Language
Currency
Below are the best travel tips and tricks you should know before you go to Sri Lanka, including details about local currency, security, travel, and languages.
On the whole, Sri Lanka is not a dangerous country, so there are no fears in this country apart from the usual tourist scams, such as false guides.
Watch your bags and valuables, especially in busy areas.
It is also necessary to pay attention to your tattoos: any permanent tattoos or not, with the effigy of Buddha, visible on arrival in Sri Lanka is a reason for arrest, imprisonment or even expulsion. Care must therefore be taken to avoid hurting the sensitivity and culture of the premises. Some visitors have suffered assaults because of their tattoo.
It is possible to rent a car with driver, which allows you to visit the island at your leisure with flexibility. You can also board a bus to mingle with the locals and experience something unique in the heart of the Sri Lankan way of life. Driving around will be fun!
The most convenient way to get around in Sri Lanka, especially for short distances, is by tuk tuk.
Beware, however, of certain drivers who could be commissioned by making you return in certain places. You must remain firm when you specify an address.
In Sri Lanka, two main languages are spoken: mostly the Sinhalese but also the Tamil. However, as Sri Lanka is a tourist destination, many locals speak a little English.
You should know that all the shops and restaurants are closed during the full moon day called "poya", especially in January during the Duruthu Perahera. Otherwise, banks usually open from 8:30am to 3:00pm Monday to Friday, but they can sometimes close at 1:00 pm or 2:00pm.
Store opening times are random, some shops run by Muslims close on Friday between 12:00 and 14:30 during the prayer period. The offices are open from 8:30am to 4:30pm.
Check with your doctor if you are up to date with your vaccines before going to Sri Lanka. Do not drink uncontrolled water, and avoid uncooked vegetables that have a high risk of bacteria proliferation. But these recommendations do not apply to chic restaurants that meet international standards.
It should also be noted that one of the peculiarities of Sri Lanka is the manufacture of fake medicines, so it is advisable to bring your own medication in order to avoid any bad experiences.
The main airport of Sri Lanka is in Colombo; Bandaranaike International Airport, named after Prime Minister SWRD Bandaranaike.
A flight from London takes around 13 hours and many flights offer stopovers. Prices vary between £300 and £500 depending on the period you are leaving.
The monsoon season is different depending on where you are. This period is not disturbing, it comes down to a few refreshing rains during the afternoon because the climate in Sri Lanka is paradisiacal.
From December to March, the monsoon is located on the Eastern part, and during the months of May to September, the Western zone is affected by this phenomenon.
The national currency is the Sri Lankan rupee.
You can check the exchange rate in real time by clicking here.
It is possible to exchange money in local banks and the majority of distributors accept international cards.
For nationals of a European country, there is no need for a visa. A valid passport is required, with a validity of 6 months after the date of return. Please also note that the maximum length of a tourist stay is 3 months. For more information, do not hesitate to contact the Embassy in your local country.
The time difference is 5h30 from the UK in winter and 4h30 in summer.
Public Hospitals
The General Hospital of Colombo
Regent Street, Colombo 07
Tel. : 2691111
Colombo South Hospital
Kalubowila, Dehiwela
Tel. : 2763261
Galle General Hospital
Galle
Tel. : 091-2222261
Private Hospitals
Asiri Hospital Ltd
181, Kirula Rd, Colombo 05
Tel. : +94 11 45 23 300
New Delmon Hospital
258, Galle Rd., Colombo 06
Tel. : 2501438
Asiri Medi House Matara
26, Esplanade Road, Unyawatte, Matara
Tel. : 412223180
Ambulance : 110
Fire: 2422222
Police: 118/119
