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Updated by Joanna James on May 02, 2024
Headline for Sri Lanka on a budget 17 ways to make your money go further – Being thrifty can help stretch a stay
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Joanna James Joanna James
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Sri Lanka on a budget 17 ways to make your money go further – Being thrifty can help stretch a stay

Travellers from all walks of life have traditionally found Sri Lanka to be an economical vacation. Visitors visiting the island nation can enjoy palm-fringed golden sandy beaches, wildlife adventures and ancient temples packed with interesting history without having to break the wallet.

1

Plan ahead of time for your travels

Book your Sri Lanka flights in advance to save money. You should be able to find lower-than-average fares anywhere from three months to two weeks before the trip. There are regular flights from North America and Europe to Bandaranaike International Airport, about 35 kilometres north of Colombo, which is served by major airlines like Qatar Airways and Emirates. Sri Lankan Airlines fly directly from Heathrow Airport in the United Kingdom. Singapore Airlines and Malaysia Airlines are your best bet for a cheap flight in Asia and Australia.

2

Plan to fly via India if possible

From Indian cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and New Delhi, the cheapest flights to Sri Lanka can be had. Flying over the Palk Strait from Sri Lanka to India could save you money if you want to experience both countries. You should also see if you can save money by flying through India, even if it's just for the sake of convenience.

3

Travel during the off-season

From December through April, Sri Lanka experiences its busiest tourism season. It is possible to save money on lodging if you travel during the off-peak months of December through April. The northwest monsoon season lasts from May to September, but don't be alarmed; due to Sri Lanka's tropical environment, the downpours are brief.
There are sandy beaches, a strong surf scene, and an abundance of animals to be seen on the east coast during the monsoon season. Kalpitiya kitesurfing conditions are world-class from June through August.

4

Take a bus to the airport

Costing less than two dollars, small, air-conditioned buses travel from the airport to the city centre in Colombo. About a 30-minute drive is required. This is an excellent approach to save money if you're only taking a backpack and a carry-on.

5

Hostels and homestays

Local homestays in Sri Lanka can be booked for as little as US$10 per night. Booking.com and Airbnb are two of the most popular platforms for booking homestays.
The pandemic forced the closure of many of the island's inexpensive hostels, although there are still a few to be found in the country's major cities and seaside towns. Hostel beds cost between US$7 and US$15 per night. Luxurious hotel rooms and villas can be had for as little as $100–150 per night during the off-season.
If you are looking for restaurants in Mirissa, be sure to check out the Lantern Boutique Hotel so that you can rest your weary soul and fill yourself up with some delicious local cuisine.

6

Don't schedule long-term stays in advance.

The cost of a self-catering apartment or small house in Sri Lanka can range from USD 20 per night to several hundred USD per night. If you're planning on staying for a long time, talking to the owner once you arrive can help you negotiate a better price and save money on taxes. Long-term guests are frequently offered a discount by property owners.