Sri Lanka travel tips

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka

Experience the fascinating mix of culture, nature and history
Welcome to Sri Lanka - a country that enchants with breathtaking landscapes, cultural diversity and warm hospitality. Whether endless sandy beaches, majestic tea plantations or impressive temples - Sri Lanka offers unforgettable experiences for every traveler. In this article, we take you on a journey of discovery through the pearl of the Indian Ocean and show you why Sri Lanka should not be missing from your bucket list. Let yourself be inspired and discover the diversity of this fascinating island state!
This post was updated for you on January 29, 2025
Ocean in Sri Lanka
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The most important facts about Sri Lanka

You can find a full report below

Capital city:

  • Colombo (commercial)
  • Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte (administrative)

Form of government:
Democratic Socialist Republic

Geographical location:
South of India, in the Indian Ocean; geographical coordinates approximately 7° N, 81° E

Inhabitants:
Approx. 22 million

Languages:
Sinhala, Tamil, English

Religions:
Buddhism (approx. 70 %), Hinduism, Islam, Christianity

Currency:
Sri Lanka Rupee (LKR)

  • Exchange rate:
    • 1 EUR = approx. 200-250 LKR
    • 1 USD = approx. 300-320 LKR (fluctuations possible)

Country code:
LK

Telephone area code:
+94

Time differences:

  • Germany (CET): +4:30 hours (winter time), +3:30 hours (summer time)
  • London (GMT): +5:30 hours
  • Paris (CET): +4:30 hours (winter time), +3:30 hours (summer time)
  • New York (EST): +10:30 hours (winter time), +9:30 hours (summer time)

Current/voltage:
230 volts, 50 Hz; type D and G sockets (adapter recommended)

Climate:
Tropical with two monsoon seasons:

  • Southwest: rainy season May-September
  • Northeast: rainy season October-January

Best time to travel:

  • Southwest: December to March
  • Northeast: May to September

Highlights:

  • Breathtaking beaches: Unawatuna, Mirissa, Trincomalee
  • Historical sites: Sigiriya, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa
  • Tea plantations and mountains: Nuwara Eliya, Ella
  • National parks: Yala, Udawalawe (famous for elephants and leopards)
  • Spiritual places: Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, Adam's Peak

Special features:

  • Unique wildlife with elephants, leopards and blue whales
  • Diverse landscapes from mountains and tea plantations to dream beaches
  • Rich culture and history with over 2,500 years of tradition
  • Producer of the world-famous Ceylon tea

Travel tips:

  • Clothing: Light, breathable clothing; shoulders and knees should be covered in temples.
  • Water: Avoid tap water, only drink bottled water.
  • Traffic: Left-hand traffic, tuktuks are a popular means of transportation.

Interesting facts:

  • Known as the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean" or "Tear of India".
  • Adam's Peak is a sacred mountain for four religions.
  • Sri Lanka is home to an impressive mix of culture, nature and history.
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Your shortcuts in Sri Lanka

Here you will find everything you need to know for your vacation in Sri Lanka.
Important questions and answers about your Sri Lanka vacation. Everything for your Sri Lanka travel planning, your safari adventure, visa & entry requirements, sights, recommendations for guides & drivers, and much more.

Travel preparation

Everything you need to know BEFORE the trip

Tips during the trip

Priceless tips during your trip

"The ultimate travel guide for Sri Lanka"

Population:
Sri Lanka is a colorful mosaic of people. Around 22 million souls call this island home, from the smiling faces in the bustling cities to the wise old people in the remote villages.

Languages:
Sinhala, Tamil and, of course, English are spoken here. 

Currency:
The Sri Lanka Rupee (LKR) is what sets the pace here. And believe me, a few colorful rupees in your pocket will go a long way, whether you're bargaining at the local markets or enjoying a delicious cup of Ceylon tea.

Climate:
Sri Lanka is blessed with a tropical climate. That means it's mostly warm and sunny, but be prepared for surprise rain showers. And yes, the green you see really is that vibrant!

History:
Sri Lanka has a history that stretches back thousands of years, from ancient kingdoms to colonial chapters. Every stone, every temple has a story to tell, you just have to listen carefully.

With these facts in your luggage, you are already well equipped to experience Sri Lanka in all its facets. Whether you wander through the historic streets, chat with the locals or simply enjoy island life, you will realize that Sri Lanka is so much more than just facts and figures.

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