Visit Sri Lanka - The Pearl of the Indian Ocean

General Information

- Capital: Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte (Administrative), Colombo (Commercial)
- Area: 65,610 km²
- Population: Approx. 22 million
- Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) (~0.0028 EUR)
- Languages: Sinhala, Tamil (English is widely spoken)

Visa Requirements

All visitors to Sri Lanka must:
- Hold a passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
- Have an onward or return ticket.
- Show proof of sufficient funds for the stay.
- Obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before arrival or on arrival for eligible nationalities.

Visa-Free or Visa-on-Arrival for Citizens of:

Maldives, Seychelles, Singapore (Visa-free), Many European, Asian & American countries (ETA required, check official updates).

About Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a tropical paradise known for its golden beaches, lush tea plantations, diverse wildlife, and ancient heritage.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, cultural experiences, or relaxation, Sri Lanka offers something for everyone.

Climate

Sri Lanka has a tropical monsoon climate, with two primary seasons:
- Dry Season (December - April): Best for coastal and cultural exploration.
- Monsoon Season (May - November): Rainfall varies across different regions.

Main Attractions

- Sigiriya Rock Fortress – Ancient UNESCO-listed fortress with breathtaking views.
- Temple of the Tooth (Kandy) – Sacred Buddhist temple housing a tooth relic of Buddha.
- Ella – Stunning hill country town with waterfalls and tea plantations.
- Galle Fort – Well-preserved colonial fort with charming streets and ocean views.
- Yala National Park – One of the best places to spot leopards in the wild.
- Nuwara Eliya – The heart of Sri Lanka’s tea country, with cool weather and scenic landscapes.
- Mirissa & Unawatuna – Beautiful beaches perfect for surfing and whale watching.
- Anuradhapura & Polonnaruwa – Ancient capitals filled with historic ruins and temples.
- Adam’s Peak – A sacred mountain pilgrimage site with breathtaking sunrise views.
- Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage – A sanctuary for rescued elephants.

Transportation

Sri Lanka offers various transport options:
- Trains – Scenic train rides through tea plantations and mountains.
- Buses – Affordable but can be crowded and slow.
- Tuk-Tuks – A fun and convenient way to explore cities.
- Private Drivers & Taxis – The most comfortable option for long-distance travel.
- Domestic Flights – Available for quick access to remote locations.

Must-Try Food & Drinks

Food:
- Rice & Curry – Sri Lanka’s staple meal with a variety of side dishes.
- Hoppers (Appam) – Crispy bowl-shaped pancakes, sometimes with eggs.
- Kottu Roti – Stir-fried shredded roti with vegetables, meat, and spices.
- Lamprais – Rice and curry wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.
- Fish Ambul Thiyal – Sour fish curry with a rich blend of spices.
- Dhal Curry (Parippu) – A simple but flavorful lentil dish.
- Wambatu Moju – Spicy and tangy eggplant pickle.

Desserts:
- Watalappan – A coconut custard pudding with jaggery and spices.
- Kiribath – Coconut milk-infused rice often served with spicy sambol.
- Kavum – Sweet deep-fried oil cakes made during Sinhala & Tamil New Year.

Drinks:
- Ceylon Tea – World-renowned Sri Lankan tea.
- King Coconut Water – A refreshing tropical drink.
- Arrack – A local spirit made from coconut sap.
- Woodapple Juice – A unique tangy and creamy fruit drink.

Travel Tips for Sri Lanka

1. Entry & Visa: Obtain an ETA online before arrival to avoid delays.
2. Best Time to Visit: December - April for dry weather; May - November for lush landscapes.
3. Transportation: Use trains for scenic routes; tuk-tuks for short distances.
4. Local Etiquette: Dress modestly when visiting temples; remove shoes before entering.
5. Money: ATMs are available; cash is preferred in rural areas.
6. Food: Try Kottu Roti, Hoppers, and Ceylon Tea.
7. Shopping: Visit Pettah Market, Odel, and Barefoot Gallery for souvenirs.
8. Safety: Sri Lanka is generally safe, but be cautious in crowded places.
9. What to Avoid: Avoid tap water; drink bottled or filtered water.
10. Cultural Experiences: Witness Perahera Festivals, Ayurveda wellness treatments, and traditional Kandyan dance performances.

Summary

Sri Lanka offers a unique mix of breathtaking landscapes, ancient history, and warm hospitality.
Whether you're trekking through the hills, relaxing on the beach, or exploring historic sites, Sri Lanka is a must-visit destination.