Everythingyouneedtoknow
Practical tips and seasonal wisdom for the Pearl of the Indian Ocean.
Before you go
Essential information
Getting There
Bandaranaike Int'l Airport (CMB) is the main hub. Direct flights from Asia, Europe and the Middle East.
Best Time
Dec–Mar for the south & west. Apr–Sep for the east coast. Hill country is glorious year-round.
Currency
Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). USD widely accepted. ATMs in cities, cards in hotels.
Languages
Sinhala and Tamil are official. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Connectivity
4G nationwide. Local SIMs at the airport. Free WiFi in hotels and cafés.
Getting Around
Private chauffeur is the easiest. Tuk-tuks for short hops. Trains for the hills.
When to visit
Best seasons to travel
Dry Season
Monsoon Season
Festivals
Cultural celebrations
Vesak Festival
Esala Perahera
Sinhala & Tamil New Year
Food & Drink
A taste of Sri Lanka
Rice & Curry
The national meal: rice with 5+ curries, sambols and papadums.
Hoppers (Appa)
Bowl-shaped pancakes — perfect for breakfast with egg or coconut milk.
Kottu Roti
Chopped roti stir-fried with vegetables, egg and meat. Sound: cha-cha-cha.
Ceylon Tea
World-famous tea from the misty hill country plantations.