Sri Lanka Travel Instructions

1Passport & Visa

• Make sure your passport is valid for your journey and has enough blank pages for immigration requirements.
• Foreign visitors should check the latest Sri Lankan visa/ETA requirements before travelling.
• Visa and ETA requirements vary by nationality. Please use the official Sri Lankan Immigration website below for the latest information and to apply for your visa.
• As of 25 May 2026, nationals of 40 specified countries are eligible for a free tourist ETA for 30 days, subject to the applicable conditions. An ETA is still required under this scheme.
• Other nationalities remain subject to the applicable Sri Lankan ETA/visa rules and fees.
• Do not work or engage in activities that are not permitted under a tourist visa.

Official Sri Lanka visa / ETA website

Want a step-by-step explanation? Read our Sri Lanka visa guide: ETA requirements and how to apply.

2Arrival at the Airport

On arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport:

• Complete immigration and customs formalities.
• Keep your passport, visa/ETA approval and travel documents easily accessible.
• Collect your luggage and check that you have all personal belongings.
• Our Chinta Tours representative/driver will assist you according to your tour arrangements.
• Please inform us immediately if your luggage is delayed, damaged or missing.

3Money & Payments

The official currency of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR).

• Keep some Sri Lankan Rupees available for small purchases, snacks, tips and local expenses.
• International credit and debit cards are accepted at many hotels, restaurants and larger businesses.
• ATMs are available in major towns and tourist areas.
• Exchange money only through authorized banks or licensed money-changing facilities.
• Keep your bank cards and cash secure while travelling.

4Clothing & Cultural Etiquette

Sri Lanka is a culturally diverse country, and visitors are requested to respect local customs.

• Wear modest clothing when visiting temples and religious sites.
• Remove shoes and hats when required at religious places.
• Shoulders and knees should generally be covered when entering Buddhist and other religious sites.
• Do not touch or climb on religious statues or monuments.
• Ask permission before photographing people, particularly monks and religious ceremonies.
• Please follow instructions provided by your guide at cultural and religious sites.

5Weather & What to Pack

Sri Lanka is a tropical destination, although temperatures can vary considerably between the coast, cultural areas and central hills.

We recommend bringing:

• Lightweight, comfortable clothing
• A light jacket or sweater for the hill country
• Comfortable walking shoes or sandals
• Hat/cap and sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Mosquito insect repellent
• Umbrella or lightweight rain jacket
• Personal medicines and essential toiletries
• A reusable water bottle

Weather can change quickly, particularly in the central highlands, so be prepared for occasional rain. Not sure when to go? See our guide to the best time to visit Sri Lanka.

6Food & Drinking Water

Sri Lankan cuisine offers a wide variety of rice, curries, seafood, vegetables, fruits and traditional dishes.

• Drink bottled or properly treated water if you are unsure about the local water supply.
• Check that bottled drinking water is properly sealed.
• If you have food allergies or dietary restrictions, inform Chinta Tours and your hotel or restaurant in advance.
• Try local food according to your personal tolerance for spicy dishes.

7Transportation

During your Chinta Tours journey:

• Always follow your driver’s and guide’s safety instructions.
• Seat belts should be worn on all highways.
• Do not leave valuable belongings unattended in the vehicle.
• Keep passports, cash, electronics and other important items with you or securely stored.
• Travel times can be longer than expected because of traffic, road conditions and weather.
• Please allow additional time for journeys between destinations.

8Wildlife & Nature

Sri Lanka is home to elephants, leopards, monkeys, birds and many other wild animals.

When visiting national parks and nature reserves:

• Follow the instructions of your safari driver or guide.
• Maintain a safe distance from wildlife.
• Never feed or attempt to touch wild animals.
• Do not litter.
• Avoid loud noises that may disturb animals.
• Do not leave the vehicle during a safari unless your guide confirms that it is safe and permitted.

Planning a safari? See Yala National Park and Udawalawe.

9Beaches & Swimming

Sri Lanka has many beautiful beaches, but sea conditions can change.

• Swim only in areas considered safe.
• Follow local warning signs and lifeguard instructions.
• Be especially careful during rough seas and strong currents.
• Do not swim alone in unfamiliar areas.
• Protect yourself from strong tropical sunlight.

10Personal Safety

Sri Lanka is a welcoming tourist destination, but normal travel precautions are recommended.

• Keep passports, money and valuables secure.
• Avoid displaying large amounts of cash.
• Keep bags and electronic devices within sight in crowded areas.
• Use authorized transportation and reputable service providers.
• Keep emergency contact numbers saved on your phone.
• Inform your guide or Chinta Tours representative if you encounter a problem during your tour.

11Health & Medicines

Before travelling:

• Bring sufficient personal medication for the duration of your trip.
• Keep important medicines in their original packaging.
• Carry a basic first-aid kit if required.
• Protect yourself from the sun and stay hydrated.
• Seek medical assistance if you become seriously unwell.

If you have a specific medical condition or dietary requirement, please inform Chinta Tours before your arrival so appropriate arrangements can be discussed.

12Internet & Mobile Phones

Wi-Fi is available at many hotels, restaurants and tourist establishments.

Visitors can also obtain a local SIM at the airport or where available.

• Keep your passport available if required for SIM registration.
• Check international roaming charges with your home mobile provider before travelling.
• Use secure Wi-Fi networks when accessing banking or other sensitive services.

13Respect for Sri Lankan Culture

We encourage every visitor to experience Sri Lanka respectfully. Please:

• Respect local traditions and religious practices.
• Avoid inappropriate behavior at religious and cultural sites.
• Ask permission before photographing people.
• Keep public places clean.
• Respect local communities and the environment.
• Follow the instructions of your Chinta Tours guide and local authorities.

14Emergency Numbers

Keep these important numbers available during your stay:

15Important Travel Documents

We recommend keeping digital and/or printed copies of:

• Passport
• Visa/ETA approval
• Flight tickets
• Hotel reservations
• Travel insurance details
• Chinta Tours itinerary
• Emergency contact details

Keep your original passport safely with you during your trip.

16Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is strongly recommended for international visitors.

Depending on your policy, insurance may provide protection for circumstances such as medical emergencies, trip interruption, baggage problems or other unexpected travel events.

Please check your policy carefully before travelling.

17Electricity & Power

Sri Lanka generally uses 230V electricity at 50Hz.

• The standard plug type is Type G (three rectangular pins).

• Visitors should bring a suitable travel adaptor if their electrical plugs are not compatible with Sri Lankan sockets.
• Check that your electrical devices support 220–240V / 230V before plugging them in.
• Devices designed only for 110V electricity may require a voltage converter/transformer.
• Hotels generally provide electrical sockets, but the number and type of sockets can vary.
• We recommend carrying a universal travel adaptor and a USB charger for phones and other devices.
• Keep electronic devices and chargers away from water and wet areas.
• Power interruptions can occasionally occur. Carrying a power bank is recommended for keeping mobile phones charged while travelling.

18Liquor, Wine & Beer

Alcoholic beverages, including liquor, wine and beer, are available in Sri Lanka at licensed hotels, restaurants, bars and authorized retailers.

• The legal drinking age in Sri Lanka is 21 years.
• Purchase alcoholic beverages only from licensed and authorized establishments.
• Carry your passport or other identification if requested when purchasing alcohol.
• Alcohol may not be available for sale on certain religious holidays and designated days, and licensed establishments may have restrictions on serving alcohol.
• Please respect local customs and religious practices when consuming alcohol.
• Do not drink and drive. Driving under the influence of alcohol is illegal and dangerous.
• If you are travelling with alcohol, follow Sri Lankan customs and airport regulations regarding permitted quantities and import restrictions.
• Alcohol consumption may be restricted or prohibited at certain religious and cultural sites.
• Please drink responsibly and ensure that alcohol does not interfere with your tour activities or the comfort of other travelers.

19Smoking

• Smoking is prohibited in enclosed public places, including many government buildings, offices, schools, temples, healthcare facilities and public transport.
• Use designated or outdoor smoking areas where available. Hotels, restaurants and bars may have specific areas where smoking is permitted, so ask your driver-guide for a suitable place when needed.
• Do not bring cigarettes, cigars, beedies or snuff into Sri Lanka in your passenger baggage. Sri Lanka Customs explicitly lists these as prohibited imports for passenger baggage.
• Do not bring cannabis or any other illegal drugs into Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka Customs lists narcotics and psychotropic substances as prohibited items in passenger baggage.
• Possession and use of illegal drugs, including cannabis, can lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment and heavy fines. This also applies when transiting through a Sri Lankan airport.

20Contact Chinta Tours

If you need assistance during your Sri Lanka holiday, please contact the Chinta Tours team or your assigned tour representative.

We are here to help make your Sri Lankan holiday safe, comfortable and memorable.

Send an inquiry WhatsApp +94 77 674 3744 Email us