Sri Lanka

You should start planning the health aspect of your trip well in advance of departure, especially if you’re having vaccines for things like rabies or Japanese encephalitis, which need to be administered over the course of a month. Vaccinations and medical advice are available from your doctor or – more conveniently but expensively – a specialist travel clinic. It’s also crucial to have adequate medical insurance. Ensure that you’re up to date with the following standard vaccinations: diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis A and polio. Other jabs you might consider are tuberculosis, meningitis and typhoid. The best way to avoid falling ill is to look after yourself. Eat properly, make sure you get enough sleep and don’t try to cram too much strenuous activity into your holiday, especially in the first few days before you’ve acclimatized to the sun, water and food, and while you’re probably still suffering jetlag. Luckily, standards of medical care in Sri Lanka are good. Most doctors speak English and a significant number have trained in Europe, North America or Australia. All large towns have a hospital, and you’ll also find private medical clinics in Colombo. If you pay for treatment, remember to get receipts so that you can claim on your insurance policy. All larger towns have well-appointed pharmacies (signed by a red cross on a white circle) and can usually produce an English-speaking pharmacist. If stuck, any reputable hotel or guesthouse should be able to put you in touch with a local English-speaking doctor.

Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), also known as Katunayake International Airport and Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport, is the main gateway to Colombo and in fact of Sri Lanka as a whole. Sri Lankan Airlines is the national airline of Sri Lanka. It operates international flights to and from Abu Dhabi, Bangalore, Bangkok, Beijing, Chennai, Coimbatore, Doha, Dubai, Delhi, Dammam, Frankfurt, Goa, Hong Kong, Hyderabad, Kuala Lumpur, London Heathrow, Male, Paris Charles de Gaulle, Karachi, Kuwait, Singapore and Tokyo Narita. Other airlines serving the country are Emirates, Qatar Airways, Royal Jordanian Airlines, Saudi Arabian Airlines, Martinair, Condor, Cathay Pacific and low cost airlines Air Arabia from Sharjah. Expo Aviation operates many charter service to and from the following destinations: Abu Dhabi, Australia, Bangalore, Bangkok, Beirut, Cairo, Kozhikode, Chennai, Chittagong, Kochi, Dhaka, Dubai, Hyderabad, Islamabad, Jakarta, Jeddah, Karachi, Kathmandu, Kuala Lumpur, Lahore, Malé, Manila, Mumbai, Muscat, several cities in Africa and Europe, Sharjah, Singapore, Tiruchirapalli and Thiruvananthapuram. Domestically, Expo Aviation and Aero Lanka offer scheduled flights to Jaffna and Trincomalee from Colombo. Chartered flights are also available. Mihin Lanka is a low cost airline which focuses on providing low cost flights from Colombo to Dubai and a number of cities in India. Its future base would have been Weerawila International Airport (WRZ), which would have been ready in 2009. However, the project faced significant environmental concerns, and was eventually scrapped. The site of the proposed airport was moved to Mattala, Hambantota, and a new Hambantota International Airport/Mattala International Airport is currently under construction there.

Local Transport Many Sri Lankan towns are small enough to walk around. In larger towns, you can get around by bus, taxi or three-wheeler. Bus Local buses go to most places, including villages outside main towns, for fares from Rs 10 to 50. Taxi Sri Lankan taxis are common in all sizable towns, and even some villages. Only some are metered (mostly in Colombo), but over longer distances their prices are comparable to those of three-wheelers, and they provide more comfort and security. You can count on most taxi rides costing around Rs 60 to 100 per kilometre. Hotels and restaurants can usually get you a ride for a modest cost. In Colombo you can count on taxis dispatched via apps such as Uber. Three-wheeler Three-wheelers, known in other parts of Asia as tuk-tuks, bajajs or autorickshaws, are waiting on nearly every corner. Use your best bargaining skills and agree on the fare before you get in. Some keen drivers will offer very extensive tours; use your discretion. As a rule of thumb, a three-wheeler should cost no more than Rs 200 per kilometre, but this can prove elusive depending on your negotiating skills. Note that three-wheelers with meters are somewhat prevalent in Colombo. Three-wheelers and taxis waiting outside hotels and tourist sights expect higher-than-usual fares. Walk a few hundred metres to get a better deal. Train Sri Lanka Railways runs the nation’s railways, and trains are a great way to cross the country. Although they are slow, there are few overnight or all-day ordeals to contend with. A train ride is almost always more relaxed than a bus ride. Costs are in line with buses: even 1st class doesn’t exceed Rs 1000. Most stations have helpful information windows where English is spoken. In addition, a couple of companies run private air-con train cars, which are attached onto regular trains. Although more expensive and less atmospheric than the 1st-class observation cars on Sri Lanka Railways, these private cars offer air-con and snacks and may have seats available when regular classes are already fully booked. Rajadhani Express runs to Kandy, Badulla, Galle and Matara, while Expo Rail serves Kandy and the Hill Country. There are three main rail lines in Sri Lanka. South from Colombo A scenic delight. Recently renovated, runs past Aluthgama and Hikkaduwa to Galle and Matara.

Nationals of the Maldives, Seychelles and Singapore may obtain a free visa on arrival. Maldivian and Singaporean nationals may enter for 30 days (extendable up to 150), whilst Seychellois nationals may enter for 60 days (but no more than 90 days per calendar year). Nationals of Cameroon, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Cote d’Ivoire, Egypt, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Liberia, Mali, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Syria and Uganda must obtain a visa in advance from a Sri Lankan diplomatic mission. All other nationals not specified above may obtain a visa on arrival, provided that they have completed the electronic travel authorization (ETA) procedure either prior to travel or on arrival in Sri Lanka. This electronic authorization is valid for 3 months, starting from the day it has been approved. It allows for two entries, which means you can enter the country twice during the 30 days entry (allowing for a break in e.g. Maldives). A visitor wishing to stay more than 30 days in Sri Lanka may apply for an extension. The short visit visa may be extended up to 90 days from the date of arrival at the first instance and further 90 days at the second instance.

There are several customs that (for Westerners) take a bit of getting used to. It is customary to remove shoesand wear conservative attire (i.e. no miniskirts, tank tops, short pants etc.) when visiting temples. It is also the custom to remove shoes before entering a home, though this is not as strictly followed as in places such as Japan. Never touch or pat the top of the headof Buddhist monks, including children who practice at a temple. Do not turn your backto (or be alongside) a Buddha statue when within a reasonable distance (observe what others are doing). This includes posing for photos. It’s OK to photograph a statue, but all persons should be facing it. Public nudityis illegal in Sri Lanka – nude/topless sunbathing and skinny dipping should be avoided, except in the private beach resorts which allow it. Although much latitude is given to tourists, it is more polite to use your right handwhen shaking hands, handing money and small objects, etc. Of course you can use both hands for something big and/or heavy. Be respectful to monks. There’s no particular etiquette for Westerners – just be polite. Always give them a seat on a crowded bus (unless you’re disabled or very elderly). It is highly controversial to discuss politics, particularly the Sinhalese/Tamil divide or the LTTE. The 26 year old civil war which ended in 2009 has seen thousands of attacks throughout the country, including suicide bombings and massacres which have killed scores of politicians and civilians on both sides alike. No photographyof sensitive locations (inside and outside), and inside of shopping malls and tea factories (outside OK). Be especially careful in Fort, Colombo (except on the beach). If soldiers are guarding something, it probably shouldn’t be photographed. Don’t rely on signs alone, as sometimes they are old or missing. For example, one end of a bridge may have a “No Photography” sign, but not the other. Seemingly innocuous public displays of affectionbetween lovers such as kissing and/or hugging may be culturally frowned upon as it is considered to be private behaviour but it is acceptable in functions and establishments designated for adults such as nightclubs, casinos and beach parties. Much lenience is given to foreigners and holding hands and public affection between parents and their children is not frowned upon.

January At the peak of the tourist season when crowds are at their largest, many popular towns have special events such as the respected literary festival at Galle. Duruthu Perahera Held on the poya (full moon) day at the Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara in Colombo, and second in importance only to the huge Kandy perahera (procession), this festival celebrates the first of Buddha’s three visits to Sri Lanka. Thai Pongal Held in mid-January, this Hindu winter-harvest festival honours the sun god Surya. It is important to Tamils in Sri Lanka and South India. Look for the special sweet dish, pongal, which is made with rice, nuts and spices. Galle Literary Festival An annual event held in mid-January, this five-day festival brings together renowned Asian and Western writers. It is well regarded and attracts big names. A parallel fringe festival covers current issues and other creative pursuits. February The tourist crowds continue strong, with wintering Europeans baking themselves silly on the beaches. This is a busy month for Sri Lankans, with an important national holiday. Independence Day Sri Lanka gained independence on 4 February 1948 and this day is commemorated every year with festivals, parades, fireworks, sporting events and more across the nation. In Colombo, motorcades shuffle politicians from one event to the next. Navam Perahera First celebrated in 1979, Navam Perahera is one of Sri Lanka’s biggest and most flamboyant peraheras. Held on the February poya, it starts from the Gangaramaya Temple and travels around Viharamahadevi Park and Beira Lake in Colombo. March This is an important month for many of Sri Lanka’s Buddhists. You’ll see them observing Maha Sivarathri in the Ancient Cities areas and the portions of the west coast where they are in the majority. Maha Sivarathri In late February or early March the Hindu festival of Maha Sivarathri commemorates the marriage of Shiva to Parvati with all-night vigils and more. It’s the most important day for Shaivites, who comprise the majority of Sri Lanka’s Hindus. April Although Christians comprise only 6% of Sri Lanka’s population, secularised versions of Christian holidays are popular. Don’t be surprised when you see an Easter bunny at the mall. Aurudu (New Year) New Year’s Eve (13 April) and New Year’s Day (14 April) are nonreligious holidays. There is a period of a few hours between the old and new year called the ‘neutral period’ (Nonagathe); all activities are meant to cease. Over the days before and after, buses and trains are jammed as people go to their home villages. May The Yala monsoon blows in for five months, bringing huge rains from the Indian Ocean that drench the Hill Country and the beach towns in the southwest. Vesak Poya This two-day holiday commemorates the birth, enlightenment and death of the Buddha. Amid the festivities, the high point is the lighting of paper lanterns and displays of coloured lights outside every Buddhist home, shop and temple. Night-time Colombo is a riot of colours. Ramadan Muslims make up a small percentage of Sri Lanka’s population, but their prominence in commercial enterprises means that Muslim holidays are conspicuously observed. Islamic holidays move with the lunar calendar; in coming years, the annual Muslim fast takes place between the following dates: 15 May to 14 June 2018; 5 May to 4 June 2019. June Sri Lanka’s Buddhists barely have a chance to catch their breath after Vesak before another major religious event occurs – and they’ll want to catch their breath… Poson Poya The Poson poya day celebrates the bringing of Buddhism to Sri Lanka by Mahinda. In Anuradhapura there are festivities in the famous temples, while in nearby Mihintale thousands of white-clad pilgrims ascend the lung-busting 1843 steps to the topmost temple. Id ul-Fitr Id ul-Fitr is the traditional end of Ramadan, the Muslim month of fasting, and this important holiday sees Muslims travelling to their home villages. Islamic holidays move with the lunar calendar; in coming years, Id ul-Fitr falls on the following dates: 14 June 2018 and 4 June 2019. July Light-bulb vendors do a huge business as Buddhists gear up for Esala Perahera, which begins at the end of the month. Light displays are an integral part of the Kandy festivities. Vel This festival is held in Colombo and Jaffna. In Colombo the gilded chariot of Murugan (Skanda), the god of war, is ceremonially hauled from Pettah to Bambalapitiya. In Jaffna the Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil has a 25-day festival. Kataragama Another important Hindu festival is held at Kataragama, where devotees put themselves through a whole gamut of ritual masochism. It commemorates the triumph of the six-faced, 12-armed war god Skanda over demons here. Esala Poya This day celebrates Buddha’s first sermon as well as the arrival of the tooth relic in Sri Lanka. This latter milestone is why the ceremonies in Kandy – home of the relic – are especially vibrant and intense. August The Kandy Esala Perahera is important, but smaller versions are held across Sri Lanka. Many celebrations feature dancers and other performers such as stilt-walkers who practise all year. Kandy Esala Perahera The Kandy Esala Perahera, Sri Lanka’s most spectacular and prominent festival, is the climax of 10 days and nights of celebrations during the month of Esala. This great procession honours the sacred tooth relic of Kandy and starts in late July. Nallur Festival Jaffna’s Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil is the focus of an enormous and spectacular Hindu festival over 25 days in July and August, which climaxes on day 24 with parades of juggernaut floats and gruesome displays of self-mutilation by entranced devotees. September The main tourist season comes to an end as the northern hemisphere summer ends. It’s a good time to enjoy a less-crowded Sri Lanka. On the east coast the waves are also abating. Eid ul-Adha A three-day Islamic festival and part of the Haj or the pilgrimage to Mecca. It recalls Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son for God. Islamic holidays move with the lunar calendar; in coming years, Eid ul-Adha falls on the following dates: 1 September 2017, 21 August 2018, 11 August 2019. October This is a month of meteorological mystery as it falls between the two great monsoon seasons. Rains and squalls can occur any place, any time. These are the final days of peak east-coast surfing. Deepavali The Hindu festival of lights takes place in late October or early November. Thousands of flickering oil lamps celebrate the triumph of good over evil and the return of Rama after his period of exile. November The second-to-last month of the year is a time of waiting: waiting for the tourist throngs, waiting for Christmas, waiting for the coming monsoon rains in the dry North and East. European Film Festival Sri Lanka’s nascent film industry gets its chance to show off during this festival (www.europeanfilmfestsrilanka.com) held at various venues in Colombo. It’s usually held in October. December Sri Lanka’s second annual monsoon season, the Maha, brings huge rains to the northeast part of the island. This is not the time to plan a Jaffna beach holiday. Adam’s Peak The pilgrimage season, when pilgrims of all faiths (and the odd tourist) climb Adam’s Peak near Ella, starts in December and lasts until mid-April. The trek begins shortly after midnight so that everyone can be in place for sunrise. Unduvap Poya This full-moon day commemorates Sangamitta, who in 288 BC brought a cutting from the sacred Bodhi Tree in India to Anuradhapura. The resulting tree, the Sri Maha Bodhi, is considered the oldest living, human-planted tree in the world. The ceremonies attract thousands in their finest. Christmas Outside of Sri Lanka’s Christian communities – mostly around Colombo – this day has become a popular secularised holiday. Ersatz versions of Western Christmas traditions can be found everywhere, from bone-thin Santas in strange masks to garish artificial trees. Poya Every poya (full moon) day is a holiday. Poya causes buses, trains and accommodation to fill up, especially if it falls on a Friday or Monday. No alcohol is supposed to be sold on poya days and many establishments close. Some hotels discreetly provide cold beer ‘under the table’. Note that the official full-moon day for poya does not always coincide with the same designated full-moon day in Western calendars. Because of the religious time used to calculate the exact moment of full moon, the poya day may be a day earlier or later than that shown on regular lunar calendars.

Sri Lanka’s climate is tropical and consists of distinct wet and dry seasons. Generally speaking, the coastal areas of Sri Lanka enjoy temperatures averaging 28°C (82°F) while the upland areas are cooler and more temperate, with a yearly average around 16-20°C (60-68°F). The best time to visit Sri Lanka depends on where you go.

The best time to visit the southwest region of Sri Lanka is from December to April. During this time, the weather is warm; the city of Galle on the southwestern tip enjoys an average high of 29°C (84°F) for example. However, the Yala monsoon brings abundant rainfall to the southwest region from May to September, and to November in some coastal cities.

The best time to visit the northeast region of Sri Lanka is from May to September. The sun-drenched Trincomalee, a port city on the northeast coast of Sri Lanka, enjoys a balmy temperatures of 30°C (86°F) with little rain during this period. However, the Maha monsoon affects Sri Lanka’s northeast region from October to January.

Kandy is a major tourist destination in the Central Province, a mountainous area of Sri Lanka. Sitting at an elevation of 500m (1,600ft), Kandy is considerably cooler than the coastal regions of Sri Lanka with temperatures averaging between 23-26°C (73-79°F) year-round. Rainfall is expected throughout the year, but it tends to be heavy in October and November. The best time to visit Kandy is from January to March as the weather is mild and the rainfall is at its lowest. Please note that there is also an inter-monsoonal period in October and November during which rain and thunderstorms occur frequently across the island. So always pack an umbrella with you.

The dangers and annoyances listed in the following are sorted in the order of possible occurrence. During an emergency: use emergency hot-line numbers 119 or 118 Avoid these Use your best judgment when breaking ice and be careful when talking about sensitive subjects such as religion,politics etc Improper behavior inside temples may lead to deportation Avoid use of prohibited fishing gears like spear gun Religious tattoos / images Tattoos or other images (t-shirt) of religious figures may be considered disrespectful or even illegal. Sri Lankan police may deport people sporting tattoo of Buddha or any other tattoos which can be interpreted as having religious significance. It is better to cover up such a tattoo

You may be taken around for visit to a spice garden and afterwards to a shop selling natural products, most of the shops sell these spurious products at inflated prices. Mostly the ride there is for free, but be prepared to find yourself in the middle of nowhere just to be presented with these expensive products. The ayurvedic oils may contain recycled engine oil and other harmful substances which may cause irritation to the skin. No local visits these so called Spice gardens. There are real shops that you can buy Ayurvedic medicine from, and they are properly regulated by the government.

First time travelers to Sri Lanka may find themselves the victim of scams. Therefore, if you are a first time visitor to Sri Lanka, don’t admit it, and ignore all unnecessary approaches and unsolicited advice from strangers strolling around and offering their help to tourists. They may approach you by saying “You remember me?” or by telling you they work at your guest house or hotel, or they introduce themselves as police, some high official, a professional (e.g. airline pilot) or in charge of a location (like a bus terminal). This is of course all rubbish and just a conversion starter to trick you into buying something or taking an overpriced tour with them. Using the services of a tout for accommodation, local travel, etc. will most likely increase the price steeply. Don’t give away money to people on the street. Con men using children to beg for cash from tourists is prevalent in some tourist spots. Some people may approach by saying they have a grievance and ask for monetary help. Don’t entertain unnecessary questions and offers, just ignore them without making any eye contact and walk away. Don’t trust the fake IDs and certifications.

Be vigilant when you use credit cards in hotels and stores. Always pay in cash if possible and use credit cards only in emergencies. Withdrawing cash at ATM is much safer and cash can be withdrawn from ATMs in all major towns. Avoid ATM machines situated in isolated areas, as there is a possibility of card skimming. e-Visa scams Many websites offer e-visa to Sri Lanka at exorbitant prices. Make sure that you are applying at the original government website, which is http://www.eta.gov.lk.

Sri Lanka’s lengthy and bloody civil war ended in May 2009, when the government forces finally wiped out the LTTE. However, there may be undiscovered land mines in some remote areas, and the facilities in northern (and some parts of the east) cities and towns are war torn. The Sri Lanka Army is currently engaged in rapidly clearing landmines laid out by LTTE separatists. Bombings and assassinations were a firm part of both sides in the conflict, and there is heavy security in all sensitive locations. While the separatists have never targeted tourists there have been deaths, notably in a landmine explosion at Wilpattu National Wild Park in 2006, and some have been wounded by terrorist actions. In general, though, traffic accidents kill more people than terrorism (although according to statistical estimates, in the year 2005 for example, approximately 2300 people died in Sri Lanka due to road traffic crashes, and while the road traffic death rate in Sri Lanka is considered low when compared with other low-income countries, it has been steadily rising for several years). Violent crime is not usually any more serious a problem for tourists in Sri Lanka than it is anywhere. There has been an increase in violent crimes involving tourists in the past few years, but it is still very rare. In June of 2009, the Sri Lankan government lifted travel restrictions after the military defeat of rebel insurgents in the north of the country, though it is advisable to check with the local travel advisory bureau in your country if there is any doubt. In April of 2019, terrorist attacks had occurred in places of worship and hotels. The death toll was approximately 250. Many foreign governments had issued travel advisory warnings to necessary travel only and that attacks could occur without warning. Since May 26, 2019, governments of countries, such as China, Germany, India and Switzerland have lifted travel advisories due to returning normalcy, whilst still advising travelers to remain cautious.

Do’s Use open-ended questions and watch body language to understand how a Sri Lankan feels about something. They are unlikely to speak openly when they disagree with something. Treat Sri Lankan elders with visible respect. For example, address them first and defer to their opinion. Sri Lankans tend to be reluctant to criticize. It is best to reciprocate this through remaining polite, modest and gentle in order to give and avoid losing facefor both yourself and your Sri Lankan counterpart. Be sensitive and understanding, especially with respect to the recent civil conflict. Sri Lankans are likely to warm to those who exhibit sympathy where it is appropriate. Do not’s Avoid raising your voice or showing strong displays of negative emotion. Sri Lankans generally view this as a loss of control. Drawing parallels between Sri Lanka and India may offend your Sri Lankan counterpart. Sri Lankans take great pride in being culturally and politically distinct from India. Politics and the civil conflict in Sri Lanka are sensitive topics. It is best not to initiate a conversation on the matter unless you know the person well. If the topic does arise, be sensitive about the grief and trauma that your Sri Lankan counterpart may have experienced. A person’s religious affiliations are also a sensitive topic, avoid discussing alternative religious views unless you know the person well. Avoid touching or sitting on any image or statue of the Buddha.

ATMs available in cities and large towns. Credit cards accepted at most midrange and all top-end hotels. ATMs ATMs are easily found in towns and cities of any size. ATMs often issue Rs 5000 notes. Try to break a few as soon as possible as small vendors may not accept large notes: you can usually do this inside the bank that operates the ATM. Cash Any bank or exchange bureau will change major currencies in cash, including US dollars, euros and British pounds. Change rupees back into hard currency at the airport (before security, there are no exchange counters after) prior to leaving, as even nearby countries may not exchange Sri Lankan currency. Credit Cards MasterCard and Visa are the most commonly accepted credit cards. Cards are generally accepted at most midrange and all top-end hotels and restaurants. Currency The Sri Lankan currency is the rupee (Rs), which is divided into 100 cents; pricing in cents is rare. Rupee coins come in denominations of one, two, five and 10 rupees. Notes come in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000, 2000 and 5000 rupees. For current exchange rates, see www.xe.com. Moneychangers Money changers can be found in Colombo and major tourist centres. Their rates are competitive, but choose carefully, as money-exchange scams abound. Stick to banks or reputable offices, such as those at the airport. ATMs are safer and more reliable.

Below is our cancellation and refund policy: 🔸 60 days prior to arrival date: No cancellation charge for the land cost. We guarantee 100% of the land cost back. The airline cancellation fees are applied according to the airline's policy. 🔸 59 - 30 days prior to arrival date: 5% cancellation charge + airfare cancellation fees 🔸 29 - 15 days prior to arrival date: 10% + airfare cancellation fees. 🔸 14 - 8 days prior to arrival date: 40 + airfare cancellation fees. 🔸 7 days prior to arrival date: 100% 🔸 No show: 100% Please note that the domestic flight tickets in the package are non-refundable