Browse through our fact sheet, which provides useful travel tips to Sri Lanka. Enjoy a delightful, exotic vacation in our beautiful island.
Legislative capital: Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte
Commercial capital: Colombo
Time zone: UTC+5.30
Population: 21.2 million (2016) World Bank
Area: 65,525 square kilometers (25,299 square miles)
Languages spoken: Sinhala, Tamil, English
Religion: Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity, Islam
What to Wear
Light, cotton clothes are essential to feel comfortable in Sri Lanka’s tropical weather, where humidity can be high, and temperatures tend to soar during the day. Woolen, layered clothing is useful when travelling to the mountainous regions of the country. Umbrellas are necessary, whether to protect you from the sun or rain. Visitors are advised to dress appropriately and modestly before visiting places of worship. Comfortable footwear is recommended, especially for those attempting to hike or walk long distances. Though available for rent, water-sport enthusiasts are recommended to bring their own snorkeling or diving gear.
Currency: Sri Lankan rupee
ATM’s are common in all main cities. Smaller towns have at least one ATM. The ATM’s often issue LKR 500, 1000 and 5000 notes. All major currencies can be exchanged in banks and local exchange bureaus. Please be advised to change the rupees back to your currency at the airport before leaving.
When to Visit:
January to April (entire country)
Mid-July to September (entire country)
February to September (north & east)
Monsoon Season:
May to July (southwest monsoon)
October to January (northeast monsoon)
Beach Season:
January to April (south & west)
June to September (east)
Wild Life:
December to April (Bundala National Park for bird watching, south coast for whale watching)
November to April (Kalpitiya for dolphin and whale watching)
July to September (The Cultural Triangle, Minneriya National Park for elephant gathering, Wilpattu and Yala National Parks for spotting leopards)
Volts: 220V-240V
Electricity Phase: Single / three | round / square pin (type D or M)
Average Temperature: Between 27C to 32C across the country while the Hill Country average is 15C
Visa: Visa is required for all nationalities with an exemption for citizens of Singapore, Maldives & Seychelles
Online Visa Service: Electronic travel authorization
Telephone: Area Code + 94
