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Capital City: Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte (administrative), Colombo (commercial)
Government System: Unitary presidential constitutional republic
Surface Area: 65,610 km²
Population: Approximately 22 million
Languages Spoken: Sinhala, Tamil, English (widely used for business and tourism)
Major Religions: Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, Christianity
Regions
Country Overview
Sri Lanka is a jewel-shaped island in the Indian Ocean, just off the southern tip of India, and is celebrated for its cultural heritage, wildlife, beaches, and tea plantations. The island has a long and complex history, with ancient kingdoms, colonial influences, and post-independence developments shaping the modern nation. Travellers are often struck by the contrasts—lush green highlands, bustling cities, serene coastal towns, and historical sites scattered across the island. Its location made it a vital maritime hub for centuries, and today it attracts visitors from around the globe with its diverse offerings.
The country’s population is a rich blend of ethnic and cultural groups, primarily Sinhalese and Tamil communities, with Moor, Burgher, and other groups adding further diversity. This cultural mosaic is reflected in religion, food, music, and festivals. Buddhism is the dominant faith, but Hindu temples, mosques, and churches are also common, creating a distinctive multi-faith landscape. Sri Lankans are generally warm and hospitable, often eager to share their traditions and way of life with visitors.
Tourism is one of the pillars of the economy, with popular draws including UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Sigiriya and Anuradhapura, the tea plantations of Nuwara Eliya, wildlife safaris in Yala and Udawalawe, and the golden beaches along the south and east coasts. The island has also developed its infrastructure for tourism in recent years, with a wide range of accommodation options and transport services. Despite challenges, Sri Lanka continues to charm travellers with its authenticity, affordability, and natural beauty.
USEFUL INFORMATION
Currency & banking
💰 Currency Overview
The official currency of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). It is managed by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, and prices are generally affordable compared to many other destinations in Asia. The rupee is divided into 100 cents, though cents are rarely used in practice due to inflation. For tourists, cash remains important, though electronic payment systems are becoming more widely accepted in urban areas.
💵 Denominations
Sri Lankan Rupees are available in both coins and banknotes. Coins are issued in denominations of 1, 2, 5 and 10 rupees, though they are not commonly used for larger purchases. Banknotes come in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 500, 1,000 and 5,000 rupees, each with distinct colours and images reflecting the island’s cultural and natural heritage. For everyday transactions, notes of 100, 500, and 1,000 rupees are the most useful for travellers.
💱 Currency Exchange
Currency can be exchanged at banks, hotels, and authorised money changers. The most reliable rates are usually found at licensed exchange counters in Colombo and at the airport on arrival. It is recommended to keep the exchange receipt, as unused currency may be reconverted when leaving the country. Exchanging on the street is not advisable due to scams or counterfeit risks.
💳 Credit Cards
Major credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard are accepted in most hotels, mid- to high-end restaurants, and larger shops in cities and tourist hubs. However, rural areas and smaller establishments often deal in cash only. It is best to carry a mix of cash and card, especially when travelling outside major urban centres.
🏧 ATMs
ATMs are widely available across the country, particularly in towns and cities. Many international cards work, though small transaction fees may apply. Machines typically dispense in 1,000 and 5,000 rupee notes, so it is useful to break these into smaller denominations at banks or shops for convenience when paying for taxis, tips, or small purchases.
Tipping
🍽️ Tipping in Restaurants
In restaurants, a service charge of around 10% is often added to the bill, but leaving an additional tip of around 5–10% is appreciated for good service. In small local eateries, rounding up the bill is sufficient.
🏨 Tipping in Hotels
Hotel staff generally expect small tips. Porters may be given around 100–200 rupees per bag, while housekeeping staff can be left a similar daily amount. In luxury hotels, a slightly higher amount is customary.
🚖 Tipping in Taxis
For taxis and tuk-tuks, tipping is not obligatory, but rounding up the fare is common practice. If a driver has been particularly helpful, a tip of 100–200 rupees is a nice gesture.
🚌 Tipping Guides and Drivers
Tour guides and drivers who spend full days with tourists rely on tips as part of their income. Around 500–1,000 rupees per day for a driver and 1,000–2,000 rupees per day for a guide is appropriate, depending on service quality.
Communications
📶 Public WiFi
Public WiFi is limited outside major cities, though some cafes and public places in Colombo and tourist hubs offer free connections. Security can be patchy, so avoid online banking or sensitive transactions.
🏨 Hotel WiFi
Most hotels and guesthouses provide free WiFi, though connection speeds vary widely, particularly outside urban centres. Higher-end hotels generally have reliable internet, while budget places may have slower speeds.
📱 Mobile Networks and SIM Cards
Sri Lanka has good mobile coverage through providers like Dialog, Mobitel, and Airtel. Buying a local SIM card at the airport or in cities is cheap and convenient, with data packages widely available. SIMs require passport registration, and prepaid options are ideal for tourists.
Getting around
🚆 Trains
Sri Lanka’s train network is famous for its scenic journeys, particularly routes through the central highlands. Tickets range from basic third-class to more comfortable reserved seats in first-class compartments. Advance booking is recommended on popular routes.
🚌 Buses
Buses are the cheapest way to travel, connecting almost every town and village. They are frequent but can be crowded and noisy. Long-distance journeys are often slow, but they provide an authentic local experience.
🚖 Taxis
Taxis are common in cities like Colombo, with ride-hailing apps such as PickMe offering reliable services at reasonable rates. Fares are generally low compared to Western standards.
🛺 Tuk-Tuks
Three-wheeler tuk-tuks are one of the most popular means of short-distance transport. Always agree on the fare beforehand if there is no meter. Apps like PickMe also include tuk-tuk options.
🚗 Car Hire
Car rental is available, but driving conditions can be challenging due to traffic and local driving habits. Hiring a car with a driver is a more practical option for many tourists.
🛵 Motorbikes and Scooters
Scooter hire is possible in some tourist towns, but road conditions, unpredictable traffic, and safety concerns mean it is best suited to experienced riders.
✈️ Domestic Flights
For longer distances, domestic flights are available between Colombo and other parts of the island, though they are more expensive than trains or buses.
Health advice
💉 Suggested Vaccines for Sri Lanka
| Vaccine | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Hepatitis A | Recommended |
| Hepatitis B | For long stays or medical procedures |
| Typhoid | Recommended |
| Tetanus/Diphtheria | Ensure up-to-date booster |
| Rabies | For rural travel or animal contact |
| Japanese Encephalitis | For extended rural stays |
🦟 Diseases
Mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue fever, chikungunya, and Japanese encephalitis are present. Malaria is no longer a major risk but mosquito protection is essential.
🤒 Potential Health Issues
Traveller’s diarrhoea is common, particularly if eating at roadside stalls. Sunburn and dehydration are also concerns in the tropical climate. Always drink bottled or filtered water.
🏥 Healthcare Standards
Healthcare facilities vary widely. Major cities have reasonable hospitals, but rural areas may have limited facilities. Private hospitals in Colombo offer better care than public institutions.
🛡️ Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is essential. Ensure it covers medical evacuation, as serious cases may require treatment abroad.
Safety advice
🚔 Crime
Sri Lanka is generally safe, with violent crime against tourists rare. Petty theft and scams do occur, particularly in crowded places, so vigilance is recommended.
⚠️ General Safety
Traffic accidents are the biggest risk, as roads can be chaotic. Always use reputable transport providers. Swimming can be dangerous in some coastal areas due to strong currents.
📜 Local Laws
Drugs are strictly illegal, with severe penalties. Respect local customs, particularly at religious sites—dress modestly and remove shoes before entering temples. Public displays of affection are frowned upon.
📞 Emergency Numbers in Sri Lanka
| Service | Number |
|---|---|
| Police | 119 |
| Ambulance | 110 |
| Fire | 110 |
Climate
🌦️ Climate by Season
Sri Lanka has two main monsoon seasons. The southwest monsoon (May to September) affects the southern and western coasts, while the northeast monsoon (October to January) brings rain to the north and east.
☀️ Packing Tips
Light cotton clothing is best year-round, with a light jumper for the cooler hill country. Modest dress is required for temples. A raincoat or umbrella is useful during monsoon months.
🗓️ Best Time to Visit
December to March is ideal for the west and south coasts, while May to September is best for the east coast. The central highlands are pleasant year-round.
📊 Climate Summary
| Season | Region Affected | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Dec–Mar | South & West | Dry & sunny |
| May–Sep | East & North | Dry & sunny |
| Oct–Jan | North & East | Heavy rains |
| Year-round Highlands | Central Highlands | Cool & pleasant |
Visa information
🛂 Visa Types
Tourists require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before entry, valid for short visits. Options include 30-day single-entry or multiple-entry visas, with extensions possible in Colombo.
🌐 Useful Links
Official Visa Portal: www.eta.gov.lk
Sri Lanka Immigration: www.immigration.gov.lk
Electrical
Which power plugs and sockets in Sri Lanka?
The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. In Sri Lanka the power plugs and sockets are of type D, M and G. Check out the following pictures.
- Type D: mainly used in India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and some African countries. This socket only works with plug D.
- Type M: looks like plug D, but with larger pins. This socket only works with plug M.
- Type G: this type is of British origin. This socket only works with plug G.
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