Yes, you need a visa to enter Sri Lanka. As of April 17, 2024, all tourists and business travelers are required to obtain an e-Visa prior to arrival. This can be done online through the official e-Visa website.

Here are the key points regarding the visa requirements:

- Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Sri Lanka.

- Types of Visas: The main types of visas include Tourist Visas for sightseeing and visiting friends, Business Visas for short-term business activities, and Transit Visas for those passing through Sri Lanka.

- Visa on Arrival: Previously, some travelers could obtain a visa on arrival, but this has changed with the new e-Visa requirement.

- Application Process: You should apply for the e-Visa online before your trip, as it is essential for entry. Ensure that you use the official website to avoid any issues.

Please refer to the immigration website for more details: https://www.immigration.gov.lk/pages_e.php?id=14

• Stunning Beaches

• Rich Historical Heritage

• Incredible Wildlife

• Delicious Cuisine

• Scenic Tea Plantations

• Warm and Welcoming People

• Adventure Activities

• Vibrant Culture

• Affordable Shopping

• Breathtaking Landscapes

• Southwest Coast and Hill Country: December to April

• East Coast and North: May to September

• Shoulder Seasons: April and September/October are shoulder seasons with good weather across most of the country but with fewer tourists and lower prices.

More Details: Refer to the article on the Lonely Planet Website here:

https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/best-time-to-visit-sri-lanka

• Temperature: Average temperatures typically hover around 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F ), but can be cooler in the hill country, where temperatures can drop to 15°C (59°F) or lower.

• Seasons: Sri Lanka has two main monsoon seasons:

  • Southwest Monsoon (May to September): This may bring heavy rains to the southwest region from May to August.

  • Northeast Monsoon (December to February): Primarily covers the northern and eastern parts of the country.

In major cities and tourist areas, internet connectivity is reliable and fast, with both Wi-Fi and mobile data readily available. Urban areas have strong 4G coverage and increasing 5G availability, while rural areas are improving but may be slower. Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, restaurants, cafes, and public places. Local SIM cards offer affordable data plans.

The primary languages in Sri Lanka are Sinhalese and Tamil. However, English is widely spoken, so you'll have no trouble communicating, as many Sri Lankans are quite fluent in it.

Yes, Sri Lanka is safe for travelers. With low crime rates, friendly locals, and a strong focus on tourism safety, you can explore ancient temples, relax on pristine beaches, and trek through lush jungles with peace of mind.

The official currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). You can exchange foreign currency at banks, authorized money exchanges, and airports.

Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it’s always good to have cash for smaller establishments or rural areas.

Pack lightweight clothing for the tropical climate, comfortable walking shoes for exploring, and sun protection like sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats. Remember modest attire for temple visits (cover shoulders and knees), insect repellent, and essential medications.

While no vaccinations are mandatory, it’s recommended to consult your doctor about vaccines for Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus. Malaria is rare but precautions against mosquito bites are advised.

Alcohol is not sold on Poya (full moon) days, which are Buddhist holidays. Plan ahead if you wish to purchase or consume alcohol during these times.

Yes, you can use your mobile phone in Sri Lanka. Local SIM cards with affordable data plans are available from major providers like Dialog and Mobitel. Ensure your phone is unlocked before purchasing a SIM card.