Essential Guide to Sri Lanka: Everything You Need to Know

By - August 17, 2024 - Sri Lanka
Essential Guide to Sri Lanka

Planning a trip to Sri Lanka and needing to figure out what to expect? You have landed on the right page. Sri Lanka, an Island country in South Asia, is a nation full of surprises. From sandy beaches to rocky mountains, one can experience one-on-one adventures here.

This country in the Indian Ocean is known for its cinematic landscapes, wildlife, historic monuments, delicious food, and many more. So, bear with us on this scenic train ride in Sri Lanka and prepare yourself by referring to this detailed guide.

Get Yourself Travel Ready!

Being travel-ready only means keeping your travel documents up to date. Every visitor will need a visa and a passport to enter the provinces of Sri Lanka. However, Indian passport holders can easily apply for an e-visa for their trip to Sri Lanka. It is advised to apply for a visa before two to three weeks even though the process is hassle-free and ensure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months. Check the official Sri Lanka website to apply for an e-visa before arrival.

Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka

Like most of the countries near the equator, Sri Lanka has a suitable climate that welcomes visitors throughout the year. However, the best time to visit can range from December to mid-April during the dry season whereas May to September are the monsoon seasons in the south-western areas (Galle and Colombo). The northeastern parts (close to Trincomalee) of the country are mostly active from October to January and less crowded around May to September.

Currency and ATMs in Sri Lanka

The local currency that Sri Lankans use is the Sri Lankan Rupee(LKR) which is considered to be a closed currency meaning you can only get a favorable exchange rate on your currency inside Sri Lanka, i.e., upon arrival. However, you need not have to worry as credit cards are widely accepted for several transactions. It is advisable to carry some cash for local transactions like local food stalls, street food, or street shopping. ATMs are available in major towns and cities that ensure easy withdrawal of cash for tourists. Mastercard and VISA are the most widely accepted ATM cards in Sri Lanka.

Suggested Itineraries for for Sri Lanka:

How to Get Around? – Local Transport in Sri Lanka

When we add a country to our bucket list, the first doubt that comes to our mind is how we get around. Well for Sri Lanka, we got you covered:

  • Taxis and Rental Cars: If you are traveling with your family or a large group of friends then this mode will be more reliable and comfortable for you to consider. You can always negotiate the fare of taxis before taking one or opt for metered taxis if available. For long journeys or inter-city travel, rental cars are a favorable option with or without a driver. If you are renting a car in Sri Lanka for self-drive then keep in mind that traffic drives on the left-hand side of the road.
  • Buses or Trains: If you are looking for an affordable mode of transport you can hop on a local bus that connects major cities and even rural areas. Now, let us talk about trains. Taking a train in Sri Lanka is not only an affordable option but also a scenic experience. The trains pass through tea plantations, mountains, and forests giving a picturesque panorama and posting ideas for your Instagram profile. Consider booking your trains in advance as it is high in demand.
  • Tuk-Tuks: For local and affordable transport one can opt for this three-wheeled transport. These rikshaws cover short distances and are a quick alternative to get around within a city or town.
  • Domestic Flights: If budget is not a concern for you, then you can opt for domestic flights to move from one city to another. Sri Lanka is well connected to the major cities and popular tourist destinations by air.

Culinary Delights Along the Way!

The street food of Sri Lanka is heaven for spice lovers. More like Indian cuisine, Sri Lankans too use a lot of spices in every food item, but you can expect more than just roti and rice. Try some of their local food such as Parippu (dhal curry), Kukul mas curry (chicken curry), Fish ambul thiyal (sour fish curry), and so on. The most common spices used in their food are chili, turmeric, coconut, and cinnamon, which makes their dishes taste mouthlicious.

What to Pack for Sri Lanka?

People who have planned safaris during their visit must compulsorily pack insect repellent and sunscreen. Pack light and take clothes that suit the place, for example for temples pack something decent to respect the religious sentiments of the locals and for safaris pack some khaki and cargo. For footwear, pack something comfortable as the place demands a lot of walking. For beaches pack a swimsuit and a hat to boost up your Instagram likes.

Experience their Unique Trails

Sri Lanka welcomes tourists every year with several adventures starting from elephant safaris, and tea trails to scenic train rides:

  • If the cultural ruins of a country draw you more then you can consider visiting Anuradhapura which is a UNESCO World Heritage city with temples and shrines.
  • For those who have watched Ramayan, Sigeria is also a place to add to your list as it is where Ravana’s Fort is located in which he kept Sita as per the Hindu mythology. The fort also depicts how great an engineer Ravana was who built proper water tanks, drainage, and helicopters as well.
  • Experience a Jeep safari in Yala National Park, home to the highest population of leopards in the world. Discovering these rare animals boosts the adrenaline rush of your safari experience.
  • The Adam’s Peak walk near Dalhousie will also provide spectacular views. Many Muslims and Christians regard the mountain as a holy spot where Adam made his first steps after being driven out from the Garden of Eden. Religious or not, the five- to seven-hour walk begins at midnight and offers stunning views from the summit at sunrise.
  • Discover the famous and magnificent rail route to Ella, a must-do excursion for anyone visiting Sri Lanka. Discover how tea leaves are transported from the soil to your cup as you ride through the lush highland tea plantations.

Plan Your Trip Today!

Sri Lanka has a diverse culture and people speak different languages, including Sinhala and Tamil, but don’t worry English is widely spoken and understood. So, pack up soon to visit this small Island country with our tailored packages at Tusk Travel and take back a suitcase full of memories and a fridge magnet with Sri Lanka on it.

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