Sri Lanka Traveler Essentials
- Capital
- Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte (Colombo metro)
- Currency
- Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
- Best time to visit
- December to March for the south and west coasts (beach season). May to October for the east coast. Hill country is pleasant year-round. April is New Year and very busy.
Visa requirements
ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) required for most nationalities before arrival. Apply at eta.gov.lk (USD $50 for most). Citizens of select countries get free ETAs. Valid for 30 days, extendable.
Getting around
Sri Lanka's scenic, inexpensive trains (notably the Kandy–Ella hill line) and an extensive bus network connect the island, with no need for domestic flights. Within towns, metered tuk-tuks are everywhere, and the ride-hailing app PickMe (plus Uber in Colombo) offers transparent fares for cars and tuk-tuks.
Safety
Generally safe for tourists. The country has rebuilt remarkably since the 2019 Easter bombings. Normal precautions apply in Colombo. The 2022 economic crisis has stabilised — carry USD or Euros for easy exchange. Beach swimming: always heed flags and local advice about rip currents.
Tipping customs
Tipping is appreciated and customary in tourist settings. Restaurants often add a 10% service charge, so a little extra for good service is optional; round up taxi and tuk-tuk fares, and keep small notes for hotel porters, housekeeping, drivers and guides.
Travel tips
The train through the tea highlands (Kandy to Ella) is one of the world's most scenic railway journeys — book observation car seats in advance on 12go.asia. Tuk-tuks are the fun way to get around short distances. Always bargain in markets but not at fixed-price restaurants.