Sri Lanka FAQs

Thinking of travelling to Sri Lanka?

From ancient cities and misty hill towns to tea country, national parks and golden beaches, Sri Lanka offers a wonderful mix of culture, scenery and wildlife. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to see more, our FAQs answer the most common questions about travelling to Sri Lanka from the UK.

If you’re still deciding where to go, take a look at our Sri Lanka holidays, including the Cultural Triangle, game drives to look for leopards, scenic train rides, and stays on tropical beaches at Negombo and Bentota.

Before You Go

Q: Do I need a visa to travel to Sri Lanka from the UK?

A: Yes, all visitors to Sri Lanka, including British nationals, require an electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), which must be obtained online in advance, and for which there is a cost. You can apply for single-entry and transit visas on the ETA website. For more information, see the website of the Sri Lanka High Commission. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the Sri Lankan consulate. You need a passport with two blank pages, valid for six months after your return to the UK.

Q: What vaccinations do I need for Sri Lanka?

A: We recommend checking the latest health advice before you travel. Please consult your GP or a travel health clinic to discuss any vaccination or medication requirements for your trip. Up-to-date guidance for travellers is available from NaTHNaC.

Q: What should I pack for a holiday in Sri Lanka?

A: Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal for the tropical coast and lowlands. If you plan to visit the hill country, bring a jumper or fleece for cooler evenings. Modest dress (shoulders and knees covered) is appreciated when visiting temples or local villages. A sun-hat, insect repellent, and a plug adaptor for Sri Lanka’s sockets are also good to have.

Practical Information

Q: What’s the weather like in Sri Lanka?

A: Temperatures in Sri Lanka vary depending on where you are. Along the coast, daytime highs often reach 30°C or more, while in the Central Highlands temperatures can fall below 10°C at night. The west and south coasts, including Bentota, are driest from December to March, while the Cultural Triangle stays warm year-round. The hill country around Kandy and Nuwara Eliya is cooler and can be misty in the mornings. Rain is possible at any time of year and can be heavy, but showers are usually short-lived.

Q: What should I know about local customs and etiquette?

A: Sri Lankans are friendly and welcoming, and visitors are treated with kindness and respect. When visiting temples, cover your shoulders and knees, remove shoes and hats, and avoid turning your back to Buddha statues for photos. Greeting people with “ayubowan” is considered polite, and modest behaviour is appreciated throughout the country.

Q: Is English widely spoken in Sri Lanka?

A: Yes. English is widely spoken in hotels, tourist areas and many restaurants, making it relatively easy for UK travellers to communicate. You’ll find local English proficiency is good, though in rural areas you may encounter more language variety.

Health and Safety

Q: Is Sri Lanka safe to travel to?

A: Overall, yes. Sri Lanka is a friendly, accessible destination. As in any country, keep an eye on your belongings, avoid risky areas after dark and follow local advice. Llama Travel trips use trusted local partners and well-vetted hotels.

Q: What happens if I get ill while in Sri Lanka?

A: If you feel unwell while in Sri Lanka, please let our local partners or your hotel staff know straight away. They can arrange for a doctor or hospital visit if needed. Medical facilities in major towns and cities are generally good, with English-speaking doctors available, but services can be more limited in rural areas, and a transfer may be required for hospital care. We recommend having comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical treatment and repatriation.

Connectivity and Communication

Q: What are the options for mobile data and SIM cards in Sri Lanka?

A: Stay connected easily. Most UK mobile networks offer roaming services in Sri Lanka, though charges may apply. Alternatively, local SIM cards are available at airports or convenience stores, and many hotels offer Wi-Fi. If you prefer, an eSIM can be pre-loaded before you travel.

Getting Around

Q: How do I get around in Sri Lanka?

A: Getting around Sri Lanka is straightforward, with several transport options depending on your route and budget. Many visitors choose to travel by private vehicle with a driver and guide, which is the most comfortable and flexible way to explore, especially as roads can be narrow and journeys take longer than expected in hilly areas. Trains are a memorable way to see the country, particularly through the hill country between Kandy, Nuwara Eliya and Ella, where the scenery is incredible, though services are slow and often busy. Buses connect most towns and are cheap, but they can be crowded and less comfortable. Domestic flights are available between some major destinations and are the quickest way to cover long distances. Taxis and tuk-tuks are easy to find in towns and coastal areas for short trips, with fares usually agreed in advance or by meter.

With Llama Travel, transport is arranged for you using private, air-conditioned vehicles and scenic train rides where available, all of it included in the trip.

 Food and Drink 

Q: What’s the food like in Sri Lanka?

A: Sri Lankan food is full of flavour, with a wide variety of dishes influenced by the country’s mix of cultures. A typical meal includes rice and curry, served with vegetables. Along the coast, fresh seafood is a highlight, while inland regions are known for vegetable and lentil curries. You’ll also find plenty of tropical fruits and Ceylon tea grown in the hill country. Many dishes are spiced rather than hot, and vegetarian options are easy to find, though some may include fish stock or shrimp paste. If you have dietary requirements, let your guide or hotel know.

Q: Can I drink tap water in Sri Lanka?

A: It’s safest to stick with bottled or well-filtered water. Ice and raw salads may be washed in water of uncertain quality, so caution is wise.

 What to See 

Q: What are the highlights of a Sri Lanka holiday?

A: Sri Lanka combines history, nature and relaxation in one journey. Explore the ancient cities and rock fortress of Sigiriya in the Cultural Triangle, visit Kandy to see the Temple of the Sacred Tooth, travel through the tea-covered hills of the Central Highlands, and go on safari in Yala National Park to spot elephants and leopards. Finish your trip by relaxing on the south coast, where golden beaches provide the perfect end to your holiday.

Q: How many days do I need for a Sri Lanka holiday?

A: A comfortable trip is around 10–14 days, allowing time to explore the cultural heartland, enjoy some nature/wildlife and relax on the coast. Shorter visits are possible but may feel hurried.

Q: What to see in Negombo?

A: Negombo is a relaxed coastal town close to Colombo Airport, making it a convenient first or last stop on your trip. Its wide sandy beach is ideal for a gentle walk or a sunset drink. You can explore the Dutch-built canal network, the fish market, and the town’s colonial-era churches. Negombo also has good seafood restaurants and small local shops, offering an easy introduction to life in Sri Lanka.

Q: What to see in the Cultural Triangle?

A: The Cultural Triangle, in the centre of Sri Lanka, is where much of the island’s ancient heritage can be found. Dominated by Sigiriya Rock Fortress, this region is home to centuries of history, art and religion. Climb Sigiriya to see its famous frescoes and enjoy the views from the summit, then visit the Dambulla Cave Temples, where over a hundred Buddha statues and vivid murals line the chambers. Nearby Polonnaruwa, once a royal capital, offers a glimpse of medieval Sri Lanka through its temples, palaces and sculptures. There is also the chance to spot wildlife, including herds of wild elephants herds of wild elephants. Some wildlife reserves can get overcrowded. Llama Travel offers a game drive in the less-visited Wasgamuwa National Park.

Q: What to see in Kandy?

A: Kandy is Sri Lanka’s cultural capital, set around a scenic lake and surrounded by green hills. Its main attraction is the Temple of the Tooth, one of Buddhism’s most sacred sites. You can also visit the Royal Botanical Gardens in nearby Peradeniya, stroll around Kandy Lake, or explore the lively central market. In the evenings, traditional music and dance performances give a glimpse of local culture.

Q: What to see in Yala?

A: Yala National Park is one of the best places in Sri Lanka to see wildlife. Although it can get busy, it is well worth visiting and offers possibly the best chance of spotting leopards in Sri Lanka. There are also elephants, crocodiles, deer, and many species of birds. Safaris take place in the early morning or late afternoon, when animals are most active. The park’s varied landscapes, from open plains to lagoons and forest, make every drive different and full of interest.

Q: What to see in Bentota?

A: Bentota is one of Sri Lanka’s most popular beach resorts, known for its long sandy beaches and calm seas. It’s a great place to relax at the end of your trip, with opportunities for boat rides on the Bentota River, and water sports such as snorkelling or sailing. The nearby town of Galle, with its historic fort and colonial streets, also makes an excellent day trip.

Still have questions about travelling to Sri Lanka?

Our team is happy to help. Call us on 020 7263 3000 or explore our Sri Lanka holidays to start planning your trip.