Sri Lanka Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors

Where to go

Most first trips combine four areas: the Cultural Triangle (Sigiriya, Dambulla, Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura), Kandy, the hill country (Nuwara Eliya and Ella) and a coast. Wildlife lovers add Yala, Udawalawe or Minneriya.

When to go

Two monsoons affect different coasts at different times, so there is usually somewhere with good weather. Broadly, the south and west are best from around December to April and the east from around May to September. Weather is never guaranteed.

Getting around

Distances are short on the map but roads are winding and busy, so journeys take longer than you might expect. Many visitors travel with a private vehicle and driver, which makes it easy to stop along the way. The scenic hill-country train is a highlight in its own right.

Domestic options include trains, buses and tuk-tuks for short trips. Check current schedules and fares locally.

Entry requirements

Most visitors need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) or visa before arrival. Requirements change and vary by nationality, so check the official Sri Lankan government immigration website before you book flights.

Money and costs

The currency is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR). Cards are accepted in many hotels and larger shops; carry cash for smaller places, temples and tips. ATMs are common in towns.

Culture and etiquette

Sri Lanka is home to Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims and Christians. Dress modestly away from the beach, cover shoulders and knees at religious sites, remove shoes and hats where asked, and never pose with your back to a Buddha image.

• Use your right hand to give and receive
• Ask before photographing people
• Public displays of affection are best kept low-key

Health and safety

Sri Lanka is generally a welcoming destination. Take normal precautions with valuables, use reputable transport, drink bottled or filtered water and protect yourself against mosquitoes. Check your government's travel advice and speak to a travel health professional before you go.

Sri Lanka at a glance

Sri Lanka is an island in the Indian Ocean, south of India, roughly 430 kilometres from north to south. It packs a remarkable variety into a small area: eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, misty mountains above 2,000 metres, tropical beaches on every coast, rainforest, and dry-zone national parks with elephants and leopards.

The population is mostly Sinhalese Buddhist, with Tamil Hindu, Muslim and Christian communities. Sinhala and Tamil are the official languages, and English is widely spoken in tourism.

Food and drink

Rice and curry is the everyday meal: rice served with several curries of vegetables, lentils, fish or meat, plus sambols. Try hoppers and string hoppers for breakfast, kottu for dinner, and fresh tropical fruit everywhere. Tea is the national drink, and king coconut water is the best way to cool down.

Drink bottled or filtered water, and tell your driver if you'd like help finding vegetarian or mild food.

Responsible travel

Choose wildlife experiences that keep a respectful distance, avoid elephant rides, cover up at temples, ask before photographing people, and reduce plastic by carrying a refillable bottle. Small, locally owned guesthouses and restaurants keep more money in local communities.

Frequently asked questions