Travel Advice For Sri Lanka
Things to consider before traveling to Sri Lanka
Making plans to travel to Sri Lanka or are you still contemplating if, when and where to go? Sri Lanka is not something to be unsure about; it’s full of hidden gems and the perfect place for a perfect time but there are some things to be aware of before visiting Sri Lanka. From what season to go in, visas and other tips.
1. What time of year is the best to travel to Sri Lanka?
Even though Sri Lanka lies in the Tropics it still has its warmer and cooler days. The two Sri Lankan seasons known as Maha and Yala both have different impacts on the weather but even then the temperatures are enjoyable year-round! The Maha season is the wet season of the North and East sides of Sri Lanka and runs from September to April. While it does bring rain to one side of the island the South and West coast become dry, which is when the best waves of the year come around. Both of our Kima Surf Camps are located on the south side of the island making it an ideal spot to visit during the Maha season. Yala season, which runs from March to September, is a great time for our Learn-to-Surf guests and other beginners to practice their skills because of the smaller swells on the south coast during Yala season. If you’re not up for a surf holiday, Sri Lanka still has lots to offer, especially beautiful wildlife which can be found in national parks like Yala National Park and Udawala National Park which are full of greenery, protected animals and fun! When planning a Sri Lanka trip, it’s important to make sure you are coming during the right weather conditions depending on what area you are travelling to.
2. Passport and Visa: Does Sri Lanka require a visa?
When travelling, one of the most important things to think about is what the country’s visa requirements are. For Sri Lanka all foreign visitors need to have a visa to enter and there are different tourist visas depending on how long you stay. If you plan to stay here for less than 30 days you need to apply for the short-term tourist visa which enables you to stay in Sri Lanka for a longer duration of up to 30 days.
The application can be easily submitted online via the Offical ETA website or the Mission’s Consular Division.
In any event, you need to prepare the following documents:
- A complete ETA application
- Passports from other countries that are still valid six months or more after the date of entry into Sri Lanka
- Two recent pictures
- Proof of accommodation or an invitation from your hosts in Sri Lanka
A copy of bank statement to demonstrate that you have adequate cash available in order to pay for your back trip as well as your stay expenses in Sri Lanka
The cost of a visa application varies from 20 to 60 euros and the rules for visas are constantly changing so always check the website of your country’s foreign ministry to find out what rules apply in your case. During your stay at our Kima surf camps you can always ask our reception team to help with any problems related to visas.
3. Health: Which vacinations are required in Sri Lanka?
A lot of travel destinations often require vaccinations but Sri Lanka does not but the government does recommend several vaccinations. To be sure, see your general doctor at least 6-8 weeks before your trip to Sri Lanka so they can review your immunization records and give you advice on any recommended vaccinations.
Sri Lanka recommends most visitors to get vaccinated against diseases that can be contracted through things such as food and drinks such as:
- Typhoid
- Hepatitis A and B
- Rabies
- Pertussis, Diphtheria and Tetanus
- Rubella, Mumps and Measles
We advise you to review the most recent information about Sri Lanka as soon as you begin planning your trip because requirements might change quickly. Make sure to come fully prepared to stay healthy and pumping!
4. The Sri Lankan Etiquette
While visiting foreign nations, it is necessary for one to encounter and appreciate their diverse cultures and customs. Before visiting a foreign nation, it is largely advisable to study the local customs.
Dress modestly:
Aside from having a thriving tourism sector, the majority of Sri Lankans are religiously devoted and socially conventional. Do not venture onto the roads in your swimwear alone. Though you might go with a bathing suit to the beach, don’t go topless, ladies! Don’t wear attire that leaves your legs bare, make sure you wear shirts that cover your upper arms and shoulders, especially if you are walking to places of worship or religious temples. Take off your shoes and headgear when approaching any Buddhist or Hindu temple as well as a mosque.
Use your right hand:
Do not use your left hand to greet or eat. Sri Lankans reserve their left hand for making personal ablutions and other less hygienic functions. It is therefore considered impolite to use the left hand.
Treat Buddha statues with respect:
The depictions of the Buddha are taken so seriously by the Sri Lankan Buddhists that guests have already been dispatched for “disrespecting” Buddha pictures or statues. When you step away from a Buddha picture, it is not feasible to take selfies with a Buddha statue. Never wear Buddha-themed apparel or get cover tattoos of Buddhist pictures.
5. Tap Water Is Not For consumption
Although Sri Lanka has made significant progress in recent years, it still lags well behind Western norms. In contrast to most Western nations, tap water in Sri Lanka is unsafe to drink. Travelers’ diarrhea, which manifests as fever, nausea, vomiting and cramping, can be brought on by drinking tap water. Although it is theoretically conceivable, it is not advised to brush your teeth with tap water just to be safe. Every supermarket sells bottled water but be sure to look for the Sri Lanka standards certification symbol and make sure the seal is unbroken.
6. Sri Lanka's breathtaking train journeys
The traditional blue trains are likely to come to mind when you think about Sri Lanka. Originally used to carry tea and spices, the trains are now a popular way for travelers to travel the nation and have a unique journey. Some of the most exciting rail trips in the world may be found in Sri Lanka.
Kandy to Badulla by train through Ella is one of the most sought-after rail rides. It is a must-have experience on your trip through Sri Lanka. The train ride goes through beautiful villages, misty mountains and tea estates in seven to eight hours. Established during the era of British colonialism, it’s a heritage trip that includes the breathtaking natural beauty of the country along with its rich legacy. Alternate sitting in an open railway doorway and having your legs hanging over the rails to absorb the best scenery.
We have a front desk staff that is always happy to answer any queries you may have about taking the train.
Are you prepared to confirm your vacation in Sri Lanka?