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Sri Lanka

Reclining Buddha And Monk Ananda

Sri Lanka tours

Sigiriya Fortress

Authentic Sri Lanka

16 Days

1 Country

From

$5,075

pp

Mother And Baby Elephant

Wildlife of Sri Lanka

11 Days

1 Country

From

$5,780

pp

Blue train to tea plantations

Essence of Sri Lanka

11 Days

1 Country

From

$4,565

pp

Travel tips

Northeast Monsoon

Dec-Feb

Average temperature:

22˚C-30˚C

Rainfall:

~150-300 mm/month

Inter-monsoon (1st)

Mar-May

Average temperature:

25˚C-33˚C

Rainfall:

~100-200 mm/month

Southwest Monsoon

May-Sep

Average temperature:

24˚C-31˚C

Rainfall:

~200-400 mm/month

Inter-monsoon (2nd)

Oct-Nov

Average temperature:

24˚C-31˚C

Rainfall:

~250-350 mm/month 

Country dialing code

+94

Capital city

Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte (administrative), Colombo (commercial)

Official language

Sinhala, Tamil

Currency

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Sri Lanka’s tropical climate means it’s warm year-round, but planning around the monsoon seasons ensures a more pleasant and dry experience. The best time to visit Sri Lanka largely depends on which part of the island you plan to explore. For the south and west coasts (including Colombo, Galle, and the hill country), the ideal travel period is December to March, when the weather is warm and dry. If you're heading to the north and east coasts (like Trincomalee or Arugam Bay), the best time is May to September, as this region experiences its dry season then.

    Highlights

    Yala National Park

    Yala is Sri Lanka’s premier wildlife destination, home to leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and crocodiles. Safari through its diverse landscapes for thrilling encounters with nature. 

    Sigiriya

    Climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO site with ancient frescoes, landscaped gardens, and panoramic views. This 5th century marvel blends history, art, and adventure.

    Temples

    Explore Sri Lanka’s spiritual heart through its sacred temples. Visit Dambulla’s cave shrines and Kandy’s Temple of the Tooth, where Buddhist heritage and rituals come alive.

    Tea Country

    Wander through Sri Lanka’s lush tea country, where misty hills, waterfalls, and colonial charm await. Tour plantations, sip Ceylon tea, and ride the scenic train from Ella to Nuwara Eliya. 

    Cuisine

    Sri Lankan cuisine bursts with flavour—think spicy curries, hoppers, sambols, and fresh seafood. Each dish reflects the island’s rich cultural blend and love for bold, aromatic spices. 

    South Coast

    Sri Lanka’s south coast offers golden beaches, surf spots, and colonial charm. Explore Galle’s Dutch Fort, relax in Bentota, or unwind on palm-fringed shores with turquoise waters.

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    Useful information

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    Communications

    Country Code for Sri Lanka +94 

     

    Official Travel advice visit:  

    Sri Lanka Travel Advice & Safety | Smartraveller (Australia) 

    Sri Lanka | SafeTravel NZ (New Zealand) 

     Fire and rescue services: Call 110. 

    Medical emergencies: Call 110. 

    Police: Call 118 or 119 or go to your local police station. 

    Tourist police: Call +94 11 242 1052 or +94 11 242 1451. 

     

    Australian High Commission, Colombo 

    21, Srimath R. G. Senanayake Mawatha (formerly Gregory's Road) Colombo 7, Sri Lanka 

    Phone: +94 11 246 3200 
    Fax: +94 11 268 6453 
    Email: consular.colombo@dfat.gov.au  
    Website: srilanka.embassy.gov.au 

     

    New Zealand High Commission Colombo 

    Unit 2401−2402, Level 24 One Galle Face Tower 1A Centre Road, Galle Face 00200 Colombo Sri Lanka 

    Phone: +94 11 217 4717 
    Email: NZHCColombo@mfat.govt.nz  
    Website: www.mfat.govt.nz/sri-lanka/ 

    Customs

    Sri Lanka has a rich cultural heritage deeply rooted in Buddhism, Hinduism, and colonial influences. When visiting temples, modest clothing is necessary with shoulders and knees covered. Shoes and hats must be removed before entering sacred spaces. It’s considered disrespectful to turn your back to a Buddha statue when taking photos or to touch religious artifacts. Always ask permission before photographing people, especially monks.  

     

    Avoid discussing politics, especially topics related to the civil war or ethnic tensions. These are sensitive issues for many locals. 

     

    Hospitality is a key part of Sri Lankan culture, so it’s common to be offered tea or food, so accepting graciously is appreciated. Additionally, always use your right hand when giving or receiving items, as the left is considered unclean. 

    Electricity

    Plug Types: Type D, Type G and Type M 

    Voltage: 230 V 

    Frequency: 50 Hz 

    Note: Type G is the same as used in the UK, while Type D and M are round pin plugs common in Southeast Asia. A universal adapter is useful, especially for older buildings that may still use Type D or M sockets. 

    Health

    Dengue fever is a risk in Sri Lanka. The risk of insect-borne illnesses increases during the wetter months. This is December to March in the northeast and May to October in the southwest. 

     

    Outbreaks of other insect-borne diseases often occur, including chikungunya, Japanese encephalitis and filariasis. To protect yourself from disease, use mosquito and insect repellent, wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing and get vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis. 

     

    To protect yourself from foodborne, waterborne and other infectious diseases drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids, avoid ice cubes and avoid uncooked and undercooked food, such as salads. 

     

    Official Travel advice visit:  

    Sri Lanka Travel Advice & Safety | Smartraveller (Australia) 

    Sri Lanka | SafeTravel NZ (New Zealand) 

    How to Get There & Getting Around

    Most international travellers arrive via Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) near Colombo. Connecting flights are available from major hubs like Dubai, Singapore, Doha and Kuala Lumpur. 

     

    Once in Sri Lanka, there are many affordable transport options. Domestic flights are limited but available for quick access to remote areas like Jaffna or the east coast. Trains are scenic and affordable, especially the Kandy-Ella and Colombo-Galle routes. Book first or second class in advance for comfort. The bus network is extensive and cheap, but often crowded and slow.  

     

    Tuk-Tuks are great for short distances and local exploration. Always agree on a fare or use a metered tuk-tuk. Private cars with a driver are a popular and flexible option. Taxis and Ride-share apps such as PickMe and Uber operate in major cities like Colombo and Kandy. 

    Holiday​s & Festivals

    • Duruthu Full Moon Poya Day – 13 January: Marks the Buddha’s first visit to Sri Lanka. 
    • Tamil Thai Pongal Day – 14 January: A Tamil harvest festival giving thanks to the Sun God. 
    • Independence Day – 4 February: Celebrates Sri Lanka’s independence from British rule in 1948. 
    • Sinhala & Tamil New Year – 13–14 April: Marks the traditional new year and the end of the harvest season. 
    • Vesak Full Moon Poya Day – 12–13 May: Celebrates the Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and passing. 
    • Poson Full Moon Poya Day – 10 June: Commemorates the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka. 
    • Deepavali – 20 October: Hindu festival celebrating the triumph of good over evil. 

    Language

    In Sri Lanka, the two official languages are Sinhala and Tamil. Sinhala is spoken by the Sinhalese majority, primarily in the south, west and central regions, while Tamil is predominantly used by the Tamil minority in the north and east. English is widely used in areas popular with tourists.

    Money, Tipping & Shopping

    In Sri Lanka, the official currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR), and it is the only accepted currency for everyday transactions. Credit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist hubs, but cash is preferred in smaller towns and rural areas.  

     

    Tipping is expected across the hospitality industry. While some restaurants include a 10% service charge, it’s still polite to leave a small additional tip. Porters, drivers and tour guides generally expect tips, which can vary depending on the level of service.  

     

    Shopping in Sri Lanka is a colourful experience, with popular souvenirs including Ceylon tea, spices, handloom fabrics, batik clothing, moonstone jewellery and Ayurvedic products. Bargaining is common in markets and with street vendors, though fixed-price shops are also widely available in cities and towns. 

    Visas

    The Travel Corporation has partnered with the company Sherpa to provide travellers with the latest government and health restrictions. Simply enter the country you want to travel to for information on safety regulations, border closures, quarantine requirements, your travel visa and more using the Sherpa travel tool: Visa Advice 

     

    To enter Sri Lanka, you'll need a visa if travelling on an Australian or New Zealand passport: Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).  

     

    Do this prior to travel, as there are limited facilities to obtain an ETA on arrival at Colombo's Bandaranaike International Airport.  

     
    Official Travel advice visit:  

    Sri Lanka Travel Advice & Safety | Smartraveller (Australia) 

    Sri Lanka | SafeTravel NZ (New Zealand) 

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