Frequently asked questions by travellers to Sri Lanka
If you are a traveler who plans a trip to Sri Lanka in the near future, you might be having some questions that need to be addressed before finalizing the trip. Usually there is a set of questions most travellers have and are similar in many ways. We have formulated this blog post with some of the most popular questions that travellers to Sri Lanka have.
Table of Contents
- What are the frequently asked questions by travellers to Sri Lanka?
- When is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?
- Do I need a visa to enter Sri Lanka?
- Is Sri Lanka safe for tourists?
- What vaccinations do I need for Sri Lanka?
- What is the currency in Sri Lanka?
- Can I use credit cards in Sri Lanka?
- Is tap water safe to drink?
- What’s the dress code for visiting temples?
- How do I get around in Sri Lanka?
- What’s the food like in Sri Lanka?
- Are there any cultural customs I should be aware of ?
- What’s the tipping etiquette in Sri Lanka?
- Can I see elephants and leopards in Sri Lanka?
- What’s the best way to experience Sri Lankan tea?
- Is malaria a concern in Sri Lanka?
- What power plugs are used in Sri Lanka?
- Can I climb Adam’s Peak?
- Are there good surfing spots in Sri Lanka?
- What should I pack for Sri Lanka?
- Is English widely spoken in Sri Lanka?
What are the frequently asked questions by travellers to Sri Lanka?
- When is the best time to travel to Sri Lanka
- Do I need visa to enter Sri Lanka
- Is Sri Lanka safe for tourists
- What vaccinations do I need for Sri Lanka?
- What is the currency in Sri Lanka?
- Can I use credit cards in Sri Lanka?
- Is tap water safe to drink?
- What’s the dress code for visiting temples?
- How do I get around in Sri Lanka?
- What’s the food like in Sri Lanka?
- Are there any cultural customs I should be aware of ?
- What’s the tipping etiquette in Sri Lanka?
- Can I see elephants and leopards in Sri Lanka?
- What’s the best way to experience Sri Lankan tea?
- Is malaria a concern in Sri Lanka?
- What power plugs are used in Sri Lanka?
- Can I climb Adam’s Peak?
- Are there good surfing spots in Sri Lanka?
- What should I pack for Sri Lanka?
- Is English widely spoken in Sri Lanka?
When is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?
Finding the best time to travel in Sri Lanka is the most popular question among the travellers. We have dedicated one of our blog posts entirely to this topic (when is the best time to travel in Sri Lanka). Depends on the region, but generally December to March for the south/west coast and May to September for the east coast.
Do I need a visa to enter Sri Lanka?
The travelles should have obtained visa before entering Sri Lanka. Travellers can obtain visa online or on arrival at the airport. Most visitors need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before arrival.The travellers from below mentioned countries can obtain free visa to Sri Lanka while other will be charge for the visa.
Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belarus, Belgium, Canada, China, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Iran, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Nepal, Netherlands, New Zealand, Oman, Poland, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and the United States.
Is Sri Lanka safe for tourists?
Sri Lanka is one of the safest countries for travellers in the world, always check current travel advisories.
What vaccinations do I need for Sri Lanka?
Consult your doctor, but typically Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and routine vaccinations are recommended.
What is the currency in Sri Lanka?
Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR).
Can I use credit cards in Sri Lanka?
Yes, in major cities and tourist areas, but carry cash for rural areas.
Is tap water safe to drink?
It’s recommended to drink bottled water.
What’s the dress code for visiting temples?
Modest dress covering shoulders and knees. Remove shoes and hats.
How do I get around in Sri Lanka?
Options include buses, trains, taxis, tuk-tuks, and hiring a car with a driver.
What’s the food like in Sri Lanka?
Spicy curries, rice, seafood. Many vegetarian options available.
Are there any cultural customs I should be aware of ?
Respect religious sites, don’t turn your back to Buddha statues, use right hand for eating and giving/receiving.
What’s the tipping etiquette in Sri Lanka?
Not mandatory but appreciated. 10% is standard in restaurants if service charge isn’t included.
Can I see elephants and leopards in Sri Lanka?
Yes, in national parks like Yala, Udawalawe, and Minneriya.
What’s the best way to experience Sri Lankan tea?
Visit a tea plantation in the hill country, like Nuwara Eliya or Ella.
Is malaria a concern in Sri Lanka?
No risk of Maleria, but take precautions against mosquito bites.
What power plugs are used in Sri Lanka?
Type D, M, and G sockets. Voltage is 230V.
Can I climb Adam’s Peak?
Yes, best during pilgrimage season (December to May).
Are there good surfing spots in Sri Lanka?
Yes, especially in Arugam Bay, Weligama, and Hikkaduwa.
What should I pack for Sri Lanka?
Light, breathable clothing, sun protection, insect repellent, modest attire for temples.
Is English widely spoken in Sri Lanka?
Yes, especially in tourist areas and cities.
