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Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a tropical island of lush jungles, ancient temples, and golden beaches. Explore Colombo, Sigiriya, and the beaches of Mirissa for a perfect South Asian retreat.
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Summary
Overview
Months
12. December, 01. January, 02. February, 03. March, 04. April, 07. July, 08. August
Vacation type
Family, Sightseeing, Nature, Couple, Beach, Hiking
Expenses
<150€, <200€, Over 200€, 0-50€, <100€
Temperature
Over 30°C, 25-30°C
Rainfall
50-100mm, 100-150mm, 150-200mm
Safety
Medium
Continent
Asia
Currency
Sri Lankan rupee
Languages
Sinhala, Tamil, English
Currency Converter
When to visit
The best time to visit Sri Lanka depends on the region you plan to explore due to its two monsoon seasons:
- West and South Coasts (including Colombo and Galle): The ideal time to visit is from December to March. During these months, you can enjoy sunny weather and minimal rainfall, perfect for beach activities and sightseeing.
- Central and Hill Country (including Kandy and Nuwara Eliya): The best time to visit is from January to April. These months offer pleasant weather, which is ideal for exploring the tea plantations and highland landscapes.
- North and East Coasts (including Trincomalee and Jaffna): The best time to visit is from May to September. During this period, you’ll experience relatively dry and warm weather, suitable for beach outings and exploring the region.
The rainy seasons affect different parts of the country at different times. The southwest monsoon (Yala) affects the west and south coasts from May to September, while the northeast monsoon (Maha) affects the north and east coasts from October to January. Visiting during the transitional periods of the monsoon seasons may result in occasional rain but can also bring fewer tourists and lush landscapes.
Weather, Crowds and Costs
Per one person
Tourist Season: December-March (Winter)
Budget Vacation ($30-80/day)
Accommodation: $15-30/night (guesthouses, budget hotels).
Food: $10-15/day (street food, local eateries).
Activities: $5-15/day (temples, sightseeing).
Transportation: $5-10/day (public transport, tuk-tuks).
Other Costs: $5/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($80-200/day)
Accommodation: $30-80/night (mid-range hotels, boutique stays).
Food: $15-30/day (restaurants, cafes).
Activities: $10-30/day (cultural tours, safari, nature walks).
Transportation: $10-20/day (private car, taxis).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs, experiences).
Luxury Vacation ($200+/day)
Accommodation: $80+/night (luxury resorts, villas).
Food: $20+/day (fine dining, international options).
Activities: $30+/day (private tours, exclusive excursions).
Transportation: $15+/day (private taxis, car rentals).
Other Costs: $10+/day (luxury shopping, experiences).
Off-Peak Season: May-October (Monsoon)
Budget Vacation ($25-60/day)
Accommodation: $10-25/night (budget guesthouses, hostels).
Food: $5-10/day (local food stalls, small restaurants).
Activities: $5-10/day (beaches, casual tours).
Transportation: $5-10/day (public transport, tuk-tuks).
Other Costs: $5/day (small shopping).
Mid-Range Vacation ($60-150/day)
Accommodation: $20-60/night (mid-range hotels, lodges).
Food: $10-20/day (cafes, casual restaurants).
Activities: $10-20/day (nature walks, temple tours).
Transportation: $5-15/day (taxis, local transportation).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs, experiences).
Luxury Vacation ($150+/day)
Accommodation: $60+/night (luxury resorts, beachside hotels).
Food: $15+/day (fine dining, exclusive restaurants).
Activities: $20+/day (private experiences, guided tours).
Transportation: $10+/day (private transfers, rental cars).
Other Costs: $10+/day (luxury shopping).
Best Regions to visit
Cities
1. Colombo
- The commercial capital and largest city of Sri Lanka, Colombo is known for its vibrant street markets, historical landmarks like the Galle Face Green and the Colombo National Museum, and bustling nightlife.
2. Kandy
- Located in the central highlands, Kandy is famous for its beautiful lake, the Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), and lush surrounding landscapes. It’s a key cultural and historical hub.
3. Galle
- A historic coastal city with a well-preserved Dutch colonial fort, Galle is known for its charming streets, colonial architecture, and scenic beaches. The Galle Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
4. Negombo
- Situated near the Bandaranaike International Airport, Negombo is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant fishing community, and Dutch colonial heritage.
5. Anuradhapura
- An ancient city known for its well-preserved ruins, including ancient temples, stupas, and the sacred Bodhi tree. It’s an important historical and religious site in Sri Lanka.
6. Polonnaruwa
- Another ancient city with well-preserved ruins, including temples, palaces, and statues. Polonnaruwa was the second capital of Sri Lanka and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
7. Hikkaduwa
- A coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and vibrant nightlife. It’s a popular destination for snorkeling and diving.
8. Jaffna
- Located in the northern part of Sri Lanka, Jaffna is known for its unique Tamil culture, historic temples, and vibrant local markets.
Colombo
Islands
1. Mannar Island
- Known for its historical sites, including the ancient Mannar Fort, and its natural beauty, including salt flats and mangroves. It offers a mix of cultural and scenic attractions.
2. Jaffna Peninsula
- This region includes several smaller islands such as Nainativu and Delft Island. Nainativu is known for its historical temples and Delft Island for its wild horses and colonial ruins.
3. Pigeon Island
- Located off the coast of Nilaveli, this small island is part of the Pigeon Island National Park and is renowned for its coral reefs and snorkeling opportunities.
4. Kayts
- An island in the Jaffna District with scenic beauty and cultural landmarks. It offers a more tranquil experience compared to other tourist spots.
5. Sambo Island
- A small island near the town of Batticaloa known for its picturesque landscapes and opportunities for relaxation.
Things to see
Natural Attractions
1. Sigiriya Rock Fortress
- Climb this ancient rock fortress, often referred to as Lion’s Rock, which features stunning frescoes, a lion's gate, and panoramic views from the summit.
2. Ella
- Enjoy the scenic beauty of this hill town, known for its lush landscapes, tea plantations, and attractions like the Nine Arches Bridge and Ella Rock.
3. Yala National Park
- Experience wildlife safaris in this park, known for its diverse wildlife including leopards, elephants, and a variety of bird species.
4. Horton Plains National Park
- Explore this highland park, featuring the dramatic World's End cliff, picturesque lakes, and diverse flora and fauna, with excellent hiking trails.
5. Dambulla Cave Temple
- Visit this complex of five cave temples featuring ancient Buddhist murals, statues, and rock carvings, set in a dramatic cliffside location.
6. Unawatuna Beach
- Relax on this beautiful sandy beach near Galle, known for its clear waters, coral reefs, and vibrant marine life, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Cultural Attractions
1. Temple of the Tooth Relic
- Explore this sacred Buddhist temple in Kandy, housing the relic of Buddha's tooth, and witness its significant cultural and religious ceremonies.
2. Galle Fort
- Wander through this historic fortification in Galle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and panoramic ocean views.
3. Polonnaruwa Ancient City
- Discover this well-preserved medieval city, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its ancient temples, statues, and archaeological ruins.
4. Colombo National Museum
- Learn about Sri Lanka’s history and cultural heritage through diverse exhibits, including artifacts, art, and royal regalia.
5. Anuradhapura Ancient City
- Visit this ancient city, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its historic stupas, monasteries, and sacred Bo Tree, central to Sri Lankan Buddhism.
6. Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya
- Stroll through these expansive gardens near Kandy, featuring a vast collection of tropical plants, orchids, and serene walking paths.
Sigiriya Rock Fortress
How to get around
1. Trains
- Trains are a scenic and popular way to travel between major destinations. The Sri Lanka Railways network connects cities like Colombo, Kandy, Ella, and Galle. The train journey through the Hill Country is particularly renowned for its stunning views.
2. Domestic Flights
- Domestic flights are useful for covering long distances quickly. SriLankan Airlines and other local carriers offer flights connecting major cities and tourist spots such as Colombo, Jaffna, Kandy, and Mattala.
3. Car Rentals
- Renting a car provides flexibility to explore Sri Lanka’s diverse regions, including Sigiriya, Anuradhapura, and the Cultural Triangle. Be aware of local driving conditions and road safety.
4. Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps
- Taxis are widely available in cities and can be hailed on the street or booked via phone. Ride-hailing apps like PickMe and Uber operate in major cities such as Colombo and Kandy, offering convenient and transparent pricing.
5. Buses
- Long-distance buses are an economical option for travel between cities and towns. Companies like Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) and private operators provide services with various levels of comfort. Local buses are also available within cities.
6. Three-Wheelers (Tuk-Tuks)
- Three-wheelers or tuk-tuks are a popular and fun way to travel short distances within cities and towns. They can be hired for short trips and provide an authentic local experience.
7. Boats and Ferries
- Boats and ferries operate in coastal areas and to islands such as Dondra Head and Galle. They are useful for reaching remote locations and exploring the waterways.
8. Bike Rentals
Bike rentals are available in tourist areas and cities. Biking is a good way to explore local areas and enjoy scenic routes.
9. Walking
- Walking is ideal for exploring city centers, historic sites, and local markets. Cities like Colombo, Kandy, and Galle have pedestrian-friendly areas and many attractions within walking distance.
For the best experience, use trains for scenic and intercity travel, consider domestic flights for covering long distances, and rent a car for exploring rural areas. Taxis and ride-hailing apps offer convenience in cities, while buses and tuk-tuks provide local transport. Boats and ferries are useful for reaching coastal and island destinations, and bike rentals and walking are great for exploring local neighborhoods and attractions.
What to eat
1. Rice and Curry
- A staple meal consisting of rice served with various curries and sambols.
2. Kottu Roti
- Chopped roti stir-fried with vegetables and meat, a popular street food.
3. Hoppers
- Bowl-shaped pancakes made from rice flour, often served with eggs or curry.
4. Dhal Curry
- A lentil curry often served with rice, showcasing local flavors.
5. Watalappan
- A coconut custard dessert made with jaggery and spices, enjoyed as a sweet treat.
Flights
Flight prices are approximate and vary by departure city, airline, and booking time. Check airlines or travel platforms for the latest details.
Main Airport: Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB)
Flight Prices and Seasons:
From Europe
- Average Round-Trip Cost: €400 to €700.
- Cheapest Months: April to October.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer months (June to August).
From North America
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $700 to $1,200.
- Cheapest Months: April to October.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer months (June to August).
From Asia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $300 to $600.
- Cheapest Months: April to October.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer months (June to August).
From Australia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $500 to $900.
- Cheapest Months: April to October.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer months (June to August).
From Africa
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $400 to $700.
- Cheapest Months: April to October.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer months (June to August).
Visa
1. Visa Requirement
- Most travelers, including citizens of the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and Australia need a visa to enter Sri Lanka.
2. Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)
- Travelers can apply for an ETA online for tourism, valid for stays of up to 30 days.
3. Visa Application
- The ETA can be obtained before arrival or upon arrival, but it's recommended to apply online in advance.
4. Types of Visa
- Common visa types include a Tourist ETA: Valid for tourism for stays of up to 30 days, with the option to extend for up to 90 days.
5. Processing Time
- ETA applications are usually processed within 24 hours.
6. Health Requirements
- No specific vaccinations are generally required for entry, but travel insurance is recommended.
7. COVID-19 Regulations
- Check for any current COVID-19 entry requirements before traveling, as regulations may change.
8. Proof of Funds
- Visitors may need to show proof of sufficient funds for their stay.
Important things to know
1. Payments
- The local currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Credit cards are accepted in tourist areas.
2. Tap Water
- Tap water is generally not safe to drink. Bottled water is recommended.
3. Electricity
- The voltage is 230V, and plug types D and G are used.
4. Tipping in Restaurants
- Tipping is appreciated, usually around 10%.
5. SIM Cards
- Local SIM cards are available from providers like Dialog and Mobitel.
6. Driving Side
- In Sri Lanka, people drive on the left side of the road.