Sri Lanka

Overview

Visa & Entry

Health

According to the Center for Disease Control, there are no requirements for travel to Sri Lanka. It is recommended, however, that all travelers are up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot. It is also recommended to talk to your doctor about vaccines for Hepatits A and Typhoid.

Weather

When traveling to Sri Lanka, November through mid-April is the best time to visit. Sri Lanka’s proximity to the Equator means temperature remains fairly consistent year round. Lowland and coastal areas can range from 25 to 30 degrees celsius, with temperatures into the low 40 during the hottest part of the day. As elevation increases, temperatures will drop. In Kandy, temperatures are between the 15 and 20. In Nuwara Eliya and the highest elevations, temperatures vary from 10 to 15

Dressing

It is important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. It is recommended that women do not wear shorts or halter tops even if it is very hot. Jeans, slacks, or skirts are recommended, and T-shirts are considered appropriate.

Credit Cards & Money

Always notify your bank prior to departure to avoid any problems using your credit or debit card while traveling.
At restaurants, approximately $1 per person. Hotel porters, approximately $1 per person. Guides and drivers are also tipped at your discretion, please see your travel documents for guidelines.

Shopping

Shops for masks, batiks, lace, metalwork and lacquerware, previous and semi-precious gems and jewelry (if you know what you’re looking for), as well as tea and spices. Stay away from the purchase of polished shells or pieces of coral, as this is a contributing factor in Sri Lanka’s endangered marine environment. Keep in mind the export of marine or other animal products is Illegal

Electricity & Power

220-240 volts. Plugs D & C. You will need a voltage converter and plug adapter in order to use U.S. appliances. We recommend getting a universal adapter and converter kit.

Cell Phones & Internet

Want to take your cell phone, tablet or laptop, but not sure how to get cell service or wifi? Check in google world connections before

Photography

Cameras and video recorders are permitted, and photography is generally permitted everywhere except at airports and military installations. Memory cards for digital cameras will be available in major cities

For your info

The cultural triangle, the carefully tended tea estates, the rose gold beaches ... On a tailor-made Sri Lanka vacation with Audley, you'll experience the highlights - and more - your way. We will design your ideal trip with you, paying special attention to your interests, travel style and budget. Our Sri Lankan specialists know the country inside out and can provide you with experiences you won't find in a guidebook.

Admire frescoes in Dambulla Cave and climb to the top of Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Join the pilgrims as they walk through the ruins of the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. Take a break at a roadside fruit stall for a fresh banana. Spot elephants, birds, and, if you're lucky, a leopard, in Yala National Park. Take a traditional mask-making class and compare your skills with those sold in shops in Dutch colonial Galle.