Sri Lanka
On the tear-drop shaped island of Sri Lanka, you’ll discover emerald green rolling hills ripe with Ceylon Tea, climb to the top of a 200 meter ancient hilltop fortress, and explore a whitewashed temple with beautifully hued interiors that shelters a tooth of Buddha. And along the way, you’ll encounter quaint villages with friendly locals, wild jungles ruled by Asian elephants, and absolutely delicious Sri-Lankan cuisine. Join Friendly Planet for an unforgettable experience at an amazing price!
Fast Facts
Already booked on one of our packages to Sri Lanka? See everything you need to know before you go.
Overview | Capital: Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte (official) and Colombo (commercial) |
Entry requirements | Please see our Entry Requirements page. |
Staying Healthy | According to the Center for Disease Control, there are no requirements for travel to Sri Lanka. It is recommended, however, that all travelers are up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot. It is also recommended to talk to your doctor about vaccines for Hepatits A and Typhoid. |
Weather | When traveling to Sri Lanka, November through mid-April is the best time to visit. Sri Lanka’s proximity to the Equator means temperature remains fairly consistent year round. Lowland and coastal areas can range from 80 to 90 degrees, with temperatures into the low 100’s during the hottest part of the day. As elevation increases, temperatures will drop. In Kandy, temperatures are between the mid 60’s and low 70’s. In Nuwara Eliya and the highest elevations, temperatures vary from the mid 50’s to low 60’s. |
Tipping | At restaurants, approximately $1 per person. Hotel porters, approximately $1 per person. Guides and drivers are also tipped at your discretion, please see your travel documents for guidelines. |
Money & Credit Cards | Always notify your bank prior to departure to avoid any problems using your credit or debit card while traveling. |
Shopping | Shop for masks, batiks, lace, metalwork and lacquerware, previous and semi-precious gems and jewelry (if you know what you’re looking for), as well as tea and spices. Stay away from the purchase of polished shells or pieces of coral, as this is a contributing factor in Sri Lanka’s endangered marine environment. Keep in mind the export of marine or other animal products is illegal. |
Electricity & Power Adapters | 220-240 volts. Plugs D & C. You will need a voltage converter and plug adapter in order to use U.S. appliances. We recommend getting a universal adapter and converter kit. Learn more about electrical standards around the world. |
Cell Phones & Internet | Want to take your cell phone, tablet or laptop, but not sure how to get cell service or wifi? Read up on using your cell phone abroad and the top 5 ways to get Internet abroad. |
Videos
Tours & Packages
- Destinations: Sri Lanka
- including closed packages