Saily eSIM for Sri Lanka
Skip roaming fees with Saily, our partner eSIM provider. Use code ATOBEACH for 10% off.
Plans start at $3.59 for 1GB, valid for 7 days.
Activates when you land 200+ destinations Code ATOBEACH at checkout
5,414 mi away
£1 LKR 442.48
Today
9:26 am
+5h from you
Weather & climate
Weather in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka
29°
Thunderstorm with slight hail
Wed
24°
29°
Thu
25°
29°
Fri
25°
28°
Sat
24°
27°
Sun
25°
28°
Mon
25°
29°
Tue
26°
28°
SPF level in Sri Lanka
Recommended: SPF 50+ (extreme)
Spring
SPF 50+
Summer
SPF 50+ (extreme)
Autumn
SPF 50+
Winter
SPF 50+
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Before you go
Entry requirements for Sri Lanka
What British travellers need to know
To enter Sri Lanka, your passport must have an 'expiry date' at least 6 months after the day you arrive.
To enter Sri Lanka, you need to apply for an 'Electronic Travel Authorization' (ETA) which is a form of visa.
Apply for a Sri Lanka 'Electronic Travel Authorization' (ETA) online and it will be valid for 30 days.
If you plan to stay longer, you can apply for an extension online through Sri Lanka's official Immigration portal.
You do not need a visa if you are transiting through Sri Lanka by air, if the connecting flight is within 24 hours of your arrival.
Good to know:
You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.
To enter Sri Lanka, you must have a certificate to prove you've had a yellow fever vaccination if you're coming from a country listed as a transmission risk.
Safety in Sri Lanka
Tips when travelling
Sri Lanka is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Keep your passport on you as you must carry official identification at all times.
Be very careful with your bag, especially from moped snatch thieves, by carrying it on the side furthest from the road.
Be alert to drink spiking, avoid taking drinks from strangers and know your limit as drinks can be stronger.
Do not ignore signs prohibiting alcohol in certain public areas or you could be fined by police.
Always dress modestly at Buddhist temples, covering your legs and shoulders and removing shoes.
Bonus tips:
Nude or topless sunbathing is not permitted anywhere.
Bank card fraud is common, so use ATMs inside banks and keep your card in sight when paying.
Stay connected on your trip
More information
Driving in Sri Lanka
A UK driving license is valid for driving in Sri Lanka for up to 3 months. An International Driving Permit is recommended.
Side of road
left
Motorway speed limit
70 km/h to 100 km/h
Urban speed limit
50 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.08%
Health in Sri Lanka
Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including repatriation, as health facilities may be limited, especially in rural areas. Although GHIC/EHIC is not applicable in Sri Lanka, comprehensive travel insurance is essential.
No vaccinations required
Seek medical advice from your GP or a travel health clinic 4-6 weeks before travel and ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date. Dengue fever is a risk. Consider taking malaria medication and learn about preventing insect bites. Tap water is not safe to drink; use bottled or purified water.
Cards & payments
Card payments are becoming more widely accepted, especially in larger establishments, hotels, and tourist-oriented businesses in cities. However, smaller shops, restaurants, and rural areas may primarily rely on cash. Always check if card payments are accepted before making a purchase.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +1-303-967-1096
Tipping in Sri Lanka
Tipping is not deeply ingrained in Sri Lankan culture like in some Western countries, but it's becoming increasingly common, especially in tourist areas, to show appreciation for good service. While not obligatory, a small tip can go a long way and is always appreciated for good service.
Restaurant
5-10% of the bill, especially if a service charge isn't included. Check the bill first, as some establishments automatically add a 10% service charge.
Bar/Café
Rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount (LKR 50-100) for good service is appreciated.
Taxi
Rounding up the fare is appreciated, especially for longer journeys or helpful drivers.
Hotel Porter
LKR 100-200 per bag is a reasonable tip.
Hotel Housekeeper
LKR 200-300 per day, left at the end of your stay, is a thoughtful gesture.
Tour Guide
LKR 500-1000 per day, depending on the length and quality of the tour.
Mobile & roaming
Since the UK is no longer part of the EU, EU roaming regulations no longer apply. Check with your mobile provider about roaming charges in Sri Lanka before you travel. Roaming charges can be very high. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for more affordable data and calls.
Local SIM
10GB for 1500 LKR (~£4)
Network coverage
4G, 5G, GSM
Electrical in Sri Lanka
Voltage
230V / 50Hz
Plug types
Type D, Type G
No UK adapter needed
WiFi & internet
WiFi is available in many hotels, cafes, and restaurants, particularly in tourist areas and cities. The quality and speed of the connection can vary. Rural areas may have limited or no WiFi access.
Average speed
25 Mbps
While WiFi is available, it's still convenient to buy a local SIM card for uninterrupted access to the internet, especially if travelling in rural areas or relying on maps.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
112
Police
119
Ambulance
110
Fire
110
Save 112 in your phone before travelling.
Calling Sri Lanka
Country code
+94
To call the British High Commission in Colombo from the UK, dial 00 94 11 5390000.
To call a Sri Lankan number from abroad, dial your international exit code (00 in the UK), followed by the country code 94, and then the Sri Lankan phone number.
Languages in Sri Lanka
UK Embassy
British High Commission Colombo
389 Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 7, Sri Lanka
Phone
Website
Recent updates
Entry requirements
28 days ago
Visa requirements
- The technical issue with the ETA system is no longer mentioned. You no longer need to keep proof of your application due to system problems.
- The advice to consider applying for a visa on arrival if queues are long has been removed.
Visa requirements
- ETAs are now confirmed to be issued free of charge.
Airports in Sri Lanka
Beaches in Sri Lanka
Frequently asked questions
Yes, British citizens require a visa to enter Sri Lanka for tourism purposes. You can apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online prior to your travel, or obtain a visa through the Sri Lankan High Commission in London.
Sri Lanka is generally a safe country for tourists, but it's important to stay informed about the current security situation. Be aware of petty crime, especially in tourist areas, and take precautions to protect your belongings, and follow any advice issued by the British High Commission.
The best time to visit the west and south coasts of Sri Lanka is from December to March, while the east coast is best visited from April to September. These periods offer the driest weather for each region, making them ideal for beach vacations and exploring cultural sites.
Light, breathable clothing is recommended due to the tropical climate. When visiting temples and religious sites, dress respectfully by covering your shoulders and knees. Footwear should be removed before entering temples.
Be wary of overly friendly locals offering unsolicited tours or assistance, as they may inflate prices or lead you to tourist traps. Always agree on a price before accepting a service, such as a tuk-tuk ride. Be cautious of gem scams, where fake or overpriced gemstones are sold.
No, it is not safe to drink tap water in Sri Lanka. Drink bottled or purified water, especially when you first arrive. Be cautious of ice in drinks, and ensure that food is properly cooked.
Sri Lankan cuisine is known for its rich flavors and spices. Be sure to try rice and curry, hoppers (bowl-shaped pancakes), kottu roti (stir-fried roti with vegetables and meat), and string hoppers (rice noodles). Also sample local fruits such as mangoes, bananas, and jackfruit.
Sri Lanka is a predominantly Buddhist country, so be respectful of religious customs. Remove your shoes and hats when entering temples, and avoid pointing your feet at people or religious figures. Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon. Tipping is customary in restaurants and for services.
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.