Joanna James
Travellers headed to Sri Lanka are in for an unforgettable holiday experience, as the island country is home to diverse landscapes, rich cultural history, and warm hospitality that welcomes you with open arms wherever you go. Here’s everything you need to know before visiting the charming teardrop.
Travellers heading to Sri Lanka are required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), which initially allows a stay of up to 30 days and can be extended for up to 180 days through consecutive extensions. Application is quite quick and straightforward and can be applied via the official government ETA website, www.eta.gov.lk.
Citizens of The Republic of Singapore, The Republic of Maldives and The Republic of Seychelles are exempt from the requirement of obtaining an ETA to visit Sri Lanka.
While the visa/ETA fee is exempted for citizens of China, India, Indonesia, Russia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan, obtaining an ETA is required.
The majority opinion has that the best time to visit Sri Lanka is from December to April so that you can avoid the island’s two monsoon seasons, northeast monsoon and southwest monsoon. However, it is also when both crowds and prices reach their peak. Contrary to popular opinion, it is safe to say that the island country is more or less a year-round country.
If there’s one thing you should keep in mind when packing for Sri Lanka, that is not to pack your entire wardrobe. Ladies, this one’s for you. The South Asian country is pretty easy-going when it comes to clothing, and how fancy you’d want to go is totally your choice. Pack 3-4 pieces of tees and shorts, a pair of pants, swimwear, a pair of sunglasses, flip flops, walking/hiking shoes, enough sunscreen and mosquito repellent, and you should be good.
Getting around in Sri Lanka is quite easy not only because of the island country’s compact size but also because of the range of transportation options it offers. Tuk-tuks are, without a doubt, the most popular as well as the most affordable when it comes to intra-city transportation. Trains are particularly popular among tourists for their scenic journeys, especially the train from Kandy to the mountain town of Ella, which is often considered the most beautiful train journey in the world. When it comes to intercity travelling and also when comfort is top of mind, consider hiring a Sri Lanka rent-a-car service the likes of Malkey Rent A Car.
Fun and exciting things to do in Sri Lanka may be plentiful, but your time in the island country wouldn’t be complete without getting a taste of its authentic local cuisine. Steer clear of the gourmet buffet at your swanky resort and treat yourself to an assortment of traditional Sri Lankan delicacies. From flavoursome kottu to comforting dhal curry and delicious kiribath, the foodie in you is absolutely spoiled for choice.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
