Sri Lanka Travel Information

Sri Lanka, a tropical island located in South Asia, is known for its beautiful beaches, ancient temples, and diverse wildlife. From the bustling cities to the tranquil jungles, there is no shortage of things to see and do in Sri Lanka. Here are the top 10 things to do in Sri Lanka that should not be missed:

1. Visit the temples of Kandy

Kandy, a city located in central Sri Lanka, is home to the Temple of the Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most sacred Buddhist shrines in the world. Visitors can explore the temple and also see traditional Kandyan dancers and drummers.

2. Visit the Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a rock fortress located in central Sri Lanka and it is known for its ancient frescoes and beautiful views from the top. Visitors can explore the fortress and also see the beautiful Sigiriya rock from the top.

3. Visit the beaches of the south coast

The south coast of Sri Lanka is known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters, such as Unawatuna and Mirissa. Visitors can enjoy the beaches and also take part in various water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

4. Visit the national parks

Sri Lanka is home to a number of national parks, such as Yala, Udawalawe and Wilpattu, which offer visitors the opportunity to see a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and various species of birds. Visitors can also take a safari to see the wildlife.

5. Visit the ancient city of Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an ancient city located in the north-central province of Sri Lanka and it is known for its well-preserved ruins, such as the Gal Viharaya, the Parakrama Samudra and the Rankot Vihara. Visitors can explore the ancient city and learn about the history.

6. Visit the ancient city of Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an ancient city located in the north-central province of Sri Lanka and it is known for its well-preserved ruins, such as the Sri Maha Bodhi, the Ruwanwelisaya, and the Abhayagiri Vihara. Visitors can explore the ancient city and learn about the history of the ancient Sinhalese civilization.

7. Visit the Dambulla Cave Temple

Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important Buddhist shrines in Sri Lanka. Visitors can explore the cave temple and see the beautiful frescoes and statues.

8. Visit the tea plantations

Sri Lanka is famous for its high-quality tea and visitors can take a tour of a tea plantation to see the tea-making process and also taste the different varieties of tea. Visitors can also take a train ride to the Hill country to see the beautiful tea plantations.

9. Visit the colonial city of Galle

Galle, a city located in the south of Sri Lanka, is known for its well-preserved Dutch colonial architecture and beautiful beaches. Visitors can explore the city's many historical sites, such as the Galle Fort and the Dutch Reformed Church, and also enjoy the beautiful beaches.

10. Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya

The Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya is a 147-acre botanical garden located near the city of Kandy and it is known for its wide variety of plants, including orchids, spices, medicinal plants and palms. Visitors can take a guided tour to explore the gardens and also see the many species of birds and other wildlife that call the gardens home.

Climate

Sri Lanka has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The southwest monsoon brings heavy rains to the west and southwest coast of the island from May to September, while the northeast monsoon brings rain to the east coast from October to January. The rest of the island experiences relatively little rainfall during these periods. The best time to visit the west and southwest coasts is from December to April, when the rains have subsided and the weather is warm and sunny. The best time to visit the east coast is from May to September, when the monsoon rains are less heavy.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Sri Lanka depends on what you want to see and do. If you're interested in visiting the beaches, the west and southwest coasts are best visited from December to April, when the weather is dry and warm. If you're interested in visiting the cultural and historical sites, the best time to visit is from January to April, when the weather is dry and the temperatures are mild. If you're interested in visiting the hill country, the best time to visit is from December to March, when the weather is clear and cool.

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

Hotels

Sri Lanka has a wide range of hotels, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. Many of the larger hotels are located in tourist hotspots such as Colombo, Kandy, and the southern coast, but there are also many smaller, more intimate hotels located in more remote areas of the country.

Guesthouses

Guesthouses are a popular accommodation option for budget-conscious travelers in Sri Lanka. These small, family-run establishments offer basic amenities and a homely atmosphere at a fraction of the cost of a hotel. Guesthouses can be found in most towns and cities across Sri Lanka, as well as in rural areas.

Homestays

Homestays provide an immersive cultural experience, as travelers stay with a local family in their home. This type of accommodation is becoming increasingly popular in Sri Lanka and can be found in many rural areas, as well as some towns and cities. Homestays offer a unique opportunity to experience Sri Lankan culture and hospitality firsthand.

Villas

Villas are becoming more popular in Sri Lanka, particularly in areas such as the southern coast. These self-catering properties range from basic to luxurious and offer privacy and independence. Many villas come with their own swimming pool, and some even have staff such as a cook or a cleaner.

Campsites

Campsites are a good option for budget-conscious travelers and adventure enthusiasts. There are a few campsites in Sri Lanka, which are particularly popular with hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Some campsites offer basic facilities such as toilets and showers, while others offer more luxurious amenities such as private bathrooms and hot water.

Bus

Buses are a popular and inexpensive way to get around Sri Lanka. The bus system is extensive and covers most parts of the country, although it can be crowded and uncomfortable at times. There are both government-run and private buses, with the latter often being more comfortable.

Train

Trains are a great way to explore Sri Lanka, offering scenic routes and comfortable seating. The train system is extensive and covers most parts of the country, with trains running between major cities and towns. However, train travel can be slow and the trains can get crowded, especially during peak season.

Tuk-tuk

Tuk-tuks are a popular and inexpensive way to get around in cities and towns. They are three-wheeled, open-air vehicles that can seat up to three people. Tuk-tuks are a convenient way to get around, although prices can vary widely and it's important to agree on a fare before setting off.

Car rental

Car rental is a popular option for those who want more flexibility and independence when traveling around Sri Lanka. There are many car rental companies in the country, with a wide range of vehicles available to rent. However, it's important to be aware of the local traffic laws and road conditions before renting a car.

Taxi

Taxis are a convenient way to get around in cities and towns, and can also be used for longer journeys. Taxis can be hailed on the street or booked in advance, and prices are usually fixed. However, it's important to agree on the fare before setting off, and it's also recommended to use metered taxis.

Money Tips for Travel

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
• Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
• Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
• Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

ATM and Credit Cards

• Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
• Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
• Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
• Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
• Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

Exchange Rates

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

Medical Coverage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

Lost or Stolen Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

Liability coverage

Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

eSIM

Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

Dual SIM phone

If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

Extend your home plan

Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

Keep your primary SIM

With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

Meetup

Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

Internations

Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

Reddit

Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

Linkedin

LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.