Travelwings

Visit Sri Lanka and get amazed by the biodiversity, climate, environment and definitely its mind-blowing culture. The island is surrounded by the world's third-largest oceanic division, the Indian Ocean. WOW! Isn't it? Do not miss out on the chance to experience this heavenly place, also known as the 'Pearl of the Indian Ocean'. View nature at its best! The place is home to divine temples, ancient rock fortresses, exquisite beaches, numerous traditional spices, and delectable seafood. Need to know more? Well, the list is never-ending. Sri Lanka has its extravagant water activities like deep-sea diving, snorkeling, white water rafting, sailing, and whatnot. Explore the multi-dimensional shades of Sri Lanka with us.

USEFUL INFO. ABOUT SRI LANKA

OFFICIAL NAME: The Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka.

FORM OF GOVERNMENT: Presidential Republic.

CAPITAL & LARGEST CITY: Colombo Sri Lanka, Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte (Colombo).

POPULATION: 2.14 Crores.

OFFICIAL LANGUAGE(S): Sinhala (Sinhalese) and Tamil

LANGUAGES SPOKEN: Sinhalese (southern Western and Central part of the Island), Tamil (Northern and Eastern part of the Island) and English.

ETHNICITY: Sinhala (major), Sri Lankan Tamil (minor), Moor and Indian Tamil (other).

CURRENCY: Sri Lankan Rupee.

MAP REFERRED: Asia

AREA: 65,610 Sq km

LAND: 64,740 Sq Km

LOWEST POINT: Indian Ocean 0 M

HIGHEST POINT: Pidurutalagala 2,524 M

Bandaranaike International Airport Commonly Known As Colombo International Airport.

Batticaloa Sri Lanka International Airport

Ratmalana International Airport

Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport

Jaffna International Airport

AVG. COST PER DAY: : 15 USD - 40 USD

Network / Connectivity

The Internet is cheap in Sri Lanka. Still, it is better to make the most of the free-wifi Zones available in Sri Lanka. When in Sri Lanka, you will find many free wifi zones like Colombo Pettah Public stand, the Temple of the Tooth Kandy, Floating Market in Pettah, Colombo Public Library, Matara Bus Stand, Jaffna Public Library, Kandy Railway Station, Ratnapura Museum, most hotels, resorts, and many more.
Sri Lankan telecom is the permanent service provider. Initially, the network was available to the education and research sectors. But later, the access was given to the public.

The government tries to keep the Internet free from all filters. Lately, in 2019, social media sites were banned by the government to avoid any sort of anti-muslim violence. So make sure to be careful while using the internet in Sri Lanka.

There is a vast portion of rural areas that have no connection to the internet or any broadband connection. Also, people taking part in the unethical activity and hacking on the internet have been taken under custody. So, when in Sri Lanka, use authorized data services only.

To get the best of the speed and connectivity, it is suggested to activate the International roaming services on your phone. Most mobile service providers offer good coverage in the country. Most importantly! International calling can be really expensive. It is better to use the VoIP services, i.e, voice over internet protocol service. Use Skype to make international calls. It is free! Just land on any Internet cafe near you to use it or grab hold of Wi-Fi and call away.

The Sri Lankan rupee is the currency of Sri Lanka. It is issued by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka. The abbreviation is generally Rs., but "LKR" is occasionally used to distinguish it from other currencies also called rupee. In the Sri Lankan note series, a double floral design called the "Dvithva Liya Vela" appears on the right. During your stay in Sri Lanka, you can exchange the currency in banks and large hotels. Always carry cash with you and avoid any currency exchange in the streets.

Symbol: ₨
Code: LKR

1 Rupees = 100 cents.

1 Sri Lankan Rupees LKR = 0.020 UNITED ARAB EMIRATES DIRHAM ( as on 09 Jan 2020).

LKR notes can be found in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000, and 5000.

LKR coins can be found in denominations of 1, 2, 5, and 10.

Please note that Travellers Cheques are NOT accepted in most places.

Sri Lanka, formerly called 'Ceylon' is an Island country in South Asia, located in the Indian Ocean. People of Sri Lanka are called Sri Lankans. Sri Lanka has major Religions- Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam and Christianity. In the majority, 70% of the country follows Theravada Buddhism. The place is prominently known for creative handicrafts, rich delicacies and not to forget its extravagant beach environment.

The earliest evidence of colonization in Sri Lanka dates to about 28,000 BCE. Modern humans reached the place around 60,000 BCE from Africa to South Asia. Intrestingly the early humans left the stone age tools that dated to around 125,000 BCE. Around 5000 BCE, a land bridge connected India and Sri Lanka.Sri Lanka was ruled by 181 monarchs. Portuguese, Dutch and Britishers used to control the coastal areas since the 16th century. Independence was granted in 1948 to the Sri Lankans by Britishers.

The inhabitants from 30,000 years ago were related to the majority populations of India, South-East Asia, and Australia. The early spoken languages in Sri Lanka were Dravidian and Indo-Aryan. There is a silent debate going on between the modern-day Sinhalese and Tamils, each stating their forefathers arrived first. Still, historians think that Dravidian and Indo-Aryan cultures in Sri Lanka arrived late in the first millennium BCE.

There was a constant civil war going on between the Sinhalese and Tamils from 1977 to 2001. The reason was the social and political dominance of Sinhalese and the marginalization of Tamils after independence. Later the call for peace was made to bring calmness amongst the people.

In February 2002, a ceasefire was agreed. The first round of the talk was held in September 2002. It mainly focused on the reconstruction of the areas which were damaged during the time of war and violence. In conclusion, displaced people were housed in government camps. The others not found were considered dead.

Sri Lanka is located in the Indian Ocean and is separated from India by the Palk Strait. The nation has a total area of 65,610 kmÂ², with 64,740 kmÂ² of land and 870 kmÂ² of water. The majestic coastline of Sri Lanka is 1,340 km (830 mi) long. Sri Lanka ranks as the 25th largest Island in the world by area. Mannar Island is the largest offshore island that leads to Adam's Bridge.

Adam's Bridge is the land connection to the Indian mainland from Sri Lanka. The formation of the bridge is also known as Rama's Bridge according to Hindu Mythology.

Sri Lankan climate includes tropical monsoons. The ground is mostly low and flat to rolling plains. Sri Lanka has mountains in the south-central. The abundance of natural resources is seen like limestone, graphite, mineral sands, gems, phosphates, clay, and hydropower. Some of Sri Lanka's surface dates back to 2 billion years.

Due to the past extensive erosions over time, a wide range of topographic features has produced. Three zones are distinguishable by elevation: the Central Highlands, the plains, and the coastal belt.

The central province is the first-level administrative division of the country. This is the 6th largest province by area and the central mountainous terrain of Sri Lanka with 2.5 million people living.

The excessive erosion in the central islands has diminished the ridges and deposited rich soil for agriculture downstream. The transition from the plain to the highland is abrupt in the southeast. The mountains appear gigantic like a tall wall.

The Island is surrounded by the coastal belt of 30 m above sea level. The coast is home to some of the beautiful scenic sandy beaches edged with a zig-zag coastal lagoon. In the northeast and southwest coast, offshore islands are found. See the world's best natural harbor at Trincomalee and smaller rock harbor at Galle. Sri Lanka's rivers flow in a radical pattern towards the sea. 12 of the 16 principal rivers carry around 75% of the mean river discharge.

Sri Lanka has an astonishing mix of modern elements with traditional aspects. The place is best known for its regional diversity. Sri Lankan culture is largely influenced by the heritage of Theravada Buddhism, passed on from India. The religious legacy is precisely strong in the southern and central regions of Sri Lanka. The northmost part of the country is highly influenced by South Indian culture.

The Sri Lankan culture is intermingled with various traditional facets of Portuguese, Dutch and British elements. Also, the colonial occupation has left a mark on Sri Lanka's identity. The Indonesian culture has a major influence on certain aspects of Sri Lankan culture. Traditionally, Sinhalese people possess strong links to India and Southeast Asia.

Arts
Sri Lanka definitely has rich and varied artistic traditions. The distinct visual art forms include music, dance, and paintings. The visual art of Sri Lanka starts from the 2nd and 3rd century BC to the present day. The Sri Lankan culture is internationally associated with indigenous holistic medicine practices and religious iconography.

HandCraft
The ancient and creative craft, renowned worldwide has a major part in the history of Sri Lanka. Sculpture architecture has flourished immensely in the crafts department of the country. Creating eye-catching statues from mythology or from history is immensely popular here. The art market is filled with various contemporary works of modern artists.

Traditions
Sri Lanka has a diversity of traditions. The place has embraced every religion. It has followers of Buddhism, Hinduism, Catholicism, and Islam. The main reason for its traditional richness. The food, art, lifestyle, all have adapted something prominent from other cultures and traditions. As a result, the place has a homely feeling for all its visitors.

Gender Equality
'Women and men are equal', Sri Lankans not just say it, they abide by the term in its truest sense. The view on women differentiates Sri Lankan history. Both genders are considered equal not just today but for thousands of years. As an interesting fact, the world's first female prime minister, Sirimavo Bandaranaike, was from Sri Lanka.

Dance
Sri Lanka is a perfect example of the mixture of rich culture, art, and traditions. Same with its dance forms. The Kandyan dance of the hill country known as UdaRata Natum is popular among the locals. Pahatha Rata Natum is a low country dance of the southern plains. Locals send their kids to the dance centers as they want to keep their kids in touch with their heritage.

Music
Sri Lanka has a unique array of country music like Nurthi Music, Kolam & Puppetry, Sinhala light music and a lot more. Along with traditional instruments, the music has its own epic history. The origin took place from ancient folk rituals, Buddhist religious traditions, the legacy of European colonization, and the commercial and historical influence of nearby Indian culture.

Cinema and Theatre
Sri Lankan theatres originated from the folk dramas and the traditional rituals in the 19th century. Ceylon was the former name of Sri Lanka. Cinema in Contemporary Sri Lanka is majorly influenced by Bollywood, especially the influence of South Indian movies is seen more.

FOOD & DRINK
Treat yourself with the appetizing, cultural and traditional cuisines of Sri Lanka. The ethnicity of the food is remarkable. The food tastes galvanizes the taste buds with the first bite itself. Get ready to fill your mouth with taste-enhancing experience. The secret of such uniqueness is the use of rich and flavorsome spices.

Sri Lankan cuisine is shaped by many historical, cultural and traditional factors of the country. Foreign traders brought new food items and cultural influences from the neighboring countries that gave a rejuvenating touch to the Sri Lankan cuisine.

The major feature of the Sri Lankan food is its boiled or steamed rice. The warm rice is served with fish, chicken, and mutton along with freshly cooked vegetables or fruits. It is a staple food in Sri Lanka. As a side dish, chutneys, pickled fruits or sambols (a local delicacy) are served.

As we speak of Sri Lankan cuisine, sweet dishes have a special place on the list too. The most commonly used ingredients in the sweet dish are rice flour, treacle (a food sweetening syrup) and coconut milk.

The spices like cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, black pepper and many more are the taste enhancers. It brings out the color, fragrance, and texture of the food. With the inclusion of freshly grown products, what you taste is nothing less than heaven.

After mentioning the main cuisines and sweet dishes it is time to talk about the famous beverages. The South Asian tropical Island has many traditional drinks with unique tastes. Ceylon tea is a traditional drink and a must-try beverage. The strong black tea is made in each and every household.

Fun Fact: This sweet milky tea is not indigenous. It was imported at the time of the Dutch Colonial Period and the plantations were started by the British rulers.

Must-Try Delicacies: Fish Ambul Thiyal | Kottu | Kukul Mas Curry | Parippu | Lamprais | Hoppers | Polos | Wambatu Moju

Must-Try Drinks: Ceylon tea | King Coconut Arrack, Herbal drinks.

Experience the wild in Sri Lanka. Dive in and swim with the blue whales but you need to acquire an official permit from the government.

Watch out for the magnificent trail of dolphins in their natural environment at Kalpitiya and Mirissa.

Watch out for the amazing Dutch Colonial architecture in Galle.

Taste the spicy Sri Lankan crabs. The numerous varieties of crabs taste enriching when cooked with authentic spices.

Get lost in the artistic caves and explore the colorful paintings over the cave walls of Buddha.

Volunteer freely and get the chance to see the daily life of the elephants.

The newly opened train takes you on a scenic tour from Colombo to Jaffna.

Treat your taste buds with the local galvanizing cuisines with the proper blend of spiciness. Try out rice and curry to taste the staple food.

Hike in the terraced tea farms and taste the freshly made medicinal herbal tea.

Visit the art centers and watch cultural dance and music shows in the evening.

Participate in theatre acts in mythology, early cinemas, and contemporary stories.

The Sri Lankan beaches are well-renowned for water activities like swimming in the Indian ocean, surfing, and deep diving.

Get to know about the ethnicity, cultural and traditional diversity and history of Sri Lanka in the museums like the National Museum of Colombo, National Museum of Natural History and a lot more.

Last but not least, climb the rock fortress, Sigiriya. The standing structure shows the history of Sri Lanka.

SRI LANKA CLIMATE | SL WEATHER

Sri Lanka is a tropical island set in the Indian ocean. The place consists of distinct wet and dry seasons. The average temperature in coastal areas is 28 Â°C. The adequate time to visit Sri Lanka differs from place to place.

The southwest region is best visited from December to April. The weather is warm and the Galle city enjoys the average high in the temperature.

The Northeast region is best visited from May to September. The sun-drenched port city of Trincomalee enjoys a warm city temperature.

Colombo is the largest city in Sri Lanka. The place experiences hot, humid and wet weather all around the year. From April to May, the city receives heavy rainfall. The temperatures are sometimes high and an average low around the year.

The central region of Sri Lanka, Kandy is the major tourist attraction. The hilly and mountainous area of Sri Lanka is considered cooler than the coastal regions of Sri Lanka. The rainfall occurs throughout the year but tends to be heavy in the months of October and November.

Pro Tip: Always keep an umbrella with you while traveling. You may not be able to predict any sudden changes in the climate, so, better be precautious.

April to July
The place to visit is the East Coast between the months of April to July. The weather is average with a temperature of moderate 28Â°C. The heavy rainfall is experienced in Colombo. The temperature may differ from time to time.

October to March
The ultimate time to experience the cool temperature of Sri Lanka. The west and south coast looks like someone painted it. The greenery and the calm beaches look nothing less than enchanting. The temperature is fairly constant. Enjoy the Yala monsoon season with your friends and family

Visit Sri Lanka with Family

See the ancient fortress and ruin of the city at Sigiriya.

Embrace peace at the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.

Dambulla, the world heritage site in Sri Lanka is home to the Dambulla Royal Cave Temple or the Golden Temple.

Get a wild experience and watch out the grasses, lagoons, and wildlife at Yala National Park.

Visit Sri Lanka with Partner

All the mountain enthusiasts Adam's Peak is the ultimate place to visit for you. The forest-covered mountains with greenery all around and a fresh breeze are nothing less than serene.

Explore the rich biodiversity and the endemic species in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. Horton Plains National Park is the right place for you to experience.

Watch the cool white gushing streams of water falling from the roads of the forest-covered mountains at Ravana Falls.

Spend your day at the white sand beach location, the Arugam Bay Beach. Look at the lagoons, the sky blue oceans, and surf or swim along the cooling waves.

Visit Sri Lanka with Friends

A landmark destination for all the hikers, World's End Sri Lanka.

Catch the magical sight of an artificial lake at Kandy Lake.

Surf your heart out at the scenic sandy Nilaveli beach, featuring clear water with the coral and marine life.

Explore the awe-inspiring and magical waterfall in Sri Lanka, the Baker's Fall.

Visit Sri Lanka with Kids

Go for a safari and go camping at the Gal Oya National Park and watch the elephants play along.

Explore the Colonial-era Railway construction, the Nine Arches Bridge. Also, known as the bridge in the sky.

Visit the Dehiwala Zoological Garden and get a chance to be at the beautiful butterfly park.

Ride on the beautiful lake in a swan-shaped pedal boat along with your family at Lake Gregory.

What to Buy?

Gems in the Sri Lankan local markets

Fresh tea leaves from the tea farms

Handicrafts

Handloom fabrics

Leather products

Antiques and ceramics

Sigiriya, Matale
Sigiriya is an ancient rock formation. The structure has a historical and archeological significance. The massive column of rock is nearly 200 m high. The black-brown colored rock is tall and takes approximately 30 minutes to climb till the top of the rocks. Interestingly! According to UNESCO, the structure is declared as the 8th wonder of the world. The Sigiriya was built in the 5th century by King Kashyapa. Explore this classic structure for the ultimate amazement.

Timings: Every day, 7 am - 4 pm
Price: 24. 83 USD per person

Horton Plains National Park, Nuwara Eliya
The national park is a protected area in Nuwara Eliya. The plains are covered by the spread of grassland. The place is also filled with dense forests. This plain ends at 'the world's end'. It features rich biodiversity and numerous endemic species. Trekking is the main activity exercised here. Trek and reach the top of the mountain to get the eye-catching picturesque views of the mesmerizing land.

Timings: Every day 6 am - 6 pm.
Price:Sri Lankan Nationalists - 0.42 USD ( day tour) and 0.85 USD (overnight visit). Foreigners- 16.20 USD (day tour) and 29.44 USD ( overnight visit)

Sinharaja Forest Reserve, Galle
The Sinhala Forest Reserve is rich in biodiversity. As an interesting fact, it is marked as the Biosphere and World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The place is home to the lush green forests. See the waterfalls falling in between the forests. Hike and get into the deep forest to explore the unexplored. It takes a total of 2 hours to finish the tours.

Timings: Every day 6:30 am - 6:00 pm.
Price: 2.76 USD per person.

Sri Muthumariamman Temple, Matale
The name of this Hindu temple is a mix of 3 different words. The prefix "Muthu" means "pearl", "Mari" means rain and "Amman" means mother in the Tamil language. The temple is dedicated to the goddess of rain and fertility. Tamilians and other locals visit this temple at the time of religious festivities. Architectural significance is extraordinary and unique due to the use of varied colors.

Timings: Open on Thursday, Friday and Monday from 09:00 am to 03:00 pm | On Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 am to 05:00 pm
Price: 1.66 USD per person.

Adam's Peak, Sabaragamuwa
The conical mountain is 2,243 m tall. The place is also known as Sri Pada which means a sacred footprint. Visitors hike on the 5,000-6,000 crumbling steps. It takes approximately 2 to 4 hours to climb the mountain and 1 to 2 hours to descend. Interestingly! The place is a major point for 4 religions (Buddhism, Chirtianitianity, Islam and Hinduism).

Timings: 2:30 am onwards
Price: FREE!

World's End, Horton Plains National Park, Nuwara Eliya
The sheer cliff landmark is located in the Horton Plains National Park. The place is a key tourist attraction because of its scenic beauty and unique name. The plain plateau comes to an end here. Get the jaw-dropping views and hike till the end. Sit on the cliff and admire the astonishing sight. Catch the mind-blowing glimpse of sunrise at the world's end.

Timings: Every day 06:00 am to 06:00 pm
Price: 16.59 USD per person.

Beira Lake, Colombo
Beira Lake is a beautiful lake in the middle of the capital, Colombo city. The lake is surrounded by contemporary architectural magnificence. The place is a famous landmark in the city. It is quiet, serene and great for relaxation. Highly recommended for family visits and couples. Take a stroll or a private lake ride on a boat here. Visitors can surely spend a couple of great hours here.

Timings: Every day from 07:00 am to 06:00 pm
Price: FREE!

Lovers Leap, Trincomalee
The amazing name originated from the legendary love story of two slave lovers, Mizzy and Turkey from the 18th century. The steep mountainous cliff is near a jungle beach. A perfect place to visit for couples. The sum of green environment and blue colored sky looks extremely scenic.

Timings: Open for 24 hours on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday | Closed on Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday.
Price: FREE!

Baker's Falls, Nuwara Eliya
The eye-catching waterfall has a height of 20 m. The spot stands between the picturesque mountains of the Horton Plains National Park. The falls are named after a famous explorer, Sir Samuel Baker. The falls are a famous tourist spot and visitors come here to relax after trekking for the whole day.

Timings: Every day 06:00 am to 04:00 pm
Price: Locals- 0.33 USD, Foreigners- 22.12 USD

Pidurangala Vihara, Matale
Pidurangala is an astonishing Buddhist Temple, unique for the location. The temple was constructed on a rock called Pidurangala. This is an archeological site and famous amongst the locals and tourists. Visitors trek and reach the top of the mountain to get the mind-blowing sight of the forest-covered area. A perfect place for backpackers, couples, solo travelers and family visits. Do not forget to take a glimpse of the sunrise as it looks ravishing with glowing colors.

Timings: 05:00 am to 04:00 pm
Price: 2.76 USD per person

SHOPPING IN SRI LANKA
Sri Lanka is the hub for all sorts of handicrafts, potteries, artifacts, jute products, and whatnot! The clothes made in Sri Lanka have a unique texture and extravagant use of colors in them. The boutiques, prints and designs are mind-blowing. Shop your heart out at the local markets. Varied spices are the specialty of Sri Lanka like Cardamom, Cinnamon, Ginger and a lot more. The tea farms are renowned for the unique flavors they grow. Do not think, let the escapade begin. Serve your shopping cravings and fill your bag with the memories of Sri Lanka.

Other Popular Places to Visit

Pinnawala Sri Lanka

Pasikuda Sri Lanka

Ella Rock Sri Lanka

Botanical Garden Kandy

Ballys Casino Colombo

Mirissa Beach Sri Lanka

Tangalle Beach

Marino Mall Colombo

Kelaniya Temple

Kandy Temple

Weligama Beach

Dambulla Cave Temple

Unawatuna Beach

Arugam Bay Sri Lanka

Sri Maha Bodhi

Most Popular Regions & Cities To Visit In Sri Lanka

Kandy, Sri Lanka
Kandy is located in Central Sri Lanka. The largest central city sits on the plateau and is surrounded by mountains. The place is home to tea plantations and rich biodiversity. The place is near Nuwara Eliya and Ella.
Famous places: Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic| Kandy Lake| Udawattakele Forest Reserve| National Museum of Kandy| Arthur's Seat| World Buddhist Museum| Horton Plains National Park| Red Mosque| National railway museum

Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka
Nuwara Eliya is the central city in the tea hill country. The landscaped city displays picturesque views, lush green forests, several species of plants and a lot more. The place is near Colombo and Ella.
Famous places: Lake Gregory| Victoria Park| Moon Plains| Seetha Amman Temple| Sri Pada / Adam's Peak| Aberdeen Falls| Gayathri Temple

Colombo, Sri Lanka
The capital city of Sri Lanka has a long history. The place was ruled by the Portuguese, Dutch and Britishers. Visitors can explore the architecture comprising mixed colonial buildings and relish traditional cuisines.
Famous places: Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque| Beira Lake| Viharamahadevi Park| Colombo Dutch Museum| Seema Malaka| Temple of Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Kovil| Dehiwala Zoological Garden| Wellawatte Beach| Diyatha Uyana Aquarium

Negombo, Sri Lanka
Negombo is a coastal city in the west of Sri Lanka. The place is filled with sandy beaches, shore of lagoons and trading ports. Negombo consists of a fishing village and is a hub for the freshest seafood and fish markets.
Famous places: Negombo Lagoon| Angurukaramulla Temple| St. Mary's Church| Guruge Park| Negombo Beach Park| Aluthepola Ganekanda Raja Maha Vihara| Muthuraja Wela| Negombo Dutch Fort Remains| Fish Market

Galle, Sri Lanka
Galle was discovered by the Portuguese Colonists in the 16th century. Enjoy strolling on clean, car-free streets while observing Portuguese architecture. The place is famous for the Galle fort, light-house, and the stones sea-walls.
Famous places: Galle Dutch Fort| Galle Lighthouse| National Maritime Museum| Galle Fort Clock Tower| Unawatuna Beach| Historical Mansion Museum| Rathgama Lake| Pitiwella Beach| Yatagala Raja Maha Viharaya| Galle Fort - Meeran Jumma Masjid| Galle Fort - Flag Rock Bastion| Rumassala Sanctuary

Trincomalee, Sri Lanka
Explore the port city built by the Portuguese in the 17th century. The place has rock cliffs and is popular amongst the locals and visitors for blue-whale watching. Get a panoramic view of the coastline from the Gokanna Temple.
Famous places: Koneswaram Temple| Fort Fredrick| Lovers Leap| Pathirakali Amman Temple| Shaktipeeth Shri Shankari Devi Temple| Dutch Bay| Gokanna Vihara

Dambulla, Sri Lanka
The city is situated in the Central Province of Sri Lanka. Located in the North-East of Colombo and North of Matale district, Dambulla is the center of vegetable distribution due to its location at a major junction.
Famous places: Sigiriya| Dambulla Royal Cave Temple and Golden Temple| Minneriya National Park | Pidurangala| Pidurangala Vihara| Kandalama Reservoir| Habarana lake| Spice Garden| Lion's Paws & Stairs To Rock-top Palace| Arangala Mountain Peak

Anuradshapura, Sri Lanka
The place is one of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka. Anuradshapura is famous for its well-preserved ruins from the Sinhala Civilization. The ruins are the most evocative sights of this place. The one-stop destination for all the history buffs.
Famous places: Mihintale| Ruwanwelisaya| Isurumuniya| Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi| Jetavanaramaya| Lovamahapaya| Thuparamaya| Vessagiriya| Eth Pokuna| Basawakkulama Tank| Stone Bridge, Malwathu Oya

Matale, Sri Lanka
Matale is the administrative capital and situated in the central province of the Matale District. The place is located near Colombo and Kandy. The city is surrounded by mountainous ranges. The view is picturesque when you reach the top of the mountain.
Famous places: Sembuwatta Lake| Nalanda Gedige| Wasgamuwa National Park| Aluvihare Rock Temple| Sri Muthumariamman Temple| Bambarakiri Ella| V.T. Nanayakkara Park| Sembuwatta Lake| Ashburnham Estate Drive

Batticaloa, Sri Lanka
Batticaloa is one of the former capitals of Sri Lanka. The place is a major commercial city. The weather is mildly warm all year. The city lies on an Island of the Eastern Coast at a distance of 313 km from Colombo.
Famous places: Batticaloa fort| Batticaloa Lighthouse| Kallady Beach| St. Mary's Cathedral| Batticaloa Gate| Sri Mangalarama Raja Maha Viharaya| Batticaloa Museum| Kalladi Bridge

If you can make time

More Places to Explore in Sri Lanka

Bentota, Galle, Sri Lanka

Unawatuna, Galle, Sri Lanka

Hikkaduwa, Galle, Sri Lanka

Balapitiya, Colombo Galle Highway, Sri Lanka

Vavuniya, Sri Lanka

Mirissa, Matara, Sri Lanka

Hambantota, Southern Province, Sri Lanka

Polonnaruwa, North Central Province, Sri Lanka

Weligama, Matara, Sri Lanka

Tangalle, Hambantota, Sri Lanka

Duruthu Perahera
Duruthu Perahera is a marvelous cultural traditional festival in Sri Lanka. The devotees and tourists attend this festival with utter excitement. The occasion of this celebration is the first visit of Gautam Buddha to this country. It is a 3-day long festival. On the ultimate day, watch the eventful spectacle of bejeweled elephants, dancers, and drummers.

Location(s): Peliyagoda | Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya | Sri Lanka.
Date: 10th - 11th January 2020

Thai Pongal
Thai means the 10th month in the Tamil Calendar. The 3-day celebration is a harvest festival in Sri Lanka. The families pay tribute to the god sun (surya) for a plentiful harvest. The festival is commenced by making rangoli formations with the use of rice paste in the front yard of the house. They make a traditional cuisine by boiling milk mixed with rice, jaggery, and spices.

Location(s): All over the country
Date: 15th - 18th January 2020

Independence Day
Independence Day is important to the citizens of any country. Sri Lankans also celebrate this auspicious day on a wide scale. Ever since regaining freedom from the Colonial Rule, ceremonies and parades are held every year. Catch a glimpse of the military parade, flag hoisting, firework displays and cultural programs.

Location(s): All over the country
Date: 4th February 2020

Mahashivratri
Mahashivratri is the main festival of the devotees of Shiva in Sri Lanka. The worshippers take a purification bath at the start of the day. Then they carry milk in the vessels and bathe the Shiva Linga. Later, the devotees spend their day in fasting and meditation. Some temples celebrate the great night of Shiva with dance and music performances. All the family members take part in it.

Location: All over the Country
Date: 21st February 2020

Sinhala and Tamil New Year
In mid-April, Sri Lanka welcomes the festive season. The festival is celebrated to mark the end of harvest and Spring season. People celebrate this festival by wearing new clothes, cooking traditional food and bursting firecrackers. Families also share sweet dishes with their neighbors. Fun and thrill games are also organized for an enjoyable time.

Location: All over the Country
Date: 13 - 14th April 2020

Vesak Poya
Vesak Poya is the prominent Buddhist Festival in Sri Lanka. Celebrated for 3 important stages in Buddha's life, his birth, enlightenment, and nirvana. The celebration takes place for a week. It commences from the full-moon day and symbolically depicts the light of Buddha. Every home, street and shop is filled with the majestic light of colorful lanterns called Vesak Kudu.

Location: Grandly celebrated in Colombo
Date: 7th May 2020

Poson Festival
Poson is the second most important festival celebrated by the Buddhists of Sri Lanka. The Poson Festival has a great historical significance starting from the 3rd century. Like any important festival, this festival includes lighting up of lamps, bursting firecrackers and decorating the home with lanterns.

Location: Mihintale and Anuradhapura
Date: 5th June 2020

Kataragama Festival
Katargama is a significant Hindu festival in Sri Lanka. Numerous devotees celebrate the festival across the Island. The rituals of this festival are unique. People seek divine guidance by skin-piercing and acts of self-mutilation. The celebration is marked by the performances of dancers, musicians, elephants and by bursting firecrackers.

Location: Kataragama town in Southern Sri Lanka
Date: 26th - 27th July 2020

Diwali
Diwali is wonderfully celebrated in Sri Lanka. This festival is worth witnessing. It is also known as Deepavali ( the festival of lights). The idea of this festival is to celebrate the victory of good over evil. People light up their homes with diyas, Fairy lights to cancel the darkness. Everyone wears new clothes, distributes sweets and bursts crackers. People chant evening prayers for prosperity and wealth in their future.

Location: All over the country
Date: 14th November 2020

Vel Festival
The Ved festival is celebrated to remember the victory of war-god Skandha over evil forces. The festival is the main Hindu festival in Sri Lanka. It showcases the rich Sri Lankan heritage and distinctive religious history. Many devotees wear simple white-colored clothes and put holy ash on their faces. The festival is celebrated with a trail of devotees on the streets and music and dance performances.

Location: Colombo
Date: 25th July - 1st August 2020

Visitors must hold a passport with a validity of 6 months. Visiting Sri Lanka for tourism purposes? Must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Otherwise, obtain a visa in advance. Nationals of Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia and Syria must hold return or onward tickets.

Visa-Free Travel
On the basis of agreements, citizens from Maldives, Seychelles and Singapore are exempt from the requirement to obtain an ETA for Sri Lanka. Citizens of these 3 countries may obtain a visa on arrival to Sri Lanka at any post without any charges.

Visa-On-Arrival / E-Visa
Tourists willing to visit Sri Lanka can apply for ETA online. The issuing authority of the ETA is the Department of Immigration & Emigration, Colombo, Sri Lanka. For attaining ETA, submit the application, receive the acknowledgment, then receive ETA approval or referral notice. Diplomats or official passport holders are exempt from the ETA processing fee.

The ETA is initially limited to 30 days of validity from the date of arrival. Although, it may be extended for up to six (06) months.
Get more information on 'How to get a visa to Sri Lanka' through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka.

**Please note that the information is subject to change. For the latest information and updates, please contact your embassy.

Local Buses
The bus routes cover about 80% of the roads in Sri Lanka. There are two kinds of buses in Sri Lanka, Central Transport Board (CTB) for Long routes and Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) for the nearby distances.

The drive might not be too convenient but it is affordable. Get to the places without any problem in Sri Lanka. Avoid traveling on buses at night. Do keep the bus route information with you.

Rent-A-Car
The most convenient and hassle-free way to get around Sri Lanka is to book a car or rent a car accordingly. The advantage is that you can drive on your own and roam on your terms. The average cost of renting a car is 26.68 USD (approximately).

Taxis/Cabs
Taxis are available in all the towns and cities of Sri Lanka. Mainly Colombo has metered taxis. If you want to travel for longer distances, then you might have to negotiate over the prices. Most Taxi rides cost around 0.33 USD to 0.55 USD(approximately).

Via Bicycle
The roads in the urban areas are of very good quality but the quality is poor in the rural areas. So traveling on a bicycle is recommended only for the urban areas. The bicycle renting cost is 2.76 USD (approximately).

Via Plane
Sri Lankan internal flights operate from Bandaranaike International Airport. The flight flies to Colombo city, Bentota, Dickwella, Koggala, Kandy, Castlereagh, Sigiriya, Batticaloa and Trincomalee. Booking a domestic flight ticket in Sri Lanka may cost up to 17.93 USD (approximately).

Via Rail
The train system in Sri Lanka is well developed. The interconnectivity is really good. Various important stops are connected to a better traveling experience. The train tickets in Sri Lanka may cost up to 12 USD (approximately).

Via Air Route
Officially Sri Lanka has two International Airports. However, Bandaranaike International Airport also known as Colombo International Airport is the primary one. Major Airlines that fly to Sri Lanka are Indigo flights, Air India flights, and Spicejet flights (from India). Other Airlines are Emirates flights, Qatar Airway Flights, Gulf Air flights and many more. Sri Lankan Airlines were launched in 1979.

Currently, Sri Lankan Airlines fly to 94 destinations in 44 countries. The list of places includes Abu Dhabi, Bangalore, Bangkok, Beijing, Chennai, Colombo, Dubai, Frankfurt, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Kuwait, Kunming, Kuala Lumpur and many others.

Via Rail Route
The island is completely inaccessible by train. Travel by flights.

Via Road Route
The island is completely inaccessible by roads. Travel by flights.

Via Water Route
Few ships operate from Mumbai port. It takes you to Colombo on a luxurious cruise-liner. The 7-day cruise departs from Mumbai and reaches Colombo. You can take all the prominent destinations like prominent destinations like Kandy and Nuwara Eliya. The cost of the cruise tickets is 237.78 USD (approximately).

TRAVEL TIPS

Do not visit Sri Lanka if you have Buddha tattoos on your body. Sri Lankans have zero tolerance for Buddha tattoos.

Sri Lanka isn't hit by mass tourism. A visit to Sri Lanka is more peaceful due to the non-commercialization of the place.

Do try the tasty rice and dal curry in Sri Lanka.

You might be overcharged by the tuk-tuk drivers if you are a tourist. Get local guidance before riding.

Many tourist attraction websites in Sri Lanka show discounted prices for the nationals of SAARC countries. They may not accept those prices once you reach there. So, get holiday advice for sure.

Shop for handicrafts and gems only from the government certified shops to avoid fraud.

Arrack is a local spirit beverage and unique in taste. Must try it while you visit.

Sri Lanka is an amazing place for all solo women travelers.

Be aware of all your whereabouts all the time and dress sensibly.

Most of Sri Lanka's hotels have all-in-one sockets. Though, carry a universal adaptor just in case.

Many ATMs in Sri Lanka do not issue money in foreign cards.

Cover your shoulders and legs inside a Buddhist Temple.

Get yourself a local sim to spend your trip without any communication error. The local sim won't cost much.

Roam around the beaten paths in the prime territory of Northern province.

Sri Lanka is a cheap destination as per the western currency value. But, make sure to buy the products from local supermarkets to avoid excessive payments.

For the backpackers, the cheapest options are buses and trains. Different transport is available for different budgets.

Enjoy riding bicycles in the early morning and late afternoon along the coast or to local distances. The availability of bicycles is high.

SAFETY TIPS

Always get travel insurance before leaving your home country. It comes in handy.

Inexperienced drivers can be charged a heavy penalty in Sri Lanka. Ride only if you have experience.

Alcohol in Sri Lanka costs crazy high from place to place. So, drink accordingly!

Avoid strolling out at night for safety issues.

While swimming in Sri Lankan water, be aware of the undercurrents.

Taxi drivers may try to double the price and scam you. It is suggested you take metered taxis.

Never take a tourist guide from any unknown source.

It is better to not share your details with any stranger.

Keep your card, cash or any valuables safe to avoid theft.

HEALTH

Contact your health practitioner before traveling to Sri Lanka. Do get all the appropriate vaccinations. We would suggest taking vaccinations for Tetanus, Poli, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Japanese encephalitis and Typhoid.

Always stay hydrated. Do drink filtered water to avoid health risks.

Excessive humidity may get you. Try to move during cooler times like mornings and evenings.

If you prefer taking warm showers, get it checked first with your accommodation manager.

Keep yourself safe from mosquitos by making use of mosquito nets. You can even opt for mosquito repellents for a good night's sleep.

Do get health insurance before traveling to avoid any mishap.

People with severe respiratory problems must speak with their doctor before traveling.

To avoid sunburn, use strong sunscreens. Take wide hats and sunglasses to protect your eyes.

Keep an emergency first aid kit ready while you travel.

In the case of cramps, rest and rehydrate for better blood flow and instant relief.

Cuts and scratches are easily infected in humid climates. To avoid infection, wash the wound with clean water and apply an antiseptic.

Divers and surfers must assure their current health conditions to stay away from danger.

In case of any severe constitution of medical help and advice, visit the doctor immediately.

WOMEN'S HEALTH

Seek a female doctor for gynecological health issues.

Take an adequate amount of your own contraceptives.

Keep sanitary products for emergencies.

Beat the heat and skin problems caused by heat with antibiotics.

Keep yourself hydrated to avoid Urinary tract infections which generally occur due to dehydration.

WHAT TO PACK?

Carry a backpack instead of heavy luggage

We recommend keeping a shawl or stole in your bag while visiting the temples.

Pack a warm pullover and shawl in case you decide to visit hilly areas

Carry the toiletries in a small hanging toiletry kit. It saves space and makes packing efficient

Due to the tropical weather experienced in Sri Lanka, visitors can take summer dresses and shorts

It is better to wear comfortable cotton pants to avoid uneasiness

Carry a waterproof dry bag to keep the used clothes

Must carry insect repellents

Carry a travel-friendly water bottle and keep yourself hydrated

Carry packing cubes and segregate the clothes accordingly

Camera with plastic cover

Folding umbrellas

Torch

Sunscreens

Printed tickets

DRESS CODE & ETIQUETTE

Wear light-colored cotton clothes to avoid excessive absorption of heat.

Tight and short clothes are not considered respectable in the SL culture.

It is advisable to wear long dresses, long skirts, sarongs, trousers, and loose tops.

Wear warm clothes, if visiting hilly regions.

Bikinis are allowed only in the beach areas.

Dress modestly while visiting a religious site.

Bangladesh ( 342 km)
Bangladesh is located in the Bay of Bengal. The country is filled with lush greenery and waterways. The place is home to many rivers which makes the plains fertile. Traveling by boat is common in this land. The place has a major part of Sundarbans which is home to the mangrove forest and royal Bengal Tigers. angladesh is also known as East Bengal.

Maldives (983 km)
In recent years, Maldives has flourished as the famous top tourist attraction. Beauty is at another level here. The island nation is located in the Arabian sea. The place is well renowned for its beaches and exquisite resorts. Maldives is one of the top honeymoon destinations in the world. The country is a scenic archipelago with the most mesmerizing views and a serene leisurely environment

India ( 1,421 km)
India is the land of rich traditions, ancient cultures, flavorsome spices and deep-rooted historical heritage. This 7th largest country in the world is home to the 7th wonder of the world, the Taj Mahal. India has an essence like no other. The diversity of this place is magnificent. India is a colorful country of several festivals and events that are celebrated with utter enthusiasm. Starting from North to South and East to West, every state has its own specialty.

Nepal (2,307 km)
Nepal is home to the longest spread of the Himalayan mountains. This small nation is located between India and Tibet. The place is famous amongst hikers all around the world. Nepal has many beautiful ancient temples, picturesque lakes, massive mountains, rhinos and Bengal tigers in the national parks. The environment is filled with lush green forests.

Distance Between Places Of Importance In And Around Sri Lanka

Bangladesh To Sri Lanka- 342 km
Colombo To Kandy- 122.4 km
Colombo To Ella- 225.1 km
Colombo To Galle- 146 km
Kandy To Nuwara Eliya- 75 km
Bentota To Colombo- 102.8 km
Kandy To Bentota- 178.5 km
Nuwara Eliya To Bentota- 213 km
Colombo To Dambulla- 159.8 km
Negombo To Colombo- 37.5 km
Negombo To Kandy- 101.8 km
Galle To Colombo- 156.5 km
Colombo To Mirissa- 170.9 km
Colombo To Trincomalee- 256.3 km
Colombo To Hikkaduwa- 136.1 km
Sigiriya To Kandy- 90.1 km
Nuwara Eliya To Ella- 54.9 km
Nuwara Eliya To Colombo- 173.4 km
Colombo To Sigiriya- 176.3 km

Sri Lanka is a land of varied ethnicities.

The Island country celebrates four types of religions (Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity, Islam).

Sri Lanka has many public holidays.

The world's first female prime minister, Sirimavo Bandaranaike, was from Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka is nicknamed as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean and the Teardrop of India.

The Island country is filled with the magnificent richness of magnificent biodiversity.

Tea business is huge in Sri Lanka.

The country happens to be the largest producer of Cinnamon.

Nuwara Eliya reminds of England.

Adam's Peak is the sacred mountain of the country.

Sri Lanka is home to the World's End.

The Sri Lankan flag is one of the oldest in the world.

Buddha's tooth is placed in the temple in Kandy.

Sri Lanka has the highest literacy rate in South Asia.

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