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FAQ

Got questions about your Sri Lankan adventure? We've got answers! Check out our FAQ section to find answers to the most commonly asked questions about travel to Sri Lanka. If you can't find the answer you're looking for, feel free to contact us and we'll be happy to help.

  • Currency Exchange
    Exchange foreign currency at banks, money changers, and hotels. Keep receipts for re-exchange at the airport.
  • Business Hours
    Banks: 09:00 – 15:00 (Mon-Fri, some open Sat morning) Government Offices: 09:30 – 17:00 (Mon-Fri, some open Sat morning) Shops: 10:00 – 19:00 (Mon-Fri, some open Sun morning) Post Offices: 10:00 – 17:00 (Mon-Fri, Sat morning)
  • Money Limits
    eclare amounts exceeding US $5000 for re-exchange. No limit on bringing foreign currency into Sri Lanka.
  • ATM & Credit Cards
    ATMs are available in most cities. Most ATMs allow cash withdrawal against Visa/Mastercard. Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Amex) are widely accepted. Credit card charges are made in local currency.
  • Dress Etiquette
    Right-hand use for giving, receiving, and eating. Legs and shoulders should be covered when visiting temples. Long attire is required in some hotels for dinner.
  • Packing List
    Sarong is lightweight and versatile. Bring warm clothes for hilly regions in the evenings.
  • Languages
    Sinhala and Tamil are the official languages. English is widely spoken and understood, especially in hotels, restaurants, and shops. Road signs are mostly in Sinhalese and English.
  • Local Mobile Connection
    Visitors can buy local SIM cards and top-up cards from operators like Dialog, Mobitel, Etisalat, Hutch, and Airtel. Dialog has a counter at Katunayake Airport for connections.
  • Country Code
    Sri Lanka’s country code is 94 for international calls. Dial ++94112XXXXXX for Colombo numbers.
  • Supported Mobile Technology
    GSM technology on GSM 900/1800 bands. WAP & GPRS supported. 3G and wireless broadband available in Colombo. Wi-Fi zones in major towns.
  • Internet Access
    Most hotels provide internet facilities. Internet cafes with ADSL connection are found in most towns. The average cost of surfing in a Cyber Cafe is about Euro 0.50 per hour. Some 5-star and boutique hotels offer free WiFi to guests.
  • Dialing
    Dial ’00’ and the relevant country code for international calls. Within Sri Lanka, dial the number without the area code within a district. For outstation calls, include the area code.
  • ETA Requirement
    An ETA is required for citizens of all countries except for those of The Republic of Singapore and of The Republic of Maldives to visit Sri Lanka.
  • Do I Need a Visa to Arrive in Sri Lanka?
    Yes, visitors need a visa to arrive in Sri Lanka. For short visits, an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is required before arrival.
  • ETA Charges
    Tourist visa with Double Entry for 30 days: Citizens of SAARC countries: US $15 (non-refundable ETA processing charge) Citizens of all other countries: US $30
  • What is an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization)?
    The ETA is an official authorization for a Short Visit to Sri Lanka, issued via an online system. It is necessary for tourists, business travelers, and those on transit. No passport copies, documents, or photographs are required to obtain an ETA.
  • Best Travel Seasons
    December to March (West & South Coasts, Hill Country) May to September (East Coast)
  • Nightlife
    Active nightlife in Colombo, Negombo, and Hikkaduwa. Pubs, nightclubs, and karaoke lounges available.
  • Photography Tips
    Use USB cord to transfer photos to a PC. Photo processing available at franchised shops. Respect local customs when taking photographs.
  • Mosquito Prevention
    Hotels provide plug-in mosquito repellents. Mats, coils, or citronella candles can be purchased from local supermarkets. Apply repellent lotion when outdoors.
  • Travel Precautions
    Keep valuables in hotel safe deposit lockers. Hotels are not responsible for lost objects in rooms. Note down Travelers’ Cheque numbers separately.
  • Health Concerns
    Sri Lanka has a reliable healthcare system. Emergency medical facilities may be limited outside major cities. Yellow fever and Meningitis vaccination certificates are required from travelers coming from Africa or Latin America.
  • Safety in Sri Lanka
    The country is peaceful and safe for tourists. Tourists visit in record numbers, experiencing peace and stability. Tour operators ensure the safety and security of tourists during tours.
  • Water & Beverages
    Avoid tap water unless purified. Bottled water is recommended. Local beer, Toddy, and Arrack are available. Fresh fruit juices and international soft drinks are widely available.
  • Drinking on Full Moon Days
    Liquor shops and entertainment centers remain closed on Poya days (Full Moon days). Out of respect for Buddhist rites, abstinence is practiced on these days.
  • Smoking & Alcohol
    Smoking and alcohol in public areas are banned in Sri Lanka. Smoking is prohibited in enclosed public places like restaurants.
  • Accommodation
    Roolanka offers a range of accommodation from boutique hotels to eco-lodges. Some nature and adventure trips may involve stays in remote locations with basic facilities.
  • Local Cuisine
    Ceylon Tea is a must-try. Local coffee is strong and flavorful. ‘Halal’ food is available in select restaurants. Vegetarian options are offered in major restaurants and South Indian vegetarian restaurants.
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