Sri Lanka
The island of Sri Lanka lies off the southern tip of India in the Indian Ocean, a verdant paradise that is a cradle of the Buddhist faith. Apart from hundreds of miles of the world’s most beautiful palm-fringed beaches, Sri Lanka boasts eight World Heritage Sites listed by UNESCO, ranging from sacred cities, palaces and cliff-top citadels to colonial strongholds, spanning nearly 3,000 years of history. To complete the picture of perfection, Sri Lanka is situated just three degrees north of the Equator, meaning the weather is constantly hot, humid and tropical. Sunny skies are the order of the day; even in the brief monsoon season there is always a daily spell of sunshine.
Adventurous visitors who enjoy some mystery and wonderment will marvel at the ancient sites of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Dambulla and Panduwasnuwara, where the remains of a great civilisation are to be seen. The cities of Colombo and Kandy show the influence of the foreign colonial powers that fought for control over the strategically located island in the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries. Dutch-inspired buildings stand cheek to jowl with Victorian British mansions and Portuguese fortifications.
Historically, there was a long civil war that plagued parts of the island paradise. However, since 2009 when the civil war officially came to an end things in the north of the country have improved significantly and beautiful untouched parts of the island became accessible to visitors.
Sri Lanka offers leisure and pleasure opportunities at a gentle pace; while it was once a destination reserved for only the most discerning travellers it is fast developing into a popular tourist destination with package options to suit a range of demographics.
Key Facts
- Language:
- Sinhala and Tamil are the official languages, though the former has far more speakers. English is spoken at most tourist establishments.
- Passport/Visa:
Passengers must hold return or onward tickets and all documents needed for their next destination, and should be able to show the immigration officials proof of sufficient funds for their stay in Sri Lanka. Those who prefer to arrange visas in advance can do so online or at a Sri Lankan embassy. An ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) can be issued on arrival but can also be filled in prior to travel to Sri Lanka. It is highly recommended that travellers’ passports have at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
- Currency:
The unit of currency is the Sri Lanka rupee (LKR), which is divided into 100 cents. ATMs are becoming more common, though they are unlikely to accept international cards outside the main cities; major credit cards are widely accepted in major urban centres. Credit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud. Foreign currency can be exchanged at bureaux de change, banks and hotels. Banks are closed on Sundays.
- Electricity:
- Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. Round, three-pin plugs are used.
Overview
Tourist attractions in Sri Lanka have accumulated over a long and interesting history, and there are many things to see, including seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Sri Lanka’s history can be experienced at the fascinating ancient sites of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Dambulla and Panduwasnuwara. The National Museum in Colombo is a good stop for those passing through the city, as it houses a variety of artefacts that illustrate Sri Lanka’s complex culture and history. The complexity of this multi-cultural country is also apparent elsewhere in the capital city, such as in the Pettah Bazzar district, where exotic smells and goods are traded. Calmer attractions in Sri Lanka include the lovely seafront in Galle, a coastal town very popular with tourists, or the peaceful lake city of Kandy, which has many historical attractions.
For those keen to leave the cities and towns altogether, attractions include treks into Yala National Park and up Sigiriya or Adam’s Peak. Of course, many prefer Sri Lanka’s beautiful sandy beaches, which stretch hundreds of miles, to any amount of sightseeing. The best beach destinations in Sri Lanka include the picturesque fishing village of Marawila, on the northwest coast, the resort town of Negombo, on the west coast, and the gorgeous Weligama Bay, in the south.
Climate in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s tropical climate is characterised by distinct wet and dry seasons, but there is virtually no distinction between the seasons as far as temperature is concerned, as conditions are always hot and humid. However, the occurrence of two monsoons makes the island’s weather a little more complicated for travellers.
In the southwest, the Yala Monsoon brings heavy rain from May to August, and the dry season lasts from December to March. The Maha Monsoon, on the other hand, brings rain to the northern and eastern parts of the island from October to January, with the dry season lasting from May to September. The southwest receives a lot more annual rainfall than the north and east, and an intercontinental monsoon period can also cause rainfall across the island in October and November. The average temperature in Colombo and other coastal regions is 81F (27C).
Generally, the best time to visit Sri Lanka is from December to March for the west and south coasts and the Hill Country, and from April to September for the ancient-cities region and the east coast. Peak tourist season is from December to March, when many visitors head to Sri Lanka to escape the European winter.
Health Notes when travelling to Sri Lanka
Food and water borne diseases are the primary causes for ill health in Sri Lanka. Visitors should only drink bottled water and avoid ice in drinks, and they should take care to eat well-cooked food. Hepatitis A and hepatitis B vaccinations are recommended for all visitors to Sri Lanka. Tourists should get vaccinated for typhoid, especially if they are staying with friends or relatives, or are visiting smaller cities or rural areas; everyone 16 years of age and older should get fully vaccinated for COVID-19. Yellow fever vaccination certificates are required if travellers are arriving from countries where there is a risk of transmission.
Chikungunya fever, Japanese encephalitis and dengue fever are a risk and protection against mosquito bites is essential. Travellers are strongly advised to take out good travel insurance, and to seek medical advice at least three weeks before leaving for Sri Lanka. Quality medical attention may be difficult to find outside of Colombo and other big cities, and medications are often in short supply. Travellers should bring any medication they may require with them.
Safety Notes when travelling to Sri Lanka
The vast majority of trips to Sri Lanka are trouble free, though bombings in 2019 show there is now a risk of terrorism in the country. Visitors should remain vigilant and keep themselves informed of developments. Since the Sri Lankan Civil War ended in 2009, the north and east of the country have seen a growth in tourism. Violent crime against foreigners is very rare, but there have been cases of sexual assault and robbery in rural areas, and women are advised to take care when travelling alone. Credit card fraud is the most common form of crime against tourists in Sri Lanka.
Customs in Sri Lanka
Photography near government or military buildings is prohibited in Sri Lanka and homosexuality is illegal. Topless sunbathing is not allowed, and visitors, particularly women, should cover up when entering Buddhist sites. It is considered offensive to pose for photographs in front of a Buddha statue. Smoking and drinking in public are forbidden; honour, or personal dignity, is extremely important to Sri Lankans and causing an individual to ‘lose face’ by public criticism or anger should be avoided.
Duty Free in Sri Lanka
Visitors who are older than 18 years do not have to pay duty on the following items: 2 litres wine and 2.5 litres spirits; perfume up to 250ml eau de toilette; and souvenirs to the value of US$250. They will also need to get a certificate of registration from the Department of Excise to import and export of any raw material or finished products of cigarettes, cigars, beedi, or pipe tobacco. The items must be declared upon arrival.
For family members travelling together, free import applies for two members. Passengers must declare personal effects to ensure free export when they arrive in Sri Lanka. Restricted items include firearms, ammunitions, explosives and weapons, plants, fruits, birds and by-products, medication (unless it is for personal use), and goods for commercial purposes. Prohibited items include drugs or narcotics, pornographic material, and material that ridicules religious belief systems.
Doing Business in Sri Lanka
The dress etiquette may vary according to various sectors of business due to the warm climate. In the more formal sectors, men will be expected to wear lightweight suits, though a more casual approach is acceptable during the warmer months depending on regulation. Appointments are to be made in advance and business cards to be swopped upon first meeting. It is considered rude to be late for meetings. Business hours are generally 9am to 5pm from Monday to Friday, with an hour taken for lunch.
Communication in Sri Lanka
The international country dialling code for Sri Lanka is +94. The outgoing code is 00, followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). Travellers can purchase local prepaid SIM cards for unlocked phones; WiFi is standard in hotels and guesthouses.
Tipping in Sri Lanka
A 10 percent service charge is added to most restaurant and hotel bills. Tipping is appreciated for almost all services, and small amounts are sufficient; a 10 percent tip will be fine if there’s any doubt as to a suitable amount.
Passport/Visa Note
Passengers must hold return or onward tickets and all documents needed for their next destination, and should be able to show the immigration officials proof of sufficient funds for their stay in Sri Lanka. Those who prefer to arrange visas in advance can do so online or at a Sri Lankan embassy. An ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) can be issued on arrival but can also be filled in prior to travel to Sri Lanka. It is highly recommended that travellers’ passports have at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
US nationals require passports valid for at least six months on arrival. A visa is required.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadian nationals require passports valid for at least six months on arrival. A visa is required.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
UK nationals require passports valid for at least six months on arrival. A visa is required.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Australian nationals require passports valid for at least six months on arrival. A visa is required.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish nationals require passports valid for at least six months on arrival. A visa is required.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand nationals require passports valid for at least six months on arrival. A visa is required.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
South African nationals require passports valid for at least six months on arrival. A visa is required.
Tourist Offices
Sri Lanka Tourism: +94 11 242 6900 or http://www.srilanka.travel
Sri Lanka Embassies
- In the United States:
Sri Lanka Embassy, Washington, United States: +1 202 483 4025.
- In Canada:
Sri Lanka High Commission, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 233 8449.
- In the United Kingdom:
Sri Lanka High Commission, London, United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland): +44 20 7262 1841.
- In Australia:
Sri Lanka High Commission, Canberra, Australia (also responsible for New Zealand): +61 2 6198 3756.
- In New Zealand:
Sri Lankan Honorary Consulate, Wellington, New Zealand: +64 4 976 8434
- In South Africa:
Sri Lanka High Commission, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 12 460 7679.
Foreign Embassies in Sri Lanka
- American Embassy
United States Embassy, Colombo: +94 11 249 8500.
- Canadian Embassy
Canadian High Commission, Colombo: +94 11 522 6232.
- British Embassy
British High Commission, Colombo: +94 11 539 0639.
- Australian Embassy
Australian High Commission, Colombo: + 94 11 246 3200.
- Irish Embassy
Honorary Consul of Ireland, Colombo: +94 11 452 3900.
- New Zealand Embassy
New Zealand High Commission, New Delhi, India (also responsible for Sri Lanka): +91 11 2688 3170.
- South African Embassy
South African High Commission, Colombo: + 94 11 246 3000.
| 2023 | 2024 | |
|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | Wed. January 1 | Wed. January 1 |
| Independence Day | Tue. February 4 | Tue. February 4 |
| Birth of the Prophet | Fri. September 26 to Sat. September 27 | Mon. September 15 to Tue. September 16 |
| Good Friday | Mon. April 7 | Sat. March 29 |
| May Day | Thu. May 1 | Thu. May 1 |
| Id al Fitr (End of Ramadan) | Mon. April 21 to Tue. April 22 | Wed. April 9 to Thu. April 10 |
| Hadji Festival | Sat. June 28 to Wed. July 2 | Mon. June 16 to Fri. June 20 |
| Sinhala and Tamil New Year Day | Mon. April 14 | Sun. April 13 |
| Christmas Day | Thu. December 25 | Thu. December 25 |
| Deepawali | Wed. November 12 | Fri. October 31 |
The unit of currency is the Sri Lanka rupee (LKR), which is divided into 100 cents. ATMs are becoming more common, though they are unlikely to accept international cards outside the main cities; major credit cards are widely accepted in major urban centres. Credit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud. Foreign currency can be exchanged at bureaux de change, banks and hotels. Banks are closed on Sundays.
| Exchange rate for 1 LKR – Sri Lanka Rupee | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0.01 BMD Bermudan Dollar | 0.01 EUR Euro | 0.01 USD U.S. Dollar | 0.00 GBP U.K. Pound Sterling | 0.75 JPY Japanese Yen | 0.01 CAD Canadian Dollar |
| 0.01 CHF Swiss Franc | 0.01 AUD Australian Dollar | 0.17 UAH Ukrainian Hryvnia | 2.31 KZT Kazakhstani Tenge | 10.31 LBP Lebanese Pound | 0.00 LYD Libyan Dinar |
| 0.05 BOB Bolivian Boliviano | 0.74 NPR Nepalese Rupee | 0.00 OMR Omani Rial | 0.02 QAR Qatari Rial | 0.01 SGD Singapore Dollar | 0.06 SEK Swedish Krona |
| 0.05 TTD Trinidad Tobago Dollar | 0.07 VEF Venezuelan Bolivar | 0.31 DOP Dominican Peso | 0.05 HRK Croatian Kuna | 0.13 MXN Mexican Peso | 4.02 XOF West African CFA Franc |
| 0.02 PGK Papua New Guinean kina | 0.01 BSD Bahamian Dollar | 0.01 FJD Fiji Dollar | 0.16 HNL Honduran Lempira | 0.76 DZD Algerian Dinar | 8.16 MMK Myanma Kyat |
| 0.08 BWP Botswana Pula | 0.02 PEN Peruvian Nuevo Sol | 4.75 CLP Chilean Peso | 3.27 AMD Armenia Dram | 0.17 CZK Czech Koruna | 0.14 MDL Moldova Lei |
| 0.85 ISK Icelandic Krona | 20.13 UZS Uzbekistan Sum | 0.03 ILS Israeli New Sheqel | 0.00 JOD Jordanian Dinar | 0.00 KWD Kuwaiti Dinar | 0.21 UYU Uruguayan Peso |
| 0.24 MUR Mauritian Rupee | 0.20 NIO Nicaraguan Córdoba | 0.06 NOK Norwegian Krone | 0.03 PLN Polish Zloty | 0.03 SAR Saudi Riyal | 0.24 THB Thai Baht |
| 0.03 AED U.A.E Dirham | 0.02 BRL Brazilian Real | 0.03 RON Romanian New Leu | 0.05 HKD Hong Kong Dollar | 4.02 XAF Central African CFA Franc | 153.92 VND Vietnamese Dong |
| 0.10 ARS Argentine Peso | 0.02 XCD East Caribbean Dollar | 0.05 GTQ Guatemalan Quetzal | 0.07 MAD Moroccan Dirham | 0.00 BHD Bahrain Dinar | 0.01 PAB Panamanian Balboa |
| 0.01 AZN Azerbaijan Manat | 21.35 COP Colombian Peso | 0.47 KGS Kyrgyzstan Som | 1.92 HUF Hungarian Forint | 0.05 TJS Tajikistan Ruble | 93.71 IDR Indonesian Rupiah |
| 0.06 EGP Egyptian Pound | 8.16 KRW South Korean Won | 38.83 PYG Paraguayan Guaraní | 0.03 MYR Malaysian Ringgit | 3.69 CRC Costa Rican Colón | 0.01 NZD New Zealand Dollar |
| 0.72 PKR Pakistani Rupee | 0.46 RUB Russian Rouble | 0.11 ZAR South African Rand | 0.01 TND Tunisian Dinar | 0.01 BBD Barbadian Dollar | 0.01 BGN Bulgarian Lev |
| 0.02 TRY Turkish Lira | 0.32 PHP Philippine Peso | 0.22 TWD New Taiwan Dollar | 1.35 NGN Nigerian Naira | 0.73 XPF CFP Franc | 0.03 GHS Ghanaian Cedi |
| 0.86 JMD Jamaican Dollar | 0.01 ANG Neth. Antillean Guilder | 0.01 BND Brunei Dollar | 0.76 RSD Serbian Dinar | 0.05 CNY Chinese Yuan | 136.28 BYR Belarussian Ruble |
| 0.05 DKK Danish Krone | 0.02 TMT New Turkmenistan Manat | 0.46 INR Indian Rupee | |||
U.S. Dollar to Sri Lanka Rupee
1 USD = 146.02 LKR
Euro to Sri Lanka Rupee
1 EUR = 163.12 LKR
Canadian Dollar to Sri Lanka Rupee
1 CAD = 111.60 LKR
U.K. Pound Sterling to Sri Lanka Rupee
1 GBP = 210.53 LKR
Australian Dollar to Sri Lanka Rupee
1 AUD = 105.69 LKR
New Zealand Dollar to Sri Lanka Rupee
1 NZD = 99.56 LKR
South African Rand to Sri Lanka Rupee
1 ZAR = 9.36 LKR