What are the requirements for obtaining a visa to visit Sri Lanka, and how can travelers apply for a visa?
To visit Sri Lanka, you will need a visa. There are several types of visas available for travel to Sri Lanka, including tourist visas, business visas, and transit visas. Tourist visas are valid for stays of up to 30 days and can be obtained online through the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system or from a Sri Lankan embassy or consulate. Business visas are valid for stays of up to 90 days and are issued to those who are traveling to Sri Lanka for business purposes. Transit visas are issued to travelers who are passing through Sri Lanka on their way to another destination.
To apply for a visa to Sri Lanka, you will need a valid passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining, a completed visa application form, and any other required documents. You may also need to provide proof of sufficient funds to cover your expenses while in Sri Lanka, and a return or onward ticket.
It is a good idea to check the visa requirements for your specific country and the type of visa you need before planning your trip to Sri Lanka. It is also a good idea to apply for your visa well in advance of your travel date to ensure that you have enough time to process your application.
Department of Immigration and Emigration,
SuhurupayaSri Subhuthipura Road,
Battaramulla.
Tel. +94 11 5329230
What is the capital of Sri Lanka?
The capital of Sri Lanka is Colombo, a bustling port city located on the west coast of the island. Colombo is the largest city in Sri Lanka and is the country’s commercial and financial center. It is known for its mix of modern skyscrapers and colonial-era buildings, and is home to a number of cultural attractions, including temples, museums, and parks.
What is the official language of Sri Lanka?
What is the currency of Sri Lanka?
What is the climate like in Sri Lanka?
Being a tropical country Sri Lanka offers sunshine and warmth throughout the year. The basic temperature in Colombo is 28 – 32 C.
Though you have to understand rainfall is unpredictable. Sri Lanka faces two monsoons throughout the year.
The South-west Monsoon: May/June
the north-east Monsoon: December to February
So, we advise you to check the whether thoroughly before planning your itinerary.
What should I wear in Sri Lanka?
It is also a good idea to avoid wearing revealing or tight clothing when traveling in Sri Lanka, as it can be seen as disrespectful to the local culture and customs. In general, it is best to dress modestly and to avoid wearing clothing with offensive or controversial graphics or text.
In addition to dressing modestly, it is also important to be aware of the local customs and traditions in Sri Lanka and to behave appropriately. For example, it is customary to take off your shoes when entering someone’s home or a temple, and to use your right hand when giving or receiving something. Respect for local customs and traditions is a key part of being a responsible and considerate traveler.
Are there any vaccinations recommended for travel to Sri Lanka?
Is it safe to drink tap water in Sri Lanka?
Can I use my phone in Sri Lanka?
What is the time difference between Sri Lanka and Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)?
Sri Lanka Standard Time is five and a half hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). This means that when it is 12:00 noon in GMT, it is 5:30 PM in Sri Lanka.
It is important to note that Sri Lanka does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST), so the time difference between Sri Lanka and GMT remains the same throughout the year. However, many countries in Europe do observe DST, so the time difference between Sri Lanka and Europe may vary depending on the time of year. It is a good idea to check the current time in Sri Lanka and the time difference between Sri Lanka and your location before planning your trip.
What are some ways to secure accommodation in Sri Lanka during the peak season, and what are some options for accommodation that are available to travelers in the country?
Sri Lanka offers a wide range of accommodation options for travelers, including luxury hotels, resorts, guesthouses, and budget accommodations. No matter what your budget is, you can find a place to stay that suits your needs and preferences.
During the peak season, which falls in mid-January and during Easter, demand for accommodation in Sri Lanka can be high. To ensure that you have a place to stay during this time, it is a good idea to reserve your accommodation well in advance. Walk Lanka Holidays is a tour operator that can help you book accommodation in Sri Lanka, and can assist you in finding a place to stay that meets your needs and budget. By booking your accommodation early, you can avoid disappointment and have peace of mind knowing that you have a place to stay during your trip.
What are some ways to connect with the locals and learn more about the culture in Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka is known for its friendly and hospitable people, who are always happy to welcome visitors to their beautiful country. Sri Lankans are known for their warm and welcoming nature, and they will treat you with kindness and hospitality during your visit. If you want to connect with the locals and create unforgettable memories in Sri Lanka, don’t be afraid to engage with them and learn more about their culture.
One way to connect with the locals is to learn a few basic phrases in their language. Many Sri Lankans greet each other with the phrase “Ayubowan,” which means “may you live long” and is a way of praying for your health. Other simple phrases that you can learn include “Isthuthi” (thank you), “Kohomada” (how are you?), “Koheda” (where?), “Puluwan” (can do), and “Keeyada” (how much?). By learning a few phrases in the local language, you can show your respect for the culture and make your interactions with the locals more meaningful.
Where can travelers find a variety of alcoholic beverages in Sri Lanka ?
In Sri Lanka, you will find many stores that sell wine and other alcoholic beverages, including spirits, arrack, and beer. These stores can be found in major cities and towns throughout the country. While these stores are called “wine” stores, they often sell a variety of alcoholic beverages, including many that are produced locally in Sri Lanka. If you are looking for branded wine or spirits, you may be able to find them at a supermarket that has a bar. These supermarkets often offer a wider selection of alcoholic beverages at lower prices than what you will find at hotels and restaurants.
It is important to note that all bars and wine stores in Sri Lanka are closed on Poya days, which are traditional Buddhist holidays. However, if you want to have a small drink and enjoy yourself during this time, you can purchase your beverages the day before Poya day. Just be sure to be respectful of local customs and traditions while in Sri Lanka.
What are some popular local dishes and street food to try in Sri Lanka ?
Sri Lanka is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine, which is a blend of different cultural influences. When visiting the country, it is a good idea to try some of the local, authentic foods and street food. One dish that is popular among Sri Lankans is rice and curry, which is a main course meal consisting of rice served with a variety of curries made with fish, meat, vegetables, or fruit. The curries are typically rich in spices, hot, and tangy, so if you are not used to spicy food, you may want to try milder curries. If you are able to eat rice and curry with your right hand rather than using cutlery, it will be appreciated by your local hosts and can help you bond with them.
There are many other culinary options to try in Sri Lanka, including seasonal fruits, curd and treacle, local beverages, and dishes such as kottu, roti, pittu, string hoppers, hoppers, naan, helapa, coconut, and honey pancakes, which are made from a variety of ingredients such as rice, whole-wheat flour, coconut, wheat, and lentils. Whether you are looking for a spicy and flavorful main course or a sweet and satisfying dessert, you are sure to find something to suit your taste buds in Sri Lanka.
What are some of the hot and cold beverage options available in Sri Lanka?
What are some essential items that travelers should bring with them when visiting Sri Lanka?
- Passport: Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the dates of your trip and that you have sufficient blank pages for entry stamps.
- Visa: Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Sri Lanka. Be sure to check the visa requirements for your specific country and obtain a visa in advance if necessary.
- Travel documents: Keep all of your travel documents, including your tickets, hotel reservations, and travel insurance documents, in a safe and easily accessible place.
- Clothing: Pack lightweight and comfortable clothing that is suitable for the weather and local culture. It is a good idea to bring a mix of casual and more formal attire, as well as a lightweight raincoat or umbrella.
- Toiletries: Bring any personal hygiene items that you will need, such as toothpaste, shampoo, and sunscreen.
- Medications: If you are taking any medications, be sure to bring enough to last the duration of your trip, as well as a copy of your prescription in case you need to refill your medication while in Sri Lanka.
- Cash and credit cards: It is a good idea to have some cash and at least one credit or debit card with you for expenses during your trip. Be sure to inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans to avoid any issues with your accounts.
- Camera: Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture all of your amazing experiences in Sri Lanka.
- Other items: Depending on your specific travel plans, you may want to bring other items such as a hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, and a first aid kit.
What are some items that travelers should avoid bringing with them when visiting Sri Lanka?
Illegal drugs: Possession of illegal drugs is strictly prohibited in Sri Lanka, and penalties for drug offenses are severe. Do not bring any illegal drugs with you when traveling to Sri Lanka.
Offensive materials: It is important to be respectful of the local culture and customs in Sri Lanka. Avoid bringing materials that may be considered offensive or inappropriate, such as pornography or items that depict violence or racial intolerance.
Large amounts of cash: While it is a good idea to have some cash with you when traveling to Sri Lanka, it is not a good idea to carry large amounts of cash on your person. Keep cash and valuables in a safe place, such as a hotel safe or a money belt, to avoid the risk of theft.
Unnecessary valuables: You will not need to bring many valuables with you when traveling to Sri Lanka, as the country has a relatively low cost of living and you can purchase most items that you need while there. Avoid bringing unnecessary valuables, such as expensive jewelry, as they may increase your risk of theft.
Items that are restricted or prohibited: There are some items that are restricted or prohibited in Sri Lanka, such as weapons, explosives, and certain types of electronic equipment. Be sure to check the list of restricted and prohibited items before packing for your trip to avoid any issues at customs.
What are some useful apps to have when traveling to Sri Lanka?
- Google Maps: This mapping and navigation app that can be useful when traveling to Sri Lanka. It allows you to search for and get directions to specific addresses or places of interest, as well as see real-time traffic updates and estimated travel times. You can also use Google Maps to find nearby points of interest, such as restaurants, gas stations, and ATMs. If you have a data connection or are connected to WiFi, you can use Google Maps to get real-time turn-by-turn navigation. If you don’t have a data connection, you can download offline maps of specific areas to use while you are offline.
- Google Translate: This app can be useful for communicating with locals if you don’t speak the same language. It allows you to translate text and speech in real-time, which can be especially helpful when negotiating prices or ordering food.
- Uber: Uber is a ride-sharing app that allows you to request a ride from a private driver. To use Uber in Sri Lanka, you will need to download the app and create an account. Once you have an account, you can use the app to request a ride, track the location of your driver, and make payment. Uber is available in several cities in Sri Lanka, including Colombo, Kandy, and Galle. To use Uber in Sri Lanka, you will need to have a smartphone and a valid credit or debit card. You can also use the app to split the cost of a ride with friends if you are traveling in a group.
- PickMe: PickMe is a ride-hailing app that allows you to request a ride from a private driver in Sri Lanka. To use PickMe, you will need to download the app and create an account. Once you have an account, you can use the app to request a ride, track the location of your driver, and make payment. PickMe is available in several cities in Sri Lanka, including Colombo, Kandy, and Galle. To use PickMe, you will need to have a smartphone and a valid credit or debit card. You can also use the app to split the cost of a ride with friends if you are traveling in a group.
- Airbnb: If you are looking for alternative accommodations, such as apartments or homes, Airbnb can be a good option. It allows you to book unique places to stay from local hosts in Sri Lanka.
- Agoda: Agoda is a travel booking app that allows you to search for and book accommodations, flights, and activities in Sri Lanka and other destinations around the world. To use Agoda, you will need to download the app and create an account. Once you have an account, you can use the app to search for and compare prices for different accommodations, flights, and activities. You can also use the app to make bookings and manage your reservations. Agoda offers a wide range of options, including hotels, resorts, guest houses, apartments, and more. You can use the app to filter your search results by price, location, and other criteria to find the best options for your trip.
- Booking.com: This is a travel booking app that allows you to search for and book accommodations, flights, and activities in Sri Lanka and other destinations around the world. To use Booking.com, you will need to download the app and create an account. Once you have an account, you can use the app to search for and compare prices for different accommodations, flights, and activities. You can also use the app to make bookings and manage your reservations. Booking.com offers a wide range of options, including hotels, resorts, guest houses, apartments, and more. You can use the app to filter your search results by price, location, and other criteria to find the best options for your trip.
- TripAdvisor: This app can be a helpful resource for finding things to do and places to eat in Sri Lanka. It features reviews and ratings from other travelers, as well as booking options for tours and activities.
- WhatsApp: This messaging app is widely used in Sri Lanka and can be a convenient way to communicate with locals, as well as with friends and family back home.
What steps should travelers take if they become sick while in Sri Lanka, and how can travel insurance help in this situation?
If you get sick while traveling in Sri Lanka, it is important to take care of yourself and seek medical attention if necessary. Here are some steps you can take if you become sick while traveling in Sri Lanka:
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, to help flush out any toxins and keep your body hydrated.
Rest: Get plenty of rest to allow your body to recover and heal.
Seek medical attention: If you have a fever, difficulty breathing, or other severe symptoms, seek medical attention as soon as possible. You can visit a local hospital or clinic for treatment.
Follow the treatment plan: If you are prescribed medication, be sure to take it as directed to help you recover more quickly.
Avoid spreading illness: If you are contagious, be sure to practice good hygiene and take steps to prevent spreading your illness to others. This may include wearing a mask and washing your hands frequently.
It is a good idea to have travel insurance when traveling to Sri Lanka, as it can help cover the cost of medical treatment and other expenses if you become sick or injured while traveling. Be sure to check the details of your travel insurance policy to understand what is covered.
What steps should travelers take if they become sick while in Sri Lanka, and how can travel insurance help in this situation?
If you get sick while traveling in Sri Lanka, it is important to take care of yourself and seek medical attention if necessary. Here are some steps you can take if you become sick while traveling in Sri Lanka:
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, to help flush out any toxins and keep your body hydrated.
Rest: Get plenty of rest to allow your body to recover and heal.
Seek medical attention: If you have a fever, difficulty breathing, or other severe symptoms, seek medical attention as soon as possible. You can visit a local hospital or clinic for treatment.
Follow the treatment plan: If you are prescribed medication, be sure to take it as directed to help you recover more quickly.
Avoid spreading illness: If you are contagious, be sure to practice good hygiene and take steps to prevent spreading your illness to others. This may include wearing a mask and washing your hands frequently.
It is a good idea to have travel insurance when traveling to Sri Lanka, as it can help cover the cost of medical treatment and other expenses if you become sick or injured while traveling. Be sure to check the details of your travel insurance policy to understand what is covered.