Booking: Reserve your accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons when options range from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses, but availability can be limited as these hotels often fill up quickly during high demand periods.
Travel Insurance: It’s wise to have travel insurance that covers accommodations in case of cancellations or emergencies.
Personal Safety: Sri Lanka is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid isolated areas after dark, keep your belongings secure, and be cautious in crowded places.
Hotel Security: Choose accommodations with good reviews regarding safety.
Travel Safety: For longer journeys, consider hiring a private driver from a trusted agency.
SIM Cards: Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, you can easily purchase a local SIM card. Major providers include Dialog, Mobitel, and Hutch. These offer affordable data plans with good coverage across the island.
Wi-Fi: Most hotels, cafes, and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi. However, coverage may be limited in rural areas, so having mobile data is useful.
International Calls: Apps like WhatsApp, Skype, and Viber are popular for making international calls over the internet. Ensure you have these installed before your trip.
Police: Dial 119 for police assistance in case of an emergency.
Medical Emergency: Dial 110 or 011-2691111 for an ambulance service.
Tourist Police: Located in major tourist areas, they can assist with any issues. The Tourist Police hotline is 1912.
Embassy: Keep your embassy’s contact information handy. Most embassies are located in Colombo.
Visa Requirements: Most tourists need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before entering Sri Lanka. This can be done online through the official Sri Lanka ETA website.
Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date.
Travel Documents: Carry printed copies of your ETA approval, hotel bookings, and return flight details, as these may be requested at immigration.
Health Insurance: Proof of travel insurance, including coverage for COVID-19, may be required at the point of entry.
