Sri Lanka Tips for first time travellers

Looking for Sri Lanka tips? Then you are in the right place! Sri Lanka has been on my bucketlist for a long time, but as someone who likes to plan, I wanted as much information before my trip as possible. Now that I have travelled to Sri Lanka, I can now provide all the tips that I would have liked to see before my trip to Sri Lanka to everyone!

> More posts on Sri Lanka here

Top 10 tips for Sri Lanka

I do dive deeply into the Sri Lanka travel tips rabbit hole, so if you are just looking for some quick takeaway for your upcoming trip, here they are:

1. Be prepared for long train or car journeys! Sri Lanka takes longer to get around than expected, and you should factor that in. It also gets very windy in the mountains, so be prepared if you have motion sickness
2. Book your train tickets well in advance – I dive into more details separately, but booking a reserved seat in advance is important
3. Plan your trip in advance unless you have time – this is sort of a point to sum up the previous two. To do Sri Lanka properly you probably need 2 weeks or more, so if you have less than that, you should do your research properly and plan your trip.
   Note: you need an onward flight for ETA visa and you might also get in trouble if you cannot answer anything on your plans at immigration.
4. It will be hot but dress respectfully – Sri Lanka will be hot and humid, but it is a Buddhist country so dress modestly especially when you are visiting religious sites.
5. Get cash and sim card at the airport – it’s actually really convenient to exchange money and get a tourist sim at the airport, so you can get connected immediately and have cash on hand as Sri Lanka still prefers cash.
6. Get vaccinated and have medical supplies – it’s ideal to get vaccinations for Hepatitis A, Tetanus, and Rabies (if you know you’ll play with animals) before your visit. And it’s important to have some basic medical supplies to deal with upset stomach, cuts and scrapes, and insect bites
7. Food is good but mostly curries – we had buffets and local food and while I enjoy it, I’m not someone who like to eat curry for every meal so be prepared that the alternative is probably buffet.
8. Do not take selfies or have your back to Buddha for photos – it’s consider disrespectful
9. It will rain a lot in the central highlands – even during the ‘dry season’, it’s likely to have an afternoon downpour when you are around Ella and Kadny
10. Locals are friendly and a lot know English – it’s very lovely to meet and talk to the locals, and a lot of them in the big cities speak very good English.

Essential Information for Sri Lanka

Here are what I think are the essential Sri Lanka tips plus some common questions:

Sri Lanka Visa

Sri Lanka uses the ETA system – electronic travel authorization – for all travel visas and you do need to apply before hand. There’s also a transit visa available. It’s best to check with your embassy to see if you are eligible for the ETA.

You can apply for it online and you are required to put in your travel information and personal data, including the date of arrival and departure to and from Sri Lanka. And perhaps even a travel plan.

Cost: 20-50 USD online

Time frame: personally, it has taken 1 day for me to get my ETA, but it’s advisable to do it at least 3 days in advance.

Note: I did not need to print my ETA out, but it might be helpful to do so if you have the resources and time.

Sri Lanka visa exemption

There are only a few countries that have visa exemption for Sri Lanka.

Visa-Free Entry (No Visa Required)

1. Maldives: 30 days
2. Singapore: 30 days
3. Seychelles: 30 days
4. Jordan: 30 days

Visa-On-Arrival (Applicable for Certain Countries)

1. India: 30 days (can be extended)
2. Bangladesh: 30 days (can be extended)
3. Nepal: 30 days (can be extended)

Language in Sri Lanka

Most people I have talked to in Sri Lanka seem to speak some level of English, but the official languages are Sinhala and Tamil. 

Religion in Sri Lanka

The dominant religion in Sri Lanka is Buddhism, specifically Theravada Buddhism, which is practiced by about 70% of the population. Theravada is the oldest form of Buddhism, practised also in Thailand, Burma, Laos, and Cambodia, focusing on enlightenment through meditation and moral living.

Other significant religions include Hinduism, practiced primarily by the Tamil ethnic group (around 12.6% of the population), as well as Islam (approximately 9.7%) and Christianity (about 7.6%).

Electricity in Sri Lanka

When traveling to Sri Lanka, you’ll need to consider the following adaptors for your electronic devices. My advise is always to have:

1. Universal Travel Adapter: It’s advisable to bring a universal travel adapter that can accommodate multiple plug types, including Type D and Type G.
2. Voltage Converter: Check if your devices (like chargers) can handle dual voltage (100-240V); if they do, then you just need your adaptor. If your devices are not compatible with 230V, consider bringing a voltage converter.

Plug Type for Sri Lanka

• Type D: This is the most common type used in Sri Lanka, which has three round pins in a triangular formation.
• Type G: This type is also used, featuring three rectangular pins.

Voltage in Sri Lanka

• Voltage: Sri Lanka operates on a voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz.

Sri Lanka Currency

The currency of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). It’s important to have some cash on hand, especially for smaller purchases, as not all places accept credit cards.

The general rate: 1 USD = LKR 300, 5 HKD = LKR 193.11 (~200) 

General Prices in Sri Lanka

The general prices is quite cheap in Sri Lanka, but for things related to tourism such as city to city private transport and five star hotels, they tend to be more expensive. Here are some reference point for prices:

1. Food and Meals

• Street Food: LKR 100 – 300 (USD 0.33 – 1.00, HKD 2.60 – 5.20)
• Local Restaurants: LKR 400 – 1,000 (USD 1.33 – 3.34, HKD 10.40 – 26.00)
• Mid-range Restaurants: LKR 1,000 – 3,000 (USD 3.34 – 10.00, HKD 26.00 – 78.00)
• Western Restaurants (and buffets): LKR 2,000 – 5,000 (USD 6.68 – 16.68, HKD 52.80 – 132.00)

2. Beverages

• Bottled Water (1.5L): LKR 50 – 100 (USD 0.17 – 0.33, HKD 1.30 – 2.60)
• Soft Drinks: LKR 100 – 200 (USD 0.33 – 0.67, HKD 2.60 – 5.20)
• Local Beer: LKR 300 – 600 (USD 1.00 – 2.00, HKD 7.80 – 15.60)

3. Transportation

• Tuk-Tuk Ride: LKR 100 – 500 (USD 0.33 – 1.67, HKD 2.60 – 13.00)
  Typical 10-minute ride in Colombo: LKR 220 (USD 0.73, HKD 5.60)
  Ride from Nine Arch Bridge: LKR 500 (USD 1.67, HKD 13.00)
• Taxi (metered): Starting fare around LKR 150 (USD 0.50, HKD 3.90)
• Public Buses: LKR 20 – 100 (USD 0.07 – 0.33, HKD 0.50 – 2.60)

4. Attractions

• Cultural Sites (e.g. Dambulla): LKR 3,000 – 4,500 (USD 10.00 – 15.00, HKD 78.00 – 117.00)
  Sigiriya: LKR 10,500 (USD 35.00, HKD 273.00) for foreign tourists
• National Parks (e.g., Yala, Udawalawe): LKR 3,000 – 5,000 (USD 10.00 – 16.68, HKD 78.00 – 132.00)
• Museums and Galleries: LKR 300 – 2,000 (USD 1.00 – 6.68, HKD 7.80 – 52.80)

5. Accommodation

• Budget Hotels/Hostels: LKR 1,500 – 4,000 (USD 5.00 – 13.34, HKD 39.00 – 104.00)
• Mid-range Hotels: LKR 4,000 – 10,000 (USD 13.34 – 33.34, HKD 104.00 – 260.00)
• Luxury Hotels: Generally around LKR 30,000 (USD 100.00, HKD 780.00) and can go over LKR 120,000 (USD 400.00, HKD 3,120.00) in places like Yala National Park.

Sri Lanka Currency Exchange

The one great thing that I love about Sri Lanka is that you can exchange money and get your sim card very easily and painlessly as soon as you arrive at the airport. Both are immediately available when you exit into the arrival halls at Colombo Airport and the rates are fair without commission.

For ATM, it’s ideal to use Bank of Ceylon which you should be able to find in every town/city. Their ATM won’t charge you for withdrawing money, so it’ll save you some money if you ended up needing to make lots of withdrawals.

As mentioned in general prices in Sri Lanka, cash is preferred in most places and I found 100 USD to be enough if you have a pre-paid tour already and only need some cash for snacks, tips, and bathroom break.

Tipping in Sri Lanka

Tipping is generally not expected in Sri Lanka and it’s up to you to decide if you would like to tip. Being from Hong Kong, we also do not have a tipping culture, however, if you like your tour guide and driver who had been with you for multiple days, it might be a nice gesture to tip as a group.

Another case where you might want to tip is if you take photos of the locals – do remember to ask them for permission first!

Sri Lanka Sim Card

Prices for tourist SIM cards in Sri Lanka generally range from LKR 1,000 to LKR 4,000, depending on the provider and the data package selected. I bought a 30GB for 30 days package which is generally the best value for money.

The 7 day options are generally only with 10GB and most travellers do a minimum of 10 days in Sri Lanka. The 3 main providers are Dialog, Mobitel, and Hutch, you can compare the packages at the airport before you buy it.

An alternative is to get an e-Sim before you arrive so you have connection immediately on landing.

Is Sri Lanka safe to travel?

Yes – Sri Lanka is generally safe to travel, but if you are not familiar with the culture or the food, then you should exercise more caution.

Be mindful of your belongings in crowded places: As usual, you should exercise caution in crowded areas and tourist spots and look after your belongings!

Natural Disasters: During monsoon season it’s best to keep an eye on the news for floods and landslides. Always check weather forecasts and heed local advice.

Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. It’s best to wear light clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. And do not take selfies or have photos where you have your back to the Buddha.

Transport Safety: Use reputable transportation options, and be cautious when using public transport. It’s much better to join a tour from a licensed agency or a trusted private car driver.

Emergency Numbers for Sri Lanka

There are the emergency numbers for Sri Lanka:

• Police: 119
• Ambulance: 110
• Fire Brigade: 110
• Disaster Management Centre: 117
• Tourist Police: 1912

Recommended Vaccinations for Sri Lanka

Hepatitis A: Recommended for all travelers, as the virus can be transmitted through contaminated food and water.

Hepatitis B: Recommended, especially for those who may have close contact with locals or require medical treatment.

Typhoid: Recommended for travelers, especially if you plan to visit rural areas or eat street food.

Tetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis (Tdap): Ensure your routine vaccinations are up to date.

Rabies: Consider this vaccination if you plan to engage in activities that could expose you to animals, particularly in rural areas.

*I actually got bit by a cat (who was harmless for 20 mins until I decided to join a friend petting her), And had to go to the local hospital for rabies shot. It costed me 1.5 hours of wait with my tour guide translating for me, and I only had to pay around 70 hkd (10 USD).

The gave me a referral/medical slip that I took back to Hong Kong, and got the rest of my shots at the emergency room over 2 visits.

Japanese Encephalitis: Recommended for travelers who plan to stay in rural areas for extended periods or during outbreaks.

Malaria: While not prevalent in all areas, some regions may have a risk. Consult a healthcare provider about antimalarial medications.

Food safety

If you are not familiar with curries, spices, and chilli, then you should prepare for charcoal pills and other medicine for food poisoning. I had no problem on my 10-day trip, but it’s common to get an upset stomach for those who are not used to the food or tried unsanitary street food.

Water safety and tap Water in Sri Lanka

Tap water itself is not good to drink, but I did not have any problem brushing my teeth with it.

Drink bottled and avoid ice in drinks unless you are sure it’s made from safe water. We had boiled water at the hotels and restaurants and no one was sick, but if you know you have a delicate stomach, then best to avoid it.

Other Health Precautions for Sri Lanka

Travel Insurance: get comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Mosquito Protection: Use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants, and consider sleeping under a mosquito net to prevent mosquito-borne diseases.

First Aid Kit: Carry a basic first aid kit with essentials. Bandages, disinfectant for wounds, painkillers, and motion sickness pills as well as anti-diarrhea medicine are some staples.

Best season to visit Sri Lanka

There are only 2 seasons in Sri Lanka: wet season and dry season since it’s a tropical country. Although it might look small, the climate and monsoon season do varies across the island with the various mountains and coast experiencing slightly different weather. 

Overall, December to March is often considered the best overall time to visit Sri Lanka, especially for coastal areas. However, if you’re interested in the hill country or the east coast, here is a breakdown of the best time to visit for each area:

1. West and South Coasts (Colombo, Galle, Bentota)

• Best Time: December to March
• Weather: Dry and sunny, ideal for beach activities and sightseeing.

2. Central Highlands (Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella)

• Best Time: January to March and July to September
• Weather: Pleasant temperatures and lower rainfall make it perfect for exploring the hill country.

3. East Coast (Trincomalee, Batticaloa)

• Best Time: April to September
• Weather: This period is dry and sunny, ideal for beach holidays and water sports.

4. Overall Considerations

For Monsoon Seasons, the southwest monsoon typically affects the west and south coasts from May to September, while the northeast monsoon impacts the east coast from November to January. It’s best to avoid these months if you’re targeting specific regions.

Geography of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s geography is incredibly diverse, featuring stunning beaches along the coasts, lush highlands, and rich wildlife. You can generally divide it to coastal or highlands, though there are also many national parks and inland bodies of water to consider as well.

Since this is a travel blog – we’ll dissect it by regions as we’d for travelling. For key cities, we’ll discuss them in the Sri Lanka itinerary post.

West and South Coast

The west and south coasts of Sri Lanka are famous for their beautiful beaches and vibrant tourist hotspots. This region features long stretches of sandy shores, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Popular destinations include:

• Colombo, the capital city, known for its lively markets and many modern structures like the Lotus Tower
• Galle, with its historic fort and charming old town
• Bentota, renowned for water sports like jet skiing and snorkeling.

The climate here is generally warm and humid, with the best beach weather from December to March.

Central Highlands

The central part of the island is dominated by the Central Highlands, characterized by lush green hills, tea plantations, and cooler temperatures. This region includes notable areas such as:

• Kandy, home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth and the capital of Sri Lanka’s last kingdom
• Nuwara Eliya, known for its picturesque landscapes and colonial architecture and is nicknamed Little England.

The highlands are also home to Adam’s Peak, a revered pilgrimage site, and have good hikes with trails leading through stunning scenery and tea estates.

North and East Coasts

The north and east coasts are less developed and provide a less touristy experience compared to the bustling west and south. 

The eastern city of Trincomalee boasts some of the best beaches, including Nilaveli and Uppuveli, known for their clear waters and diving spots. The region has a mix of cultural influences, with ancient temples and a rich history. 

The climate is generally dry, with the best time to visit being from April to September.

Northern Region

The northern part of Sri Lanka, particularly areas like Jaffna, has a unique cultural heritage and distinct Tamil influence.

The landscape here includes sandy beaches, lush mangroves, and an array of lagoons. This region is less visited by tourists, offering a chance to experience authentic local life and history.

Getting around Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka might be an island, but one thing you should not underestimate is the travel time from one place to another. In general, I recommend taking the scenic train ride but it does take longer than private car, but it is less likely to cause nausea as you climb up to the Central Highlands.

Train Travel in Sri Lanka

The train system is one of the most scenic ways to travel in Sri Lanka, especially on routes through the central highlands. The train ride from Kandy to Ella is particularly famous for its breathtaking views of tea plantations and mountains. Trains are generally comfortable and offer different classes, from basic to more luxurious options.

More information on train travels in Sri Lanka in this post.

Road conditions in Sri Lanka

While major highways are in good condition, road quality can vary widely in rural and mountainous areas and there’s often traffic. Self-driving is generally not recommended – it’s better to hire a driver or join a tour as the drivers are experienced on the roads of Sri Lanka.

Driving in Sri Lanka

If you want to drive in Sri Lanka, there are 2 steps to it:

1. Get your international driving license from your home country
   This depends on the your country of origin, although usually it involves paying a small fee and submitting a form to get it.
2. Apply for a 1 year driving license in person at the Automobile Association of Ceylon located in Colombo (should be around 25 USD)

It is a complicated process, even more so if you don’t have an international driving license. You can find more information about it in tuktuk rental website (they are an expert in this).

Public Buses

Sri Lanka has an extensive and affordable bus network. Buses connect major cities and towns, making it easy to travel long distances. While they can be crowded and less comfortable, it is a fun local experience if you have time and minimal luggage.

There are both government-run and private buses, with the latter often being faster and more comfortable.

Domestic Flights

For longer distances, such as traveling from Colombo to Jaffna in the north or Batticaloa in the east, domestic flights are available. This is the fastest way to cover large distances, saving time and offering different perspectives of the island.

Private Tours

Many travelers opt for private guided tours, which can be arranged through local travel agencies. This option often includes transportation, a driver, and a guide, providing a hassle-free way to explore key attractions.

Taxi app for Sri Lanka

If you are in big cities like Colombo and Galle, you can hail tuktuk or taxi using the following apps:

Uber

Uber does work in Sri Lanka. It’s mostly operational in Colombo but when I tried to use it I can only pay by cash and it would not let me pay by card. The prices are not as competitive as PickMe, so I switched to PickMe.

PickMe

PickMe is the most common app to use in Sri Lanka for ride hailing with competitive prices. I used it throughout Colombo and they were able to connect me to a driver quickly.

I did have to pay by cash though! And during my research some people have also successfully connected with a driver and negotiated transfer to other cities like Galle at a reasonable price.

Kangaroo

Kangaroo is known for being on the pricier side compared to other apps, but it is often considered one of the most reliable options. This app provides a higher level of service, including well-maintained vehicles and professional drivers. Kangaroo is a great choice if you prioritize comfort and safety over cost.

Photography and Drone in Sri Lanka

There are countless photogenic places in Sri Lanka, and when it comes to photography, it mainly relates to dos and don’ts with Buddha statues.

Taking photos of locals

As mentioned previously, you should ask permission and tip the locals if you would like to take a photo of them. Sometimes, they might also want a copy of the photo back, so if you can exchange contact, it would mean a lot to them.

Be respectful at religious sites

Sri Lanka is a majority Buddhist country, and it’s important to respect the places of worship on the island.

You should not:

• Take selfies with Buddha statues
• Take photos with your back to the Buddha statues or mural
• No flash photography in temples

You might need to get a permit if you are using the photos for commercial purposes – you can contact the Central Cultural Fund for photography regarding the main ancient monuments of Sri Lanka: 

Tel: +94-11 2587912 /2500733 /2581944

gen_ccf@sri.lanka.net

Depending on location, the fee ranges from USD 5- 50

Drone use in Sri Lanka

You would need to plan your flight path and apply for permission to use your drone in Sri Lanka. The full information can be found on the official website, and you also need to have third party insurance in order to fly your drone.
You can check the geographic restriction of drone use in Sri Lanka on their official website here. This includes all of the national parks and major ancient ruins like Polonnaruwa.