March 3rd, 2025
If you are travelling to Sri Lanka, follow these essential travel tips make the most of your trip:
Public transport in Sri Lanka is incredibly affordable. Trains and buses are the best options for budget travellers, and they are well connected to most destinations.
Sri Lankans are known for their friendliness, and many speak English, making communication easy for tourists. So, if you are need in of any help, do not hesitate to talk to a local.
The dry season, from December to April, is the peak tourist season. However, Sri Lanka's tropical climate means unexpected rains can occur, so always check the weather before heading out.
To avoid overpaying, always confirm prices with hotels or local guides. Bargaining is common in markets and when hiring tuk tuks. Prices can vary significantly between cities, so be mindful of regional differences.
For a comfortable and a very affordable ride within cities, use the PickMe app, a local alternative to Uber. You can book cars, tuk tuks, bikes, or even mini vans through this app. It is also a great option to avoid getting scammed.
Renting a tuk-tuk is another exciting option to get around Sri Lanka, but keep in mind that you’ll need a Sri Lankan driving license, which can be obtained from the same company tuktukrental.com as well but for an extra price.
The train journey from Kandy to Ella is one of the most scenic in the world and must do for everyone. Book your seats in advance, preferably in 2nd or 3rd class if you want a thrilling experience of hanging out of a window or the door. 1st class carriage doors and windows will be shut throughout the journey. Another fact is that trains will get overcrowded during the weekends, so it is best to plan your trip around them.
WiFi can get disappointing inside the country, so make sure you have a data connection to stay connected. Get a local SIM card or E-Sim from “Dialog” or “Mobitel” for seamless internet access and best coverage. These are very affordable and can be purchased at the airport or from local shops around the country.
Colombo is worth a brief visit, but Sri Lanka’s true beauty lies in its Hills, National Parks and Beaches. Spend more time in places like Ella, Nuwara Eliya, Mirissa, Southern coast, Trincomalee, Jaffna and Arugam Bay.
Avoid elephant rides in Pinnawala. These elephants are raised in captivity and tamed by brutally abusing them. Instead, visit ethical wildlife sanctuaries such as Udawalawe National Park to see elephants, leopards and exotic birds in their natural habitat. We would not recommend visiting the Zoo in Colombo since it is also way below the standards that animals should be treated.
Keep in mind that outside Colombo, many places do not accept cards. Even public buses accept cash only. So make sure you always carry enough cash for your daily expenses.
Experience the rich flavors of Sri Lanka by trying local dishes such as rice and curry, hoppers and vegetarian delicacies. They are mouthwatering and super affordable too. Even if you are vegetarian, do not worry, plenty of vegetarian dishes are available.
For an optimal itinerary, travel in an anticlockwise direction, starting in Colombo and moving south along the coast before heading into the hills. This will help you to avoid busy train schedules as well.
Stay in guesthouses or local hotels for an authentic experience and better hospitality. They are very affordable, clean and unmatched hospitality with the best food.
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Team Lankanly.
