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đź“Ś Visas & Customs Formalities
  • Do I need a visa to visit Sri Lanka?
    Yes. All international travelers (except citizens of Singapore and Maldives) are required to obtain a visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before entering Sri Lanka.
  • What is an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization)?
    The ETA is an official, online travel approval for short visits to Sri Lanka – for tourism, business, or transit. It’s a simple, fast, and paperless process. No physical documents, passport copies, or photographs are needed during application.
  • How much does an ETA cost?
    • SAARC country citizens: USD $15 (30-day double entry)
    • Other countries: USD $30 (30-day double entry)

Note: The ETA processing fee is non-refundable.

  • What mobile technology is supported?
    Sri Lanka operates on GSM 900/1800 bands, compatible with most international phones. You’ll have access to 3G, 4G LTE, and Wi-Fi in major cities including Colombo and tourist towns.
  • Will people understand English?
    Yes. While Sinhala and Tamil are the official languages, English is widely understood, especially in hotels, restaurants, tourist attractions, and shops. Most road signs are in English and Sinhala.
  • Are telephone and internet services easily available?
    Yes. Public telephone booths, IDD call centers, and internet cafés are found across the country. Many accommodations and cafés offer free Wi-Fi.
  • Is smoking allowed in public places?
    No. Smoking and drinking liquor in public areas is prohibited in Sri Lanka. This includes enclosed spaces like restaurants and social venues.
  • Is liquor served on Full Moon (Poya) days?
    No. Alcohol is not sold on Poya days, which are considered sacred in Sri Lankan Buddhist culture. On these days, liquor shops, bars, and meat shops remain closed.
  • Can I drink local beer or spirits?
    Yes. Sri Lanka has its own local beer and unique traditional spirits like Toddy (natural palm sap) and Arrack (a distilled local liquor). Imported alcoholic beverages are also available at similar prices to Western countries.
  • Is Halal food available?
    Halal-certified food is available at select hotels such as Galadari and Holiday Inn in Colombo, and in halal-friendly restaurants in Colombo and Kandy. Outside major cities, seafood is a safe alternative for halal diets.
  • Can I get vegetarian meals?
    Absolutely. Star hotels and South Indian restaurants offer pure vegetarian options. Some local “rice and curry” places may include fish in their meals—so always double-check with staff.
  • What clothing should I pack?
    • Lightweight cotton clothing is ideal for warm weather.
    • Warmer attire (e.g., sweaters or jackets) is recommended for hill country areas like Nuwara Eliya.
    • Consider packing a sarong, a versatile item for beachwear or temple visits.
  • Dress code for religious sites?
    When visiting Buddhist or Hindu temples:
    • Remove shoes and hats before entering.
    • Shoulders and legs must be covered.
    • Do not wear beachwear or revealing attire.
    • Umbrellas should be closed inside the temple premises.
  • Evening dress code in hotels?
    Most upscale hotels require smart-casual dress for dinner. For men, trousers and collared shirts are expected. Women can wear dresses or modest skirts. Beachwear is not allowed during meals.
  • What is the power voltage in Sri Lanka?
    Sri Lanka operates on 220V – 240V AC.
  • Which plug types are used?
    • Type G (UK standard – 3 square pins)
    • Type D (India standard – 3 round pins)
      Note: Heavy-duty 15 Amp sockets are used for appliances like air conditioners or ovens.
  • Special Caution
    Do not plug 110V devices (like some hairdryers or shavers) into 240V sockets without a converter. Doing so may cause fire or damage your device.

đź”” Special Note

All prices, availability, regulations, and policies mentioned above are subject to change at any time without prior notice. Please consult official sources or your R & S Travel representative before planning your visit.