Your Guide to a Smooth Sri Lanka Travel
To help make your visit to Sri Lanka enjoyable and stress-free, we have put together some very important information along with practical tips that will be useful throughout your adventure. From hassle-free travel, transfer options and helpful tips on etiquette observed by locals, rest assured that Hobby’n Tours has everything you need to get going.
Travel Tips
Prepare for a smooth journey with these helpful travel tips
- A visa is required to enter Sri Lanka. However, most visitors can obtain an electronic passport online before arriving in the country
- The local currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Money can be exchanged at the airport, banks and bureau de change. Credit or debit cards are accepted almost everywhere in major cities and tourist areas.
- Remember to carry a small first aid kit and personal medicines that you may need. Tap water is not safe to drink everywhere. Stick with bottled water.
- Sri Lanka has a tropical climate with two monsoon seasons. Light, breathable clothing should be worn with the ability to shower occasionally, especially when traveling during monsoons.
Transfers and Transportation
Get Transport in Sri Lanka easily
- Book your airport transfers in advance to ensure you have a smooth arrival in this beautiful country. Private transfers and shuttle services can be booked to take you directly to your accommodation.
We have several local transport options for getting around
- Ride-sharing through taxis are hassle-free options for getting around big cities.
- Tuk-tuks are a great way to drive locally and in a fun way. It has security implications. But we have several tuk-tuks to make your experience smooth.
- Public trains are budget options for inter-city travel or island hopping. Most of the railways are very scenic; The drive through the mountains is especially beautiful. We will customize your itinerary for that.
- If you want you can rent self-drive cars from us. Please note that one drives on the left and the traffic rules are strictly followed.
Local Etiquette
Respecting local customs and practices will enhance your travel experience
- Dress modestly at religious venues, mostly, it is respectful to keep your shoulders and knees covered. For women, this means adding long skirts or pants, shawls or scarves. For men, shorts should not be worn.
- Remove your shoes and hat when entering temples and other sacred places. Heed other such instructions, such as not pointing your feet at the objects they revere.
- Placing hands together in a slight bow or prayer is a common courtesy. Addressing locals politely, using the right hand to give or receive goods, the left hand is considered impolite.
- Tipping is not expected but appreciated. It is customary to tip a small amount for service staff in restaurants, hotels and taxis. Always check first to see if a service charge is already included in your bill.
Communication and Connectivity
Stay connected and up to date with your journey
- Though Sinhala and Tamil are the official languages, English is widely spoken in tourist areas and amongst service providers also.
- Buy a local SIM card as soon as you land for cheap data and call packages. Wi-Fi is mostly available in hotels, restaurants, and cafes.
- Always keep the list of emergency contact numbers handy. In an emergency, dial 119 for police, 110 for fire, and 011 269 1111 for medical assistance.
Get Ready for Your Sri Lankan Adventure
With these travel essentials, you are all set to get started on your Sri Lankan journey. At Hobby’n Tours, we have got your back, every step of the way to make sure you have a smooth, happy journey.
Please do not hesitate to contact us should you have any further questions about your trip or require more assistance. Have a safe journey, and enjoy your time in Sri Lanka!
