This is the Ultimate Travel Guide to Sri Lanka
A tiny island with huge variety—golden beaches, misty tea mountains, ancient kingdoms, and world‑class wildlife—all within a few hours’ drive or train ride. You can surf at sunrise, sip Ceylon tea by noon, and watch elephants at dusk.
What Sri Lanka Does Better
Sri Lanka delivers the experiences people fly to multiple countries for—safaris, turquoise beaches, living culture, mountains, whales—without long transfers or big budgets. Below are the exact points travellers use when they say Sri Lanka is the smarter choice.
Africa-style Safari (but easier/closer)
Sri Lanka lets you see elephants, leopards, sloth bears, and 400+ bird species in compact parks like Yala and Wilpattu—no multi‑day drives or bush flights.
You can even combine leopards + blue whales in one trip (rare elsewhere).
Maldives-level Beaches (plus more variety)
Maldives is mainly beaches; Sri Lanka adds tea mountains, waterfalls, wildlife and culture for far less money.
Better than Bali (less overtourism, cheaper, more diverse)
Sri Lanka is wild and diverse without Bali’s overtourism. Travel bloggers comparing Bali vs Sri Lanka emphasize lower costs and broader variety.
Thailand comparison (everything closer together)
Both are affordable, but Sri Lanka’s beaches, temples, and jungles are within hours, not internal flights.
Safari + Beach Combo (same day)
Pair leopard jungles with tropical beaches in one itinerary.
Whale Watching + Land Safaris (unique combo)
Mirissa for blue/sperm whales, then Yala/Udawalawe for big cats/elephants—few countries offer both easily.
Year-round beaches (two monsoons)
Opposite monsoons keep one coast sunny almost year‑round.
High UNESCO density / deep culture
Sacred sites, tea plantations, and beach towns are packed into one island.
Experiences in Sri Lanka
- Beaches & Coastal Chill – Surf, snorkel, dive, whale watch, or just swing on a palm along south, west, east, and north coasts.
- Wildlife Safaris – Leopards, elephants, sloth bears, crocs, birds in Yala, Wilpattu, Udawalawe, Minneriya/Kaudulla, Bundala.
- Marine Encounters – Blue & sperm whales (Mirissa/Kalpitiya), dolphins (Kalpitiya), turtles (Hikkaduwa, Rekawa), coral reefs (Pigeon Island).
- Ancient Cities & UNESCO Heritage – Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Dambulla, Kandy’s Temple of the Tooth, Galle Fort.
- Hill Country Escapes – Tea estates, misty hikes (Horton Plains, Ella), waterfalls (Diyaluma, Bambarakanda), scenic trains.
- Adventure & Outdoor – Surfing, kitesurfing, rafting (Kitulgala), canyoning, trekking (Knuckles, Meemure), camping/glamping.
- Waterfalls Trail – From iconic Diyaluma & Ramboda to hidden cascades in Belihuloya and Ratnapura.
- Cultural & Religious Festivals – Esala Perahera, Vesak, Sinhala/Tamil New Year, Nallur Festival, Kataragama Festival.
- Food & Drink Journeys – Rice & curry, kottu, hoppers, seafood feasts, Jaffna crab, tea tastings, toddy/arrack experiences.
- Ayurveda & Wellness – Traditional spas, Panchakarma retreats, yoga by the beach or in the hills.
- Train & Road Trips – Kandy–Ella scenic rail, Southern coastal road, Northern heritage loop, East coast surf trail.
- Photography & Filmmaking Hotspots – Misty valleys, tea carpets, stilt fishermen, wildlife close-ups, colonial streets of Galle.
- Community & Eco-Tourism – Village stays, farm experiences, conservation projects (Gal Oya, rainforest ecolodges).
14. Nightlife & Urban Culture – Colombo’s cafes, bars, street food tours; beach parties in Mirissa/Arugam Bay.
| Experience | What / Why | Key Places / Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Beaches & Coastal Chill | Surf, snorkel, dive, whale watch, palm swings | South, West, East & North coasts |
| Wildlife Safaris | Leopards, elephants, sloth bears, crocs, birds | Yala, Wilpattu, Udawalawe, Minneriya/Kaudulla, Bundala |
| Marine Encounters | Blue & sperm whales, dolphins, turtles, coral reefs | Mirissa, Kalpitiya, Hikkaduwa, Rekawa, Pigeon Island |
| Ancient Cities & UNESCO Heritage | Millennia-old ruins & sacred sites | Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Dambulla, Kandy (Tooth Relic), Galle Fort |
| Hill Country Escapes | Tea estates, misty hikes, waterfalls, scenic trains | Horton Plains, Ella, Diyaluma, Bambarakanda |
| Adventure & Outdoor | Surfing, kitesurfing, rafting, canyoning, trekking, camping | Kitulgala, Knuckles, Meemure |
| Waterfalls Trail | Iconic & hidden cascades | Diyaluma, Ramboda, Belihuloya, Ratnapura |
| Cultural & Religious Festivals | Vibrant parades & rituals | Esala Perahera, Vesak, Sinhala/Tamil New Year, Nallur, Kataragama |
| Food & Drink Journeys | Sri Lankan flavors & drinks | Rice & curry, kottu, hoppers, seafood, Jaffna crab, tea, toddy/arrack |
| Ayurveda & Wellness | Traditional healing & retreats | Panchakarma spas, beach/hill yoga |
| Train & Road Trips | Scenic rails & loops | Kandy–Ella train, Southern coastal road, Northern heritage loop, East surf trail |
| Photography & Filmmaking Hotspots | Iconic visuals & scenes | Misty valleys, tea carpets, stilt fishermen, wildlife, Galle streets |
| Community & Eco-Tourism | Village life & conservation | Gal Oya, rainforest ecolodges, farm stays |
| Nightlife & Urban Culture | Cafés, bars, street food, beach parties | Colombo; Mirissa & Arugam Bay parties |
Deep Dive: Beaches of Sri Lanka
All the famous beaches foreigners hit—plus what each is best for, when to go, and quick map access. Use either the clickable link or the embed code.
How to Use This Section
Season rule: Nov–Apr = West/South coasts. May–Sep = East/North‑East.
Pick your vibe: Surf | Snorkel | Quiet | Party | Wildlife.
West Coast (Airport → Colombo → Bentota)
Negombo
Why go: Closest to airport; long strand, lagoon cruises.
Best season: Nov–Apr.
Good for: First/last night, seafood.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Negombo+Beach+Sri+Lanka
Mount Lavinia
Why go: Colombo’s sunset beach & bars.
Best season: Nov–Apr.
Good for: Quick dip near city.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Mount+Lavinia+Beach+Sri+Lanka
Bentota
Why go: Resort strip, calm waters, river safaris.
Best season: Nov–Apr.
Good for: Families, watersports.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Bentota+Beach+Sri+Lanka
Hikkaduwa
Why go: Coral sanctuary, snorkel with turtles.
Best season: Nov–Apr.
Good for: Snorkel, beginner surf, bars.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Hikkaduwa+Beach+Sri+Lanka
Kalpitiya (NW)
Why go: Kitesurf lagoon, dolphin pods.
Best season: Kite May–Oct & Dec–Feb; Dolphins Nov–Apr.
Good for: Kiting, eco-stays.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Kalpitiya+Sri+Lanka
South Coast (Galle → Matara → Tangalle)
Unawatuna & Jungle Beach
Why go: Calm bay, hidden cove.
Best season: Nov–Apr.
Good for: Families, snorkel.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Unawatuna+Beach+Sri+Lanka
Dalawella / Mihiripenna
Why go: Palm/rope swings, reef pools.
Best season: Nov–Apr.
Good for: Photos, paddling.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Dalawella+Beach+Sri+Lanka
Koggala / Ahangama / Midigama
Why go: Point breaks, cafés, stilt fishermen.
Best season: Nov–Apr.
Good for: Intermediate surf, nomads.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Midigama+Beach+Sri+Lanka
Weligama
Why go: Best beginner surf bay.
Best season: Nov–Apr.
Good for: Surf lessons, cafés.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Weligama+Bay+Sri+Lanka
Mirissa
Why go: Whale boats, Coconut Tree Hill, bars.
Best season: Nov–Apr (whales Dec–Apr).
Good for: Whales, nightlife.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Mirissa+Beach+Sri+Lanka
Polhena (Matara)
Why go: Reef pool, turtles.
Best season: Nov–Apr.
Good for: Calm snorkel.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Polhena+Beach+Sri+Lanka
Hiriketiya (Dickwella)
Why go: Horseshoe cove, hip cafés, soft waves.
Best season: Nov–Apr.
Good for: Beginner/intermediate surf, yoga.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Hiriketiya+Beach+Sri+Lanka
Talalla
Why go: Quiet crescent, retreats.
Best season: Nov–Apr.
Good for: Detox, uncrowded swims.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Talalla+Beach+Sri+Lanka
Tangalle (Goyambokka, Silent, Mawella)
Why go: Long, quiet beaches, luxe villas.
Best season: Nov–Apr.
Good for: Seclusion, turtles (Rekawa).
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Tangalle+Beach+Sri+Lanka
Rekawa Beach
Why go: Night turtle nesting walks.
Best season: Year‑round; peak Mar–Jul.
Good for: Wildlife, conservation.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Rekawa+Beach+Sri+Lanka
East & North‑East Coasts (Trinco → Pasikuda → Arugam Bay)
Nilaveli / Uppuveli (Trincomalee)
Why go: Calm turquoise bays, Pigeon Island snorkel.
Best season: May–Sep.
Good for: Snorkel, families.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Nilaveli+Beach+Sri+Lanka
Pasikuda & Kalkudah
Why go: Shallow, glassy lagoon seas, big resorts.
Best season: May–Sep.
Good for: Kids, SUP.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Pasikuda+Beach+Sri+Lanka
Arugam Bay
Why go: World‑class right point break, backpacker vibe.
Best season: May–Sep.
Good for: Surf, parties.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Arugam+Bay+Sri+Lanka
Peanut Farm / Whiskey Point / Elephant Rock
Why go: Secondary surf spots, scenic points.
Best season: May–Sep.
Good for: Surf day trips, sunsets.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Peanut+Farm+Beach+Sri+Lanka
Panama & Okanda
Why go: Untouched feel, lagoons, Kumana NP access.
Best season: May–Sep.
Good for: Offbeat camping, birding.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Panama+Sri+Lanka
North & North‑West Coasts
Casuarina Beach (Jaffna)
Why go: Shallow powder sand, sandbars.
Best season: May–Sep dry; year‑round possible.
Good for: Warm shallows, northern culture.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Casuarina+Beach+Sri+Lanka
Mannar
Why go: Flamingos, baobab tree, wind‑swept sands.
Best season: Dec–Apr birds; May–Sep dry windy.
Good for: Birders, history buffs.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Mannar+Sri+Lanka
Quick Reference Table
| Beach/Area | Best Season | Vibe/Why Go | Key Activities | Map |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weligama | Nov–Apr | Beginner surf hub | Surf lessons, cafés | View |
| Arugam Bay | May–Sep | Surf/backpacker | Surf, parties | View |
| Mirissa | Nov–Apr | Whale boats + bars | Whales, bars, photo spots | View |
| Nilaveli | May–Sep | Calm turquoise | Snorkel Pigeon Island | View |
| Hiriketiya | Nov–Apr | Hip cove | Surf, yoga | View |
| Tangalle | Nov–Apr | Quiet luxury | Secluded stays, turtles | View |
| Bentota | Nov–Apr | Resorts + river | Watersports, families | View |
| Kalpitiya | May–Oct / Dec–Feb | Kite/dolphins | Kitesurf, dolphins | View |
Wildlife in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s safari scene rivals far larger continents: in a single trip you can track leopards and sloth bears in dry-zone jungles, watch 300‑strong elephant herds gather on grass plains, and head offshore for blue and sperm whales. Coral reefs, rainforest endemics, and 400+ bird species round it out. Below, each park is presented like the Beaches section—why go, best season, what it’s best for, plus quick map links (and optional embeds) so you can plan fast.
Why Sri Lanka Is a “Big Five” Hotspot
You can tick off a terrestrial–marine Big Five in one itinerary:
Leopard – Yala, Wilpattu
Asian Elephant – Udawalawe, Minneriya/Kaudulla, Gal Oya
Sloth Bear – Yala, Wilpattu (peak fruiting May–Jul)
Blue Whale – Mirissa (Dec–Apr)
Sperm Whale – Mirissa & East/North waters (seasonal)
Add 400+ bird species, reef sharks and turtles—no continent‑hopping required.
Making the Most of Sri Lanka’s Wildlife
- Short on time? Pick one leopard park (Yala or Wilpattu) and one elephant park (Udawalawe or Minneriya/Kaudulla).
- Follow the seasons: Elephant “Gathering” (Jul–Sep), southern blue‑whale season (Dec–Apr), migrant birds (Nov–Mar).
- Go at dawn or dusk: Animals move more; heat and crowds are lower.
- Use reputable, licensed guides/drivers: Avoid jeeps that chase or block wildlife.
- Scan each park card: We list why go, best time, what it’s good for, plus a quick map link and optional embed code so you can plan fast.
Iconic Wildlife Parks of Sri Lanka
These are the country’s headline safari reserves—the places with the highest chances of leopard and sloth-bear sightings, massive elephant herds, and rich birdlife. Each park card below tells you why to go, the best season, what it’s ideal for, and a quick map link/embed so you can plan fast without getting lost in research.
West Coast (Airport → Colombo → Bentota)
Yala National Park (Blocks 1–5)
Why go: Highest chance of spotting leopards; varied scenery (lagoons, rocky outcrops).
Best time: Feb–Jul (drier). Avoid heavy rains Oct–Nov.
Good for: Big cat seekers, first-timers.
Watch out: Jeep “traffic jams” near sightings—go early or choose lesser-used blocks.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Yala+National+Park+Sri+Lanka
Wilpattu National Park
Why go: Vast, quiet park dotted with natural lakes (“villus”), great for leopard & sloth bear with fewer jeeps.
Best time: Feb–Oct dry period (animals at waterholes).
Good for: Photographers, low-crowd safaris.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Wilpattu+National+Park+Sri+Lanka
Udawalawe National Park
Why go: Near-guaranteed elephant herds, open grasslands for clear views.
Best time: Year‑round; May–Sep driest.
Good for: Families, quick safaris, elephant lovers.
Pair with: Elephant Transit Home (orphan rehab centre) outside main gate.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Udawalawe+National+Park+Sri+Lanka
Minneriya & Kaudulla National Parks (plus Hurulu Eco Park)
Why go: Witness “The Gathering” of 200–300+ elephants on one grass plain (world famous).
Best time: Jul–Sep (herds move between parks—ask locally which one is active).
Good for: Massive elephant herds, Cultural Triangle add‑on.
Bundala National Park
Why go: Ramsar wetland packed with migratory waterbirds (flamingos, pelicans), plus crocs.
Best time: Nov–Mar (bird peak).
Good for: Birders, quieter alternative near Yala.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Bundala+National+Park+Sri+Lanka
Kumana (Yala East) National Park
Why go: Offbeat lagoons and massive bird colonies; fewer jeeps.
Best time: Apr–Jul (nesting heronries) & Nov–Mar for migrants.
Good for: Birders, Arugam Bay combo trips.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Kumana+National+Park+Sri+Lanka
Gal Oya National Park
Why go: Only place in Sri Lanka for boat safaris—elephants sometimes swim between islets.
Best time: May–Sep (low water = better sightings).
Good for: Off-grid lodges, unique safari style, Vedda community experiences nearby.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Gal+Oya+National+Park+Sri+Lanka
Maduru Oya National Park
Why go: Remote, scenic reservoirs, occasional elephants/bears, archaeological ruins.
Best time: Jun–Sep dry; Nov–Mar birding.
Good for: True offbeat explorers; combine with Gal Oya/East Coast.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Maduru+Oya+National+Park+Sri+Lanka
Wasgamuwa National Park
Why go: Rustic, low-traffic elephant/bear park between Hill Country & Cultural Triangle.
Best time: Jun–Sep dry.
Good for: Combo trips from Sigiriya/Dambulla.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Wasgamuwa+National+Park+Sri+Lanka
Rainforests & Biosphere Reserves
Sri Lanka’s green heart beats in its rainforests and UNESCO biosphere reserves—primeval lowland jungle in Sinharaja, misty cloud forests on the Knuckles ridges, and patchwork montane woods across the Central Highlands. These habitats shelter an incredible concentration of endemics: blue magpies, loris, tree frogs, orchids, and towering dipterocarps you won’t see anywhere else. Trails are muddy, leeches are lively, and guides are mandatory in most cores—but that’s part of the adventure. Below, each reserve is broken down like the Beaches and Parks sections: why go, best season, what it’s best for, plus fast map links/embeds to plan your trek.
Sinharaja Forest Reserve (UNESCO)
Why go: Last large tract of primary lowland rainforest; endemic bird hotspot (Sri Lanka blue magpie, junglefowl), reptiles & amphibians galore.
Best time: Jan–Mar & Aug–Sep (less rain).
Good for: Birders, nature geeks; guided hikes only. Leech socks recommended!
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Sinharaja+Forest+Reserve+Sri+Lanka
Knuckles Conservation Forest
Why go: Cloud forests, knife-edge ridges, hidden villages—trekking & camping paradise.
Best time: Jun–Sep (drier); Dec–Feb cool & misty.
Good for: Hikers, photographers, eco-campers.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Knuckles+Mountain+Range+Sri+Lanka
Horton Plains National Park (UNESCO – Central Highlands)
Why go: Otherworldly montane grasslands and cloud forest, the dramatic World’s End cliff, Baker’s Falls, sambar deer at dawn.
Best time: Jan–Mar (clearest views); Dec–Apr generally drier mornings. Go early (gates ~6 am) to beat fog/crowds.
Good for: Hikers, photographers, cool‑climate escape, endemic flora/fauna.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Horton+Plains+National+Park+Sri+Lanka
Marine Life & Coastal Wildlife
Sri Lanka’s oceans are as wild as its jungles: blue and sperm whales cruise past Mirissa and Kalpitiya, spinner dolphins leap in giant pods, reef sharks and turtles glide over the corals of Pigeon Island, and hatchlings scramble to the surf on south‑coast beaches. From December–April the south/west seas are calm; May–September the east/north‑east shines. Below, each spot is listed like the Beaches and Parks sections—why go, best time, what it’s good for, plus quick map links/embeds so you can plot your marine safari at a glance.
Mirissa (Whale Watching)
Why go: One of the world’s most reliable blue whale spots close to shore; sperm whales & dolphins too.
Best time: Dec–Apr (calmest seas).
Good for: Marine megafauna lovers; combine with south coast beaches.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Mirissa+Harbour+Sri+Lanka
Kalpitiya (Dolphins & Whales)
Why go: Spinner dolphins in huge pods; occasional whales; epic kitesurfing lagoons.
Best time: Nov–Apr (dolphins); Jan–Mar (whales).
Good for: Dolphin watching + kite trips; combine with Wilpattu by road.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Kalpitiya+Sri+Lanka
Pigeon Island Marine Park (Trincomalee)
Why go: Easy snorkelling with reef sharks & turtles over coral gardens.
Best time: May–Sep (clear east-coast seas).
Good for: Families, snorkellers; go early to avoid crowds.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Pigeon+Island+Sri+Lanka
Turtle Watching Sites
Sri Lanka’s shores host five nesting sea turtle species, and you can witness them ethically if you know where to go. Rekawa’s night patrols let you watch mothers nest under red light, while Kosgoda’s hatcheries focus on rehab and releases (research each centre’s ethics first). By day, calm reef bays like Polhena and Hikkaduwa offer easy snorkelling with grazing green turtles. Peak nesting is roughly March–July on the south coast, but sightings happen year‑round—just remember: no flashes, no touching, keep distance, and follow guides’ instructions.
Rekawa (South Coast)
Night patrols to watch nesting turtles (year‑round; peak Mar–Jul).
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Rekawa+Beach+Sri+Lanka
Kosgoda Hatchery (West Coast)
Rehab/release programs (research ethics of each centre).
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Kosgoda+Turtle+Hatchery+Sri+Lanka
Polhena / Hikkaduwa
Day snorkel with turtles in reefy bays.
Map link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Polhena+Beach+Sri+Lanka
Quick Reference Table
| Park/Area | Signature Species | Best Months | Crowds | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yala (Block 1) | Leopards, sloth bears | Feb–Jul | High | Highest leopard density claims |
| Wilpattu | Leopards, bears | Feb–Oct | Low/Med | Scenic villus, quieter safaris |
| Udawalawe | Elephants (guaranteed) | Year‑round | Med | Open grasslands, ET Home nearby |
| Minneriya/Kaudulla | Elephant “Gathering” | Jul–Sep | Med | 200+ elephants on one plain |
| Bundala | Migratory birds, crocs | Nov–Mar | Low | Ramsar wetland, bird hub |
| Kumana | Birds, elephants | Apr–Jul | Low | Lagoon bird colonies, offbeat |
| Gal Oya | Elephants, birds | May–Sep | Low | Boat safaris, swimming elephants |
| Sinharaja | Endemic birds/reptiles | Jan–Mar & Aug–Sep | Low | Primary rainforest |
| Pigeon Island | Reef sharks, turtles | May–Sep | Med | Easy snorkel marine park |
Safari & Ethical Tips
- Stay patient & quiet: Better sightings, less stress.
- Don’t crowd animals: Ask drivers not to block paths or chase.
- Licensed guides only: Especially in rainforests and marine parks.
- No flash/torches on turtles or nesting sites.
Pack smart: Binoculars, long lens, leech socks (rainforests), reusable water bottle.
Practical Essentials for Traveling in Sri Lanka
Everything first‑timers ask: visas, money, SIMs, transport, safety, etiquette, health, budgeting, and power.
1. Visa & Entry (ETA)
- Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA): Apply online before arrival (most nationalities). Approval usually 24–48 hrs.
- Validity: 30 days on arrival, extendable up to 180 days.
- On‑arrival option exists for some passports but slower—pre‑apply.
- Passport: 6+ months validity; onward/return ticket recommended.
2. Money, ATMs & Payments
- Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Carry small bills for tuk‑tuks/shops.
- ATMs: Common in towns (Sampath, Commercial Bank, HNB). Some fees—withdraw larger amounts.
- Cards: Mid/high-end hotels & restaurants take Visa/Mastercard; many small places are cash only.
- FX: Banks, licensed booths, airport (slightly worse rates). Keep receipts for reconversion.
- Tipping: 5–10% if not included; round up for drivers/porters. Jeep drivers/guides LKR 2,000–5,000 per safari.
3. SIM Cards & Connectivity
- Providers: Dialog (best coverage), Mobitel, Airtel, Hutch.
- Buy at airport or city shops (passport needed). Data 20–50 GB < US$10.
- Wi‑Fi exists but mobile data is more reliable in rural areas.
4. Getting Around
Trains: Scenic/cheap. Book 1st/2nd class or observation cars in advance (Kandy–Ella). Unreserved can be crowded but fun.
Buses: Very cheap, everywhere. Choose AC/Express for comfort on long routes.
Tuk‑tuks: Ubiquitous. Use PickMe/Uber where available or agree fare first. Renting a tuk‑tuk for road trips is possible (get local permit).
Private Driver: Easiest multi-stop option. ~US$60–90/day incl. fuel (varies).
Self‑drive: Chaotic traffic; need AA Sri Lanka endorsement. Helmets mandatory for scooters.
Domestic Flights: Limited; Cinnamon Air etc. Convenient but pricey.
5. Safety, Scams & Health
- Generally safe; watch valuables.
- Common scams: Overpriced tuk‑tuks, gem/tea shops pushed by touts. Insist on meters/fixed price.
- Wildlife: Don’t approach elephants, no flash with turtles, secure food from monkeys.
- Food/water: Bottled/filtered only. Busy stalls = fresher street food. Pack ORS for heat.
- Vaccines: Tetanus, Hep A/B recommended. Dengue present—repellent & sleeves.
- Insurance: Strongly recommended (medical + surf/trek cover).
6. Culture & Etiquette
- Temples: Cover shoulders/knees; shoes & hats off. No back-to-Buddha selfies.
- PDA: Keep it discreet outside beach towns.
- Right hand (or both) to give/receive.
- Shoes off in many homes/guesthouses.
7. Power, Plugs & Tech
- 230V/50Hz. Plugs: Type D, G, M. Bring universal adapter.
- Occasional power cuts—carry a power bank.
8. Budget Snapshot (per person/day)
- Shoestring: US$25–40
- Mid-range: US$50–120
- High-end: US$150–300+
9. Packing & Gear
- Light clothes + rain jacket (monsoon/shoulder).
- Modest temple wear (sarong/scarf).
- Reef-safe sunscreen, repellent, reusable bottle.
- Hiking shoes/sandals; leech socks for rainforests.
- Dry bag for boats/surf.
10. Handy Apps & Tools
- PickMe/Uber (rides), BusSeat.lk (some buses), 3rd-party train booking sites.
- Maps.me/Google offline maps.
- Simple Sinhala/Tamil phrase apps.
11. Responsible Travel Tips
- Use refill stations; cut plastic.
- No elephant riding/turtle touching; pick ethical operators.
- Support community stays/guides.
- Ask before photographing people; respect quiet hours.