Entry Requirements
Visa / ETA for Sri Lanka
ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization)
Most nationalities need an ETA before arrival. Apply online at eta.gov.lk. Processing: usually 24–48 hours. Double-entry tourist ETA: ~$50–75 USD (30 days, extendable).
Visa on Arrival
Available at BIA Colombo for some nationals if ETA not obtained. Higher fee. Always check current requirements – rules can change. Recommend applying for ETA in advance.
Validity & Extension
Tourist ETA: 30 days (double entry). Can extend at Department of Immigration, Colombo. Extensions cost extra – plan your stay to avoid overstaying.
Official site: www.eta.gov.lk – Always verify requirements before travel.
Official Resources
Government & Tourism Links
| Resource | Website / Contact |
|---|---|
| ETA / Visa | eta.gov.lk |
| Sri Lanka Tourism | srilanka.travel |
| Department of Immigration | immigration.gov.lk |
| Tourist Police | Tel: 1912 (emergency) |
| Tourism Authority | sltda.gov.lk |
Money
Currency & ATMs
Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
Local currency. Exchange rate approx: 1 USD ≈ 320–330 LKR (check current rates). Bring USD or EUR; exchange at airport, banks, or licensed counters.
ATMs & Cards
ATMs in cities and tourist areas. Visa/Mastercard accepted. Some charge withdrawal fees. Notify your bank before travel. Cash still preferred in rural areas.
Getting Around
Transport in Sri Lanka
Train
Scenic and cheap. Kandy–Ella, Colombo–Galle among best routes. 1st/2nd/3rd class. Book ahead for popular trains (online or at stations). ~$3–15 for long journeys.
Bus
Extensive network, very affordable. Public buses: $0.50–5. Tourist/express buses more comfortable. Can be crowded – travel light.
Tuk-tuk (Three-wheeler)
Short trips within cities. Negotiate or use PickMe/uber. ~$1–5 for short rides. Agree price before departure.
Private Driver
Full-day hire: ~$50–80 USD. Convenient for multi-day tours. Book through hotels or tour operators.
Budget Guide
Daily Costs & Prices
| Item | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (per night) | $10–25 | $40–80 | $120+ |
| Food (per day) | $5–10 | $15–30 | $50+ |
| Transport (per day) | $3–8 | $15–30 | $80+ (driver) |
| Activities (tours, parks) | $10–25 | $30–60 | $100+ |
| Total per day | $30–70 | $100–200 | $350+ |
Prices in USD, approximate. Budget: hostels, local food, buses. Mid-range: guesthouses, mix of transport. Luxury: hotels, private tours.
When to Go
Weather & Seasons
Yala (Southwest) monsoon
May–Sep: Wet in south & west (Colombo, Galle, Mirissa). Dry in east (Trinco, Arugam Bay). Good for east coast beaches.
Maha (Northeast) monsoon
Nov–Feb: Wet in north & east. Dry in south & west. Peak season for south coast, hill country, cultural triangle.
Best overall
Dec–Mar (south/west), Apr–Sep (east). Hill country: year-round but cooler Dec–Feb. Wildlife: Yala best Feb–Jul.