FAQs

Sri Lanka caters to various travel styles, from backpackers to mid-range travelers. How much money you should bring for a 2-week stay depends on your travel style — budget, mid-range, or luxury. Estimated Budget for 2 Weeks in Sri Lanka Costs are estimated in USD based on typical expenses, assuming a solo traveler, and exclude international flights to Sri Lanka. For couples, shared accommodation and transport can reduce per-person costs. Budget Traveler ($30-50/day) Total for 2 Weeks: $420-700 total Accommodation: Guesthouses or hostels ($8-15/night). Food: Street food (kottu roti, hoppers) and local eateries ($5-10/day). Transport: Public buses and trains ($5-10/day). Activities: Free sites (beaches, some temples) plus budget attractions like Sigiriya ($30 entry) ($5-10/day). Mid-Range Traveler ($60-100/day) Total for 2 Weeks: $840-1,400 total Accommodation: Mid-range hotels or Airbnb ($20-40/night). Food: Local restaurants and occasional international dining ($15-25/day). Transport: Private tuk-tuks, trains with reserved seats, or shared taxis ($10-20/day). Activities: Paid attractions (Sigiriya, Yala National Park safari) and guided tours ($15-25/day). Luxury Traveler (~$150–300/day) Total for 2 Weeks: $2,100 - $4,200 total Accommodation: Boutique or 5-star resorts ($80–150+) Dining: Upscale restaurants ($30–50/day) Private car/guide, spa, air-conditioned transport, Yala premium safari Additional Costs to Consider Visa Fee: Around $50 (depending on nationality) Travel Insurance: $30–$80 for 2 weeks SIM Card with Data: $5–10 Tips & Souvenirs: $50–$100 Note that prices are based on current exchange rates, but fluctuations may affect your real-time costs. A small buffer is recommended. Sample 2-Week Itinerary and Costs Days 1-3: Colombo: Explore Pettah Market, Galle Face Green ($50-80/day). Days 4-6: Kandy: Visit Temple of the Tooth, train to Ella ($60-100/day). Days 7-9: Ella: Nine Arch Bridge, Little Adam’s Peak ($40-70/day). Days 10-12: Mirissa/Galle: Beach time, Galle Fort ($50-90/day). Days 13-14: Back to Colombo: Souvenir shopping, departure ($50-80/day). Total Estimate: $600-1,200 per person, depending on travel style. Key Factors about the Sri Lanka budget for 2 weeks Season: Peak season (December-April) increases accommodation and tour prices. Off-season (May-September) offers discounts, but expect rain. Locations: Colombo and Kandy tend to be more expensive, while rural areas like Ella and some inland towns remain budget-friendly. Beach destinations such as Mirissa can become pricier during peak season. Activities: Major sites like Sigiriya ($30) or Yala safaris ($50-100) add up. Budget for 2-3 big-ticket activities. Transport: Public transport is cheap (e.g., Colombo to Kandy train ~$2-5), while private drivers cost $50-80/day. Food: Try eating in local restaurants for genuine, honest, and cheap food. Street food and local meals cost between $3 and $10, while upscale dining may cost over $30 a meal. Practical Money Tips Currency: Using Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR). Bring cash for small vendors; ATMs are prevalent in cities. Get exchange money in authorized places, like banks, to take advantage of better rates. Budget Buffer: Increase your budget by 10-15% for unexpected expenses such as medical necessities or last-minute excursions Conclusion The budget for a 2-week trip to Sri Lanka is down to your travel style. With budget-friendly food, transport, and accommodations, Sri Lanka is incredible value.

Sri Lanka’s holidays often revolve around full moon (Poya) days, religious festivals, and national events. Below are the main holidays to know: List of Most Important Holidays in Sri Lanka Sinhala and Tamil New Year (April 13-14) This festival is the most important cultural event to be found in Sri Lanka. It is celebrated by both the Sinhala and Tamil people alike. To celebrate the traditional New Year based on the solar calendar as it has been handed down for centuries, people of all ages perform a rich variety of customs such as lighting oil lamps, preparing traditional sweets, and engaging in folk games like pillow fighting or tug of war. The joyful and communal spirit offers travelers a chance to witness authentic Sri Lankan traditions and daily life. Poya Days (Full Moon Days) In Sri Lanka, every full-moon day (“Poya Day”) is a public holiday, typically 13 or 14 times per year. The days are special to Buddhists, as they mark important moments in the life of the Buddha and the history of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Notable Poya days include: Vesak Poya Day commemorates the Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and passing away — all believed to have occurred on a full moon in May. Poson (the arrival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka). Duruthu (the first visit of the Buddha to this Island). On Poya days, the stores are closed and alcohol can not be sold; some locals travel to temples for religious observances. National Day (February 4) This is the anniversary of Sri Lanka gaining independence from British rule in 1948. It includes official ceremonies, parades, and other cultural performances to give visitors a patriotic taste of the country’s history and patriotism. Religious Festivals As a nation of multiple ethnic groups, religious holidays in Sri Lanka include: Hindu Holidays Thai Pongal (January) - The Harvest festival, cooking sweet rice and other traditions. Deepavali (October/November) – "Festival of Lights" celebrated with lights, fireworks, and sweets. Muslim Holidays Eid al-Fitr (April/May) – End of Ramadan; feasting and family get-together. Eid al-Ad'ha (July/August) – Celebrated with prayers and with charity and the sacrifice of a sheep or lamb by some families. Note: Muslim holidays like Eid are based on the lunar Hijri calendar and vary each year Christian Holidays Christmas (December 25) – A time for decorations, midnight masses, and special meals. Good Friday (March/April) – Solemn religious activities. Labour Day (May 1) A day to honor workers, celebrated with rallies and events across the country. Attend Sri Lankan Holidays - Tips for Tourists Many public holidays, especially Poya days, see closures of shops and public services, so plan accordingly. Festivals like Sinhala and Tamil New Year can lead to crowded public spaces and traffic congestion; early planning is advised. Many holidays follow the lunar calendar, so confirm exact dates via the Sri Lanka Tourism Board or local sources. Best Holidays for Tourists to Experience: Vesak (May) – Stunning lantern displays and devotional atmosphere. Kandy Esala Perahera (July/August) – A grand 10-day Buddhist parade with elephants and dancers. Deepavali (Oct/Nov) – Colorful Hindu celebrations in Colombo and Jaffna. Joining or just observing festival activities is a rewarding cultural experience and an opportunity to participate in local traditions and hospitality. If you can book your travel on those dates, you will have the opportunity to experience your time in Sri Lanka when the country is filled with unity and harmony, and rich in terms of celebrations and culture.

If you are searching for the Sri Lanka country code, here is the latest, most accurate, and useful information for travelers, expatriates, and anyone needing to connect with Sri Lanka internationally. What Is the Sri Lanka Country Code For Phones? The Sri Lanka country code is +94. This code is essential when dialing a Sri Lankan phone number from outside the country. Here are key details: Country Code: +94 Purpose: Used for international calls to Sri Lanka. Format: +94 followed by a 9-digit mobile or landline number (e.g., +94 112 345 678). International Dialing: Replace the leading "0" in local numbers with +94 when dialing from outside Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka Country Code for Landline Numbers Landline numbers in Sri Lanka also require the +94 country code, followed by the area code and local number. Common area codes include: Colombo: +94 11 Kandy: +94 81 Galle: +94 91 Jaffna: +94 21 Sri Lanka Country Code for Mobile Numbers Sri Lankan mobile numbers also use the +94 country code, followed by the specific mobile network prefix. Common mobile prefixes include: +94 71 (Dialog) +94 72 (Mobitel) +94 76 (Hutch) +94 77 (Dialog) +94 78 (Airtel) Additional Country Codes for Sri Lanka ISO 3166-1 Alpha-2 Code: LK ISO 3166-1 Alpha-3 Code: LKANumeric Country Code: 144 Internet Top-Level Domain (TLD): .lk Currency Code: LKR (Sri Lankan Rupee) How to Use Sri Lanka Country Code - People Also Ask Do I need to use +94 for local calls within Sri Lanka? No, for local calls within Sri Lanka, dial the number with the leading "0" (e.g., 071 234 5678). Is the Sri Lanka country code the same for mobile and landline numbers? Yes, +94 applies to both mobile and landline numbers, followed by the appropriate mobile or area code. Can I use +94 for emergency numbers? Do not use +94 when calling emergency numbers like 119 or 110 within Sri Lanka. Dial them directly. Use +94 only for regular phone numbers when calling from abroad or contacting non-emergency services. How to call a Sri Lankan number from abroad? Dial your country’s international access code (e.g., 011 for the US, 00 for the UK), then +94, followed by the 9-digit number (e.g., 011 94 77 123 4567 from the US). Sri Lanka's country code +94 is required for all international calls to Sri Lanka and is recognized globally as the official dialing prefix for the country. For online, currency, and other international purposes, Sri Lanka is also identified by codes.

Yes, Ceylon and Sri Lanka refer to the same country. During the British colonial era, the country was known as Ceylon, but when it became a republic in 1972, the name was officially changed to Sri Lanka. A Brief History of the Name "Ceylon" 1815–1948: British Ceylon – The island was under British rule and was called Ceylon. 1948–1972: Dominion of Ceylon – It was Ceylon until 1972, after it gained independence. 1972–Present: Republic of Sri Lanka – The country took its current name in order to represent its cultural and historical identity. About Ceylon and Sri Lanka - More Information Why was Ceylon renamed as Sri Lanka? The name change was one of the national identity movements to eliminate colonial influences. The term Sri Lanka has deep historical roots, as "Lanka" is mentioned in ancient texts, and "Sri" is an honorific meaning "resplendent" or "sacred". Is the Name "Ceylon" Still Used? Yes. Although the country is now officially known as Sri Lanka, the term "Ceylon" is still used in several global contexts, particularly in: Ceylon Tea: Sri Lanka is a significant global tea exporter, and the "Ceylon Tea" brand is well-known around the world. Historical references: When discussing history prior to 1972, books, maps, and other scholarly publications may use the term "Ceylon". Business names: Some Sri Lankan companies still use “Ceylon” for branding purposes, especially in the tourism and tea industries. What are the legal or official applications of Ceylon currently? No, Ceylon does not have usage in legal or official areas. The official name of the country is the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka. Is it possible to use Ceylon while making a trip to Sri Lanka? No. Use Sri Lanka for travel bookings, visas, or any other official document to avoid confusion.

If you are searching for the Sri Lanka emergency numbers, it is crucial to know the most up-to-date and accurate emergency contact information to ensure your safety while traveling or living in Sri Lanka.  Whether you need medical help, police support, or fire rescue, here are the key emergency contacts you should be aware of and keep on hand. General Emergency Numbers in Sri Lanka Services Emergency Number Details Police Emergency 119/118 For police assistance in any urgent situation Ambulance & Medical Emergencies 1990 (Suwasariya) Nationwide free ambulance service for medical emergencies Fire Brigade 110 National fire and rescue service Tourist Police 011-2421052 Specialized support for tourists, including lost items or harassment Emergency Police Mobile Squad 011 571 7171 Rapid response unit for critical situations Report Crimes 011-2691500 To report criminal activities Accident Service – General Hospital Colombo 011-2691111 Specialized accident and trauma care Fire & Ambulance Service (Colombo) 011-242 2222 Centralized fire and ambulance services in Colombo. Government Information Center 1919 General inquiries and information services. National Mental Health Helpline 1926 Support for mental health concerns Women and Child Protection 1938 Assistance for issues related to women and children International Support - In case you are a foreign national, contact your embassy or consulate for further assistance. - Recommend contacting travel providers or insurers in cases of emergencies. Emergency numbers’ usage in Sri Lanka Language: Emergency operators speak English widely, especially in tourist areas. Location Details: Give clear and specific information about your location, landmarks, or establishments around. Stay Calm: Speak clearly and be calm in order to communicate effectively. Mobile Access: These are mobile or landline numbers that can be dialed from any phone within Sri Lanka. Being informed about Sri Lanka's emergency numbers is essential for ensuring your safety and well-being. Whether you're a tourist exploring the island or a resident, having quick access to these contacts can make a significant difference in critical situations. Always keep this information accessible, and don't hesitate to use these services when needed.

No, you can not work in Sri Lanka on a tourist visa. Any form of employment, whether paid or unpaid, is against the law and a violation of Sri Lanka’s immigration laws if it is done on a tourist visa. This includes remote work, freelancing, or digital nomad. A tourist visa to Sri Lanka is only issued to carry out such activities as sightseeing, holidays, visiting friends and relatives, or medical treatment. It is an illegal practice to try and work on a tourist visa and has grave consequences in Sri Lanka. What Will Happen If You Work on a Tourist Visa? If you work while on a tourist visa, you can be subject to: Fines and Penalties: Overstaying or breaking the conditions of a visa can be punished with huge fines. Deportation: Authorities can deport and detain people who violate visa terms. Future Travel Restrictions: Non-compliance may result in a ban on re-entering Sri Lanka. Employer Risks: The companies that hire foreigners without proper work permits can also be penalized. How to Legally Work in Sri Lanka? To work in Sri Lanka, you must obtain the appropriate visa: Work Visa Issued for formal employment with a registered company. Requires sponsorship from a Sri Lankan employer. It must be obtained before entering the country. Business Visa Enables people to engage in business activities, but does not allow full-time employment. Ideal for investors, entrepreneurs, and business travellers. Is It Possible to Change a Tourist Visa to a Work Visa? Yes, but the process is complicated. You have to obtain a job offer from a registered employer. The visa conversion application is to be made to the Sri Lanka Department of Immigration. Bring necessary documents such as an employment contract and financial proof. In a nutshell, you cannot work in Sri Lanka on a tourist visa. If you are going to work in Sri Lanka, do not try to work on a tourist visa. Instead, apply for the right kind of visa to avoid legal matters. For more help, go to the Department of Immigration and Emigration or contact a Sri Lankan diplomatic mission.

Yes, most cruise passengers require a visa to enter Sri Lanka. The specific visa type depends on the duration and nature of your stay. Visa Requirements for Cruise Passengers Landing Permit for Organized Shore Excursions (Typically Under 48 Hours) In most cases, cruise passengers participating in organized shore excursions arranged by the cruise line are issued a landing permit upon arrival, subject to immigration approval at ports like Colombo, Galle, or Trincomalee. This permit allows short visits (typically under 48 hours) without the need to apply for a Transit Visa in advance. The cruise operator coordinates with immigration authorities to provide these permits, requiring only a valid passport and cruise itinerary. Confirm with your cruise line to ensure a landing permit is arranged for your excursion, even if you are visa-exempt. Transit Visa - Short Independent Stays (Under 48 Hours) If you plan to leave the port area independently for less than 48 hours and your cruise line does not arrange a landing permit, a Transit Visa is required. This visa is suitable for passengers who plan to leave the port area independently for short visits (under 48 hours). However, it's important to note that this visa must be obtained prior to arrival through the official Sri Lanka e-Visa portal. Tourist e-Visa - Longer Stays or Independent Travel (Up to 30 Days) A Tourist Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is required for stays exceeding 48 hours, independent travel beyond port areas, or disembarkation to end the cruise. The Tourist ETA permits stays of up to 30 days (double entry). Who Is Exempt from a Visa? - Passengers who remain onboard the cruise without disembarking or who participate in organized excursions under a landing permit are generally exempt from needing to apply for a separate visa. - Citizens of the Maldives (visa-free for up to 90 days), Singapore (visa-free for up to 30 days), and Seychelles (visa-free for up to 90 days) are exempt from visa requirements for short-term tourism visits when arriving by cruise. These exemptions apply whether passengers stay with the cruise, engage in shore excursions, or travel independently within the permitted duration. Important Notes Some cruise lines arrange group landing permits for organized shore excursions. Confirm with your cruise operator if an individual ETA is needed. If your cruise docks at multiple ports in Sri Lanka, ensure your visa allows multiple entries. Contact the Sri Lankan embassy or consulate if needed. A double-entry Tourist ETA is sufficient for itineraries visiting multiple Sri Lankan ports (e.g., Colombo and Galle) within one trip. Overstaying or failing to comply with visa conditions can lead to fines or detention.

No, Sri Lanka does not offer a separate "medical e-Visa" category. However, individuals seeking medical treatment in Sri Lanka can still apply for a standard Sri Lanka e-Visa (Tourist ETA), provided that: How to Use a Tourist ETA for Medical Treatment? The purpose of the visit is short-term medical treatment (non-emergency). The stay does not exceed 30 days (extendable in some cases). Medical treatments can be arranged with recognized hospitals or clinics, but no proof is required during the ETA application. Understand e-Visa for Medical Purposes in Sri Lanka 1. Type of Visa to Apply For Select the Tourist ETA when applying online. This visa covers activities like sightseeing, visiting family, and short-term medical visits (e.g., consultations, surgeries, or wellness treatments). You can check the nationalities eligible for the Sri Lanka ETA on the Sri Lanka visa check requirements. 2. Entry Type The Tourist ETA allows double entry (if required for follow-up visits). 3. Requirements A passport valid for 6+ months from arrival, a return ticket, proof of sufficient funds, and payment of the ETA fee. No specific medical documents are required at application, but you may need to show proof of treatment arrangements (e.g., a medical appointment letter or confirmation from the Sri Lankan hospital or clinic) when extending your stay. 4. Application Process The ETA can be applied for online through the official Sri Lanka ETA website. 5. Visa Fee The ETA fee includes the government fee and the visa services fee. No extra charge for medical purposes. Extension Process If your treatment requires a longer stay, you can apply for an extension through the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo or online. Important Notes While the Tourist ETA allows medical treatments, it’s not a specialized medical visa. For long-term or specialist medical care, contact the nearest Sri Lankan embassy or consulate for assistance since a special visa or permission may be necessary. For lengthier stays (more than 30 days), ask for an extension in Sri Lanka and provide proof such as hospital letters or treatment plans. Overstaying can result in fines or jail, so ensure you comply with the visa terms. Extensions must be requested before the initial 30-day period ends. For sophisticated treatments, check with your healthcare provider and the Sri Lankan embassy to see if further approvals are required, though this is uncommon for short-term instances.

Yes, you can apply for a Sri Lanka e-Visa to attend a conference; however, it must fall within the Business Visa category of the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system. The Business ETA enables tourists to attend business meetings, seminars, workshops, and conferences in Sri Lanka for short stays of up to 30 days with multiple entries. Which form of visa is required to attend the conference in Sri Lanka? The Sri Lanka Business Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is designed for short-term business activities, including: Attending conferences, seminars, or workshops. Engaging in commercial discussions or negotiations. Participating in short-term training programs. The Business ETA for Sri Lanka is typically valid for 30 days. If your stay for conferences or events exceeds 30 days, apply for an extension at the Department of Immigration in Colombo. By default, the Business ETA permits a single entry into Sri Lanka. Multiple entries may be available based on nationality and approval from immigration authorities How can I receive a Sri Lanka e-visa for the conference? Eligibility & requirements The ETA application normally requires a passport valid for at least 6 months, a return ticket, and evidence of finances. Relevant documentation demonstrating the reason for your visit, such as: Invitation letter, Conference details, return flight tickets, and proof of lodging. Application Process Visit the official Sri Lanka ETA portal. Select "Business ETA" and indicate "Conference Attendance" as the purpose. Upload your documents, such as the invitation letter and a copy of your passport. Pay the fee, which varies by nationality (see the portal). Processing time Visas are often processed within a few working days. If you choose the "Rush Visa" at Sri Lanka Immigration Services, you can have your approved visa in 5-72 hours, depending on the services you select. The e-Visa application can be submitted online via the official Sri Lanka ETA portal. Can You Combine Tourism with Conference Travel? Yes, the Business e-Visa allows limited tourism activities. However, the primary purpose must be conference-related. Note that certain activities, like media/journalist conferences or political meetings, require special approval and cannot be obtained through the standard ETA system. For longer stays or special cases, contact the Sri Lankan Embassy or Immigration Authorities.

The Sri Lanka e-Visa is accepted at several designated ports of entry for travelers arriving by air or sea. Managed by the Sri Lankan Department of Immigration and Emigration, the e-Visa is valid for tourism, business, or transit purposes and must be presented (preferably printed) alongside a valid passport at immigration checkpoints. List of ports of entry Sri Lanka e-Visa Below is a list of authorized ports of entry for e-Visa holders: Airports Accepting Sri Lanka e-Visa Travelers holding a valid Sri Lanka e-Visa can enter the country through the following international airports: - Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) – Colombo: The primary international gateway, handling most e-Visa arrivals. - Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI) – Hambantota: A secondary airport in the south, less frequently used but e-Visa compliant. - Jaffna International Airport (JAF) – Jaffna: Primarily serves regional flights, mainly from India (Chennai). It accepts e-Visas for designated routes but not for all international flights. Seaports Accepting Sri Lanka e-Visa For travelers arriving by sea, the following seaports are designated entry points for e-Visa holders:​ - Colombo Port – Colombo: The main seaport for cruise ships and cargo vessels, fully equipped for e-Visa processing. - Galle Port – Galle: A popular entry point for cruise ships and yachts, it accepts e-visas. - Hambantota International Port– Hambantota: Supports cargo and cruise arrivals with e-Visa facilities. - Trincomalee Port – Trincomalee: Used for cruise ships and smaller vessels, e-Visa compliant. - Talaimannar Pier – Talaimannar: Designated for ferry services from India (e.g., Rameswaram), accepting e-Visas. - Kankesanthurai Port – Jaffna: Supports ferry routes from India (e.g., Nagapattinam) and processes e-visas. Land Border Crossings Sri Lanka is an island nation and does not share land borders with any other country. Therefore, entry by land is not applicable. All entries must be made via the aforementioned airports or seaports.​