Sri Lanka travel tips for first-timers: what to know

Sri Lanka is going through a major tourism upswing, with more and more travelers arriving each month and visible improvements happening across the country. The economy is recovering, and that means better roads, more flight options, and more reliable services than in recent years.

There’s a strong push toward sustainable travel, with efforts to protect the island’s nature and culture while improving the experience for visitors.

English is widely spoken in tourist areas, and it’s become easier for independent travelers to navigate thanks to updated infrastructure and a growing range of services. If you’re thinking about heading to Sri Lanka for beaches, wildlife, history, or just some slow travel, it’s a good time to go. Here is a roundupof our best Sri Lanka travel tips to help you plan your trip.
 

When is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?

The best time to visit Sri Lanka depends on where you’re going. The west and south coasts usually have the best weather from December to March, when the beaches are sunny and the sea is calmer. If you’re heading to the east coast, it’s better to go between May and September.

The hill country—Kandy, Ella, and Nuwara Eliya—tends to stay fairly cool and comfortable throughout the year, though January to March is generally the driest time.

If you’re planning a Sri Lanka itinerary based on seeing wildlife at parks like Yala or Wilpattu, the dry season from May to September is when animals are easiest to see, since they gather around water sources.

Is Sri Lanka expensive?

Compared to the Maldives or Singapore, Sri Lanka can feel pretty affordable, though it’s not as cheap as India or Nepal.

• Budget travel (about $15–30 per day) covers local guesthouses, street food like hoppers or kottu, and buses or trains.
• Mid-range (roughly $30–75 per day) gets you air-conditioned hotel rooms, meals at nicer local restaurants, entrance fees to popular sites, and maybe a private driver now and then. This is where most international travelers land.
• Higher-end travel (above $75 per day) can include boutique hotels, resort stays, guided tours, and private drivers for the whole trip. You’ll see a big jump in comfort, but it’s still more accessible than many Western destinations.

Is Sri Lanka safe for travelers?

In general, Sri Lanka is a safe place to visit. The civil war ended in 2009, and although the 2019 Easter bombings were a major event, they were isolated incidents. Since then, security has been stepped up in areas that attract visitors.

Violent crime against tourists is rare, but like anywhere, it’s smart to stay alert. Be aware of your belongings in crowded areas, especially in markets or at train stations. Women should dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and it’s wise to avoid walking alone at night in quiet or poorly lit areas.

Natural risks are more of a concern than crime—rip currents are common at certain beaches during the monsoon seasons, so pay attention to local advice about where and when it’s safe to swim. Roads can also be hectic, so it’s best to travel with a trusted driver and avoid driving yourself.

Some laws might surprise visitors, so it’s worth knowing a few before you go:

• Even small amounts of illegal drugs can lead to serious consequences, and trafficking carries severe penalties.
• Alcohol is not sold on Poya days (full moons), which happen once a month.
• Don’t take selfies with Buddha statues or display tattoos of Buddha. This can lead to fines, arrest, or deportation.
• Same-sex relationships are still illegal under colonial-era laws, though enforcement tends to be low for tourists. Discretion is advised.
• Taking coral, shells, or animals from beaches and parks is illegal and can come with steep fines.

Do you need a visa for Sri Lanka?

Yes, most travelers need to get an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before arriving in Sri Lanka. You can apply online through the official immigration site, and it usually takes less than 24 hours to get approved.

The ETA covers a 30-day stay and costs around $35–50 USD, depending on your nationality. It’s best to apply at least two days before your flight. A few nationalities, including Singapore, Maldives, and Seychelles, don’t need one—check the official site to confirm if that applies to you.

Staying longer

If you want to stay beyond the initial 30 days, you can extend your visa for up to 90 days by visiting the Department of Immigration in Colombo. You’ll need to renew it in 30-day increments and pay extra each time.

Sri Lanka travel tip: There’s also a digital nomad visa if you work remotely—it allows you to stay up to a year, but you’ll need to show proof of income.
 

How to stay healthy while traveling in Sri Lanka?

Staying healthy here mostly comes down to using common sense. The sun is strong, so pack high-SPF sunscreen, wear a hat, and drink lots of water. Dengue fever is around all year, especially in cities, so bring a good insect repellent with DEET and use it, especially in the early morning and evening.

Pharmacies and medical care

You’ll find pharmacies in most towns, and in Colombo, many are open 24/7. Basic medications are easy to get and don’t usually require a prescription, but it's smart to bring any essentials from home in their original packaging. For anything more serious, private hospitals in Colombo and Kandy are your best bet—they have English-speaking doctors, but it can get expensive if you don’t have insurance.

Apollo Hospital in Colombo is well-known for emergency care. In more remote areas, medical facilities can be limited, so travel insurance that covers medical evacuation is important.

Sri Lanka travel tip: The emergency ambulance number is 1990

Are there any vaccinations needed for Sri Lanka?

There aren’t any mandatory shots for entry, but a few are recommended depending on where you're going and how long you're staying.

These include:

• Hepatitis A and B
• Typhoid
• Tetanus-diphtheria
• Japanese Encephalitis (if you're spending a lot of time in rural areas)
• Rabies (if you’ll be around animals or in remote places)

Food and water safety

Tap water isn’t safe to drink—stick to bottled water (make sure the seal is intact) and skip the ice if you're in rural areas. When it comes to food, go where it’s busy—high turnover usually means fresher meals and less chance of stomach issues.

Avoid raw veggies, fruit you haven’t peeled yourself, and dairy in rural areas. Upset stomachs are common while adjusting to the food, so pack rehydration salts, probiotics, and something mild for diarrhea just in case.

Sri Lanka travel tip: Sri Lankan food is flavorful and often very spicy. If you’re not used to heat, ease in slowly!

Cultural etiquette to know of before visiting Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka’s customs are shaped by Buddhism, colonial history, and a strong sense of respect. You’ll need to take your shoes off and cover your shoulders and knees before entering temples—some places have sarongs to borrow if you forget. Avoid touching anyone’s head (even kids), and try not to point your feet at people or religious statues.

Public affection isn’t really done here, even between married couples, so it’s better to keep things low-key.

Sri Lanka travel tip: You might notice people doing a quick side-to-side head wobble—it can mean yes, no, or maybe, depending on the situation. It makes more sense once you’ve seen it a few times. 

Is Sri Lanka a good destination for families?

Traveling around Sri Lanka with kids can be surprisingly manageable. The distances between places are short, so you’re not stuck in a car all day, and there’s a wide variety of things to do without needing to pack in too much. Kids usually get a warm welcome.

Between national parks, train rides, and beach time, there’s plenty to keep children engaged. Some places might not have the kinds of facilities you’re used to—things like high chairs, cribs, or changing stations—but you can usually work around that with a bit of planning. It’s not a polished theme-park-style destination, but that’s also part of the charm.

Getting around and where to stay

If you’re traveling with kids, it helps to plan your stays around minimizing travel time. Staying in Bentota or Beruwala works well for beach time—there are places with pools and spaces where kids can burn energy. In the Cultural Triangle, pick a central base like Kandy or Dambulla and take day trips from there rather than switching hotels constantly.

Train travel is scenic and enjoyable, especially that Kandy-to-Ella leg, but it’s best to book first-class seats ahead of time for comfort and space. If you want more flexibility, hiring a private driver with a car seat can be a game changer—many drivers end up being helpful guides and are great with kids.

Essentials for parents

Sri Lanka’s weather varies depending on where you are, so pack for sun, rain, and cooler hill country evenings. Sunscreen (SPF 50 or higher), hats, and UV-protective clothing go a long way—especially because the sun here doesn’t mess around. For bug protection, go for mosquito spray with less than 10% DEET for young kids, and bring lightweight long sleeves for dusk.

You’ll find diapers and basic baby food in larger cities like Colombo or Kandy, but if you need specific brands or sizes, bring those with you. Wet wipes and hand sanitizer come in handy everywhere, especially when visiting temples or trying street food. 

Sri Lanka travel tip: If you’re heading into tea country or planning to climb historical sites, a baby carrier will be more practical than a stroller
 

What are the best places to visit in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka packs a surprising range of experiences into a relatively small island—you can go from ancient ruins and cool mountain towns to palm-lined beaches and national parks, all in one trip. Here are some of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka.

Cities

Cities in Sri Lanka layer old and new, with colonial buildings next to temples and street food stalls across from high-end shops. Visiting cities is one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka.

• Colombo: This is Sri Lanka’s capital, with colonial-era buildings sitting next to glass towers. Around the Fort area, you’ll see the classics of the city, and Pettah is a busy neighborhood full of street vendors, market stalls, and everyday chaos. Galle Face Green is worth visiting around sunset when locals come out with snacks and kites.
• Kandy (Maha Nuwara): This is the country’s cultural hub and the last capital of the Sinhala kings. Most people come to see the Temple of the Tooth, but don’t miss walking around Kandy Lake. Just outside the city, the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya are worth a visit—huge trees, hanging vines, and all kinds of orchids.
• Galle (Gaalla): Galle Fort has well-preserved colonial buildings, narrow lanes, and thick ramparts that wrap around the town. Inside the walls, it’s mostly car-free, which makes it easy to explore on foot. You’ll come across small shops, art galleries, and a few good cafés.
   

The best beaches in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka beaches are varied and easy to reach, whether you're looking for surf, snorkeling, or a quiet swim. Depending on the time of year, you can just shift coasts to catch better weather.

• Southern Coast (Dakunu Vēralē): The coastline between Bentota and Tangalle has a mix of beach towns. Hikkaduwa draws surfers, Unawatuna is more relaxed, and Weligama is ideal for beginners. Mirissa sees whales from December to April. 
• East Coast (Negenahira Vēralē): Trincomalee has one of the best natural harbors in the region, and the beaches here—Uppuveli and Nilaveli—are long, soft, and great for swimming. The waters are clear and calm, and there’s decent snorkeling just off the beach. Pigeon Island is nearby and easy to reach by boat—expect reef sharks, corals, and plenty of tropical fish. 
• Arugam Bay (Arugam Koḍiya): Over on the southeast coast, Arugam Bay still feels pretty relaxed, even though it’s grown in popularity. This is one of the best places to surf in Sri Lanka. The main surf break draws pros, but beginners can head to Whiskey Point or Peanut Farm, which are a bit more forgiving. There’s more to do here than surf, too—Kumana National Park is close by and worth visiting.

Nature and adventure

For such a small country, Sri Lanka has incredibly diverse landscapes—rainforests, highlands, plains, and coastline. Some of the best things to do in Sri Lanka are to see wildlife in the wild, or spend your days hiking or kayaking.

• Yala National Park (Yāla Jātika Vanodhyānaya): Yala is one of the best places to see Sri Lankan wildlife, especially if you’re hoping to spot a leopard. It’s known for having a high density of them, along with elephants, sloth bears, and crocodiles. The landscape shifts between thick forest, grasslands, and lagoons. 
• Sinharaja Forest Reserve (Sinharaja Vanāntaraya): This protected rainforest is dense and humid and home to over half of the island’s endemic species. Expect everything from pitcher plants to bright blue magpies and tiny, colorful frogs. 
• Horton Plains National Park (Horton Tenna Jātika Vanodhyānaya): Up in the central highlands, this misty plateau is known for its cliff-edge viewpoint called World's End, which drops nearly 2,900 feet (880 meters). The main loop trail is about 5.5 miles (9km) and includes stops like Baker’s Falls. 
• Knuckles Mountain Range (Dumbara Kanduwetiya): Less visited than other areas, the Knuckles are ideal if you're looking for a proper trek. The trails wind through cloud forests, rice terraces, and remote villages. There’s a lot of biodiversity here, especially frogs, lizards, and orchids you won’t see elsewhere. 

Historic and religious sites

The temples and ruins here are a part of daily life, with people still worshipping at sites that go back thousands of years.

• Sigiriya (Sinhagiri): This iconic rock fortress rises out of the flatlands and holds the ruins of a royal palace from the 5th century. On the way up, you’ll pass ancient water gardens and frescoes. The climb ends between two massive lion’s paws with panoramic views from the top. 
• Anuradhapura (Anurādhapura): As the island’s first capital, this ancient city is packed with Buddhist sites and ruins spread over a large area. One of the highlights is the Sri Maha Bodhi tree, believed to be a descendant of the original Bodhi tree in India. You’ll need a full day here.
• Polonnaruwa (Poḷonnaruva): Smaller and easier to explore than Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa is known for its detailed stonework and large Buddha statues. The Quadrangle is where you’ll find a dense cluster of impressive ruins.
• Dambulla Cave Temple (Dambulla Len Viharaya): Dambulla is set into a rocky hill and made up of five caves filled with Buddha statues and vibrant ceiling paintings. Some of the artwork dates back over 2,000 years. From the top, you’ll get clear views of Sigiriya and the countryside.
   

How long to spend in Sri Lanka?

How many days do you need in Sri Lanka? If it's your first time, a 14-day Sri Lanka itinerary is a comfortable amount of time to get a good feel for the country. That’s enough to take in the Cultural Triangle (think Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Polonnaruwa), explore the tea-covered hills around Ella and Nuwara Eliya, and still have time to wind down along the coast.

To keep things manageable, try focusing your route on the central highlands, the ancient cities, and either the southern beaches if you're going during the northern hemisphere winter or the east coast in summer. That way, you’re not doubling back too much.

If you’ve only got time for a week-long Sri Lanka itinerary, it helps to pick a focus: maybe combine the Cultural Triangle with the hill country, or just stick to the coast with one or two quick cultural stops. It’s better to go deeper in fewer places than to rush through everything.

What’s the best way to plan a Sri Lanka itinerary?

If you’re not sure how to plan a trip to Sri Lanka, start by jotting down a few things you’re really excited to see or do— a sort of “wish list”.

Don’t worry about perfecting the list yet or what’s even feasible right away. It just helps to get a rough sense of your priorities and how far apart things are. Once you’ve got a couple of non-negotiables, you can fill in the rest of your days around them.

Factor in travel time

Your next step is to see how long it takes to get between the different items on your wish list.

Even though the island looks small on the map, getting around Sri Lanka can be slow. The scenery’s beautiful, especially in the hills, but expect delays—especially by train or bus.

The train ride between Kandy and Ella is a highlight, with open windows and tea country views.

If you want more flexibility, hiring a private driver is common and surprisingly affordable—usually around $40–80 per day, depending on how far you're going. Buses are cheap and widespread, but they’re often crowded and don’t always run on time. To save time on longer routes, like from Colombo to Jaffna or Trincomalee, domestic flights are a good backup.

Book essentials first

Finally, you’ll want to book your essential items. Getting to Sri Lanka is pretty straightforward. Flights into Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport come from hubs across the Middle East and Asia. Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Singapore Airlines are common, and some direct routes from Europe are available during the busier months. 

Booking 3–5 months ahead usually gives you the best price, especially if you’re traveling during December–January or July–August.

Sri Lanka accommodation can fill quickly, especially in Ella, Galle Fort, and the south coast during peak season. 

Guesthouses and smaller Sri Lankan boutique hotels are often booked out months in advance, so it’s smart to reserve early—especially if you’re eyeing a stay in a restored tea bungalow or old colonial house. 

How to slow travel in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka’s a small island, and the trains and buses connect most regions pretty well, which makes it easy to slow down and spend longer in each place. It’s the kind of country where you don’t need to rush—you can get to know a place over time.

In Ella, Haputale, or in the rural areas just outside Kandy, homestays are common. Families cook for you, often with ingredients from their own garden, and you’ll probably learn a thing or two about local cooking or farming just by being there.

If you're on the coast, places like Arugam Bay during surf season or Unawatuna in the dry months are where a lot of people settle in for a few weeks. It’s easy to fall into a rhythm—same café in the morning, same stretch of beach in the afternoon.

Local experiences

Sri Lanka’s traditions go back more than 2,500 years, and many are still part of everyday life. These aren’t staged experiences—they’re part of the fabric of local communities.

In the hills near Ella, you can try tea plucking with Tamil tea workers. It’s more hands-on at the smaller, family-run plantations. You'll learn how to pick two leaves and a bud, and you might hear stories about how tea work has shaped the region over the years. Explore Sri Lankan tea tradition with our guide to tea tourism in Sri Lanka.

Around Kandy, some families still take part in the morning ritual of giving food to Buddhist monks. Several tour operators facilitate temple and village visits that include witnessing or joining alms distribution. 

If you want to go deeper, try timing your visit with a full moon day—called a poya—when people gather at temples and the streets fill with lanterns and lights. 

Vesak (in May) and Poson (in June) are especially lively, with entire neighborhoods coming together to decorate and cook for the occasion. 

How to handle money and payments in Sri Lanka?

Most day-to-day transactions in Sri Lanka still happen in cash, especially once you’re outside bigger cities or main tourist hubs. You won’t be able to get Sri Lankan rupees (LKR) before arriving, so it’s a good idea to exchange some money at the airport when you land—the rates there are usually better than what you’ll get at hotels.

ATMs are easy to find in cities and tourist areas, but they often cap withdrawals at around 20,000–40,000 LKR (about $60–120). Let your bank know you’re traveling to avoid getting your card frozen mid-trip. Visa and Mastercard are more widely accepted than AmEx, but even then, expect a 3–5% surcharge at many places that take cards.

Sri Lanka travel tip: For more straightforward pricing on taxis or tuk-tuks in cities, the PickMe app is a good one to have—it works like Uber and helps avoid haggling altogether.

What are the most common scams?

Scams aren’t a huge problem in Sri Lanka, but a few pop up often enough that they’re worth knowing about. One of the most common is the “helpful local” who says your hotel, temple, or other destination is closed and tries to steer you somewhere else—usually to a friend’s shop or a place where they earn commission. Just thank them and move on.

Gem scams are also pretty widespread. Sri Lanka is known for sapphires, but fake or low-quality stones are often sold at high prices. Only buy from certified dealers if you’re serious about buying gems.

The same goes for tea in Sri Lanka—some shops in hill country package lower-quality tea and label it as premium. You’re better off buying from well-known plantations or government-run outlets if you care about what you’re getting.
 

How to travel responsibly and ethically in Sri Lanka?

Traveling responsibly in Sri Lanka means being thoughtful about where your money goes and how your presence affects people and places.

Staying in small, locally run guesthouses—like the ones you’ll find in towns such as Ella or Mirissa—helps keep income within the community and usually gives you a more personal experience.

Wildlife tourism can be tricky. Not all Sri Lanka safari companies treat animals with the respect they should. Stick with operators who keep a safe distance and don’t make big promises about guaranteed leopard sightings—that’s often a red flag for unethical practices. If you're interested in seeing elephants, do a bit of digging. Some places function more like zoos. Others, like the Elephant Transit Home in Udawalawe, focus on rehabilitation and release.

Water shortages are a real concern in some areas, especially in the dry zones. Keep showers short, reuse towels, and try not to waste water—many locals still deal with inconsistent access.

Sri Lanka travel tip: When visiting temples and heritage sites, hiring a local guide is a good way to support the community and get more context than you’d find on your own.

What food should I try in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lankan food has its own identity. You’ll notice the heavy use of coconut in everything from curries to sambols, and the flavors lean into cinnamon, cardamom, and pandan leaf.

What you eat often depends on where you are. Along the coast, it’s mostly seafood. Inland, you’ll find more vegetables and dishes tied to the island’s colonial past. Most meals are centered around rice with several small curries served at once.

• Hoppers: You’ll see these everywhere, from roadside stands to hotel breakfasts. They’re thin, bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour. The edges are crisp, the center is soft, and they’re great for scooping up spicy sambal.
• Kottu roti: A chopped-up flatbread stir-fried with vegetables, eggs, or meat, and spices. You’ll hear the clanging metal as it’s made.
• Fish ambul thiyal: This is a dry, tangy fish curry made with chunks of tuna cooked in goraka (a sour fruit) and black pepper. It originated in the South as a way to preserve fish, and the flavor is spicy, a bit sour, and great with rice.
• Lamprais: This one comes wrapped in a banana leaf and baked, which makes everything inside kind of melt together—rice, mixed meat curries, sambol, and eggplant. It’s tied to the Burgher community and has a Dutch colonial influence. 
• Polos curry: This is a jackfruit curry made with young jackfruit that breaks down into something that looks a lot like shredded meat. It’s slow-cooked in spices and coconut milk until tender. 
• Watalappan: This is Sri Lanka’s custard—made with coconut milk, jaggery (palm sugar), eggs, and cardamom. It’s dense, sweet, and usually saved for celebrations. The flavor is deep and rich.
   

Taking the blue train in Sri Lanka

The blue train ride through Sri Lanka’s hill country is famous for a reason, but you don’t need to splurge on a first-class ticket to enjoy it. The observation car can be crowded, and the windows often reflect too much for good photos. 

Instead, grab a second-class ticket—it’s cheaper, has open windows, and feels more local. Just make sure to get to the station at least half an hour early so you can grab a window seat.

If you’re going from Kandy to Ella, sit on the right side of the train for the best views. On the way back, pick the left. The ride takes close to seven hours, so it’s worth packing snacks.

Sri Lanka travel tip: You’ll also see vendors hop on at various stops selling hot samosas and vadai—great if you want to try something fresh and local along the way.

Eating etiquette in Sri Lanka

Eating with your hands is common in Sri Lanka, especially when it comes to rice and curry. It’s part of the experience and totally normal to try it while you’re there. 

The trick is to use only your right hand—never the left, as it’s considered unclean—and shape the food into small bites with your fingers.

Then use your thumb to push it into your mouth. It might take a little practice, but it’s surprisingly efficient once you get the hang of it.
Most local restaurants have handwashing sinks nearby, but carrying hand sanitizer is smart, just in case. 

If you’re invited into someone’s home, trying this style of eating is often seen as respectful and appreciated. That said, hosts will usually offer you a fork and spoon too—so it’s up to you how traditional you want to go.