Sri Lanka is a beautiful island nation that offers a diverse range of attractions, from stunning beaches and wildlife to ancient temples and colonial heritage. If you are planning to visit this gem of the Indian Ocean for the first time, here are some handy travel tips to make your trip more enjoyable and hassle-free.
Sri Lanka does not offer visa on arrival for tourists, but you can easily apply for an electronic travel authorization (ETA) online. The process is simple and quick, and the fee is minimal. You can apply for the eVisa here. Make sure you apply for it at least a week in advance.
Sri Lanka is a predominantly Buddhist country, and Buddhists are very sensitive about their faith and symbols. Avoid wearing any Buddha tattoos or images, as they can be considered offensive and even illegal. Also, dress modestly when visiting temples and other religious sites, and remove your shoes and hats before entering.
Tuk-tuks are a common and convenient way of getting around in Sri Lanka, but they can also rip you off if you are not careful. Some tuk-tuk drivers may quote you inflated prices or refuse to use the meter. To avoid being overcharged, always ask for the fare before you get in, or look for a metered tuk-tuk. You can also use apps like PickMe or Uber to book a ride with a fixed price.
Sri Lanka has many popular destinations that attract crowds of visitors, such as Colombo, Kandy, Galle, Ella, and Nuwara Eliya. But there are also many hidden gems that are worth exploring, especially in the north and east of the country. These regions were once affected by the civil war, but have now reopened to tourists and offer a more authentic and offbeat experience. You can visit places like Jaffna, Trincomalee, Batticaloa, Arugam Bay, and Wilpattu National Park to see a different side of Sri Lanka.
Sri Lankan food is delicious and diverse, influenced by various cultures and regions. You can enjoy dishes like rice and curry, hoppers, kottu, string hoppers, roti, lamprais, and more. Don’t miss the street food stalls and markets, where you can find cheap and tasty snacks like samosas, vadai, achcharu, and short eats. Also, try the local drinks like tea, coffee, king coconut water, ginger beer, and arrack (a distilled liquor made from coconut sap).
The currency of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR), which comes in notes and coins. You can exchange your foreign currency at banks or authorized dealers, which offer better rates than hotels or shops. Avoid exchanging money at the airport or on the street, as they may charge high commissions or give you counterfeit notes. You can also withdraw money from ATMs using your debit or credit card, but be aware of the fees and limits.
Sri Lanka is famous for its handicrafts, such as wood carvings, masks, batik fabrics, lacework, pottery, gems, and jewelry. If you want to buy some souvenirs for yourself or your loved ones, make sure you buy them from government-certified stores or cooperatives, which guarantee quality and fair prices. Avoid buying from street vendors or touts who may sell you fake or overpriced products.
Sri Lanka has two monsoon seasons that affect different parts of the country at different times of the year. The southwest monsoon (Yala) brings rain to the south and west coasts from May to September, while the northeast monsoon (Maha) brings rain to the north and east coasts from October to January.
Take a train ride through the scenic countryside. One of the most memorable experiences in Sri Lanka is taking a train ride through the lush green landscapes of tea plantations, mountains, waterfalls, and villages. The train network in Sri Lanka covers most of the major cities and towns, and offers a cheap and comfortable way of traveling. Some of the most scenic train routes are:
Sri Lanka is a tropical country with a warm and humid climate, so you don’t need to pack too many clothes or layers. However, you should pack some essentials, such as:
These are some of the handy travel tips for first-time visitors to Sri Lanka. We hope you find them useful and have a wonderful time in this amazing country. Happy travels! ??
FAQs
Do I need any vaccinations before traveling to Sri Lanka?
It is recommended that you consult your doctor or a travel health clinic at least four to six weeks before your departure. You may need vaccinations for diseases such as hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus, and rabies. You may also need to take anti-malarial medication or other precautions depending on the areas you visit and the season.
What is the best way to get around in Sri Lanka?
There are many options for getting around in Sri Lanka, depending on your budget, time, and preference. You can use public transportation such as buses, trains, or tuk-tuks, which are cheap and widely available. You can also hire a private car or a driver, which can give you more flexibility and comfort. Alternatively, you can rent a bike or a scooter, which can be fun and adventurous.
What are some of the best things to do in Sri Lanka?
There are so many things to do in Sri Lanka that you will never get bored. You can enjoy the natural beauty of the beaches, mountains, waterfalls, and wildlife parks. You can explore the rich history and culture of the ancient cities, temples, and monuments. You can indulge in the delicious food and drinks of the local cuisine. You can also try some of the adventurous activities such as surfing, diving, hiking, rafting, and more.
What are some of the best places to stay in Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka has a wide range of accommodation options for every taste and budget. You can find luxury hotels and resorts that offer world-class amenities and services. You can also find budget hotels and guesthouses that offer basic facilities and friendly hospitality. You can also opt for homestays or Airbnb that offer a more authentic and personal experience.
What are some of the best souvenirs to buy from Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka is known for its handicrafts, such as wood carvings, masks, batik fabrics, lacework, pottery, gems, and jewelry. You can buy these souvenirs from government-certified stores or cooperatives that guarantee quality and fair prices. You can also buy some of the local products such as tea, coffee, spices, coconut oil, and ayurvedic products.
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