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Sri Lanka FAQ

Is tipping customary in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lankans work hard and typically receive a low wage, so tipping drivers, porters, maids and other service staff is a good idea. A small amount should suffice. When in restaurants, add 10% to the bill as a tip.

What is the internet access like in Sri Lanka?

Internet access is growing in Sri Lanka. Internet cafes are easily found in large cities, but the speed may be slower than what you’re used to.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in Sri Lanka?

Mobile phone coverage is generally good in urban areas, but can be patchy and less reliable in rural areas. Ensure global roaming is activated on your phone before you arrive.

What are the toilets like in Sri Lanka?

Squat toilets are the most common toilets in Sri Lanka. Always carry your own toilet paper and soap as they are usually not provided. Western-style flushable toilets can be found in upmarket restaurants, five-star hotels and in some tourist areas.

What will it cost for a…?

Soft drink = 100 LKR
Beer = 200-250 LKR
Simple lunch at local restaurant = 300 – 400 LKR
Seafood dinner = 1,000-1,500 LKR

Can I drink the water in Sri Lanka?

It's not recommended to drink the tap water in Sri Lanka. Filtered water is a better option; try to use a refillable canteen or water bottle rather than buying bottled water. Remember to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit before eating.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Sri Lanka?

Credit cards are usually accepted by modern hotels, restaurants and medium-large shops in tourist areas. Smaller shops, cafes, market stalls and places in remote areas probably won’t have facilities that support credit cards, so ensure you have enough cash to cover expenses while in rural areas or when visiting smaller vendors.

What is ATM access like in Sri Lanka?

ATMs are becoming more common in Sri Lanka’s large cities, so finding one shouldn’t be a problem. Smaller towns and isolated areas will have very few, or none at all, so have enough cash to cover purchases as ATM access may not be available.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling in Sri Lanka?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in Sri Lanka?

Jan 1 New Year's Day
Jan 14 Tamil Thai Pongal Day
Jan 24 Milad un-Nabi (Birth of the Prophet)
Jan 27 Duruthu Full Moon Poya Day
Feb 4 National Day
Feb 25 Navam Full Moon Poya Day
Mar 10 Mahashivrati
Mar 27 Medin Full Moon Poya Day
Mar 29 Good Friday
Apr 25 Bak Full Moon Poya Day
May 1 Labour Day
May 25 Vesak (Buddha Day)
Jun 23 Poson Full Moon Poya Day
Jul 22 Escala Full Moon Poya Day
Aug 8 Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan)
Aug 21 Nikini Full Moon Poya Day
Sep 19 Binara Full Moon Poya Day
Oct 15 Eid al-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice)
Oct 18 Vap Full Moon Poya Day
Nov 3 Deepavali
Nov 17 Il Full Moon Poya Day
Dec 17 Unduvap Full Moon Poya Day
Dec 25 Christmas Day

Please note dates are for 2013. * Dates are approximate only. Hindu, Muslim and Buddhist festivals are timed according to local sightings of the phases of the moon so dates differ each year.

For a current list of public holidays go to: http://www.worldtravelguide.net/sri-lanka/public-holidays

Do I need a visa to travel to Sri Lanka?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. As a general rule most countries expect that you will have at least 6 months' validity on your passport. On arrival visitors may be asked to present return tickets and evidence of means to cover your intended stay.

We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change - it's important that you check for yourself. Residents from other countries must consult the relevant embassies or your travel agent.

  • SRI LANKA:
    Australia: Yes - in advance
    Belgium: Yes - in advance
    Canada: Yes - in advance
    Germany: Yes - in advance
    Ireland: Yes - in advance
    Netherlands: Yes - in advance
    New Zealand: Yes - in advance
    South Africa: Yes - in advance
    Switzerland: Yes - in advance
    United Kingdom: Yes - in advance
    USA: Yes - in advance

    From 1st January 2012 Sri Lanka visa requirements are changing! The free 'visa on arrival' system will cease to exist.

    Foreign passport holders are required to obtain a visa prior to entry into Sri Lanka. This can be done on-line at the following website:
    www.eta.gov.lk

    Detailed information and application forms are provided here. The process is simple and the cost is US$20 for most countries.

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Sri Lanka at a glance

  • 4
  • Colombo (population 2 million)
  • 21.5 million
  • Sinhalese, Tamil
  • LKR
  • (GMT+05:30) Sri Jayawardenepura
  • Type D (Old British 3-pin), Type G (Irish/British 3-pin)
  • +94

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