What to Know Before Travelling to Sri Lanka – A First-Timer’s Guide
Planning your first trip to Sri Lanka? You’re in for an unforgettable experience! With beautiful beaches, rich culture, wildlife, and delicious food, Sri Lanka is one of the top and most unique travel destinations in Asia.
Here’s a simple guide with travel essentials, do’s and don’ts, and local tips to help you enjoy a smooth journey.
- Travel Documents & Visas
All visitors need a Sri Lanka Tourist Visa, which you can apply for online through the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system. Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival.
- Best Time to Visit
Sri Lanka has two monsoon seasons, so the best time to visit depends on the region:
South & West Coast: January to April
North & East Coast: May to September
For most first-timers, the months from December to March offer the best weather across popular areas like Colombo, Galle, and Kandy.
- What to Pack
Light cotton clothes (it’s usually hot and humid)
Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
Modest clothes for temples (shoulders and knees covered)
A pair of sandals or slippers
- Currency & Payments
The local currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Most places accept cash only. You can use credit cards in hotels, big stores, and restaurants, but keep cash handy for tuk-tuks, markets, and small shops.
- Local Etiquette & Do’s and Don’ts
Do remove shoes and hats when entering temples.
Don’t take selfies with your back to Buddha statues—it’s considered disrespectful.
Do greet locals with a smile and say “Ayubowan” (hello).
Don’t show public displays of affection in rural areas.
Tips are welcome - Transport Tips
Tuk-tuks are popular for short. You can book them on apps such as Uber and PickMe. Metered tuk tuks also available. For long-distance travel, trains offer scenic views (especially Kandy to Ella). Private taxis and vans recommended for other day trips and round tours
- Food & Safety
Sri Lankan food is flavorful and spicy. Try local dishes like rice & curry, kottu, cashew curry, hoppers and string hoppers. Stick to bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach issues.
Final Tip
If you want to explore Sri Lanka hassle-free, book with a trusted local tour company that offers custom packages, transport, and guides.
Ready to explore Sri Lanka?
Contact Beyond Destination Tours for expert planning, reliable service, and personalized travel experiences.
