Everything Travelers Should Know Before Traveling to Sri Lanka

Yes, most travelers need a visa to enter Sri Lanka.

The process is simple and can be completed online before arrival.

Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) – the most common option for tourists.

Valid for 30 days and allows two entries.

It is recommended to apply for the ETA online before traveling.

A visa on arrival may be available for some nationalities, but applying for the ETA in advance saves time.

Long-term visas are available for longer stays, for example for wellness or Ayurveda retreats.

Official website: https://www.eta.gov.lk

Complete the application form online.

Pay the visa fee (approximately USD 50).

The confirmation is usually sent by email within 24 hours.

A valid passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity.

A return or onward flight ticket.

Proof of sufficient financial means.

Hotel booking or accommodation details (recommended).

The ETA is often free for children under 12 years of age.

However, an application is still required.

Tourist visas can be extended locally for up to 180 days.

Extensions are processed by the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo.

If you do not wish to handle the visa process yourself, we are happy to assist you with the application.

A small processing fee may apply for this service.

Apply for your visa early to avoid travel stress.

Keep a screenshot or printed copy of your ETA confirmation.

Use only the official website to avoid fraudulent visa services.

No mandatory vaccinations are required to enter Sri Lanka.

Most travelers can enter without mandatory vaccinations.

Tetanus

Diphtheria

Polio

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis B

Typhoid

Rabies

In tropical regions of Sri Lanka, occasional cases of dengue fever or chikungunya can occur.

We provide mosquito repellent to help protect you during your stay.

Our drivers and tour guides are always available to assist you.

You will receive a traditional Ayurveda medical package with natural remedies from us.

If needed, we are happy to assist you with traditional herbal medicine and alternative healing methods.

Pain and fever medication

Disinfectant

Bandages

Personal medication

We support you throughout your entire journey.

Unser traditionelles Healthsangebot und unser lokales Team sorgen dafür, dass Sie sich sicher, wohl und bestens betreut fühlen.

Lightweight and breathable cotton or linen clothing – ideal for the warm tropical climate.

White clothing – especially respectful and appropriate for temple visits.

Temple-appropriate clothing – shoulders and knees should be covered.

Swimwear – ideal for beach days or hotel pools.

Light jacket or sweater – useful in cooler mountain regions such as Nuwara Eliya.

Comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing and excursions.

Sandals or flip-flops for beach days.

Leicht ausziehbare Shoes – vor dem Betreten von Tempeln müssen Shoes ausgezogen werden.

High-SPF sunscreen.

Mosquito repellent (we are also happy to provide this).

Sunglasses and a hat or other head covering for sun protection.

Reusable water bottle.

Travel adapter – Sri Lanka mainly uses Type G sockets (British standard).

Personal medication.

A small travel first-aid kit (you will also receive a traditional Ayurveda medical package from us).

Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.

Sri Lanka is known for handmade clothing and fabrics such as cotton, batik, sarongs, and linen.

You can purchase beautiful, eco-friendly, and temple-appropriate clothing locally at affordable prices.

These items are practical companions during your trip and also make wonderful souvenirs.

Shorts, miniskirts, or sleeveless tops when visiting temples.

Plastic bags – many are prohibited in Sri Lanka.

Heavy or tight clothing that can be uncomfortable in tropical heat.

Using drones without official permission.

Mosquito repellent is provided by our team.

Traditional Ayurveda medical package included.

Personal assistance from your driver and tour guide throughout the entire journey.

Travel light, respect the culture, and discover Sri Lanka comfortably and in style.

Die offizielle Currency Sri Lankas ist die Sri-Lanka-Rupie (LKR).

Banknotes are available in denominations including 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1,000, and 5,000 rupees.

Foreign currencies can be exchanged at banks, authorized exchange offices, and some hotels.

Currency exchange offices are also available at the airport.

It is recommended to exchange around EUR 100–200 or USD at the airport so that you have cash available at the beginning of your trip.

ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas.

Most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops accept credit and debit cards such as Visa and MasterCard.

Smaller shops, markets, and rural areas generally prefer cash payments.

It is advisable to carry some cash for transportation, tips, and small purchases.

Our tour guides are happy to help you find reputable currency exchange offices with good exchange rates.

Inform your bank before traveling so that your cards can be used internationally.

Avoid exchanging money with unofficial providers to prevent fraud.

E-Mail: info@urlaub-srilanka.com

Phone & WhatsApp – Sri Lanka (Main Office): +94 74 124 8030

Phone & WhatsApp – Germany: +49 175 9479619

Phone & WhatsApp – Germany: +49 1512 8983793

Our team is happy to assist with your booking, travel questions, and additional services.

A 70% deposit is required to confirm your booking.

The deposit should be paid no later than 1 month before your arrival.

If possible, we recommend booking your trip approximately 3 months in advance.

The remaining balance can be paid upon your arrival at the airport.

Please note that we make advance payments to hotels and transportation providers to secure your travel services.

Bank transfer

Credit card

PayPal

Empfohlene Option: Anzahlung per Bank transfer und Restzahlung in bar bei Ankunft.

Up to 30 days before arrival: Full refund of the deposit (less any applicable bank or transaction fees).

15–29 days before arrival: 50% of the deposit will be refunded.

14 days or less before arrival: The deposit is non-refundable.

In exceptional circumstances such as medical emergencies or travel restrictions, we try to offer flexible solutions such as rescheduling or partial credits for future trips.

Please contact us as soon as possible if changes or cancellations are required.

If you need assistance with flight bookings or visa applications, we are happy to help.

Simply contact our team, and we will guide you through the entire process.

Our company provides officially licensed tour guides and drivers who speak both English and German.

Traveling with a certified professional provides safety, comfort, and a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka's culture and history.

Under Sri Lankan law, all professional tour guides and drivers must be registered and licensed with the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA).

Licensed tour guides and drivers undergo professional training and meet strict standards for knowledge, professionalism, and safety.

Has extensive knowledge of Sri Lanka's history, culture, and local traditions.

Is trained in first aid and safety procedures.

Has experience dealing with Sri Lanka's unique road and traffic conditions.

The roads in Sri Lanka can sometimes be unpredictable.

Our licensed drivers follow safety guidelines and understand local traffic conditions.

This helps ensure a safe and comfortable journey from start to finish.

Registered tour guides share stories, history, and cultural insights that you may not find in guidebooks.

They can also take you to hidden places away from the typical tourist routes.

When you travel with a registered tour guide and driver, you are working with professionals who are accountable under Sri Lankan law.

This provides reliable service and a trustworthy travel experience.

Our certified tour guides speak both English and German.

This makes communication easier and allows you to fully enjoy your travel experience.

We work exclusively with SLTDA-registered tour guides and drivers.

Our team is passionate about showing you the true beauty of Sri Lanka.

Every journey is carefully organized to ensure your comfort, safety, and unforgettable experiences.

Contact us today to book your certified English- or German-speaking tour guide and driver.

Discover Sri Lanka with confidence, comfort, and genuine local expertise.

Sri Lanka has very strict drug laws. Possession of illegal drugs can result in heavy fines or imprisonment.

Smoking is prohibited in many public places such as hospitals, government buildings, and some beaches.

Alcohol may only be consumed in licensed establishments, and the legal drinking age is 21.

Do not litter or damage nature. Environmental protection is taken seriously, and violations can result in fines.

Dress appropriately, especially when visiting temples and religious sites. Shoulders and knees should be covered.

Ziehen Sie immer Ihre Shoes aus, bevor Sie ein Haus oder einen Tempel betreten.

A traditional greeting in Sri Lanka is 'Ayubowan', with hands held together as in prayer. It means 'May you live long'.

If you have tattoos, especially tattoos depicting Buddha, it is respectful to cover them when visiting temples or religious places.

Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.

Shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless tops are not appropriate in temples.

Photography is not allowed in some temples, so always ask for permission beforehand.

Behave quietly and respectfully at religious sites.

The people of Sri Lanka are known for their warmth, friendliness, and hospitality.

The country is generally considered safe for travelers, including solo travelers.

Visitors can travel with confidence and enjoy the genuine friendliness of local communities.