in, your adventure awaits!

From a thrilling safari adventure in the depths of Yala, to a soothing yoga session among tea brushes in the cool countryside,Sri Lanka has a special experience for every traveller.So dive in,your adventure awaits!

Explore Island Stories

Each place, and each smile in Sri Lanka has a story to tell. We have so much to share with you, so come along to our island in paradise!

Nature and Wildlife

Sri Lanka's Ultimate Wildlife Safari

Blessed with an abundance of wildlife, Sri Lanka attracts a significant number of tourists every year... visiting the island to experience the exotic creatures living in the stunning Natural Parks. The diverse wildlife spread across wet, dry and intermediate zones helps maintaining the natural balance in ecosystems while contributing to Sri Lankan economy at large.

Top 7 Historical Destinations To Visit...

Valley view with villages and mountains at sunrise. View from Adam's peak, Sri Lanka

5 Of The Most Breathtaking City...

The ruins of the capital built by the parricidal King Kassapa I (477–95) lie on the steep slopes and at the summit of a granite peak standing some 180m high (the 'Lion's Rock', which dominates the jungle from all sides) (UNESCO)...

English Breakfast Tea In Maskeliya

over one million Sri Lankans are employed in the tea industry.

Meet the Mischievous Rulers of the...

Upcoming Events & Festivals

Mid Season Blues (or Browns) Tropical Kitesurfing Kalpitiya

August 2021. The dry season in Sri Lanka. The tropical sun shines bright and all of us kiters are getting shades darker! The vibes continue to be great, with a smaller crowd.

Plan Your Dream Holiday

Each day on this island promises new experiences, discoveries, and life-long memories. With so much to do,let us help you with these itineraries created just for you!

Things to See and Do

Find a Travel Agent

Apply Visa Online

Book a Flight

Find your Accommodation

Find a Tour Guide

Find a Tour Driver

Camping Sites

Blacklisted Service Providers

New Products

ramayanaya yathra

buddhist places

wellness tourism

EXPO 2020 Participant

Wilpattu National Park Wildlife Streaming

International Endorsements

Greatest Shows on Earth

SLTPB Promotional KIT

#SOSRILANKA

A tropical paradise that looks too good be true? Don't just take our word for it, take it from the breathtaking shots by travellers just like you!

LONELY PLANET : BEST IN TRAVEL 2021

Endless beaches, timeless ruins, welcoming people, oodles of elephants, rolling surf, cheap prices, fun trains, famous tea and flavorful food make Sri Lanka irresistible.

For site suggestions and errors, please contact | Please use Downloads page to get the required software for this site

Our Agencies

Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority
Sri Lanka Tourism Convention Bureau
Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism & Hotel Management
Ministry of Tourism

Our Partners

SriLankan Airlines
Sri Lanka Airport & Aviation Services
Department of Immigration and Emigration
Electronic Travel Authorization System

Industry Associations

Tourist Hotels Association of Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Tour Operators

About the Site

Terms of Use
Investor Relations Unit
Important Notices