Sri Lanka is directly accessible by all major carriers from their closest hubs. The National Carrier SriLankan operates to all major cities in Europe, Far East and the Middle East. The national carrier also offers easy accesses on its services for travel originating in any point in the United States, Canada , Australasia and South America on code sharing flights via transit points London, Zurich and Paris in Europe, Bangkok, Singapore, Hong Kong and Tokyo. SriLankan Airlines also connects Colombo with all major cities of India as well as with Beijing and Guangdong in China.
After many years of war, Sri Lanka has finally returned to a state of peace and harmony. As such, security is no longer an issue; however please do be mindful of your belongings and person at all times.
Always keep your valuables – money, passport, tickets, and jewelry in the hotel safety deposit locker. You should not leave your valuables unattended on the beach or leave your money or passports in your baggage which may be unlocked.
If you rent a car with the intent of driving on your own please be fully briefed on all formalities you need to be aware of while driving in Sri Lanka. Please do inquire about road rules, traffic conditions and be aware of other drivers who may not be as careful as you.
When enjoying the natural beauty of our island please remember to remain silent whilst in forest trails. It is best if nothing is left behind, and fires should be lit only in designated camp sites. Always seek the assistance of a trained guide and try to avoid lone excursions.
In case of an animal encounter, please do not try to harass, chase, touch, handle or feed.
Generally, every town will possess a pharmacy and a qualified medical practitioner is not hard to find. If you are on medication please bring an adequate supply of your drugs. If you rely on prescriptions, make sure that your doctor indicates not only the brand name but also the generic name of the drug.
It is advisable to always drink bottled water. While the water supply in cities is treated they cannot be guaranteed as portable. Boiling water for drinking is a common practice in homes in Sri Lanka. You are advised to use bottled water with its sealed top intact.
Sri Lanka located in proximity to the equator has a tropical climate and two distinct seasons. Surrounded by the Indian Ocean the relatively small island has a blowing wind that makes you forget the high humidity and warm nights during your Sri Lanka holiday.. As you reach the central hills the temperature drops along with the altitude. Thse parts of the Island has a pleasant climate for most of the year. The constant see breeze alleviates the average temperature of 27 C to 30 C.The tropical climate of the Island is greatly affected by the Asiatic monsoon which reverses the wind direction at predictable periods.
While the distances are given in kilometers it is best that you plan your travel in terms of time as well. While roads are being fast upgraded congestion in some main highways and cities can cause delays. The best time for travel after an early breakfast or after lunch.The public transport system is dependent on Buses and Trains. Generally, these tend to be crowded during peak hours and before and after weekends on long distance routes.
A relatively inexpensive mode of travel. Buses are operated by the state as well as by private operators. On main routes connecting cities such as Galle, Kandy, Kurunegala and Colombo you will find comfortable air conditioned buses albeit at a premium price. The comfort when on long journeys is well worth the extra charge.
Slightly more expensive than travelling in a bus.. There is a high possibility of a seat on long distance trains. It is definitely the most interesting way to enjoy the scenic beauty of the island as the Railway lines were intended to connect cities to bring produce to Colombo in the shortest possible time, in an age where packing crates and jute bags were the norm and refrigeration was not easy. The Railway lines run through scenic mountain passes and long tunnels into the hills, and on bridges built on over tranquil lagoons and winding rivers.
Please do inquire with your Hotel Front Desk/ Reception, as many would be happy to provide you with a taxi cab. Cars may be hired for your visits to places of interest on a predetermined itinerary at an agreed price, with information being readily available through maps, and guidebooks
This is an option that many visitors are comfortable with. The drivers of these ‘TUK TUKs’ (an appropriate name resonant with the noise made) are capable of communication no matter which language you speak. The gesticulations and the ingenious expressions they devise to explain a point is a form of entertainmentin itself. Most of these now have fare meters and thus spares you the pain of negotiation, and are quite reasonable.
Those who would like to arrive at a destination faster and see the island with a scenic eye can use chartered flights from the Ratmalana Airport near Colombo. There is also an option to charter a light aircraft or book a private helicopter for transfers or day trips.
Starting from $5 which will go up to $30 (Age Limit 06 – 12 Years – 50 % of above value)
Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR)
Sri Lanka is 5.30 hours ahead of Greenwich Time (GMT +05.30)
Normal working hours are from 8.30 am to 5.00 pm from Monday to Friday. Saturdays are half working days from 9.00 am to 1.00 pm With Sunday being a statutory holiday.These working hours may not be observed by all service providers that you will mostly be in contact with. It is therefore advisable for you to inquire what their working hours are.
