Sri Lanka – General Information About the Country & Its People

Sri Lanka is becoming an increasingly popular travel destination year after year. Since the end of the civil war in 2009, the number of tourists has been steadily rising.
Sri Lanka, meaning "shining island", truly lives up to its name: the island is colorful, lively, and captivating.

The island nation in the Indian Ocean offers beautiful beaches, excellent surfing and diving spots, and vast national parks with unique wildlife and plant life.
The culture is fascinating and diverse, and the cuisine, known for its spiciness, strongly resembles Indian cuisine.
Sri Lanka is also especially famous for its premium tea and traditional Ayurveda healing.

In this article, you will find general information about the country and its people that will help you prepare for your trip and make your travel planning easier.

1. SRI LANKA COUNTRY & PEOPLE

Sri Lanka is an island nation that was known as Ceylon until 1972. The island, which covers about 65,000 km², is located in the Indian Ocean, south of India.
The shortest distance between India and Sri Lanka is only about 55 kilometers by sea. The capital of the island is Colombo, where the international airport is also located.

Around 21.7 million people live on Sri Lanka, mostly referred to as Sinhalese. This ethnic group plays a major role in shaping the culture and daily life on the island.

2. THE BEST TRAVEL TIME FOR SRI LANKA

Sri Lanka can generally be visited year-round. Depending on the activities you plan to do or which region you want to explore, it is helpful to know that the island has different climate zones.

For the east coast, the months from March to November are recommended, as this is when the northeast monsoon passes through, which is active in this region from April to October.

The south coast, on the other hand, is best visited from November to April.
Between May and the end of September, heavy rainfall from the southwest monsoon can occur, while the east and northeast of the island remain dry during this period.

In general, Sri Lanka can be affected by tropical storms, also known as cyclones. The months of May, October, and November have the highest probability of such weather phenomena.

The peak season, which is also the most expensive travel time, spans from December to February.
During this period, the demand for accommodations and activities is particularly high, which affects prices.

3. THE CLIMATE IN SRI LANKA

Sri Lanka has a tropical monsoon climate due to its proximity to the equator, which results in high humidity levels year-round, ranging from 70% to 90%.
The average temperatures are around 30°C.

If you want to escape the heat and high humidity, it is recommended to travel to Sri Lanka's central highlands. There, temperatures range between 20°C and 24°C.
These cooler temperatures offer a welcome change and make it pleasant to explore the picturesque landscapes and many tea fields in this region.

4. THE IDEAL TRAVEL DURATION

The ideal travel duration in Sri Lanka depends largely on your personal interests and preferences.
Many tourists spend just one week on the island, which is feasible but often leads to a hectic travel style where you rush from one highlight to the next.

We opted for a more relaxing approach and spent a total of two trips, each lasting 15 nights in Sri Lanka.
This gave us enough time to explore some attractions at a leisurely pace while also enjoying relaxing days on the beach.

For a well-balanced trip, we recommend a duration of about 10 to 17 days.
This time frame allows you to experience the island's diversity – from cultural highlights to nature experiences, as well as relaxing beach stays.

5. THE OFFICIAL LANGUAGE

The majority of Sinhalese people speak the language Sinhala, which has its own script.
In the northern part of Sri Lanka, Tamil is the predominant language, which led to Tamil being declared an official language of the country as well.
On the other hand, English is the language of communication and education throughout the island and is widely used, especially in urban areas and tourist centers.

6. THE TIME DIFFERENCE

Sri Lanka does not observe daylight saving time, so the time remains constant throughout the year. This means that depending on the time of year, the time difference between Sri Lanka and other parts of the world will vary, depending on whether those regions observe daylight saving time or not.

7. CURRENCY & PAYMENT METHODS

The official currency in Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). It is important to note that you are allowed to bring in and take out a maximum of 1,000 LKR (approximately $3), which usually makes it not worthwhile to exchange money in advance in your home country.

You can exchange money at almost any hotel in Sri Lanka, but we recommend exchanging your money at one of the banks for the official exchange rate.
The exchange rate at hotels is often less favorable, and additional fees may apply.

With major credit cards, you can withdraw cash from ATMs, in banks, and sometimes even at hotel receptions.

GOOD TO KNOW

For your trip to Sri Lanka, you will need a plug adapter, as the country uses plug types A and B. The plug types C and F commonly used in Germany are not found there.
You can find the appropriate adapter here: Travel Adapter Sri Lanka.

8. CRIMINALITY ON THE ISLAND

Sri Lanka is considered a very safe and peaceful travel destination, especially since the end of the civil war.
Crimes and thefts against tourists are rare, but it is still advisable to always keep an eye on your valuables. Occasionally, there may be burglaries in hotels or hotel rooms.
During our stay, there was actually an incident, but the hotel staff responded quickly and was able to apprehend the thief with the stolen items before he left the hotel.

If you, as a woman, want to feel even safer, it is recommended not to travel alone but to join small groups.

9. ENTRY AND ARRIVAL IN SRI LANKA

Entry to Sri Lanka is possible for most international travelers with a valid passport or a temporary passport.
It is important that all travel documents are valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry.
Upon arrival, you must also complete an entry card, which can be obtained either on the plane or upon arrival at the airport.
Additionally, proof of a return or onward travel ticket is required. The average flight duration to Colombo varies depending on departure location, airline, and any stopovers.

To find the best flight options, you can use platforms such as skyscanner.com.

If you are planning a longer stay, please check the relevant entry requirements and regulations with your country's foreign ministry in advance.

10. TRANSPORTATION IN SRI LANKA

When traveling around Sri Lanka, patience is key. While the larger cities of the country are connected by well-developed, mostly dual-lane roads, outside of the main highways, you will quickly encounter chaotic traffic. The roads are crowded with tuk-tuks, trucks, buses, people, dogs, and even cows. In Sri Lanka, people drive on the left side of the road.

There are several ways to get around. We mostly traveled with a private driver, which is quite common in Sri Lanka and offers the most comfortable and convenient way to explore the country and its attractions. Our driver was very friendly and spoke understandable English.
At the end of our second tour, he even invited us to his home to proudly show us his family and house.

Alternatively, you can use a tuk-tuk, the small, colorful three-wheelers. In cities and towns, they are used as taxis.
Tuk-tuk drivers in Colombo usually use a meter; outside of Colombo, you should negotiate the fare before starting the ride. However, tuk-tuks are not ideal for long-distance travel.

If you feel comfortable with driving on the left side of the road, have no concerns about road conditions, and want to get from point A to point B quickly without much luggage or additional passengers, you can rent a scooter or motorcycle.

An affordable and unique way to explore Sri Lanka is by train. Local trains offer three classes, and with Expo Rail cars, you can travel in a more comfortable, air-conditioned setting at a higher price. Two popular railway routes are: from Colombo to Galle along the west coast and from Nuwara Eliya to Ella in the Sri Lankan highlands.

11. CULINARY SRI LANKA

A trip to Sri Lanka means plenty of rice and curry! Among the most common dishes are boiled curry rice with meat or fish and vegetables, fried rice also with meat or fish, dhal curry, egg hoppers (a typical breakfast dish consisting of a bowl-shaped pancake with an egg in the middle), and many fresh fruits.

Be aware that many of the dishes can be quite spicy for those unaccustomed to such flavors. In hotels, you will usually get a milder version of the local food.

The Sinhalese have special customs when it comes to eating. The guest is considered king and always eats first – and alone.
So if you are invited to a local family’s home, don’t be surprised if you are asked to eat alone.
Also, the left hand is considered unclean, so it has no place at the dining table and is not used for greetings either.

The national drinks of the Sinhalese are Ceylon tea and arrack, a high-proof spirit made from distilled palm wine.

12. THE RELIGIONS

Sri Lanka is a land of religious diversity. The majority of the population, about 69%, are Sinhalese who practice Theravada Buddhism.
The Tamils, making up around 15% of the population, are almost exclusively Hindu. The remainder of the Sinhalese population follows either Islam or the Roman Catholic Church.

In Sri Lanka, which is strongly influenced by Hindu traditions, cows are considered sacred. We experienced this firsthand during our tours.
There are indeed many cows grazing by the roadside, and sometimes they simply wander across the street.
If they find something interesting, they stop in the middle of the road, and cars, buses, or tuk-tuks have to wait until the cow decides to move on.
It is not allowed to honk or take any other actions to make the cow move – as mentioned, cows are sacred.

We were fortunate to be in Sri Lanka during the Vesak full moon festival. This festival holds great significance for Buddhists, and we had the chance to witness the celebrations up close. Additionally, we noticed that many Buddhist weddings take place just before this holiday.
If you happen to be in Sri Lanka at the end of April or the beginning of May and have the opportunity to attend a wedding ceremony, don’t miss it!

13. DANGEROUS ANIMALS ON THE ISLAND

The entire island of Sri Lanka boasts a stunning and diverse flora and fauna. Among the wildlife, there are a few animals you should treat with extra caution.
Particularly noteworthy are the numerous diurnal Bengal monitor lizards, which possess toxic saliva. A local explained to us that even they have great respect for these creatures.
The monitors often approach humans and are attracted to kitchen waste, making them a common sight during the day.

Black scorpions are widespread across the country, especially after extended dry periods when the rains finally arrive.
During these times, their burrows fill with water, forcing them to seek dry shelter, which might be inside a shoe or backpack. Scorpions only sting when they feel threatened.
Most people get stung because a scorpion was hiding in a shoe, seeking a warm, dry spot.
For adults, the stings are usually not life-threatening, and severe symptoms generally subside within a few hours, though in rare cases, it might take a few days.

Sri Lanka is home to about 85 species of land snakes, of which approximately five are highly venomous to humans.
The Russell's viper, along with the krait and cobra, accounts for most fatalities caused by snake bites. Victims are typically workers in rice fields.
Snakes are generally shy and will only bite when they feel threatened, but caution is always advised.

14. TRADITIONAL AYURVEDA

In Sri Lanka, you have the opportunity to harmonize your body and mind – thanks to Ayurveda. Ayurveda is the world’s oldest holistic healing system, originating in India.
Its goal is to create a balanced state of body and mind to promote a long and healthy life.

If you’re interested in such a treatment, you’ll find options all over the island, in almost every town. There are numerous Ayurveda hotels specializing in natural healing and detoxification.
Give it a try – we can wholeheartedly recommend it! Even if the herbs and various rituals don’t appeal to you, the accompanying massages are sure to do you good.

15. HOTELS & ACCOMMODATIONS

The southern part of Sri Lanka is well-developed for tourism and offers everything a traveler could wish for.
You’ll find a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly and luxurious hotels to Airbnbs, hostels, and private guesthouses.

During our trip, we stayed at the Avani Kalutara Resort and the Club Hotel Dolphin, both as part of a package tour.
These medium-sized, beautifully designed hotels served as the perfect base for all our excursions. We were thoroughly satisfied with our stays and lacked nothing.
For these reasons, we can wholeheartedly recommend these hotels to you.

16. SPECIAL VACCINATIONS FOR SRI LANKA

Due to the tropical climate, Sri Lanka is home to many mosquitoes and other insects that can transmit diseases such as Japanese encephalitis, leishmaniasis, chikungunya, and dengue fever.
Vaccinations for hepatitis A, tetanus, diphtheria, and rabies are therefore recommended. However, these vaccinations are not mandatory for travelers from most countries.

17. ADDITIONAL IMPORTANT TIPS

• Bargaining: Negotiate with the locals for almost everything. Many Sri Lankans live modestly or below the poverty line, so it’s understandable if they charge tourists slightly higher prices.
• Take it slow: Embrace the relaxed pace of life in Sri Lanka. Things may take longer than expected, and punctuality is not a priority.
  It’s common for people to stop mid-task to chat or take their time, so patience is key.
• Greeting: A traditional greeting involves folding your hands at head level and bowing slightly.
  You can say "Hello" or use the Sinhalese greeting "Ayubowan", which means "May you have a long life". This phrase is also used for farewells.
  Handshakes are uncommon and may be considered impolite. Avoid using your left hand, as it is considered unclean.
• Modesty: Modesty in dress and behavior is highly valued. While some resorts may tolerate nude sunbathing, swimming naked is prohibited across the island and is considered disrespectful. Always dress appropriately and adhere to local customs.
• Traditional Clothing: The traditional attire for men is the dhoti, or veti, a long piece of cloth tied at the waist and wrapped around the legs.
  For women, the sari is the traditional garment, often paired with a matching blouse (choli). These traditional outfits are still commonly worn in everyday life.

USEFUL LINKS & RECOMMENDED TRAVEL GUIDES FOR YOU

• Find affordable Transfers with 12Go.com
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• Discover the best accommodations
• The best Travel Guides for Sri Lanka
• Unique Excursions to Experience in Sri Lanka

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