What are the must-know basics about Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka, a vibrant island of around 23 million people, blends rich culture with practical travel conveniences. The capital is Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, though Colombo remains the commercial hub. The warm greeting “Ayubowan” reflects the island’s hospitality. Travelers need an ETA visa before arrival and should carry Sri Lankan Rupees, as cash is often essential in markets and smaller towns. With a tropical climate, year-round travel is possible by choosing the right coast during monsoon seasons. Electricity runs on 230V with Type D and G plugs, so a universal adapter is recommended. Sinhala and Tamil are national languages, while English is widely understood in tourism and business.
Sri Lanka at a Glance, Know Before You Go
With effect from 15 October 2025, all travelers visiting Sri Lanka for short-stay purposes (tourism or business) are required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) via the official website www.eta.gov.lk.
1. As per reciprocal/bilateral arrangements, passport holders of Seychelles, Maldives and Singapore shall be exempted from ETA fees for tourism purposes.
2. Passport holders of the People’s Republic of China, India, Russia, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia and Japan will also be eligible to obtain the ETA free of charge for tourism purposes, as per existing regulations.
3. The stipulated fee will be applicable to passport holders from all other countries and to those applying ETA under business category.** A visa fee will be applicable for all Business Visa applicants from all countries.
Yes, most travelers need an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization), which can be easily applied for online before arrival
With effect from 15 October 2025, all travelers visiting Sri Lanka for short-stay purposes (tourism or business) are required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) via the official website www.eta.gov.lk.
1. As per reciprocal/bilateral arrangements, passport holders of Seychelles, Maldives and Singapore shall be exempted from ETA fees for tourism purposes.
2. Passport holders of the People’s Republic of China, India, Russia, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia and Japan will also be eligible to obtain the ETA free of charge for tourism purposes, as per existing regulations.
3. The stipulated fee will be applicable to passport holders from all other countries and to those applying ETA under business category.
** A visa fee will be applicable for all Business Visa applicants from all countries.
The currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Cash is essential in local shops, markets, and smaller towns
The official capital is Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, while Colombo is the country’s commercial and cultural hub
Yes, English is widely used in cities, hotels, and tourist destinations.
Sri Lanka Standard Time (SLT), which is UTC +5:30.
