25 Things to Know Before Visiting Sri Lanka

Before you fly

• 1. Apply for your ETA online. Most visitors need an Electronic Travel Authorization before departure, and it is free for some nationalities. Apply only through the official government website and check the current rules for your passport, as they change from time to time.
• 2. Pick your coast by month. The south and west coasts are usually best from about December to March; the east coast from about April to September. The Cultural Triangle and the hill country can be visited most of the year.
• 3. Allow at least 10 days if you can. Seven days covers the highlights; ten to fourteen lets you add a safari and beach time without rushing.
• 4. Get travel insurance that covers activities you plan, such as hiking, rafting or surfing.
• 5. Pack for several climates: light clothes for the coast, a warm layer and rain jacket for the hills, and modest clothing for temples.

Money and connectivity

• 6. The currency is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR). ATMs are common in towns; carry cash for smaller places, tuk-tuks and temple donations.
• 7. Cards are accepted in many hotels and larger restaurants, but not everywhere, and some places add a fee.
• 8. Buy a local SIM or eSIM on arrival at the airport. Mobile data is good across most of the island, which makes maps and WhatsApp easy.
• 9. Tipping is appreciated: rounding up in restaurants, and a tip for drivers, guides and hotel staff who have looked after you.
• 10. Plugs are mostly the three round-pin and three square-pin types. A universal adapter is the simplest solution.

Getting around

• 11. Distances are short but journeys are slow. Three to four hours between regions is normal on winding roads.
• 12. A private car and driver is the most comfortable way to travel, and lets you stop at viewpoints, tea factories and fruit stalls along the way.
• 13. The famous hill-country railway is partly closed after Cyclone Ditwah; trains currently run on the scenic Nanu Oya–Ella section. Check the latest status before you plan.
• 14. Tuk-tuks are great for short trips. Agree the fare before you set off, or use a ride-hailing app in the cities.
• 15. Traffic drives on the left, and roads are shared with buses, cyclists, dogs and the occasional elephant.

Culture and etiquette

• 16. Cover shoulders and knees at temples, and remove shoes and hats before entering. Socks help on hot stone floors.
• 17. Never pose with your back to a Buddha statue, and avoid clothing or tattoos showing the Buddha.
• 18. Poya, the full-moon day each month, is a public holiday. Alcohol sales are not allowed and temples are busy.
• 19. Ask before photographing people, especially monks and worshippers.
• 20. Use your right hand to give and receive things, and to eat if you try eating rice and curry by hand.

Food, health and safety

• 21. Rice and curry is the national meal. Ask for it 'less spicy' if you prefer; vegetarian options are easy to find.
• 22. Drink bottled or filtered water, and use plenty of sunscreen and insect repellent.
• 23. Swim only where locals swim and watch for red flags; currents can be strong outside the calm season.
• 24. Be wary of friendly strangers offering 'special' gem deals or detours to shops. Buy gems only with a certificate.
• 25. Choose wildlife experiences that keep a respectful distance. Safaris in national parks are a far better choice than elephant rides.

Ready to plan?

If you'd like the trip without the logistics, we plan private routes around your dates and drive you in our own vehicles. Start with one of our sample itineraries and we'll adapt it to you.

Frequently asked questions