Most travelers, including citizens of Sri Lanka, must present a valid passport to enter the country. Entry with an ID card is generally not allowed for foreign visitors, except for special agreements with certain countries, such as India for specific categories of travelers.
All travelers entering Sri Lanka must present a valid passport. Below is a guide to entry requirements:
Most travelers cannot enter Sri Lanka visa-free, but they may be eligible for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for short stays (typically up to 30 days) for tourism, business, or transit purposes. Eligible countries include:
Citizens of countries that are not eligible for the ETA or who plan to stay for longer periods must apply for a visa before traveling to Sri Lanka. This can be done through a Sri Lankan embassy or consulate.
Note: Always check the latest entry requirements based on your nationality before planning your trip, as regulations can change.
Sri Lanka has several expressways with toll roads connecting major cities such as Colombo, Galle, and Matara. Tolls are charged based on the distance traveled and the type of vehicle.
Sri Lanka has a tropical climate with two monsoon seasons, making it warm and humid year-round with regional variations in weather patterns.
The southwest monsoon occurs from May to September, affecting the western and southern parts of the country. The northeast monsoon takes place from October to January, bringing rain to the northern and eastern regions.
February to April is generally considered the dry season across most of the country, making it the best time to visit.
The official currency of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR), abbreviated as LKR and symbolized as Rs.
Sri Lankan Rupee banknotes are available in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 500, 1,000, and 5,000 LKR. Coins are issued in denominations of 1, 2, 5, and 10 LKR.
Currency exchange services are widely available at airports, banks, and in major cities. ATMs are also accessible for cash withdrawals using international cards.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, hotels, and larger restaurants. However, it’s advisable to carry cash when visiting rural areas or smaller vendors.