FAQ - SRI LANKA
Your questions answered..
Flights to Sri Lanka
Sri Lankan Airlines has a direct flight to Sri Lanka from Melbourne and Sydney as well as a host of many other international airlines that shuttle via transit airports, on a regular schedule. But if you dislike long transits, you can simply take a direct flight to Sri Lanka.
Visa requirements
All intended travellers visiting Sri Lanka for vacation must obtain ETA prior approval for their arrival which will be valid for 30 days upon the arrival. You can apply for the online visa application and access more information at eta.gov.lk. Furthermore, it is mandatory to fill out health declaration forms and upload the relevant documents prior to boarding the flight and it is necessary to provide the QR code generated from the website. It is also a must to carry a negative Covid-19 test done within 72 hours before embarkation.
Travel Insurance
During your stay in Sri Lanka, we highly recommend that you have travel insurance. Furthermore, we also recommend that you get COVID insurance. However, this is not mandatory.
Climate & Weather
Sri Lanka has a tropical climate with wet and dry seasons. Generally, the coastal area of the island enjoys an average temperature of 28°C while the upland areas are much cooler with an average of 16°C- 20°C. Mostly, Sri Lanka experiences warm sunny days and occasional showers. However, this depends on where you’re travelling to. Make sure to pack sun protection and appropriate clothing when travelling to the coastal region along with jackets if you're travelling to the hill country. Sri Lanka respects all religions hence if religious sites are a part of the itinerary make sure to pack modest clothing.
Currency
The currency used in Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupees (Rs). You can check the currency exchange rate using xe.com. Upon arrival at the airport currency exchange services are available or you can do so at major banks as well. Credit cards are also accepted in most hotels, popular food chains, shopping districts, urban areas, etc.
Travelling in Sri Lanka
At Holidayscapes, as a part of your tour itinerary we will take care of all your travel needs upon your arrival in Sri Lanka right up to your departure. As a matter of interest, Sri Lanka has many freeways that connect to all major cities as well as scenic train routes, for those that wish to travel enjoying the scenic landscapes.
Depending on the number of persons travelling on your tour all our arranged tours at will be by car, minibus, or Bus and all our vehicles used for these tours are fully air-conditioned for your comfort with a tour guide provided.
Sites of Sri Lanka
Surrounded by the warm Indian Ocean and tropical climate all year round, Sri Lanka is full of rich cultural heritage sites. From remains of ancient buildings, and sacred cities, to the sensual frescoes at the palace rock of Sigiriya, many of these are UNESCO world heritage sites. Not forgetting, Sri Lanka is also the ideal destination for sailing, windsurfing, snorkelling, scuba diving, surfing, kayaking, dolphin and whale watching and so much more.
Food and Culture
Sri Lanka boasts of a diverse culture varying from region to region and Sri Lankans enjoy a humble, unique and artistic lifestyle. The culture and values of Sri Lanka are based on traditional forms of art, dance, and music.
Because of the cultivation of a variety of spices, vegetables, fruits, and rice, Sri Lanka consists of varied and select cuisine. As a staple, rice is consumed with an assortment of delicious curries such as chicken, fish, potato, green jackfruit, etc.
Other native delicacies include String hoppers, Pittu, and a Lankan/Dutch spin off on a rice curry, Lamprais are also widely available along with some other famous Sri Lankan dishes such as Kottu, hoppers, coconut roti, and many more..