Frequently asked questions

Most nationalities, excluding citizens from Singapore and the Maldives, are required to obtain visas for entering Sri Lanka. The application process is straightforward and involves several types of visas with varying costs. If you are in transit for up to 48 hours, this service is currently offered for free. There is also a 7-day visa, which is more affordable than the 30-day visa option. To apply, you simply need to visit the secure website www.eta.gov.lk, maintained by the Sri Lankan Department of Immigration and Emigration. The online application requires payment by credit card details with costs determined by the type of visa you choose. After applying, you will receive a confirmation with a reference number within 36 hours. It's crucial to print this confirmation and carry it with you when traveling to Sri Lanka. The visa is valid for 30 days from the date of arrival. While there is an option to obtain a visa on arrival, we do not recommend this method due to potential delays.

You can easily sort this out right at the airport's arrival lounge. There are a series of service providers offering cool deals and packages, so you can pick the one that fits your style and how you use it. Oh, and they've got SIM cards for iPads and tablet PCs, too, complete with data packages. So, you're all set to stay connected on the go.

The simplest way to get your currency sorted is right when you touch down at the airport. You'll find plenty of local banks ready to exchange your money. Keep in mind, though, that the rates might be a tad better at the airport and banks. You can also hit up ATMs in major cities and tourist hotspots all over the country. They're scattered around for your convenience, so you can easily grab some cash. And when it comes to payments, you're covered – all the big credit cards like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are good to go at hotels, restaurants, and tourist shops.

Pack your bags with comfy cotton or linen outfits – and ladies, a scarf can come in handy for those religious site visits. Be sure to slip on some comfortable shoes, especially when you're exploring sites like Sigiriya, Mihinthale, and Dambulla. Don't leave home without mosquito repellent, shades, and sunscreen if you're beachside. Expect the heat, especially in the toasty months of April, July, and August, so prepare for some serious humidity. And don't miss out on throwing in your swimwear and trusty camera – you'll want those snapshots!

Show some love for the local traditions and respect the rules when you step into temples and sacred places. To fit in, make sure your elbows and knees are decently covered, and it's a good idea to wear white or light-colored clothes. And don't forget, you'll need to slip off your shoes when you enter temples – no worries, though, because there are reliable shoe care services around.

Sri Lankan cuisine is a spicy adventure, but don't break a sweat just yet. The real fiery magic happens in local joints where they cater to locals' spice tolerance. Now, if you're not a spice warrior, the good news is that tourist-oriented restaurants have got your back. Their offerings are more Western-palate- friendly, even when they serve classic rice and curry. You'll usually find a Western menu at most places, and if you're not feeling the heat, they've got an à la carte menu ready for you to pick from – just in case the spice isn't your thing.

When you're dining out, using transportation services, or dealing with the friendly folks taking care of you, it's a good practice to leave a little something extra as a tip – around 10% of your bill usually does the trick, it's a sweet gesture, especially when you've had a great experience.

The best bet is to reach out to your trusty Chauffeur Guide or Tour guide who's with you on this adventure. Steer clear of folks or vendors offering services or deals down by the beach – they might not be as reliable.