Plan Your Sri Lanka Trip
Hotels, itineraries, transport and everything you need for the perfect holiday.
Hotels & Accommodation
Compare hundreds of hotels, jungle lodges, boutique guesthouses and beach resorts across Sri Lanka.
Browse HotelsItinerary Builder
Build a custom day-by-day Sri Lanka itinerary matched to your travel style. Download as PDF.
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Getting Around
Trains, buses, tuk-tuks and private transfers - find the best transport between Sri Lanka's top sights.
Transport GuideVisa & ETA Information
Most visitors to Sri Lanka require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before arrival. The process is straightforward and can be completed online in minutes.
ETA Required
Most nationalities need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before arrival. Apply online - takes 10 minutes.
30-Day Stay
Tourist ETA allows a 30-day stay, extendable to 90 days at the Department of Immigration in Colombo.
USD $50 Fee
The tourist ETA costs USD $50 per person. Pay online by card when you apply.
Official Portal
Apply only through the official Sri Lanka ETA portal. Avoid third-party sites that charge extra fees.
Getting to Sri Lanka
London (LHR)
Flight time: ~10.5 hrs direct
Airlines: SriLankan Airlines, British Airways
Dubai (DXB)
Flight time: ~4 hrs
Airlines: Emirates, SriLankan Airlines, flydubai
Singapore (SIN)
Flight time: ~3.5 hrs
Airlines: SriLankan Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Scoot
Delhi (DEL)
Flight time: ~3.5 hrs
Airlines: SriLankan Airlines, IndiGo, Air India
Essential Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
December to March is ideal for the south and west coasts. April to September for the east coast and hill country. Colombo is a year-round destination.
Currency
Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). ATMs are widely available. Credit cards accepted at most hotels and restaurants. Carry cash for tuk-tuks and street food.
Getting There
Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) near Colombo is the main gateway. Several airlines fly direct from London, Dubai, Singapore and Delhi.
Health & Safety
No compulsory vaccinations. Drink bottled water. Sun protection is essential year-round. Sri Lanka is generally a very safe destination for tourists.
Mobile & SIM
Buy a tourist SIM from Dialog or Mobitel at the airport arrivals hall. 20–30 GB data costs under $5 USD. Excellent 4G coverage across the island.
Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees at temples and sacred sites. Carry a light shawl or sarong. Remove shoes at all temple entrances.