FAQ's
Find answers to your questions before joining a tour so that you can find out exactly what you want to know. If you have more question please feel free to reach us via contact form.
Most travelers need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter Sri Lanka,
which is easy to obtain online in advance at eta.gov.lk.
Sri Lanka Standard Time is GMT+5:30, so plan accordingly, especially if your home
country observes daylight saving time.
Sri Lanka uses 230V power with plug types D (three round pins)
and G (three rectangular pins), so bring an appropriate adapter.
Sinhala and Tamil are the official languages, with English widely spoken,
especially in tourist areas and on signboards.
The Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) is the local currency;
exchange money at airports or major cities and carry some USD, EUR, or GBP for convenience. Use Bank of Ceylon
ATMs when possible to avoid extra charges.
Declare any amount over $10,000 upon arrival, and keep your
currency exchange receipts for re-conversion upon departure.
When visiting temples or mosques, wear attire that covers your
shoulders and legs. Shoes and headwear must be removed, but socks are acceptable.
Pack light cotton clothes for warm weather and
a sweater or jacket for cooler hill regions. An umbrella or raincoat is useful during rainy seasons.
Avoid any behavior seen as disrespectful, such as taking selfies with or
turning your back on Buddha statues, and cover tattoos of Buddha if you have them.
Always ask for permission before photographing people. Flash photography
is prohibited in temples, and be cautious when taking photos near military sites or Hindu temples.
Traditionally, Sri Lankans eat with their right hand. If invited to a local home,
wash your hands before eating and avoid using your left hand.
Tipping is customary in Sri Lanka, with guides and drivers typically receiving
around £10 per day.
Be cautious around elephants on rural roads and avoid feeding them. Also, watch out
for snakes in wet areas like paddy fields.
Sri Lanka is generally safe, but use hotel safes for valuables, stay alert in crowded areas, and avoid traveling alone at night, especially as a female traveler.
Alcohol sales are banned on full moon (Poya) days and certain religious holidays, though hotel minibars usually remain stocked.
Avoid drinking tap water; use bottled or filtered water, ensuring seals are intact.
Dengue fever is a risk; wear repellent with DEET, cover up at dawn and
dusk, and use mosquito nets when available.
Many beaches have strong currents and lack lifeguards. Seek local
advice before swimming, especially during monsoon seasons.
Sri Lanka is prone to localized flooding, landslides, and
occasional tropical cyclones. Stay updated via the Disaster Management Center’s website.
Private hospitals in Colombo offer high-quality medical care, and
minor ailments can be treated at local clinics.
Stay hydrated, use sunscreen with a high SPF, and
avoid prolonged exposure to the sun to prevent heat-related illnesses.
Get a local SIM or eSIM for around $5 at the airport for easy
connectivity. Bring your passport for activation.
Most mid-range and luxury hotels provide basic
but comfortable lodging for drivers, often with meals included. If unavailable, they can find nearby guesthouses at a nominal fee.