Sri Lanka, earlier known as the Golden Lanka, is an island nation in the Indian Ocean with two capitals, Colombo and Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte. The country is renowned for its historical connections to the epic Ramayana. 

According to legend, the mighty king of Lanka, Ravana, ruled over a vast empire in Sri Lanka. The history of Sri Lanka is steeped in stories and theories, from the imprisonment of Sita in the Ashoka Vatika to the epic battle of the Ramayana and the eventual downfall of Ravana’s empire.

Languages Spoken in Sri Lanka

Sinhala is the primary language spoken in Sri Lanka, followed by Tamil as the second most popular language. In tourist areas, locals also understand Hindi and English, making it convenient for travelers to communicate.

How to reach Sri Lanka ( Srilankan Airlines)

Most direct flights from India arrive in Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka. Direct flights are available from major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Hyderabad, with a flight duration of 2 to 3 hours. The average round-trip flight cost ranges from 20,000 to 30,000 rupees, excluding discounts.

Visa Facility in Sri Lanka ( Bali Guide)

Indian nationals currently do not require a visa for entry into Sri Lanka until March 31, 2024. This exemption means that visitors from India can enjoy free entry. However, it is advisable to verify this information closer to your travel date. To obtain a visa for Sri Lanka, you can visit www.etv.gov.ik and provide your basic details along with the required payment to receive immediate visa approval. 

The visa fee ranges from 1600 to 1700 rupees per person. It is necessary to present your passport and return tickets as proof of visa validity, which is typically for a 30-day stay. Upon arrival at Colombo’s airport, you will need to complete a form at the immigration counter.

SIM Cards in Sri Lanka

At the airport in Colombo, you can purchase a SIM card with 15 GB of data, unlimited voice calls, and a validity of 7 days for 400 rupees. However, SIM cards are generally more expensive at airports. 

Alternatively, in the markets of Colombo, you can buy a Dialog SIM card for Rs 80, which includes 7 GB of data and is valid for 7 days.

Convenience in Sri Lanka 

The main city of Colombo is approximately 30 km from the airport, with taxi and bus services available for transportation. Taxis cost between 1000 to 2000 rupees, while buses charge Rs 100 per person. A daily cab rental in Colombo costs around 2000 rupees, and auto-rickshaws are also available for city tours starting at 800 rupees.

Traveling from Colombo to Galle by bus costs around 115 rupees per person, while a third-class AC train ticket can be purchased for Rs 80. Exploring Galle’s sights via auto-rickshaw costs about 800 rupees, and a bus ride from Galle Fort to Unawatuna Beach costs just 35 rupees.

Direct buses from Colombo to Sigiriya are unavailable, but buses to Dambulla and then to Sigiriya are an option. The journey from Colombo to Dambulla takes approximately 4 hours and costs 150 rupees per person. From Dambulla to Sigiriya, the bus ride takes about 30 minutes and costs 30 rupees.

Kandy is located 70 km from Dambulla, with a bus fare of 75 rupees per person. Autos are a convenient option for touring Kandy, priced at 1200 to 1500 rupees.

In Nuwara Eliya, autos are the preferred mode of transportation, with a city tour costing around 1400 rupees. I took a train from Nanu Oya railway station in Nuwara Eliya to Ella, which cost 80 rupees for 2nd class AC or 42 rupees for 3rd class. The total train journey lasts approximately 3 hours and can also be boarded from Kandy.

Currency in Sri Lanka

The currency of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan rupee, with an approximate exchange rate of 1 Sri Lankan rupee to 4 Indian Rupees. Currency notes come in denominations of 20, 100, 500, 1000, and 5000, while coins are also used. For currency exchange, the Colombo market is recommended, as it offers favorable rates for both Indian rupees and dollars.

The Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka

The average temperature in Sri Lanka is between 30 to 35 degrees Celsius throughout the year.

Where to Stay in Sri Lanka

The best area to stay in Colombo, Sri Lanka is Colombo 1, which is conveniently located within about a 5 km radius of many tourist attractions. For budget travelers, an ideal location to stay is Christie Parera Road or near Pettah Market, where room prices start from 1500 rupees for 2 adults per night. Websites such as Airbnb or Booking.com can be used to find suitable hotel rooms in Sri Lanka. Hostel accommodations are also available at 300 to 400 rupees per night for an individual. 

The offline hotel auto drivers in Nuwara Eliya can help you find hotels for just 50 rupees. The rooms are at a reasonable price of 1500 rupees. 

Hostels or hotels are easily available in Dambulla for just Rs 1300 per night. The best location for a hotel in Kandy is near the railway station. An air-conditioned room starts from 1500 rupees per night. An abundance amount of hotels can easily be availed in Kandy. 

Places to Visit in Sri Lanka

DAY 1

I began my first day in Sri Lanka at the Gangaramaya Temple, a popular destination for tourists. This ancient temple houses idols of both Buddhist and Hindu deities, making it a significant cultural site in Sri Lanka. Following that, I visited the Port City of Sri Lanka, a development project undertaken by China. This area is still under construction but features artificial beaches that offer a variety of water sports activities.

 DAY 2

I began my second day in Colombo at the bustling Pettah Market, known for its vibrant atmosphere and affordable shopping. The market is home to the striking Jami Ul Alfar Mosque and the nearby Murugan Temple, both popular attractions. 

I then visited the Town Hall, which now functions as a government office and can be admired from the outside. Opposite the Town Hall is Vihara Mahadevi Park, featuring a large statue of Lord Buddha. Another notable site is the Independence Memorial Hall, a tribute to Sri Lanka’s independence leaders.

In the Gold Market area, I visited St. Anthony’s Church, a poignant spot for remembrance and prayer for those affected by the bomb attack. In the evening, I enjoyed the relaxing ambiance of Galle Face Green, a popular beachside promenade. To end the day with a bit of excitement, I tried my luck at Bally’s Casino.

DAY 3

On the third day of my trip, I caught an early morning bus from Colombo Fort bus station to Galle, a renowned beach destination in Sri Lanka. The journey took approximately 3 hours. En route, about 20 km before reaching Galle, lies Hikkaduwa, a popular spot for activities like scuba diving and other water sports. 

Upon arrival in Galle, I enjoyed a delightful brunch at the Galle Cricket Stadium. Exploring the tourist spots in Galle took me about 3 hours. The Galle Fort, situated at a height, offers breathtaking scenic views. For beach lovers, the Unawatuna Beach is a must-visit spot, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.

DAY 4

On the fourth day in Sri Lanka, I embarked on a journey to Sigiriya. After a picturesque walk of about a kilometer through the lush forests of Sigiriya, I arrived at the iconic site where Ravan’s Lanka begins. The entry ticket costs Rs 1500 with a passport, or Rs 3000 without one for individual entry. 

Following a brief 5-minute walk and a 20-minute climb up the stairs among the caves, I reached the first landmark of Ravana’s Lanka, Lion’s Cave. It took a total of 1 hour and 20 minutes to ascend to the top. Despite the fort’s ruins, the breathtaking view of the verdant forest below is truly captivating. Subsequently, I proceeded to Kandy from Dambulla.

DAY 5

On the fifth day of my trip, I explored Kandy, starting with a visit to the Big Buddha Temple, where the entry ticket is priced at 80 rupees. The temple offers a panoramic view of the entire city. Another highlight is the picturesque Kandy Lake, a popular tourist spot offering activities like boating, with prices starting at 1200 to 1300 rupees. Afterward, I explored the bustling central market of Kandy.

DAY 6

In the early morning, I packed my bags and set off for Nuwara Eliya, the charming hill station of Sri Lanka situated in the heart of the country. My first stop in Nuwara Eliya was Ashoka Vatika, also known as Seetha Eliya, a place of serene beauty where photography is not permitted but the ambiance is heavenly. Just 1.5 km away lies Hakgala Botanical Garden, which charges an entry fee of 800 rupees. The sprawling tea gardens offer a unique and picturesque sightseeing experience. 

For a more adventurous outing, I visited Moon Plains, where the entry fee is around 80 rupees. This destination offers a safari-like experience, with jeep rides available at 1300 rupees without sharing. 

Next, I explored Gregory Park, where the entry fee is 160 rupees per person. The park features a beautiful lake with boating facilities starting at 800 rupees, making it a must-visit destination offering great value. I wrapped up the day by exploring the bustling market of Nuwara Eliya. A city tour typically takes around 5-6 hours to fully enjoy.

DAY 7

The train journey from Nuwara Eliya to Ella is renowned for its breathtaking views of tea gardens, forests, and beaches.

From the Ella railway station, I proceeded to the Ravana caves. An auto ride to the caves costs around 200 rupees. These caves hold great historical significance, as Ravana is said to have kept Sita here before taking her to Ashoka Vatika. The entry ticket is priced at 50 rupees, and the trek to the caves takes approximately 20 minutes.

Where to Eat in Sri Lanka?

Indian restaurants can be found in the port city of Sri Lanka, offering familiar tastes for travelers. Near the Galle Face Green, you can indulge in street-style seafood. For those seeking pure vegetarian options, Google Maps can help locate suitable eateries, where a meal may cost around 100 rupees per person. 

In Kandy, pure veg restaurants are offering wholesome thali meals for approximately 132 rupees. While exploring temples near Kandy Lake, an entry ticket costing 400 rupees allows access to other attractions. 

In the markets of Nuwara Eliya, pure veg hotels cater to vegetarian preferences. One of Sri Lanka’s most famous dishes is the vegetable roti, enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

Other Tips

• Vegetarian travelers should consider staying in Sigiriya, rather than Dambulla where vegetarian options are readily available. 
• Opting for a package tour is also a convenient choice for exploring Sri Lanka. 
• Markets typically close around 7 in the evening in Sri Lanka. 
• Booking a package can help avoid the hassle of traveling by bus. 
• To avoid long waits, consider booking train tickets online. 
• It is recommended to avoid wearing shorts in religious places like Kandy. 
• Nuwara Eliya can be chilly, so remember to pack some warm clothes. 
• Keep your valuables with you at all times. 
• It’s a good idea to carry packaged food for convenience. 
• Don’t forget to bring along your water bottle, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as Sri Lanka mostly experiences sunny weather. 
• Remember to carry your passport with you when visiting different places in Sri Lanka. 
• For a more extensive trip, consider visiting additional places like Mirissa, Hikkaduwa, and Bentota.

Budget to Travel to Sri Lanka

A 7 to 8-day itinerary is sufficient for a trip to Sri Lanka, with suggested stays including 2 nights in Colombo, and 1 night each in Sigiriya, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, and Galle. For budget planning, an individual can allocate expenses as follows: 

Flight – 25000 rupees

Visa – Free (till 31st March)

Hotel – 7000 rupees, Meals – 7000 rupees

Transportation – 20000 rupees (for comfort travel) or 5000 rupees (for budget-friendly travel). 

On average, the total expense for a budget-friendly trip to Sri Lanka is around 45000 rupees, while a more comfortable journey may cost up to 60000 rupees. Package tours for a trip to Sri Lanka range from 60000 to 70000 rupees per individual.