## Basic information

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## Why Sri Lanka

For many reasons. Whether you are fan of active holidays or coming with your family including small children, you'll enjoy your visit. You can surf on sunny beaches all day long, your children may have fun in the beautiful blue pool, or in the central area you can try several mountain treks, or visit several palaces with a rich history, mostly associated with a visit to Siddhartha.

## The capital of Sri Lanka

The official capital of Sri Lanka is **Sri Jayavardanapura Kotte**, abbreviated **Kotte**. It is a suburb of the largest city of Colombo and the capital has been since 1977. Until then, it used to be Colombo. In addition to the new Parliament building, other government offices began to move here in 1982.

## Flag of Sri Lanka

A yellow lion holding a sword as a symbol of power on a red background. Green and orange stripes symbolizes Hindu Tamils and Muslim Moors. Four yellow tickets are meant to commemorate Buddhist values - kindness, compassion, joy and peace.

## Population of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has over 22 million inhabitants. The most numerous nationalities are Sinhalese, Tamils and Muslims.

## Holidays in Sri Lanka

Many holidays are celebrated in Sri Lanka. For some, it is not possible to determine the exact date easily - for example, for Muslims they are determined by the phase of the moon, for Hindus based on astrological calculations.

The days of **Poja** are full moon celebrations. These days, people do not go to work and are not allowed to sell or consume alcohol. However, this restriction does not apply to tourists and alcohol is served in restaurants.

The largest and most important festival is the **Esala perahera** in Kandy (July / August). 10-day celebrations full of dancers, artists and elephants. The celebrations are colorful and very photogenic for tourists.

The second most important holiday is the Duruthu perahera in Colombo (January), on a full moon day. Celebrating the first visit of the Buddha in Sri Lanka.

Vesak in May commemorates the birth of the Buddha and his entry into Nirvana. Buddhists bring flowers and candles to temples. The celebrations end with a pilgrimage to Adam's Mountain.

Christmas is celebrated here on December 25th and the New Year falls on April 14th and is celebrated throughout the week.

## Emblem of Sri Lanka

The base of the emblem is the same as on the flag, lion holding a sword. Furthermore, a wreath of golden lotus petals, a blue ring and a wreath of golden rice surround. At the top is a blue Buddhist wheel of life (dharmachakra). Below the emblem is a golden jug of abundance (punkalasa) and on its sides a golden sun and moon.

## Currency of Sri Lanka

1 **Sri Lankan Rupee**=0.0054 USD (updated on July 10th, 2020), but we recommend that you always check the current exchange rate.

You can exchange money at the airport. After picking up your luggage, you will come across exchange offices. They all have the same rate, but they will entice you to exchange with them. It is ideal to bring US Dollars or Euros to exchange. From our own experience, we recommend exchanging most of your money to smaller banknotes. LKR 1000 is high value for Sri Lankans and they may have trouble to give you back change, for example (tuk tuk drivers).

We also recommend that you take as much cash as possible with you. Some ATMs may not help you. They either take Visa cards only or MasterCard only. Alternatively, if you have both types of cards, you should have enough money on both.

### Prices in Sri Lanka

In Sri Lanka, drinking and food are cheap by western standards. Conversely, alcohol and cigarettes will become more expensive. The prices for drinks are low, but note that they may also be low on volume.

The cheapest transportation option is a bus, but for your convenience we recommend tuk tuk + it is an interesting experience. The price per kilometer is about LKR 50 and if the driver asks you for more, be sure to negotiate the price.

**Example prices:**

- Food in an ordinary restaurant about LKR 250
- Local beer about LKR 300
- Imported beer approx. LKR 500
- Water approx. LKR 50
- Cigarettes / Marlboro / approx. LKR 1500
- Package of Ceylon loose teapot LKR 500
- Spice bag approx. LKR 300
- Fresh coconut approx. LKR 40
- Rice and curry about LKR 200
- Admission Sigiriya about LKR 4000
- Yala National Park about LKR 3000 + 5000 jeep rental
- Horton Plains National Park about LKR 3000
- Dambulla about LKR 1500
- Pinewalla about LKR 2500
- Millenium about LKR 3000
- Temple of the Buddha's Tooth about LKR 1000

## Vaccination in Sri Lanka

Pre-trip vaccination is not mandatory, only recommended:

- Jaundice A
- Jaundice B
- Typhoid
- Tetanus

In addition to vaccination, it is good to take quality repellent with you. In Sri Lanka, especially in tourist areas, there is no risk of malaria, but the risk of dengue fever has increased. Mosquito nets should be part of every accommodation, but if you take your own, you won't spoil anything + sunscreen with high SPF is a good idea too!

When staying in Sri Lanka, it is in any case necessary to follow basic hygiene rules for staying in tropical countries, including appropriate vaccinations, or use of antimalarial, and caution when consuming food and beverages. In the case of health problems, it is necessary to take into account that commonly available health care is not at a level comparable to European or American countries. It is advisable to ask for a recommendation of a medical facility in higher category hotels.

## Visa to Sri Lanka

On January 31st, 2020, the Sri Lankan government suspended the pilot project of issuing free electronic tourist visas upon arrival in Sri Lanka to 46 selected countries.

If you are traveling to Sri Lanka for tourism, visit <http://www.eta.gov.lk/slvisa/> to obtain an electronic travel authorization.

## Security in Sri Lanka

There is very low crime in Sri Lanka. However, use common precaution. Eventually some petty theft may happen, so we recommend guarding your personal assets and not putting them away unnecessarily.

The most dangerous probably is the traffic on the road. There are no rules on this island as we know them, traffic lights, transitions, you have to be really careful. The most common cause of death of tourists are traffic accidents, but if you are vigilant enough, you will be fine.

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Women should not unnecessarily expose certain parts of body. Mainly outside the tourism areas. Choose longer skirt and have a light scarf to cover your shoulders ready.

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Local people are very nice, mainly because they want your money. They will attract you in various ways and offer you their services. Be especially careful on busy beaches. **Offering services** is normal, but some are intrusive and annoying, and in a few minutes many will come to you. If you are not interested in buying everything, we recommend that **you ignore the seller**. Once you talk to them, it's hard to get rid of them. But if you are interested in their services (massages, snorkeling) or products (souvenirs), **you can bargain**. As a general rule, when the price is not stated, you can bargain and it would not offend anyone. On the contrary, actually, **you have to**, because most sellers determine the price according to skin color.

## Interesting facts about Sri Lanka

Pole fishermen - even though more efficient fishing methods are already being used, it is still possible to encounter pole fishermen somewhere. Mainly because you can take pictures of them for a fee. For some, it is the main source of income.

You can also support local animals. E.g. elephant orphanage, where you can finally pet an elephant or bathe with it, or a turtle farm. These institutions are mainly used to help and rescue animals.

Locals have their own habits that should be followed. Do not undress yourself unnecessarily, **do not shake left hand and do not use it when eating** (the left hand is unclean, it is used in restroom ...), **do not take pictures turning back to Buddha**, do not smoke in public (in tourist areas it is tolerated).

## Important contacts

**Where to call in case of an emergency in Sri Lanka?**

- Rescue service: 110
- National Security Line: 118
- Police: 119
- Government aid: 1919

**The area code for Sri Lanka is +94.**

**Contacts at the U.S. Embassy Colombo:**

**Address:**

210 Galle Road, Colombo 03, Sri Lanka

Phone: +94 (11) 249-8500 Emergency line: +94 (11) 249-8500

Email: support-srilanka@ustraveldocs.com

Further contacts can be found at <https://lk.usembassy.gov/>

**Contacts at Australian High Commission Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka:**

**Address:**

21 Srimath RG Senanayake Mawatha Colombo 7

Phone: +94 112463200 Emergency line: +94 112463200

Email: info.aulk@vfshelpline.com

Further contacts can be found at <https://srilanka.embassy.gov.au/clmb/home.html>

**Contacts at British High Commission Colombo:**

**Address:**

389 Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 7, Colombo, Sri Lanka

Phone: +94 11 5390639. Emergency line: +94 11 5390639.

Email: colombo.general@fcdo.gov.uk

Further contacts can be found at <https://www.gov.uk/world/organisations/british-high-commission-colombo>

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## Tips on eating in Sri Lanka

The national dish is rice and curry. But it is not a curry we are familiar with, but a hot mixture with vegetables, meat or fish. Sri Lankans even eat curry for breakfast. If you are not completely a lover of spicy food, it is necessary to warn the staff significantly. Also, be prepared for the fact that you will hardly come across a proper steak in Sri Lanka. Like any coastal state, they have a local supply of fresh fish and usually upon arrival at the restaurant, instead of a normal menu, you can look at the counter where you will see the current menu. Just choose the best piece and way of cooking.

### Chutney

It is a spicy fruit or vegetable sauce. Most likely you will come across mango chutneys.

### Sambal

Hot chili sauce, the most common variant is half sambal made of grated coconut.

### Roti

Local type of pastry. These are bread pancakes, which are an excellent addition to sauces. However, they can also eat separately.

### Lamprais

A remnant of Dutch culture, these are rice, meat patties, eggs and vegetables wrapped and baked in a banana leaf.

### Appam (Hoppers)

Pancakes made of rice flour and coconut dough, they are usually served for breakfast. Like our pancakes, they can be eaten in several ways in sweet and savory versions.

### Dhal

A local classic, red lentils are cooked in coconut milk, the basis of every curry feast.

## Food prices in Sri Lanka

Food in Sri Lanka is very cheap. Thanks to the proximity of the sea, you can have fresh fish and shellfish for a fraction of the price in comparison with what you can get in Europe.

- Fresh coconut about LKR 40
- Rice and curry about LKR 40500
- Grilled fish about LKR 401000
- Fried rice about LKR 40500
- Lobster about LKR 40400

(Prices may vary).

## Where you can best find yourself in Sri Lanka

As in every country, the rule is that you would find out the best food where the locals go. In many tourist restaurants, they adjust the food to our tastes and it is not so authentic. It is definitely better to try smaller buffets in dining rooms or stalls than renowned restaurants. If you choose private accommodation, for example according to the Lonely Planet guide, we definitely recommend you try the home cooking, which will certainly offer you prices not different much from those in restaurants.

Food

## List of airports

Although there are up to 22 airports in Sri Lanka, the only international and you can fly to is Colombo Bandaranaike Airport.

### Bandaranaike Airport, Colombo (CMB)

About 35 km from Colombo near the resort of Negombo.

### Rajapaksa, Mattala (HRI)

Recently, the second Rajapaksa International Airport in Mattale was opened, but the airlines are still getting ready here and it is not yet in full operation.

[wiki](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mattala_Rajapaksa_International_Airport)

### Jaffna

The next busiest airport is Jaffna, but it is only used for domestic and military flights.

---

Other airports are military or private.

Airports

## Weather in Colombo

The weather in Colombo is stable all year round, with the exception of the months of July and August, which are the rainiest. The sea temperature is suitable for year-round swimming.

{{< guide-forecast7 code="6d9379d86/colombo" >}}

## When to fly to Sri Lanka

You can fly to Sri Lanka all year round. The most popular is the period from December to April. This is the so-called peak season and will certainly affect on the prices of both air tickets and accommodation.

But when is ideal to go to Sri Lanka depends on your itinerary. From January to April it is best to spend time in the southwest of the island or in the mountains. Alternatively, from July to September, but the ocean can be turbulent and you need to be careful. From April to October, the eastern and northern coasts are recommended. The weather is sunny and the ocean is calm.

### Cheapest flights to Colombo in the context of the weather

The graph describes the minimum prices of tickets found to Colombo and their increase by weeks. Additional data on the graph show average day and night temperatures and total precipitation, if data are available. Click on the individual columns in the graph to get more detailed [current data from the search engine](/).

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You can see which date is the best for departure to Colombo due to the weather development in the destination and the current ticket price.

### Cheapest flights to Colombo

The following chart shows the lowest prices of airline tickets from Vienna to Colombo in the context of the weather. Click on the individual columns in the graph to get a more detailed current [search engine data](/).

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Weather

## The best beaches of Sri Lanka

It will be very difficult to choose from endless opportunities in beaches in Sri Lanka. Beautiful beaches lined with palm trees with fine white sand, in contrast to the azure blue Indian Ocean, will not leave anyone unexcited. It's up to you whether you choose the section with perfectly bars seting up with sun loungers or prefer privacy in a secluded bay.

### Mirissa

It is located in the south of the island. It is considered one of the most gorgeous and famous beaches in Sri Lanka. There are many activities, such as surfing or snorkeling, open bars with music on the beach, whale and dolphin watching, climbing to the nearby Kandavahari Temple or you can get a massage here.

### Unawatuna

The beach is rather relaxing, the sea is calm and there are almost no waves. Therefore, it is not suitable for surfing. It is lined with restaurants and bars that take you to the beach. Most of these establishments have small shelters on the beach, where waiters will bring you food and drink throughout the day. It is better to protect yourself from the sun, because the sun in Sri Lanka is unpredictable and you can get sunburn easily. In the evening, these establishments turn into a romantic restaurant, where you can dine right on the beach with candlelight and the sounds of the sea.

### Yala

It is an ideal beach for a romantic walk, but certainly not intended for swimming as strong undercurrents are dangerous. A bigger attraction is the nearby national park.

### Uppuveli a Nilaveli

The most beautiful beaches in the east of the island and the best beaches for snorkeling. Just drive to the nearby island of Pigeon and its coral reef. Whales and dolphins can also be watched from here.

### Hikkaduwa

Beach suitable for snorkeling or surfing. The best conditions are from November to March. It is one of the most visited places in Sri Lanka, so it is not suitable for relaxation. Especially during the peak season, it is a great beach for party lovers, thanks to the numerous clubs and bars.

## Sights in Sri Lanka

Despite the relatively small size of the island, you can find eight UNESCO monuments here, which can be easily visited in one week. These include the historic Galle in the south of the island with its famous fortress from the Dutch colonial period, the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. The Dambulla Cave Temple should be present on your list.

### Temple of the Tooth

It is named after the most valuable Buddhist artifact &mdash; Buddha's tooth. Only the chosen ones may see this treasure, but tourists can at least look at the box in which the tooth is stored. There are many Buddha statues in this temple complex, you have to be very careful not to stand with your back to the Buddha. It is important to dress properly in this temple &mdash; cover yourself, otherwise you will not be allowed into the temple. In the beginning, you will show bags and shoes and you can buy lotus flowers, which are placed on the sacrificial table.

The tooth also has its feast, which is considered the most beautiful even in all of Asia. Its name is Esala Perahera and is held annually in July or August.

### Dambulla Cave Temple

It is the center of Sri Lanka and the cultural triangle (Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura, Kandy). It was created as a thank to King Valagam, who hid in the complex for 14 years from his enemies. There are up to 150 Buddha statues and several rulers in the five caves, many murals depicting the history of Buddhism. From here you can see the nearby Lion's Rock. Again, the rule with suitable clothing and entry without shoes applies.

### Galle Fort

The most beautiful city in Sri Lanka. You won't find any temples here, but you can enjoy Dutch colonial villas and old churches. One option is to stroll through the mountains and overlook the Indian Ocean or stroll through the alleys full of shops and cafés. Galle is located on the south coast 10 km from Unawatuna.

### Polonnaruwa

The former royal city, which together with the cities of Kandy and Anuradhapura forms a cultural triangle. An interesting part is the ancient part of town which is full of monuments. Gal Vihara Complex - a group of four statues carved in stone, the Sacred Quadrangle & mdash; where important temples and others are located.

## Tips for trips

Thanks to the fact that transportation is so cheap, you can plan a lot of trips around the island.

### Sigiriya

In the middle of the cultural triangle is Lion Rock, a large block of molten magma that hardened and plugged a an old volcano. At the top of the rock you will find the remains of a fortress. Around the rock you can see water and terraced gardens, ponds and reservoirs. Rock wall with painted naked women or mirror wall.

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Don't forget to take enough water with you before climbing to the top.

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### Yala National Park

The most visited place in Sri Lanka, which means a large influx of tourists. If you're lucky, you can see leopards early in the morning, but you're sure to see elephants, water buffalo, crocodiles, wild boars, various birds and lizards.

### Horton Plateau

Horton Plains National Park is covered with dense forests and cool rivers. Compared to the coast, the temperature is about 10 degrees lower. The view of the Worlds End in the south of the park or Baker Falls is interesting.

### Ascent to Adam's Peak

A place of pilgrimage of all religions, tourists are more interested in the sunrise. In that case, it is necessary to start sometime around two o'clock in the morning. The ascent takes about 3 hours and it is necessary to climb 5200 steps. The path is illuminated and there are also stalls with snacks or souvenirs. It is important to wear suitable sturdy shoes. Even physically fit tourists say that their legs hurt for several days after the ascent, so you need to carefully consider your abilities.

### Kandy City

The second largest city in Sri Lanka. The most important monument is the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic at the Kandy Lake. The city of Kandy has its unmistakable atmosphere due to its location in the mountainous part of the island, it is very rugged. From here you can go to the surrounding attractions. E.g. Pinewall's Elephant Orphanage or Millennium (which is better you have to decide for yourself, opinions vary widely) or botanical gardens where you can buy local products.

### Tea plantations

Are you a tea lover? You would not find a fresher tea anywhere else than in Sri Lanka. Tea plantations are scattered on all slopes of the island and the altitude determines the distinctiveness of the tea leaves. Find your guide who will take you to the plantations, where you can pick fresh tea leaves yourself. The most important production areas in Sri Lanka include Dimbula, Uva, Ruhunu, Kandy, Radella and Nuwara Eliya.

Guide to Sri Lanka

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