sri lanka harald tours

• Waikkal Tourism
• Waikkal Hotels
• Waikkal Bed and Breakfast
• Waikkal Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Waikkal
• Waikkal Restaurants
• Things to Do in Waikkal
• Waikkal Travel Forum
• Waikkal Photos
• Waikkal Map
• All Waikkal Hotels
• Waikkal Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Waikkal
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Harald Tours - Waikkal Forum

• Asia    
• Sri Lanka    
• Central Province    
• Waikkal    

Harald Tours

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• Central Province forums
• Waikkal forum

I have noticed quite a few questions relating to Harald, so here are some details which will hopefully be useful;

Harald Tours, Kammala South, Waikkala.

Tel. +9477-6019816

e-mail: [email protected]

I was there with my wife in June, and used Harald for all our trips.

His shop is 2 minutes walk along the river from Hotel Dolphin, and I would recomend him for an efficient and friendly service. We took a couple of long distance trips, and many short local trips; includng boats on the river and tuk tuks to the local towns. I am sure anyone wishing to book trips in advance can do so by phone or e-mail.

Thanks for that, really helpful..we are hoping to use Harald for trips as he has some rave reviews........which were the best trips??

the main trip is the 2 day kandy trip, but me and my partner didnt want to stay over night, so we did elephant wash, elephant orphanage, temple of the tooth, spice garden, then tea factory all in one day for just £28 each, with only 4 people going

I would suggest that the trip that you did, although a nice day out, if not LONG of course, was actually a little over priced considering that 4 people were on that trip.

i think this was as when we booked it, it was only me and my partner going, we only found out another couple was coming when we got to reception at 6am

I agree with Dave on this one - I don't think £28 per person is very competitive by Sri Lankan standards for a day trip. It also sounds a though you booked an exclusive trip and then Harald Tours decided to save money and make more profit by making it non exclusive.

I don't know where these rumours of Harald's rave reviews and fantastic value came from - maybe he has a few cousins in the UK and Europe writing up the reviews!!

I would of been quite happy to pay £28 for a day long trip......it sounds very cheap to me!!

Ive been emailing Harald on the above email address but it keeps bouncing back saying unknown email address.

Any other email address for him?

Thanks......

going to sri lanka in May and tried to email harald tours, but i have had my emails returned to me saying this email is not correct... i will see him when i am out there and i cannot wait... thank you for your information about harald tours..

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

• Club dolphin hotel Sri Lanka Jan 26, 2020
• Night life in waikkal Nov 28, 2019
• Plugs and room advice at Club Hotel Dolphin Nov 27, 2019
• Vaccinations Nov 05, 2019
• Taxi companies Nov 02, 2019
• Taxi to Colombo Nov 02, 2019
• Club Dolphin Hotel Sri Lanka Sep 26, 2019
• Club dolphin excursions and trips May 20, 2019
• Couple of questions Mar 03, 2019
• Weather in May Feb 07, 2019
• Weather in Waikkal Sri Lanka Feb 07, 2019
• Club Hotel Dolphin Jan 27, 2019
• What is the best way to change money in Sri Lanka Jan 26, 2019
• Vaccinations and visa Jan 10, 2019
• Qatar or Emirates? 11 replies
• Topless sunbathing 19 replies
• Sri Lanka 2010: Cost of Living and working with local NGO's 9 replies
• Souvenirs from Sri lanka 5 replies
• Club Hotel Dolphin e-mail address 4 replies
• wedding /bridesmaid dresses 5 replies
• Currency to use in Sri Lanka 8 replies
• hotel club Dolphin (Waikkal )or Bentota Beach Hotel 4 replies
• Spa Treatments/Massage in Bentota 2 replies
• How Much For Elephant Orphanage trip 6 replies

Waikkal Hotels and Places to Stay

Guide Harald Waikkal

• Bewertungen

• Karte / Lage
• Wetter / Klima

Infos Guide Harald Waikkal

• Frühbucher/ Pauschalreisen

Hotels in der Nähe: Guide Harald Waikkal

76 Bewertungen Guide Harald Waikkal

Die Tour mit Haralds Touren war besonders enttäuschend, da wir uns aufgrund unangemessener Ersatzaktivitäten, wie dem Besuch einer Schildkrötenfarm und einer Stockfischanlage, zu doof fühlten und die Tour vorzeitig abbrachen. Unsere Entscheidung, nur bei dieser Dame zu buchen, erfolgte aufgrund von Empfehlungen von Freunden. Trotz dieser Empfehlung und entgegen unseren Erwartungen wurde ein hoher Preis von 650€ für eine unbefriedigende Erfahrung verlangt. Potenzielle Kunden sollten dies bei i... weiterlesen

Empfenswerte Ausflüge auf Deutsch

Tourguide in Negombo,direkt neben dem Clubhotel Dolphin, sprechen Super Deutsch, Touren können individuell gestaltet werden. weiterlesen

Einmal Harald, immer Harald

Harald-Tours sind einfach Spitze, nicht nur was die Ausflüge angeht (werden individuell nach Wunsch gestaltet). Brauchst du ne Apotheke, Massage einen Arzt o. ä., Harald bzw. seine Familie (speziell seine Frau) kümmern sich rührend. Hinter diesem Unternehmen steht die gesamte Familie, was man täglich nur bestätigen kann. Harald und seine Familie sind super freundlich und meinen das auch so👍. Wir kommen auf alle Fälle wieder😊 weiterlesen

Bester Reiseanbieter in Waikal, Harald Tours!

Auch wenn der Ausflüg über den Veranstalter vom Hotel sehr schön war und man wirklich nicht meckern kann ....würden wir in Sri Lanka Waikal / Club Hotel Dolhin nur noch über Harald einen Ausflug buchen. Weil er es einfach noch unvergesslicher und individueller macht. Auch mit unseren Kindern haben wir uns immer absolut sicher gefühlt. Es ist immer eine kleinere Gruppe ( wir waren immer alleine / zu fünft) . Harald geht immer auf persönliche Wünsche ein und plante unseren ganz eigenen Ausflugs... weiterlesen

Super Ausflug mit Harald Tours

Wir waren Ende November bis Mitte Dezember im Clubhotel Dolphin und haben einen Ausflug mit Harald Tours gemacht. Der Ausflug war sehr informativ, gut geplant und sehr schön. Die Guides waren Klasse und Harald Frau hat sehr gut erklärt. Das ganze Team und die Familie von Harald sind sehr nett und sehr freundlich. Zudem noch ein klasse Mittagessen in Haralds Haus, zubereitet von seiner Tochter. Einfach Klasse, sehr zu empfehlen. weiterlesen

Altersgruppen

Interessantes in der nähe.

Sehenswürdigkeiten

Sport & Freizeit

Essen & Trinken

Hotels in der Umgebung

Orte in der Nähe

• Hotels Negombo 8.45 km
• Hotels Marawila 14.16 km
• Hotels Minuwangoda 16.06 km
• Hotels Ganemulla 26.89 km
• Hotels Uswetakeiyawa 27.86 km
• Hotels Gampaha 28.09 km
• Hotels Chilaw 31.47 km
• Hotels Wattala 33 km
• Hotels Kelaniya 37.48 km
• Hotels Colombo 39.07 km

• Waikkal Tourism
• Waikkal Hotels
• Bed and Breakfast Waikkal
• Waikkal Holiday Rentals
• Flights to Waikkal
• Waikkal Restaurants
• Waikkal Attractions
• Waikkal Travel Forum
• Waikkal Photos
• Waikkal Map
• All Waikkal Hotels
• Waikkal Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Waikkal
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Holiday Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travellers' Choice
• Help Centre

Harald Tours - Waikkal Forum

• Asia    
• Sri Lanka    
• Central Province    
• Waikkal    

Harald Tours

• United Kingdom Forums
• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Holiday Rentals
• Central Province forums
• Waikkal forum

I have noticed quite a few questions relating to Harald, so here are some details which will hopefully be useful;

Harald Tours, Kammala South, Waikkala.

Tel. +9477-6019816

e-mail: [email protected]

I was there with my wife in June, and used Harald for all our trips.

His shop is 2 minutes walk along the river from Hotel Dolphin, and I would recomend him for an efficient and friendly service. We took a couple of long distance trips, and many short local trips; includng boats on the river and tuk tuks to the local towns. I am sure anyone wishing to book trips in advance can do so by phone or e-mail.

Thanks for that, really helpful..we are hoping to use Harald for trips as he has some rave reviews........which were the best trips??

the main trip is the 2 day kandy trip, but me and my partner didnt want to stay over night, so we did elephant wash, elephant orphanage, temple of the tooth, spice garden, then tea factory all in one day for just £28 each, with only 4 people going

I would suggest that the trip that you did, although a nice day out, if not LONG of course, was actually a little over priced considering that 4 people were on that trip.

i think this was as when we booked it, it was only me and my partner going, we only found out another couple was coming when we got to reception at 6am

I agree with Dave on this one - I don't think £28 per person is very competitive by Sri Lankan standards for a day trip. It also sounds a though you booked an exclusive trip and then Harald Tours decided to save money and make more profit by making it non exclusive.

I don't know where these rumours of Harald's rave reviews and fantastic value came from - maybe he has a few cousins in the UK and Europe writing up the reviews!!

I would of been quite happy to pay £28 for a day long trip......it sounds very cheap to me!!

Ive been emailing Harald on the above email address but it keeps bouncing back saying unknown email address.

Any other email address for him?

Thanks......

going to sri lanka in May and tried to email harald tours, but i have had my emails returned to me saying this email is not correct... i will see him when i am out there and i cannot wait... thank you for your information about harald tours..

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

• Club dolphin hotel Sri Lanka 26 January 2020
• Night life in waikkal 28 November 2019
• Plugs and room advice at Club Hotel Dolphin 27 November 2019
• Vaccinations 05 November 2019
• Taxi companies 02 November 2019
• Taxi to Colombo 02 November 2019
• Club Dolphin Hotel Sri Lanka 26 September 2019
• Club dolphin excursions and trips 20 May 2019
• Couple of questions 03 March 2019
• Weather in May 07 February 2019
• Weather in Waikkal Sri Lanka 07 February 2019
• Club Hotel Dolphin 27 January 2019
• What is the best way to change money in Sri Lanka 26 January 2019
• Vaccinations and visa 10 January 2019
• Asda Tours 6 replies
• Currency to use in Sri Lanka 8 replies
• Malaria tabs 18 replies
• cost of living in sri lanka 2 replies
• ranwell holiday village 7 replies
• Sri Lanka 2010: Cost of Living and working with local NGO's 9 replies
• Qatar or Emirates? 11 replies
• Topless sunbathing 19 replies
• First Choice have stopped flying to Sri Lanka for 2011 :-( 4 replies
• Complaints email 9 replies

Waikkal Hotels and Places to Stay

• Sri Lanka Tours
• Guided and Escorted Tours

Sri Lanka Escorted tours and Guided trips

Experience the best of Sri Lanka with our Sri Lanka-guided tours designed especially for travelers who value expert guidance and assistance throughout their journey. With knowledgeable guides by your side, you'll have access to insider tips, safety assurance, and expert navigation, leaving you to relax and soak up the beauty of Sri Lanka. Explore ancient archaeological sites, such as the magnificent Sigiriya Rock Fortress or the sacred city of Anuradhapura, as your guide shares captivating stories and historical context. Discover the wildlife of Sri Lanka’s national parks, with an expert guide leading you to the best spots for encountering elephants, leopards, and a myriad of colorful bird species. Your guide will also help you bargain for unique souvenirs in the bustling stalls of Colombo. With everything taken care of, our guided tours to Sri Lanka offer unparalleled convenience. Build a personalized itinerary for a more delightful travel experience with a customized trip to Sri Lanka . Or check out our guided tours for Sri Lanka below.

• Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka

126 guided tours in Sri Lanka

• Starts Katunayake, Sri Lanka
• Ends Katunayake, Sri Lanka

Best of Sri Lanka Tour

• Free cancellation
• Trip customizable
• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities Natural landmarks sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites Natural landmarks sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Beach , Local culture , City sightseeing , Trekking and Hiking & Nature and bush walks 'data-more-tripid='15679'>+5 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Resort
• Transport Train, Jeep & Boat
• Age Range 1-79 yrs
• Operated in English
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

• Starts Negombo, Sri Lanka
• Ends Colombo, Sri Lanka

Best of Sri Lanka

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities Active and outdoor & Art and architecture Active and outdoor , Art and architecture , Bicycle tours & Trekking and Hiking 'data-more-tripid='3380'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Guest House
• Transport Private Vehicle, Train, Bus, Jeep & Boat
• Age Range 15-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,545
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 255
• Total Price from: US$ 2,290
• May 26 Only 1 seat left
• Jun 05 Only 5 seats left

• Ends Unawatuna, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka Uncovered

• Activities Safari & Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Accommodation Hotel & Tent
• Transport Private Vehicle, Train, 4WD Jeep & Minibus
• Age Range 18-40 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,395
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 140
• Total Price from: US$ 1,255
• Apr 29 Only 3 seats left
• May 13 10+ seats left

• Starts Veyangoda, Sri Lanka

Discover Sri Lanka

• Activities Wildlife & Local culture Wildlife , Local culture , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Festivals and events & Safari 'data-more-tripid='7494'>+3 more
• Transport Bus, Train, Boat & 4WD Jeep
• Age Range 16-95 yrs
• Jun 16 Only 8 seats left
• Jul 21 Only 2 seats left

Sri Lanka Express

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Countryside and village visits Cultural, religious and historic sites , Countryside and village visits & Wildlife safaris and game drives 'data-more-tripid='4526'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Guest House, Camping & Villa
• Transport Bus, Private Vehicle & 4WD Jeep
• Age Range 12-95 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,249
• Special Deal (35%): - US$ 438
• Total Price from: US$ 811
• Apr 28 Only 7 seats left
• Jun 30 Only 5 seats left

• Ends Galle, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka Adventure Escape

• Tour Type Private Tour
• Activities Adventure & Cultural, religious and historic sites Adventure , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Natural landmarks sightseeing & Sightseeing Tours 'data-more-tripid='38663'>+2 more
• Transport Jeep, Private Vehicle & Train
• Age Range 18-80 yrs

• Starts Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

Cycle the Back Roads of Sri Lanka

• Activities Bicycle tours
• Accommodation Hotel, Resort & Villa
• Transport Bus, Train, Coach & Boat
• Jul 21 Only 6 seats left
• Sep 29 Only 8 seats left

Sri Lanka Cultural Round Island

• Activities Adventure & Cultural, religious and historic sites Adventure , Cultural, religious and historic sites , City sightseeing , Museum and gallery visits & National parks 'data-more-tripid='38712'>+3 more

• Starts Kotugoda, Sri Lanka
• Ends Weligama, Sri Lanka

Off The Beaten Path

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Natural landmarks sightseeing Cultural, religious and historic sites , Natural landmarks sightseeing & Beach 'data-more-tripid='39688'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Lodge, Resort & Villa
• Transport Boat, Jeep & Private Vehicle

• Starts Colombo, Sri Lanka

Sri Lankan Highlights

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Festivals and events Cultural, religious and historic sites , Festivals and events & Natural landmarks sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='7486'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Bungalow
• Transport 4WD Jeep & Train
• Jul 21 Only 8 seats left
• Aug 06 Only 8 seats left

Colombo, Caves & Kandy - 8 days

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & City sightseeing Cultural, religious and historic sites , City sightseeing & Wildlife safaris and game drives 'data-more-tripid='15887'>+1 more
• Transport Train & 4WD Jeep
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,525
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 153
• Total Price from: US$ 1,372
• Apr 27 10+ seats left
• May 11 10+ seats left

Spectacular Sri Lanka

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Natural landmarks sightseeing Cultural, religious and historic sites , Natural landmarks sightseeing , Local boat rides , Countryside and village visits , National parks & Farm and plantation visits 'data-more-tripid='18439'>+4 more
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Coach, Boat & Jeep
• Age Range 12-70 yrs

Romantic Escape, Private Tour

• Activities Art and architecture & Active and outdoor Art and architecture , Active and outdoor , Honeymoon & Romantic 'data-more-tripid='33794'>+2 more
• Transport Boat
• Age Range 10-99 yrs
• Operated in Spanish, Dutch, French, Italian, German, English
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,138
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 321
• Total Price from: US$ 1,817
• May 07 Only 3 seats left
• May 08 Only 3 seats left

• Ends Mirissa, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka Encompassed

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Farm and plantation visits Cultural, religious and historic sites , Farm and plantation visits & Wildlife safaris and game drives 'data-more-tripid='4528'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Resort & Home-stay
• Transport Boat, Train, Bus & Private Vehicle
• Jul 13 Only 2 seats left
• Jul 20 10+ seats left

Going to Sri Lanka? Chat with a local travel specialist in Sri Lanka who can help personalize your own escorted trip to Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka Guided Tour Reviews

• Rhianna Agnello
• Andrew Pupillo
• Elizabeth Pearson

Guided and escorted tours

• Asia guided tours
• Central Asia guided tours
• Mediterranean guided tours
• Middle East guided tours
• South East Asia guided tours
• Nepal guided tours
• Vietnam guided tours
• India guided tours
• Sri lanka trips
• Sri Lanka budget tours
• Eco tours in Sri Lanka
• Sri Lanka family tour packages
• Sri Lanka luxury tours
• Sri Lanka private tours
• Sri Lanka small group tours
• Sri Lanka solo trips
• Sri Lanka tailor-made vacation packages
• Sri Lanka tours for senior citizens
• Sri Lanka tours for young adults
• Sri Lanka group tours
• Sri Lanka last minute deals
• Sri Lanka travel deals

Sri Lanka upcoming departures

• Spring 2024/2025
• Summer 2024/2025
• Winter 2024/2025
• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024

Sign-in to unlock instant trip discounts. Create wish lists and save up to USD 1,500.

• North Western

Harald Tours

We organize excursions within Sri Lanka. e-mail: [email protected]

Rate & Write Reviews

Help us to improve.

• Suggest an edit
• Request for deletion

Interesting Places

Rico Shadow Sri Lanka

St. Sebastian Church

KP Family Restaurant

Rico Shadow Restaurant

Rajaz restaurant.

Patrick Tours (Permanently Closed)

Rico Shadow Guest House

Club Hotel Dolphin

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.

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).

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).

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. 

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.

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).

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

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

Oct 29, 2023 • 6 min read

Oct 15, 2023 • 3 min read

Jun 2, 2023 • 8 min read

May 26, 2022 • 18 min read

Jan 2, 2024 • 11 min read

Nov 4, 2023 • 6 min read

Oct 16, 2023 • 8 min read

General Tours

Family Tours

Boutique And Luxury Tours

Adventure Tours

Wildlife Tours

Cultural Tour

• Things to do
• Tailor Made

Paradise on Earth

• All Tour Types Halal Friendly Tours General Tours Family Tours Boutique and Luxury Tours Eco Adventure Tours Wildlife Tours Romantic Tours Cultural Tours Ramayana Tours Ayurveda Tours
• All Months to Travel January February March April May June July August Semptember October November December

Sri Lanka Tours Private & Tailored

Discover Sri Lanka with our Private & Tailored Tours. Meet friendly people, learn of the rich history, explore ruined cities, marvel the animal life, relax on a beautiful beach. Located at the southern tip of India, Sri Lanka is an island nation surrounded by the warm blue waters of the Indian Ocean.

Counting over 20 years of experience as a Tour Operator in Sri Lanka providing tailor-made tours, Tourslanka is widely recognized for its friendly service, reliability and professionalism. We are independently owned and have been in business since 1999. You can be assured of a speedy response, accurate information, reliable and friendly service delivered with traditional Sri Lankan warmth.

A private tour of this magical island is on top of the wish list of many!

By taking one of our private escorted tours to Sri Lanka, you will be able to;

• Meet extremely friendly, hospitable and easygoing people.
• Stay at authentic hotels and experience our unique itineraries.
• Learn about the rich, vibrant and colorful history dating back over 2500 years!
• Explore ruined cities, palaces, temples, fortresses, royal pleasure gardens and ancient dagobas – second only to the great pyramids of Egypt.
• Enjoy the beautiful lakes, magnificent waterfalls, historic canals, flat and wild rivers, calm and quiet lagoons and marshes.
• Marvel at the abundance of animal life with our own sub-species of elephant, leopards, with many birds, butterflies amphibians and plants unique to this island.
• Relax in an island with some of the most beautiful beaches, bays and underwater attractions you could find in the world.
• Be humbled by panoramic mountains, narrow passes and gaps provide you with some of the finest and spectacular views you could find anywhere.
• Be mesmerized by the astounding variety and depth of handicraft, music, dance and art forms evolved through thousands of years.
• Tempt your senses to the to the exotic sights, sounds, smells and tastes that can only be Sri Lanka.

Let us help you create your ideal private escorted  Sri Lanka Tours .

Extraordinary Experiences Designed just for you

Sri lanka tour packages.

Most popular Honeymoon In Paradise

Culture tour

Wildlife & Nature Tour

Best of Lanka Tour

Family Tour

Photography Tour In Sri Lanka

Golf Tour Sri Lanka

Things to do in sri lanka.

Ella, Sri Lanka

Polonnaruwa The Medieval Kingdom

Sigiriya – The Rock Fortress in the Sky

Yala National Park

Extraordinary experience designed just for you, why tourslanka.

We are based in Sri Lanka

Experience – Loads of it! Since 1999

Private Sri Lanka tours

The best hotels & locations in sri lanka all personally vetted by us, why our clients love us.

A massive thank you for organising a fabulous holiday!

Sunil very gentlemanly and very patient with our questions. We would gladly recommend both Tourslanka and also our guide Sunil.

Thank you very much; it was a pleasure to travel with your organization.

How to craft your dream vacation

Now is the best time to visit sri lanka.

Discover Sri Lanka with our Private & Tailored Tours. Meet friendly people, experience the rich history, explore ruined cities, marvel the animal life, relax on a beautiful beach.

WHY IS IT THE BEST TIME TO TRAVEL NOW?

• 1 Less crowd at attractions & hotels..so you can have better experiences.
• 2 Fantastic deals and special offers for a fraction of the cost.
• 3 Higher security and safety!
• 4 You will be supporting the local communities and economy.
• 5 Below are a few more reasons to why it is the best time to travel to Sri Lanka now

Check out some of the great accommodation and other special offers we currently have or talk to one of our experienced and knowledgeable travel advisers by clicking on the inquire now button below.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Products
• Travel Accessories

The 14 Items You Need for Any Active Trip, From Someone Who Hiked, Biked, and Kayaked for a Week in Sri Lanka

Don't forget to pack any of these travel essentials.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Madison Woiten

As an avid traveler and outdoor enthusiast, I’m always looking for destinations that have a lot of opportunities to be active. Hiking, biking, kayaking, rafting, scuba diving — I do it all and I love it all. So, when I heard that Intrepid Travel was offering a hiking, biking, kayaking Sri Lanka trip, I signed up immediately, and quickly started putting together a packing list . 

Since each activity required its own gear, I had to put a lot of thought into what I brought on the three-week-long adventure. And, because I’d prefer to not be hauling around multiple massive suitcases, I always travel light with items that work well across multiple activities — say, leggings that are great for both hiking and biking , a poolside cover-up that doubles as an everyday shirt or dress, and hiking sneakers that could be worn from the trail to the city streets . I also had to take Sri Lanka's wonderfully warm climate into account (luckily, I was visiting during the dry season, but I knew rain was still possible); this meant that I'd need clothing that was moisture-wicking, cooling, and quick-drying . 

Whether you’re heading to Mexico, Morocco, or Machu Picchu (or you’re lucky enough to visit Sri Lanka), here’s what you’ll need for your next active trip this spring or summer. This foolproof packing list will keep you comfortable, dry, and safe on the trails, roads, and rivers so you can focus on having fun. 

Arc’Teryx Women’s Beta LT Jacket

I will be the first to admit that this is one crazy expensive jacket, but having worn it on hundreds of miles of hikes over the past year, I’ll add that it is 100 percent worth the price. The beauty of this jacket is that it is ultralight and breathable, so you can wear it during hot and humid hikes in Sri Lanka (which I did). But, it comes equally in handy for cold-weather hikes and snowshoe treks in Yellowstone (which I also did) when layered over fleece. Instead of stuffing your closets with multiple jackets to wear at different times of year, you just need this one awesome jacket. 

Typically, the more waterproof a jacket is, the heavier and less breathable it is, but Arc’Teryx has managed to make this insanely lightweight jacket 100 percent waterproof, which is why the price is higher than lesser-quality jackets. This way, you stay dry without totally overheating and sweating. Water-resistant is not the same as waterproof, and I was very grateful that this jacket is fully waterproof , as it got me through several rainy days in Sri Lanka in February and also a wet and wild 96-mile hike in the Scottish Highlands last summer. I also used it for biking, kayaking, rafting, and walking around town. It might not ever need to buy another jacket again — it’s that good.

Matador Beast 18 Technical Pack

Though the pack is called “technical” — and this definitely is a technical pack — don’t let the name fool you; you don’t have to be a super technical hiker trekking through the backwoods to appreciate this pack. Yes, it has all of the convenient features that you need for a hiking pack, such as plenty of pockets, water bottle sleeves, and straps to attach your hiking poles, but this also shines as a good everyday pack. I do use it for hiking, but I’ve also used it for biking since it also doubles as an excellent day bag. I wore it nearly every single day during my three weeks in Sri Lanka while touring cities and hauling my stuff to the beaches along the southern coast. 

What's more, the bag has a waterproof coating, it’s super light, and it folds down when it's not in use, so you can seamlessly fit it into your luggage and then whip it out when you arrive (I also sometimes use it as my carry-on bag to save even more suitcase space).

Smartwool Classic All-season Merino T-shirt

Merino wool is great because it is soft, durable, comfortable and it can be worn in any temperature or season. It wicks away moisture and dries quickly, which keeps you dry and cool in the summer and dry and warm in the winter. I’ve worn this shirt on hot and sweaty hikes in Tucson and Mesa, Arizona, and through chilly fall hikes in New York’s Adirondacks. This shirt was easy to wash in a hotel sink and it dried super fast, so I was able to wash and re-wear it several times in Sri Lanka.

Not all wool is ethically or sustainably sourced, so I appreciate that Smartwool uses ZQ-certified wool to ensure responsible sourcing. I also love that Smartwool is one of few outdoor brands that has truly inclusive sizing, with many of their tops and bottoms going up to a 4XL.

Cassandra Brooklyn

Smartwool Active Women’s Leggings

The name of this product perfectly describes it, as these are leggings made of wool and intended for active women. Hello, that’s me! I’ve been wearing these leggings for about a year and a half and they’ve gone all over the world with me while hiking, biking, kayaking, dancing, relaxing, and even lounging on river cruises. Like the previously mentioned Smartwool T-shirt, these leggings are also made from high-tech wool to keep you cool, wick away moisture, and dry quickly. They can also be worn year-round, regardless of the weather or temperature. 

The side drop-in pockets are perfect for holding your phone or hotel key card, and there’s also a hidden interior waist pocket where you can hide money and credit cards. Though these are designed for “active” activities, because they are slim-fitted, pretty, and available in solid colors (I have the all-black pair), they can easily be worn with a cute top for going out to dinner or walking around town. This way, I can get multiple uses out of a single pair of pants, which is also easy to rewash in the sink and hang dry overnight to rewear the next day.

Outdoor Vitals Altitude Sun Hoodie

I got this lightweight, long-sleeve “sun hoodie” two years ago for a two-week-long summer rafting trip in the Grand Canyon, and it’s still one of my favorite tops for all sorts of adventure travel. Not only is the sweatshirt rated to protect your skin against high-altitude sun, but thanks to the hood, it provides protection for your ears and neck — two areas that often get a ton of sun exposure but less attention when it comes to sunscreen application. The shirt is so light that it almost feels like wearing nothing and it dries super quickly, so it was my go-to for kayaking in Sri Lanka. I also wore it for a 25-mile bike ride through tea plantations and as a cover-up while reading at the beach.

OtterBox Symmetry Series Phone Case

When you're always on the move, you need to make sure that every part of your travel repertoire is durable — even your phone case. I prefer sleek, thin cases that offer an extra layer of defense should my phone fall out of my pocket while I'm hiking or biking, which is why I'm a fan of OtterBox's stylishly protective Symmetry cases. They provide excellent drop protection, are compatible with MagSafe charging pads, and come in a ton of fun colors and prints. 

The cases have raised edges to help protect the camera, but I also use this OtterBox antimicrobial screen protector for even more coverage. This combo worked well for me on the Sri Lanka trip (and for everyday life in New York City) because the case is thin enough to fit in my hip pouch and prevents scratches, cracks, and other drop-related damage. If you need even more protection, opt for the OtterBox Defender case , which is a bit thicker and even more rugged.

Darn Tough Lightweight Hiking Socks

Even in the best hiking shoes or boots, your feet can get sweaty and prone to blisters if you’re not wearing good socks. While you certainly can hike in the everyday cotton socks that many of us wear at home, they don’t breathe or have grip, so your feet may sweat and slide around in your shoes. Darn Tough socks are super comfortable, ultra-lightweight, made in the USA. and they come in various weights, colors, prints, and styles (no-show, ankle, crew, and knee-high). For this trip, I wore the low-cut version for cycling and walking around town, and the crew version when hiking to offer a bit more protection from plants and bugs.

Sawyer Stay-Put Sunscreen and Insect Repellent

Speaking of bugs, this two-for-one deal ensures that your insect repellent and SPF needs are covered. It’s important to wear sunscreen on vacation regardless of where you go and what you do, but it’s especially important when you’ll be active outside in the sun for many hours. Even some of the best everyday sunscreens don’t cut it when you’re hiking, biking, and kayaking because they might sweat off before you’ve even gotten started. I love the Sawyer Stay-Put Sunscreen because it does just that — it stays put . 

I have sensitive skin, so I always apply a fancy-pants facial sunscreen from my aesthetician in the morning. But when I’m traveling, I often wind up re-applying later in the day with Sawyer's Stay-Put formula so I’m not carrying around multiple types of sunscreen during the day. I’m happy to report that I’ve never had issues with my skin breaking out as a result. This combo bundle also includes their picaridin insect repellent, which I also love because it is safer and more effective than the gross-smelling DEET sprays and lotions a lot of us grew up with. I didn’t actually encounter many mosquitos in Sri Lanka, but I was still glad to have repellent with me.

Altra Lone Peak 8 Trail Running Shoes

Hands down, these are my favorite shoes in the world. Technically, they are trail running shoes, but I never run; I only use them for walking and hiking. This is the newest version of the shoe, which I started wearing a few months ago, but I’ve worn an earlier version of this shoe nearly every day for the last two years. The extra-wide toe boxes and sticky soles make them super comfy and provide a non-slip grip that was perfect for the dry, wet, and rocky trails in Sri Lanka. I also wore them for walking around the streets of capital city Colombo and while visiting tea plantations and spice gardens. Depending on the trip, these could easily be the only shoes that you'll need to pack. 

Keen Rose Active Sandals

Even though this was an active trip, I didn’t want my feet to be stuck in hiking shoes every day, so I also brought my trusty Keen hiking sandals. Keen is known for making really rugged hiking boots, shoes, and sandals that offer great grip, comfort, and support, and I love these sandals because they’re a bit softer, lighter, and prettier than traditional hiking sandals. While I do wear them for light hiking, I especially love them on multi-activity trips because they’re cute enough to be worn with dresses, skirts, or leggings and blouses. In Sri Lanka, I wore them to hike up Mini Adam’s Peak in the tea town of Ella, to visit Buddhist temples in Kandy, and during my tuk tuk tour in Colombo.

Hydro Flask Lightweight Trail Series Water Bottle

This has been my main go-to water bottle for the last two years because it’s ultra-rugged and insulated, but also impressively lightweight. While an insulated water bottle wasn’t completely necessary for this trip, I loved carrying it with me because it was more refreshing to drink cool water during a 90-degree bike ride than it was to drink stale water that had been heating up in plastic all day. I usually stuff the bottle into the side pocket of my daypack, but because it has a sturdy handle, I used a carabiner to clip it onto my kayak or raft. And while I mostly filled this bottle with cool water for hiking, biking, kayaking, beach-going, and walking tours in Sri Lanka, I filled it with hot tea for my long-haul flights to-from the country. This bottle is not cheap, but it lasts forever (I’ve literally taken it on hundreds of miles of hikes).

Grayl GeoPress Water Filter Bottle

I refuse to buy bottled water anywhere in the world because the discarded bottles are devastating to the environment, particularly in countries that lack adequate recycling facilities. I haven’t bought bottled water in over six years, and that’s precisely because I always carry this Grayl GeoPress Water Filter Bottle with me. I’ve used it to filter and drink water from rivers, streams, lakes, and waterfalls around the world, and I also used it to filter the water in my hotels in Sri Lanka. There are newer models of the Grayl filter available, but this is the one that I use; it’s fantastic with its convenient drinking spout. I usually use it to filter the water and then pour it into my insulated canteen to carry during the day.

Bajío Eldora Sunglasses

I have a few pairs of sunglasses on rotation, but for active trips, I always opt for higher-end polarized frames like these sunnies from Bajío. Why? Because they are more comfortable, they block out more sun, and they stay put on my face without adding a ton of extra weight or making me overheat. Polarized glasses are designed for people who spend a lot of time outside, especially doing activities around water and snow, which produce a lot of glare. While I’ve worn these glasses on plenty of snow hikes in Wyoming, Wisconsin, and upstate New York, they also worked beautifully for hiking, biking, and kayaking in Sri Lanka. 

They were especially important for the kayaking trip and a separate whale watching boat tour that I did because the sun’s glare off the water was so intense. I’m also a big fan of Bajío sunglasses because there are hundreds of combinations of frames and lenses. The brand also offers unique frame shapes and pretty frame and lens colors — like these stylish hot pink frames with bright blue, pink, or purple polarized lenses. 

Catherine Dress Mini Cover-up

Even though the focus of my trip to Sri Lanka was hiking, biking, and kayaking, I also spent a couple of nights at the beach and there were great pools at a lot of the hotels. Swimsuit cover-ups are handy anywhere in the world, but they are especially important in more conservative countries like Sri Lanka, where it’s not exactly polite to run around with your butt hanging out. Do some travelers do it? Yes. Do the locals appreciate it? No. I love this cover-up dress by Catherine because it works as a swimsuit cover-up at the pool and beach, but it also doubles as a cute top when paired with jeans (or my aforementioned Smartwool leggings).   

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

See More T+L Shopping Deals

• Attractive Holiday Offers
• Serene Sri Lanka
• North & East Coast Explorer
• Turquoise Seas
• Classic Cultural
• Royal Heritage
• Sri Lanka Highlights
• Hill Comfort
• Wedded Bliss
• Customised Incentives Tours
• Animal Instinct
• Wildlife Paradise
• The Wanderer
• Bespoke Tours
• Things to do in Colombo
• Hot Air Ballooning
• Whale Watching
• Catamaran Ride
• Conserve Turtles
• Explore Ella
• Live Like A Local
• Tea in The Mountains
• The Last Kingdom of Sri Lanka
• The Legend of Saradiel
• Village lifestyle
• Seat in Coach
• Luxury Boutique Hotels
• Luxury Star Class Hotels
• Luxury Camping
• Special Events
• Explore Sri Lanka
• Maldives Tours
• Sustainability
• Travelbites
• Inquire Now

Walkers Tours

Walkers Tours has been the leader in the Sri Lankan tourism industry for over 54 years, organizing Sri Lanka tours for couples on holiday or honeymoon, for individual adventurers and nature lovers, as well as for special interest and incentives holiday groups and convention delegates.

• Tailor Made Tours
• Over 54 years of Industry Experience
• South Asia’s First Carbon Neutral Fleet
• Public Liability Insurance of 3 Million
• Book your Transfers & Excursions Online
• Value for Money

Touring Sri Lanka is easy when you leave all the arrangements to Walkers Tours. Our guides and chauffeurs have an impressive knowledge of all aspects of this incredible country.

• Sri Lanka Tours

Bespoke tours

Customised tours and excursions around Sri Lanka just for you

Airport & other transfers

We offer airport pick up, airport drop off and point to point transfers within the country. Book now with us to see our competitive transfer rates!

Seat in coach

Our Seat-in Coach Tours give you the ability to book an authentic travel experience of Sri Lanka without having to go through the hassle of arranging transport, accommodation or creating an itinerary.

We took a 'Highlights of Sri Lanka' tour with Walkers (booked through Virgin Holidays). We can't rate this company highly enough. The main credit for this must go to our guide Lathif who's knowledge, professionalism and humour made our trip one to remember! He was extremely friendly and always on hand to answer any questions we had. He even went the extra mile to organise a very scenic train ride (which was not on our original itinerary, but was something we really wanted to do)

instagram with us

More reasons to say yes

Deals and special offers.

APRIL SALE:   Discover and book at   up to 60% off!

Sri Lanka Family Tours & Vacation Packages

Let TourRadar take the hassle out of finding a trip for the whole family. With 526 tours of Sri Lanka lasting from one day up to 26 days, you're sure to find a great family-friendly adventure. Looking beyond Sri Lanka? See all family holidays .

250+ Sri Lanka Family trips with 1,241 reviews

Tropical Island Wanderer Family Holiday

It was a great trip! My son and I enjoyed it a lot. There is a lot of driving but the bus was very comfortable. Our tour guide, Nalaka, was great....attentive to our needs and wishes. Overall a very nice experience.

• Christmas & New Year

Family Tour Of Sri Lanka

We travelled with BH Tours for 8 days in Sri Lanka and Fell in love with the country, the people and the food here. Our tour guide was Gayantha and he offered us a complete guided tour of all the places and was very helpful with all our requests. The experience with BH Tours was over all wonderful and we will definitely choose them for our future visit to Sri Lanka :) I would recommend them for an authentic tour in Sri Lanka.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Family Highlights of Sri Lanka (West Coast)

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Sri Lanka Family Holiday

Sri Lanka Family Tour with Intrepid Travel... Was excellent value overall!! We enjoyed the itinerary and the flow of the tour. The hotels were ok.. nothing spectacular but clean and nice. We loved the camping site!! Nice things to see.. though in Mirissa I would skip the whale tour and do some surf lessons instead!!! Food was good on the tour though you eat in alot of hotels.. not many chances to eat at local joints off the tour. Transportation was nice and activities were well planned out with enough down time in between to catch up. Mahendra our guide was amazing!! super knowledgeable and fun to be around!! highlights were Lions Rock, the train ride, the walk thru the tea plantation and kite flying in Mirissa!!

Discover Sri Lanka Beauty - FREE Yala Safari

We made a last minute request to visit Sri Lanka through ASY Tours for a 12 days itinerary. ASY Tours accepted it without any hesitation and planned it exactly the way we wanted it to be.  They responded promptly for each requests we made. They also came to the airport to greet us. They made us very comfortable and provided an excellent, safe car with a driver named Mr Ashoka - a humble, kind-hearted and always smiling individual who made sure we had the best time. He also had a very good sense of humour which made our tour even more enjoyable. From the very beginning to the end, ASY Tours were very dedicated and did their best. We were very satisfied with all the arrangements they made, from hotel to the food - we enjoyed it all! The team were very friendly and trustworthy. I would recommend ASY Tours to my family and friends.

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

• In-depth Cultural

Splendour Of Sri Lanka (7 Days) Free Upgrade to Private Tour Available

So it's only fair I start this review by praising how amazing our driver and tour guide Nishantha (Nish) Was. he made us feel so comfortable throughout our entire tour, he was very knowledgeable about all the places we visited and really went out of his way to make sure we were happy with what we had done each day. He was always on time and we felt very safe with his driving as you may or may not know drivers and tuk tuks in Sri Lanka are pretty crazy and Nish was very relaxed and in total control. He also took us to places that weren't on the schedule which he called Nish's highlights and he seemed to know everyone lol and everyone seemed to really like him which made us feel entirely safe. On our last day for drop off at our hotel that we had booked not through the tour company and the hotel was to say the least not very welcoming and dirty so Nish drove us to a new hotel which we knew with no quibble and sorted out on our behalf with the hotel for none payment. We feel we've made a friend in Nish and will definitely us him again whenever we return to Sri Lanka. So onto the hotels, each hotel was clean and the food was good no upset stomachs which was good, we opted for the moderate hotels package and we booked quite late so some of the original hotels that were quoted were full but beauty Lanka travels found some very nice alternatives The only issue we probably would say was that the hotels were very quiet with no evening entertainment but to be honest we were quite tired each night so we would chill in our room after dinner. In fact one hotel we stayed at we were the only 2 people in the whole hotel staying there but the whole staff made us feel very special and the food was amazing. So now On to the tour itinerary and company itself to be honest I can't fault beauty Lanka travels for what they provided the attractions where varied and well spread out, each day was definitely full and you can adjust anything you want or don't want to do Me and my wife really wanted to see and do the ambuluwawa tower (which we highly recommend) so Nish just cut out another part of the tour to accommodate so we could To make you aware the tour is quite tiring as it's quite early starts and late finishes And you are checking in and out of hotels every day so you dont really get to use the hotel facilities much. If we was to do another tour we would prob have it so we have break days especially at Ella ( which is lovely) and the last stop at the beach resort But overall very good company to deal with and they provided everything that was offered. Mr & Mr Mark

Grand Tour Sri Lanka - All Inclusive

We were in Srilanka for 14 days trip and booked online before our trip with ASY tours. They planned our tour very well including great places in Srilanka. This was superb value for money that was educational interesting and entertaining and I have no hesitation in awarding 5 stars and recommending ASy Tours to anyone visiting Srilanka.

Family Sri Lanka and Maldives Adventure

Splendour of Sri Lanka - ( 8 Days and 7 Nights tour in Sri Lanka )

Traveling through srilanka was unforgettable.our guide made history come alive , especially at yala where we saw elephants. The hotel were cozy and seeing the leopard was a highlight. rajh really knows his stuff

Glamour Of Sri Lanka

Tour Guide Joe was tuned in to our needs and very resourceful. I would highly recommend. Sri Lanka is a beautiful county with a lot of history, I feel bad for the people dealing with the economy collapse.

• Sightseeing

Sri Lanka Family Holiday Tour 10-Day with private driver, vehicle and H/B accommodations

Family Adventure, Sri Lanka in your Own Pace and Style (Private Tour)

Journey Through Sri Lanka - 08 Days Tour

We trusted Hellow Travel for making a memorable honeymoon, and they deserved it in every word!

Sri Lanka Unlimited Family Tour

Discover Sri Lanka -10 Days Tour

Reviews of sri lanka family tours.

A really nice 11 days tour in southern midpart of Sri Lanka. Not too rushy so we also could enjoy the places. We stayed at very good hotels all the way. The driver/guide took us to a lot of nice places. He also had good aknownledge and was serviceminded?

Amazing trip! We travelled to Sri Lanka in August/September 2019 and had a great experience with Step Lanka and our driver and guide Tharaka. We visited some amazing places and Tharaka used his knowledge to make sure we were able to make the most of each destination. He also found us the best and most cost effective way of doing the excursions, trips and classes that we wanted to do - pigeon island snorkelling and cookery class, in particular. Thanks so much for an unforgettable trip. We hope to come back again soon! Alex and Gemma

ASY Tours Sri Lanka provided an exceptional travel experience from start to finish. Their knowledgeable guides, comfortable accommodations, and well-planned itineraries made exploring Sri Lanka effortless and enjoyable. I highly recommend ASY Tours for anyone looking to discover the beauty and culture of this amazing country.

Regions in Sri Lanka

• Yala National Park (53)
• Western Sri Lanka (7)
• Southern Sri Lanka (7)
• Western Province Sri Lanka (6)
• Southern Province Sri Lanka (6)

Travel Styles

• 10 Best Family Travel Agencies 2024
• Sri Lanka Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 2 Weeks Sri Lanka Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Best 3 Day Sri Lanka Itineraries 2024/2025

6 Nights 7 Days-Muslim Halal tour with Yala National Park

Pickup location, tour description.

Yala National Park is famous for its variety of wild animals, but the leopard population may be the park's most fascinating aspect. You will enjoy Safari at Yala National Park. Tour is ideal for explore Sri Lanka Leisurely to get wildlife experience as well. This tour is mixed with Culture Nature, Hill Country & beach stay experience in Sri Lanka with cross culture experience.  You will explore Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Kandy City tour, Ramboda Water Falls, Tea Factory & Tea Plantation. We are ready to arrange halal meals at all the locations as per your requirements.

Day 01 (Airport- Kandy (Approx. 3.5 hours Drive)

• Upon your arrival at the airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your chauffer guide and proceed to Kandy.
• En-route, you will visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, a renowned wild Asian elephant orphanage and breeding site. Established in 1975, it is home to the world's largest captive elephant herd, with over 80 elephants. The orphanage aims to care for and protect orphaned and unweaned elephants found in Sri Lanka's forests.
• Afterward, you will visit the Spice Garden in Mawanella, where you can explore the fascinating world of Sri Lanka's famous spices. Learn about various spices, witness their farming and preparation processes, and even purchase some for yourself. The gardens offer a delightful stroll, showcasing nutmeg, pepper plants, clove trees, curry, cinnamon, and the valuable cardamom.
• Once you reach Kandy, check-in at your 4-star hotel and enjoy the facilities it has to offer.
• Overnight stay at the hotel in Kandy on a Bed & Breakfast basis.

Day 02 Kandy

• After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, you will visit the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens. Situated on the banks of the Mahaveli River, these gardens were originally established as a pleasure garden during the British colonial era. Today, they are renowned for their vast collection of plants, including orchids, spices, medicinal plants, and palm trees. Take a leisurely stroll along the green lawns, marvel at the flower arches, and make sure not to miss the impressive Javan tree, a great spot for photos. The suspension bridge is another highlight, offering a unique perspective of the garden.
• In the evening, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the Kandy Cultural Dance Show. This captivating performance showcases the rich arts, dances, and cultural heritage of Sri Lanka. It is a must-see for anyone visiting Kandy's old city and provides a wonderful insight into the country's vibrant traditions.
• Afterward, return to your 4-star hotel in Kandy for an overnight stay on a Bed & Breakfast basis.

Day 03 (Kandy-Nuwara Eliya (Approx. 4 hours Drive)

• After having breakfast at the hotel in Kandy, you will proceed to Nuwara Eliya. On the way, you will stop to visit the magnificent Ramboda Falls. Standing at an impressive height of 109 meters (358 feet), Ramboda Falls is the 11th highest waterfall in Sri Lanka and a stunning natural attraction. Located in the Pussellawa area of Ramboda, along the A5 highway, it is formed by the convergence of Panna Oya, a tributary of Kothmale Oya. The falls are twinned with Dunsinane Falls, which is formed by another tributary of the Kothmale River, Pundalu Oya, creating a captivating Y shape at the base.
• Continuing your journey, you will visit a Tea Factory and Tea Plantation in Nuwara Eliya. This region is renowned for its picturesque and lush green tea estates. It is Sri Lanka's most famous tea-growing district, and a visit to the tea plantations is a must. You will have the opportunity to learn about tea production, witness the tea-making process, and immerse yourself in the scenic beauty of the tea estates.
• Afterwards, you will check-in at a 4-star hotel in Nuwara Eliya for an overnight stay on a Bed & Breakfast basis.

Day 04 (Nuwara Eliya- Yala (Approx. 4.5 Hours Drive)

• After enjoying breakfast at the hotel in Nuwara Eliya, you will continue your journey towards Yala.
• Along the way, you will have the opportunity to visit Rawana Falls, a famous tourist destination in Sri Lanka. The falls are named after the mythical king Ravana, who is mentioned in the Indian epic, Ramayana. According to folklore, Ravana is said to have hidden Princess Sita in the caves behind the waterfall, now known as the Ravana Ella Cave.
• Upon reaching Yala, you will embark on an exciting evening safari at Yala National Park. As the most well-known and second-largest wildlife sanctuary in Sri Lanka, Yala National Park is located in the southeast of the country, bordering the southern and eastern provinces. The park is renowned for its diverse range of wildlife, with the leopard population being a particular highlight. Yala National Park is home to 32 species of mammals, 125 species of birds (including migratory birds), and an impressive density of up to 35 leopards. Spotting these elusive creatures can be challenging due to their nocturnal nature, but the park offers a thrilling opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat.
• After the safari, you will retire to your 4-star hotel in Yala for an overnight stay on a Bed & Breakfast basis.

Day 05 (Yala- Bentota/ Beruwala (Approx. 3.5 Hours Drive)

• After enjoying breakfast at the hotel in Yala, you will continue your journey towards Bentota/Beruwala, with a stopover at Galle.
• On the way, you will have the opportunity to witness the unique practice of stilt fishing in Weligama. Stilt fishing is a traditional fishing method found only in Sri Lanka, particularly in the southern coastal region. Fishermen perch on a crossbar, known as "petta," which is attached to a vertical pole driven into the seabed. From this elevated position, they cast their lines and patiently wait for the fish to strike. It is a fascinating sight and a testament to the cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.
• Next, you will visit the Galle Dutch Fort, also known as the Galle Fort, which was built by the Portuguese in 1588. Located in the bay of Galle on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, this fortress features 14 bastions and stands as the best-preserved example of a fortified city constructed by Europeans in Asia. The Galle Dutch Fort seamlessly blends European architectural styles with South Asian traditions, creating a unique and captivating atmosphere. In recognition of its historical and architectural significance, UNESCO designated the Galle Dutch Fort as a World Heritage Site in 1988.
• Upon reaching Bentota/Beruwala, you will check-in to your 4-star hotel for an overnight stay on a Bed & Breakfast basis.

Day 06 (Bentota/ Beruwala)

• After having breakfast at the hotel in Bentota/Beruwala, you will embark on a river safari at Madu Ganga.
• The Madu Ganga River Boat Safari is a popular attraction in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka. Located in the Balapitiya area, this safari takes you along the Madu Ganga River as it flows into the Indian Ocean. The river is surrounded by a 915-hectare complex coastal wetland ecosystem, forming a pristine lagoon. During the boat journey, you will have the opportunity to see kraal fishing structures, where local fishermen use traditional methods to catch fish. You may also spot various bird species such as pond herons and blue kingfishers that inhabit the wetland area. The boat excursion includes visits to a cinnamon island, Temple Island for worship, and a fish treatment experience, making it a unique and immersive adventure.
• Next, you will visit a turtle hatchery in Kosgoda. Sri Lanka is known for its conservation efforts to protect sea turtles, and the hatchery in Kosgoda plays a significant role in this endeavor. You will learn about the conservation initiatives, observe the turtle hatchlings, and gain insights into the importance of preserving these magnificent creatures.
• After a day of exploration, you will return to your 4-star hotel in Bentota/Beruwala for an overnight stay on a Bed & Breakfast basis.

Day 07 (Bentota/Beruwala - Airport  (Approx 2.5 hours Drive)

• After enjoying breakfast at your hotel in Bentota/Beruwala, you will proceed to Colombo for the final leg of your journey.
• In Colombo, you will embark on a city tour that will take you to various attractions. Your tour will include a visit to the Gangarama Buddhist Temple, a prominent temple located in the heart of Colombo. You will also explore Galle Face Green, a popular seaside promenade, and visit notable landmarks such as the Dutch Hospital, the Old Parliament Building, Colombo Harbour, the Slave Island area, the War Memorial, Colombo Public Library, Colombo National Museum, Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa Theatre, Viharamahadevi Park, Town Hall, the race track shopping area, Independence Square, Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall, and a replica of the Aukana Buddha statue. These highlights will provide you with a glimpse into the city's rich history, culture, and architectural wonders.
• After the city tour, you will have some free time at leisure for any last-minute shopping or to simply relax and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Colombo.
• Finally, with unforgettable memories of your tour in Sri Lanka, you will proceed to the airport for your departure flight.
• The Sign of Lanka Team will bid you farewell, ensuring that your time in Sri Lanka has been truly memorable.
• 06 nights’ Accommodation in above hotels or similar as per the mentioned basis
• Transport is based on 01 Air-conditioned Luxury private vehicle
• Service of an English/ Arabic-speaking Chauffeur Guide during sightseeing tours
• All current taxes applicable as of the tour date will be included in the package.
• Parking fees and highway tickets are also covered as part of the tour package.
• Entrance fees or jeep costs during the tour: Any entrance fees to monuments, attractions, national parks, or other sites, as well as any charges for jeep safaris or similar activities, are not included.
• Sri Lanka Visa:  The cost of obtaining a Sri Lanka visa is not included in the tour package.
• Cost of dinner and lunch during the tour (if not mentioned in the itinerary. You will be responsible for your own meal expenses during the tour.
• International airfare and airport taxes
• Any change in tax structure resulting from the hike in published tariff: If there are any changes in the tax structure or any additional taxes imposed by the government or authorities after the tour package is booked, resulting in a hike in the published tariff, the additional charges will be borne by the traveler.
• Items of personal nature like tips, laundry, phone calls, etc.
• Video/still camera fees at monuments and places of visit: If there are any fees for using video or still cameras at monuments, museums, or other places of visit, these fees are not included and would need to be paid separately at the respective locations.
• Any other item not explicitly mentioned under price includes.
• Bar, telephone, and laundry bills: Any expenses incurred at the hotel bar, telephone usage, or laundry services are not included in the tour package and will be your own responsibility.
• Tips to guides, restaurants, and hotel lobby: Tipping is customary in Sri Lanka, and while it is not mandatory, it is expected to tip guides, restaurant staff, and hotel lobby staff.
• Any other expenses: Any other expenses not mentioned in the tour package or itinerary, such as additional activities, shopping, or personal purchases, will be your own responsibility.
• Child rate applies only when sharing with 1 paying adult: The child rate for the tour applies when a child shares a room with one paying adult.
• Children 4 years + 11 months and younger are complimentary: Children who are 4 years old or younger, up to 11 months, are eligible for complimentary accommodation when accompanied by a paying adult.
• Children must be accompanied by an adult: It is required that children are accompanied by an adult throughout the tour.

Know before you go

• Halal Meal options are available, please advise at time of booking if required.
• Approximate duration of transfers: The duration of transfers mentioned in the itinerary is approximate. The actual duration may vary depending on factors such as the time of day and traffic conditions. It's recommended to consider these variables and plan accordingly to allow for any potential delays.
• Valid passport requirement: It is essential to carry a current and valid passport on the day of travel.
• Gratuity not included: Gratuity or tipping for services rendered is not included in the tour package.
• Wheelchair accessibility: Please note that this activity is not wheelchair accessible.

Related tours

2/M/4, Sri Parakum Lane,Amunugoda, Imbulgoda, Gampaha

Hotline: +94 77 620 3619

WhatsApp: +94 77 620 3619

Mail: [email protected]

TRAVEL BLOG

Read latest travel & tourism updates., © copyright 2023 sign of lanka | all rights reserved. web design by keenz, book your tour.

• +94 773 493 698

• Round Tours
• Destinations
• Things to do
• Tailor Made Tours
• PARTNER WITH US

Halal Friendly Tour Packages in Sri Lanka

Halal friendly tours for muslim travelers.

All of our travel packages that are listed on our website may be customized to include hotels, tour guides, and prayer times that are halal-friendly. Many Sri Lankan hotels provide Halal-friendly and Arabic cuisine in order to cater to the country’s all esteemed Muslim tourists. Every Muslim traveler may easily and pleasantly enjoy the lush, tropical Sri Lanka.

Muslim visitors to Sri Lanka may always find themselves close to Mosques and Prayer rooms because the country is home to several other revered Mosques and Shines. In addition, Sri Lanka offers many sacred Muslim Pilgrimage sites that are sure to interest even non-Muslim visitors.

• +94 117 462 211
• +94 774 153 698
• [email protected]
• Majestic City Mall, Level 4, Galle Road, Colombo 04, Sri Lanka

• Adventure Tours
• Beach Tours
• Buddhist Pilgrimage Tours
• Educational Tours
• Family Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Honeymoon Tours
• Jaffna Tours
• Ramayana Tours
• Senior Citizens Tours
• Shore Excursions
• Short Break Tours
• Sri Lanka & Maldives Tours
• Trekking & Hiking Tours
• Wildlife Tours
• Ayurvedic & Wellness
• Destination Wedding
• Accessible Tours
• Diving & Snorkeling Tours
• Halal Friendly Tours
• Luxury Tours
• MICE Tourism
• Small Group Tours
• Sports Tours
• Volunteering in Sri Lanka
• Colombo Day Cruises
• Colombo Day Tour
• Galle Day Tour
• Kandy Day Tour
• Kitulgala Rafting Tour
• Sigiriya Day Tour
• Ella Scenic Train Tour
• Sigiriya Day Tour from Kandy
• Sembuwatta Lake Tour
• Cultural Heritage Sites
• Exotic Beaches
• Natural & Scenic Hill Country
• Wildlife Sanctuaries
• Ayurveda & Wellness
• Cycling & Mountain Biking
• Diving & Snorkeling
• Hot Air Ballooning
• Train Journeys
• Trekking & Hiking
• Whale & Dolphin Watching
• White Water Rafting
• Wildlife Safari
• Tailor-made Tours

Pristine rainforest. Ancient rock fortresses. Wildlife aplenty. And some of the most perfect beaches on the planet. There are so many reasons to visit Sri Lanka.

One day you could be hiking the Knuckles Mountain Range, high in Sri Lanka’s hill country; the next, travelling by train through tea plantations and into the mountains. And when you start each morning with curry, hoppers and a cup of the local tea , you   know   it’s going to be a good day. Climb Lion Rock, a dramatic carved-rock fortress in Sigiriya, and explore Jaffna in the island’s north, previously off-limits to travellers. The only struggle you’ll have in   Sri Lanka   is knowing where to start.

Our Sri Lanka trips

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

Sri Lanka tour reviews

Filter by rating

Sri Lanka Real Food Adventure

Simply Sri Lanka

5 reasons to visit Sri Lanka in the off-season

6 reasons to bump Sri Lanka to the top of your travel wishlist

The top 8 destinations to travel to (and give back to) in December 2024

The top 7 destinations for travel in February 2024

Why it’s time to return to Sri Lanka

8 awesome places in Sri Lanka you probably haven’t heard of

Everything you need to know about Tamil food in Sri Lanka

Lonely Planet have spoken: here’s what’s hot in travel for 2019 (and how you can get there)

Sri Lanka at a glance

Capital city.

Colombo (685,000)

21.8 million

Sinhalese, Tamil

(GMT+05:30) Sri Jayawardenepura

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type D (Old British 3-pin) Type G (Irish/British 3-pin)

Learn more about Sri Lanka

Best time to visit sri lanka.

Sri Lanka is blessed with a tropical climate, with temperatures remaining in the high 20s throughout most of the year. To soak up some sunshine, be sure to come during the dry seasons (June - August and December – March). The rest of the time it's the monsoon season, so expect rain during this time.

Read more about the best time to visit Sri Lanka

Culture and customs

As an important stop on ancient trade routes, there’s a great mix of cultural influences present in modern-day Sri Lanka. The majority of Sri Lankans are Sinhalese Buddhists, followed by Tamils (who are mostly Hindu) and a small amount of Christians and Muslims. Various religious festivals and holy times are celebrated regularly in Sri Lanka, from large nationwide holidays to local village celebrations. As a fairly conservative nation, most locals dress modestly and displays of affection are not considered appropriate in public.

The British influence is still evident in Sri Lanka’s culture, cuisine and buildings. Drinking tea and playing cricket are the most obvious remnants of British colonial rule, although you’ll also find country cottages dotted throughout some rural regions with some serving traditional English fare like roast chicken and beef. Travellers will find that most Sri Lankans, despite having little, are quick to share their food and friendship. Known for being hospitable, generous and kind, when being offered tea or food in someone’s home, it is considered impolite to decline.

Eating and drinking

Intrepid believes that one of the best ways to experience a country is by eating! Whether you're sampling street food, savouring a cheap eat or indulging in a banquet, there are endless options to choose from wherever you are in the world.

Things to try in Sri Lanka

Sri Lankan curries are among the hottest in the world, but don’t let that put you off. Fragrant, coconut-based curries packed with chilli, garlic, turmeric and coriander will give your tastebuds a treat.

Being an island, Sri Lanka has access to an amazing array of seafood. Feast on fresh crab, swordfish, lobster and squid - or choose a fiery seafood-based curry.

These egg-filled crepe-like wonders can usually be found at breakfast buffets. Usually made from rice flour and coconut milk batter, they are a Sri Lankan twist on the traditional pancake.

With miles of tea plantations, Sri Lankans have grown accustomed to drinking their popular home-grown cash crop. Tea is served with milk and sugar almost everywhere in Sri Lanka, mainly at breakfast and during the day.

Geography and environment

Situated in the Indian Ocean, the island of Sri Lanka lies just under the Indian subcontinent, to the southwest of the Bay of Bengal. Much of Sri Lanka receives a high level of rainfall during the monsoon season, with the dry northern areas being the exception. Due to the high level of rainfall, tropical evergreen forest proliferates around the country. Despite extensive land clearing for agriculture, there are still pockets of national parks and biosphere reserves around the country that hold much flora and fauna, including herds of wild elephants, deer and a wide range of birds. Sri Lanka’s remaining forests and protected areas are rich in biological diversity and remain popular with tourists looking for wildlife and adventure. 

Sri Lanka’s main cities are typically built up, busy and increasingly becoming more multicultural and cosmopolitan. In comparison to Sri Lanka’s fast-paced, city-dwelling residents, many Sri Lankans still live in villages with simple housing and work predominantly in the agriculture and fishing industries.

History and government

Early history.

Sri Lanka was occupied by hunter-gatherers for thousands of years before the arrival of Sinhalese tribal groups in the 6th century BC. Buddhism arrived on the island sometime during the 3rd century BC and as a result, the city of Anuradhapura became the capital and centre of Buddhism. This Buddhist Kingdom endured years of Tamil raids until Anuradhapura was abandoned in favour of Polonnaruwa in the south. By the 12th century, Tamil rulers had a permanent presence in the north, where Hinduism still flourishes today. 

The harbours of the south soon became important trading centres for Arab traders but by the 16th century a new wave of foreign influence began with the arrival of the Portuguese, then the Dutch. Sri Lanka’s wealth of cinnamon and geographic trading advantage appealed to the Portuguese, who slowly took over the island until the Dutch drove them out in the early 17th century. Remnants of this time can still be found in modern-day Sri Lanka, with colonial forts, cannons and other ruins dotted throughout the country, especially along the coast. By 1795, the British arrived and captured the island from the Dutch. Sugar, coffee, tea and rubber plantations were soon established by the British, along with Western schools, churches and colleges.

Recent history

Sri Lanka (Ceylon) was officially granted its independence in 1948 but continued to maintain relatively good relations with the British. By 1960, Ceylon had the world’s first female prime minister and in 1972, the name Ceylon was replaced with Sri Lanka, which had just become a republic (but remained a member of the Commonwealth). These changes in government and moves towards independence were largely Sinhalese-centric, which created some tension with parts of the Tamil population. 

From 1983 to 2009 Sri Lanka endured an intermittent civil war, which resulted in some displacement of people and human rights violations. More recently, parts of Sri Lanka were devastated by the 2004 tsunami, yet Sri Lanka has rebounded with an increasingly stable economy based on agriculture, tourism and telecommunications. With one of the best-performing stock exchanges in the world, Sri Lanka has emerged from conflict, natural disasters and colonisation to become a rising tourist and economic hotspot.

Top 10 spiritual spots in Sri Lanka

1. bodhi tree.

Located at the ancient site of Anuradhapura, this sacred fig tree is said to have grown from a sapling of the Bodhi Tree that Buddha was sitting under when he became enlightened. This holy spot has long been a pilgrimage site for Sri Lankans and is now becoming a place of spiritual interest for visitors too.

2. Dewatagaha Mosque

One of the oldest mosques in Sri Lanka, this prayer place for worshippers of Islam has stood in Colombo for hundreds of years. The striking domes and minarets stand out in the Colombo skyline and provide a spiritual epicentre for Sri Lanka’s Muslims.

3. Temple of the Tooth

This Buddhist temple, located in Kandy, is named for the holy relic (said to be Buddha’s tooth) that is housed inside. It's a World Heritage site that has survived bombings and the ravages of time - visit here to see worshippers deep in prayer under the elaborate golden roof.

4. Dambulla Cave Temple

This well-preserved series of cave temples is brimming with paintings and statues that date all the way back to the 1st century. With colourful depictions of Buddha, Sri Lankan kings and various Hindu gods and goddesses, this is one of the most elaborate cave complexes in Asia.

5. Adam’s Peak

Sacred to Buddhists, Hindus, Christians and Muslims, Adam’s Peak is arguably Sri Lanka’s most popular pilgrimage spot. Surrounded by wildlife reserves, the walking trail leading to the mountain is a stunning walk regardless of religious persuasion. Watching a stirring sunrise from the holy summit is nothing short of magnificent.

6. Polonnaruwa Ruins

These impressive ruins of an ancient kingdom are home to massive palaces, huge statues, imposing temples and an artificial lake. Although historically and culturally important, witnessing orange-robed monks praying at Gal Vihara (a Buddhist rock temple) is a spiritual moment you won’t soon forget.

7. Sigiriya (Lion’s Rock)

This magnificent UNESCO World Heritage site was once a mountain monastery many centuries ago. The rock inscriptions, paintings and ancient ‘graffiti’ show insight into the lives of the monks who lived within the caves and grottoes before King Kasyapa took to the throne and established a capital there.

8. Anuradhapura

The ancient ruins of Anuradhapura are a significant holy place for Sri Lanka Buddhists. As one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, there are many monasteries surrounding this area of supreme veneration.

9. Munneswaram Temple

This elaborate Hindu temple complex is known for its vibrant festivals in celebration of Navaratri and Sivaratri. During this time, the complex is filled with the buzz of devotees who come to attend daily pujas and bathe in the nearby holy river.

10. Mihintale

If you choose to climb the thousand or so steps to the top of Mihintale’s hill, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views and a deeper understanding of Buddhism, as this is the site where Buddhism is said to have originated in Sri Lanka.

Known for its fragrant spices, vibrant fabrics, stunning silver jewellery and one-of-a-kind antiques, it’s difficult to leave Sri Lanka without a backpack full of mementos. From far-flung rural marketplaces to the boutiques and galleries of Galle and Colombo, shopping in Sri Lanka has something for everyone at a relatively low cost. 

It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand generally have strict quarantine laws.

Things to buy in Sri Lanka

1. Handicrafts

Although available all over the country, Kandy is one of the best places to buy locally-made handicrafts. Choose from handmade brass and silver jewellery, vibrant fabric bags and scarves, and batik wall hangings.

Home to a multitude of plantations and spice gardens, it’s no wonder some of the world’s best spices come from Sri Lanka. Perhaps buy some saffron, cloves, cinnamon, turmeric and cardamom to take home a taste of Sri Lanka with you.

3. Gem stones

If you’re after a low-cost gemstone, Sri Lanka is a top place to pick up a stone at a great price. Birthstones are popular, as are girls' best friends – diamonds! As always, buy from a licensed gem store to guarantee authenticity.

Festivals and events

Vesak festival.

People all over Sri Lanka commemorate Buddha’s birthday by visiting temples, giving alms and singing devotional songs. Simple, luminous paper lanterns are hung outside homes and food is freely distributed to the public via roadside stalls.

Top places to visit in Sri Lanka

Discover Sri Lanka’s colonial past in the fort and lighthouse at Galle on our 14 day Premium Sri Lanka in Depth tour or on our 15 day Best of Sri Lanka adventure.

Catch sea breezes while strolling along the beach in Negombo on our 9 day Premium Sri Lanka tour.

Join pilgrims at Kandy’s Temple of the Tooth on our 8 day Simply Sri Lanka tour.

4. Unawatuna

Bliss out on the beach at beautiful Unawatuna on our 11 day Essential Sri Lanka tour.

Experience big city life, Sri Lankan style on our 8 day Classic Sri Lanka adventure.

6. Anuradhapura

Explore the extensive ancient ruins at Anuradhapura on our 12 day Sri Lanka Explorer tour.

7. Dambulla

Be astonished by the cave temples in Dambulla on our 14 day Cycle Sri Lanka tour or on our 12 day Sri Lanka Real Food Adventure.

8. Sigiriya

Climb Lion Rock for spectacular views on our 10 day Sri Lanka: Hike, Bike & Kayak adventure extravaganza.

9. Nuwara Eliya

Discover tea plantations in the hill country of Nuwara Eliya on our 18 day Premium India and Sri Lanka tour.

10. Udawalawe National Park

Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife and encounter elephants at Udawalawe National Park on our 12 day Sri Lanka Family Holiday.

Similar destinations

We have a variety of similar destinations, trips and routes that you could consider! Tie another trip into your holiday, or, see how we can help you get from A to B. We have tours departing from a variety of locations around Sri Lanka. The options below may be of interest:

Tours from Negombo Tours to Colombo Negombo to Colombo

Further reading

Sri lanka travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Is it safe to visit Sri Lanka?

Usually, Sri Lanka is a safe country to visit, however, recent developments have seen the capital of Colombo and surrounding regions subject to often violent protests and civil unrest. While travel to Sri Lanka hasn't been banned for international travellers at this stage, it is advised to be alert and on guard when moving through the country and steer clear of any congregating crowds or potential demonstration areas. 

Intrepid is working with our team on the ground in Sri Lanka to closely monitor the situation for travellers currently on trips and those looking to depart in the future.

Do you need a visa for Sri Lanka?

All foreign nationals need to apply for an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) to visit Sri Lanka.

Is tipping customary in Sri Lanka?

Tipping is expected from tourists while travelling through Sri Lanka.

What is the internet access like in Sri Lanka?

Wi-fi is common in hotels, hostels, restaurants and cafes across the touristed areas of Sri Lanka. Travellers can also purchase a tourist SIM card for the duration of their Sri Lanka tour if they wish to stay connected.

Can I use my mobile phone while in Sri Lanka?

Mobile/cell phone reception in Sri Lanka is generally very good in cities and towns, though coverage may be patchy in rural areas. Travellers can either purchase a local SIM or use their own, but they must have activated global roaming before leaving their home country.

What are the toilets like in Sri Lanka?

Squat toilets are the most common toilets in Sri Lanka. Always carry your own toilet paper and soap as they are usually not provided. Flushable, Western-style toilets can be found in upmarket restaurants, newer hotels and in some tourist areas.

What will it cost for a...?

Sri Lanka’s unit of currency is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR). Here's what you can expect to pay for a:

• Beer in a bar = LKR 300-600
• Lunch in a local restaurant = LKR 400-800
• Short tuk-tuk trip = LKR 200-400
• Classy seafood dinner = LKR 1,000+

Can I drink the water in Sri Lanka?

We do not recommend drinking the water in Sri Lanka. Filtered water is a better option; try to use a refillable canteen or water bottle rather than buying bottled water. Remember to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit before eating.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Sri Lanka?

Credit cards are widely accepted in Sri Lanka, particularly Visa and Mastercard.

What is ATM access like in Sri Lanka?

There are ATMs located in most Sri Lankan towns and there should be no problem finding one in any of the cities.

What is the weather like in Sri Lanka?

Like anywhere, the weather in Sri Lanka will depend on where you are and what time of year you are travelling. This is especially true of Sri Lanka, which experiences two separate monsoon seasons.

What public holidays are celebrated in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka has many public holidays that change dates every year. If only the month is listed, it means that the holiday falls on a moveable date.

• Jan:   Duruthu Full Moon Poya Day
• Jan:   Tamil Thai Pongal Day
• 4 Feb:   National Day
• Feb:   Navam Full Moon Poya Day
• Feb/Mar:   Maha Shivaratri Day
• Mar:   Madin Full Moon Poya Day
• Mar/Apr:   Good Friday
• Apr:   Bak Full Moon Poya Day
• Apr:   Sinhala and Tamil New Year’s Eve
• Apr:   Sinhala and Tamil New Year’s Day
• 1 May:   May Day
• May:   Vesak Full Moon Poya Day
• May:   Day after Vesak Full Moon Poya Day
• Jun:   Poson Full Moon Poya Day
• Jul:   Esala Full Moon Poya Day
• Aug:   Nikini Full Moon Poya Day
• Sep:   Binara Full Moon Poya Day
• Oct:   Adhi Vap Full Moon Poya Day
• Nov:   Vap Full Moon Poya Day
• Dec:   Il Full Moon Poya Day
• 25 Dec:   Christmas Day
• Dec:   Unduvap Full Moon Poya Day

Please note, Sri Lanka public holidays may vary.

Is Sri Lanka safe for LGBTQIA+ travellers?

While travelling through Sri Lanka as an LGBTQIA+ is not necessarily dangerous, same-sex sexual activity is still illegal, and we advise that travellers are discreet in public.

Is Sri Lanka accessible for travellers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Travellers with disabilities will likely find it difficult to travel around Sri Lanka. Public transport has not been adapted for those with mobility, visual or auditory limitations, and pavements and roads are often in poor condition. Accommodation, too, is unlikely to be accessible for those in wheelchairs, except perhaps in top-end hotels.

If you do live with a visual, hearing or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

What kind of transport will I use in Sri Lanka?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.

Hire a bike and pedal around ancient cities full of fascinating ruins for a fun and interactive way to learn about Sri Lanka’s deep history.

Experience some of the world's most beautiful train journeys in the hill country of Sri Lanka.

Tuk Tuks are the best and cheapest way to make your way around Sri Lanka's towns and cities.

Jump in a jeep for a wildlife safari in Sri Lanka's national parks.

What to wear in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is warm. Sri Lanka is very warm. Sri Lanka will have you sweating unless you’re up visiting the tea plantations in the hills, so light, breathable clothing is essential. Whatever you do, don’t wear any clothing depicting the Buddha – this can get you arrested, as can having a Buddha tattoo.

Does my trip to Sri Lanka support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveller. Trips to Sri Lanka directly support our foundation partner, Zero Plastic. 

Zero Plastic aims to reduce plastic waste in Sri Lankan communities through education and volunteer programs. Donations from our trips help them raise awareness for the impact of plastic on the environment and local wildlife and reduce plastic pollution at the UNESCO-listed Sigiriya (and surrounding communities).

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while travelling?

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

The Economic Times daily newspaper is available online now.

Sri lanka launches new e-visa system: everything you need to know.

Sri Lanka launched an e-visa system, streamlining the visa application process for travellers. The initiative offers updated requirements, fees, and validity periods, enhancing efficiency and convenience for various nationalities visiting for tourism, business, or transit.

• Police Clearance report.
• If the applicant has stayed in another country for more than 6 months, a Police clearance from that country and a copy of the Visa.
• Certificate from a Sri Lankan guarantor & a photocopy of the guarantor's NIC.
• Affidavit from a Sri Lankan JP (Justice of Peace) or a Lawyer.
• Accommodation information (Place of stay).
• Visit the official website of Sri Lanka eVisa.
• Create an account or log in if you already have one.
• Fill out the online application form with accurate details.
• Upload the required documents, including a scanned copy of your passport, a recent photograph, and any additional documents specified for your eVisa category.
• Pay the eVisa fee securely online using the available payment options.
• Once your application is submitted and payment is confirmed, you will receive an acknowledgment receipt and a unique application reference number.
• Track the status of your eVisa application online using your reference number.
• Upon approval, download and print your eVisa to present to the Immigration officer at the port of entry in Sri Lanka.
• A printed copy of your eVisa approval letter issued by the Sri Lanka Department of Immigration and Emigration.
• Your passport with a validity of at least six months from the date of entry into Sri Lanka.
• A return ticket or proof of onward travel from Sri Lanka.

Read More News on

This 16-year-old Rolex collector has tips even for veteran investors

Ather is riding on these five factors to break TVS, Ola’s e-scooter dominance

What IndiGo’s coming USD1 billion profit milestone says about the industry.

Jittery equities: Five things that can spook bulls and how you can navigate them.

Inside watch collectors’ coveted club: How to own and cash out of your luxury timepieces.

Personal legacies are as precious as monuments

Find this comment offensive?

Choose your reason below and click on the Report button. This will alert our moderators to take action

Reason for reporting:

Your Reason has been Reported to the admin.

To post this comment you must

Log In/Connect with:

Fill in your details:

Will be displayed

Will not be displayed

Share this Comment:

Uh-oh this is an exclusive story available for selected readers only..

Worry not. You’re just a step away.

Prime Account Detected!

It seems like you're already an ETPrime member with

Login using your ET Prime credentials to enjoy all member benefits

Log out of your current logged-in account and log in again using your ET Prime credentials to enjoy all member benefits.

To read full story, subscribe to ET Prime

₹34 per week

Billed annually at ₹2499 ₹1749

Super Saver Sale - Flat 30% Off

On ET Prime Membership

Unlock this story and enjoy all members-only benefits.

Offer Exclusively For You

Save up to Rs. 700/-

ON ET PRIME MEMBERSHIP

Get 1 Year Free

With 1 and 2-Year ET prime membership

Get Flat 40% Off

Then ₹ 1749 for 1 year

ET Prime at ₹ 49 for 1 month

Stay Ahead in the New Financial Year

Get flat 20% off on ETPrime

90 Days Prime access worth Rs999 unlocked for you

Exclusive Economic Times Stories, Editorials & Expert opinion across 20+ sectors

Stock analysis. Market Research. Industry Trends on 4000+ Stocks

​Get 1 Year Complimentary Subscription of TOI+ worth Rs.799/-​

Stories you might be interested in

Tuesday, 22 Jan 2019 --> Last Updated : 2024-04-22 16:23:00

Group News Sites

Sunday Times

Tamil Mirror

Middleast Lankadeepa

Life Online

Home delivery

Advertise with us

Mobile Apps

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 Today's Paper

Sri Lanka to miss budget revenue target for 33rd year running in 2024: Verité Research

21 April 2024 12:55 pm - 8     - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The State of the Budget Report is compiled annually by Verité Research and published on PublicFinance.lk, Sri Lanka’s premier platform for economic insights.

"The report provides a robust analysis and objective assessment of the fiscal, financial and economic estimates in Sri Lanka’s annual budget. It mirrors the scope of a budget report that is expected to be published by the Parliamentary Committee on Public Finance (COPF), with the same aim, of helping improve informed engagement with the budget, both in public and in parliament.

The State of the Budget Report by Verité Research has consistently been more accurate on budget outcomes than projections of the government, which are approved by Parliament. It thereby forms an important additional input for professional economic analysis and decision making in Sri Lanka.

Over-estimated tax revenue by Sri Lanka has not met a revenue to GDP target set in a budget since 1991. Most recently, the Parliamentary Committee on Ways and Means reported that tax revenue fell 13% short of the budgeted target in 2023.

For 2024, the government is expecting a revenue of LKR 4,164 billion, a 42% increase from its revised projections for 2023. However, the State of the Budget Report projects a 14% shortfall, with revenue of only LKR 3,570 billion.

In the report, 61% of the projected shortfall is attributed to over-estimation of revenue from the Value Added Tax (VAT). The remaining 39% is attributed to the over-estimation of revenue from corporate income tax, personal income tax, Social Security Contribution Levy (SSCL) and Customs import duty.

In Interest-to-revenue ratio Sri Lanka has the highest interest-cost-to-revenue ratio in the world and reducing this ratio is critical for macroeconomic stability and sustainability. The budget for 2024 expects to lower this ratio to 64%. However, the revenue projections in the State of the Budget Report, together with the government calculation of interest costs, suggests this ratio will exceed 70%, as it has in the last few years. 

  Comments - 8

Wake Up You Bunch of Fools Sunday, 21 April 2024 03:04 PM

Minister of Finance is in dreamland that all’s well and can start importing vehicles. Stupidity at its best from a freak who doesn’t understand the gravity of the situation. People are feedup and need urgent relief.

Reply 0       0 0       0 -->

Anil Fernando Sunday, 21 April 2024 03:17 PM

Not big news if it is 33 years.

Gabriella Sunday, 21 April 2024 04:00 PM

Yes, but Sri Lanka is batting well. I am sure she will make a hundred plus.

Reply : 0       0 -->

As usual workers and farmers to sacrifice Sunday, 21 April 2024 08:57 PM

Even in this difficult situation, our greedy community has not changed. Car importers want their business, MPs want luxury new cars, unions and politicians are not ready to concede even an inch of their demand. Then, who will sacrifice? Is it the same old story of workers, both public and private and farmers?

Kevin Monday, 22 April 2024 03:28 AM

Over estimation of state revenues for the past 33 years! That is an endemic problem that will not go away. IMF was impressed with these rosy numbers. The 17th time SL failed an IMF program half way through. More election sweeteners please!

Bandu Monday, 22 April 2024 08:55 AM

Finance minister is clueless on finance. They will steal money from retirement funds to pay for the deficit. Like it happened year ago, with local debt restructuring. Sad for retirees...

Governors Club Monday, 22 April 2024 10:08 AM

And the economic advisors of the ivory tower raise their salaries by 80% including the treasury secretary. Thats how they fight inflationary spirals

P Kunchithapathan Monday, 22 April 2024 02:52 PM

State Minister of Finance is deliberately trying ti hide figures to enable the culprits to allow the imports of vehicles. What is the mighty hurry to import vehicles without taking measures to stregnthen public transport infrastructure. This is utterly a betrayal. The State of the Budget Report by Verité Research has consistently been more accurate on budget outcomes than projections of the government, which are approved by Parliament. Ministers and the government officials are trying to mislead the public to please the cabinet and the president.

Add comment Comments will be edited (grammar, spelling and slang) and authorized at the discretion of Daily Mirror online. The website also has the right not to publish selected comments.

Name - Reply Comment

RECOMMENDED

UDA owned land in Thalawathugoda; UDA Minister Prasanna Ranatunga under the spotlight for forceful occupation of reserved land

Loss-making SMIB faces political pressure in recovering loans

Baltimore Bridge Collapse: MV Dali, SL authorities anchored in mystery?

Has Sri Lanka become a potential hub for the illegal wildlife trade?

On March 26, a couple arriving from Thailand was arrested with 88 live animal

Spotlight on Moragahakanda Development Project Moragolla villagers lose livelihoods and down to one meal a day

According to villagers from Naula-Moragolla out of 105 families 80 can afford

Ambitious Sri Lankan jobseekers ‘trafficked into Ukraine war zones’

Is the situation in Sri Lanka so grim that locals harbour hope that they coul

Western purple-faced langurs see blue!

A recent post on social media revealed that three purple-faced langurs near t

Most Viewed in News

Street food vendor arrested for verbally harassing foreigner.

Racing event tragedy leaves seven dead including eight-year-old child

Former MP Palitha Thewarapperuma dies from electrocution

Complaint lodged over Piumi Hansamali's possession of Gota’s Range Rover

Confusion remains if April 15 is a bank holiday

SL on alert on possible genocide allegations by Canada

MIRROR CRICKET

Chamari Athapaththu sets big goal for T20 World Cup

19 Apr 2024 - 6     - 1208

How does CSK get best out of Pathirana?

16 Apr 2024 - 17     - 3562

Mendis, Mathews move up in ICC Test Rankings

10 Apr 2024 - 0     - 1501

Chamodi, Dewmi spins Sri Lanka U19 Women to big win

09 Apr 2024 - 3     - 706

TODAY'S HEADLINES

United states and sl navy collaborate in carat 2024 exercise in trincomalee.

8 hours ago

Upcountry estate workers stage a token strike

People have already selected ranil for presidency: prasanna, construction work for india-funded 10,000 housing units commenced.

Peter’s beat Royal to claim championship

21 Apr 2024

Hardik fined Rs 12 lakh for violating IPL code of conduct after win over Punjab Kings

19 Apr 2024