£1 LKR 420.90
Today
9:26 am
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Weather in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka
29°
Partly cloudy
Wed
28
29
Thu
28
29
Fri
28
29
Sat
28
30
Sun
28
30
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.
Getting around Sri Lanka
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.
Safety in Sri Lanka
Tips for British travellers
Sri Lanka is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Store your belongings securely in your accommodation to avoid theft, and carry as few items as possible when out.
Be alert to bag snatching by thieves on mopeds, and carry your bag on the side of you furthest from the road.
Use ATMs inside banks or hotels where possible, and always keep your bank card in sight when paying in shops and restaurants.
Do not take drinks from strangers or leave your drink unattended, as drink spiking and subsequent robbery or assault occurs.
Always carry your passport as official ID, though a copy is usually acceptable.
Be aware that alcohol may not be available and drinking in public can be culturally insensitive or lead to fines on religious holidays.
Smoking in certain public areas can lead to fines if you ignore 'no smoking' signs.
Do not fly drones near or take photographs of military bases, government buildings, or VIP vehicles.
Nude or topless sunbathing is not allowed, and you must cover your legs and shoulders when entering a Buddhist temple.
Many beaches have dangerous surf or rip tides, so get advice from your hotel or tour operator before swimming.
Agree on a price before getting into a tuk-tuk or ensure the meter is working.
When travelling by train, stay inside the carriage while it is moving and take care of your possessions due to theft.
Bonus tips:
Do not pose for photographs standing in front of a statue of Buddha.
Check that any vehicle you hire is from a company registered with the tourist board and has a 'Safe & Secure' certificate.
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%
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
112
Police
119
Ambulance
110
Fire
110
Save 112 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in Sri Lanka
Voltage
230V / 50Hz
Plug types
Type D, Type G
UK adapter needed?
No
The standard voltage in Sri Lanka is 230V and the frequency is 50Hz. Plug types D and G are used. UK travellers may not need an adapter depending on their plugs.
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
ATMs in Sri Lanka
ATMs are readily available in major cities and tourist areas. However, they might be less common in rural areas, so it's wise to withdraw enough cash when you have access to an ATM.
Local name
ATM
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
Most ATMs accept international cards. Be aware of potential transaction fees charged by both your bank and the local ATM provider. Look for ATMs affiliated with major international networks like Visa and Mastercard for easier transactions.
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 data package
10GB for 1500 LKR (~£4)
Network coverage
4G, 5G, GSM
Local carriers
Dialog, Mobitel, Hutch
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.
Health & vaccinations 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.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Dengue fever
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.
Calling Sri Lanka
Country code
+94
To call Sri Lanka from the UK, dial 00 94 followed by the local number.
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.
UK Embassy in Sri Lanka
British High Commission Colombo
389 Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 7, Sri Lanka
Airports in Sri Lanka
Frequently asked questions
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.