FAQ

May 20, 2026 2026-06-10 6:14
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FAQ

1. Do I need a visa to travel to Sri Lanka?

Yes, most visitors to Sri Lanka will need a visa. You can apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online before your trip. The ETA is valid for 30 days and can be extended once in Sri Lanka for up to six months. Citizens of a few countries are exempt from visa requirements, so check the latest regulations before you travel.

Yes, Sri Lanka is generally considered safe for tourists. The country has a low crime rate, and most areas are peaceful. However, it’s always advisable to follow standard travel precautions, such as avoiding isolated areas at night and keeping your belongings secure in busy places. For the latest travel advisories, consult your local government’s recommendations.

The local currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Major hotels, restaurants, and shops accept credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, and sometimes American Express), but it’s recommended to carry cash for smaller vendors, tuk-tuks, and rural areas. ATMs are widely available in cities and towns.

Sri Lanka has two monsoon seasons, so the best time to visit depends on the region:

•  West and South Coasts, including Colombo and Galle: The best time to visit is from December to March. •  East Coast, including Trincomalee and Passikudah: Visit from April to September for the best weather.

It’s recommended to consult your healthcare provider at least 6 weeks before your trip to discuss vaccinations. Common vaccinations include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus. While Sri Lanka is considered low-risk for malaria, it’s good to carry insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, a service charge of 10% is often included, but it’s common to leave an additional tip if you are satisfied with the service. For drivers, guides, and hotel staff, tipping is appreciated based on the level of service, usually around 10-15%.

The official languages are Sinhala and Tamil, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. Most hotels, restaurants, and tour operators will have English-speaking staff.

Yes, you can use your mobile phone in Sri Lanka. Local SIM cards with data plans are affordable and available at the airport and in major cities. Sri Lanka has good mobile coverage, and most hotels and cafes offer Wi-Fi.

When visiting temples and religious sites in Sri Lanka, modest clothing is recommended as a sign of respect for local customs and traditions. Both men and women should wear clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. Footwear and hats must be removed before entering temple premises. Lightweight cotton clothing is ideal due to the warm climate, and carrying a shawl or scarf can be useful when visiting religious sites during your journey.

It is generally recommended to drink bottled or filtered water during your stay in Sri Lanka. Most hotels and restaurants provide safe drinking water, and bottled water is widely available throughout the country. We also encourage travellers to carry reusable water bottles where possible to help reduce plastic waste.

Yes, Sri Lanka is a wonderful destination for families and children. The country offers a wide variety of experiences suitable for all ages, including wildlife safaris, beaches, scenic train journeys, cultural attractions, and nature-based activities. Sri Lankan people are known for their warmth and hospitality towards families, making it a comfortable and welcoming destination for children.

Sri Lanka mainly uses Type D, Type G, and Type M power plugs, with a standard voltage of 230V. Many hotels provide universal plug points, but we recommend carrying a universal travel adaptor to ensure compatibility with your devices.

Yes, most hotels and restaurants in Sri Lanka are able to accommodate a range of dietary requirements including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and certain allergy-related requests. We kindly recommend informing us of any dietary preferences or medical food restrictions in advance so that appropriate arrangements can be made throughout your journey.

1. Do I need a visa to travel to the Maldives?

No pre-arrival visa is required for the Maldives. Tourists are granted a 30-day visa on arrival for free, provided they have a valid passport, a return or onward ticket, and proof of sufficient funds or a confirmed hotel reservation.

Yes, the Maldives is generally very safe for tourists. The resort islands are particularly secure, with very low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it’s advisable to follow basic safety precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially if visiting local islands or Male, the capital.

Upon arriving at Velana International Airport in Male, most resorts offer pre-arranged transportation via speedboat or seaplane to their private islands. Your resort will provide instructions and arrange transfers, which typically take between 20 minutes and an hour, depending on the location.

The local currency is the Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR), but most resorts and tourist establishments accept US Dollars and major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, and American Express). It’s rare to use cash on resort islands, but it’s a good idea to carry some for tips or small purchases on local islands.

The best time to visit the Maldives is during the dry season from November to April, when the weather is sunny and pleasant. The monsoon season occurs from May to October, with a higher chance of rain and rough seas, but it’s still a good time to visit for lower prices and fewer crowds.

The Maldives is known for its luxury resorts and water-based activities, including:

• Snorkeling and Diving: Explore coral reefs and encounter marine life such as manta rays, whale sharks, and vibrant fish.
• Spa Treatments: Indulge in world-class spa treatments in overwater pavilions.
• Water Sports: Jet skiing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing are popular on many resorts.
• Private Dining: Enjoy romantic dinners on the beach or even on private sandbanks.

If you’re traveling by speedboat between islands, there can be choppy waters, especially during the monsoon season. If you’re prone to sea sickness, you may want to consider taking motion sickness medication or opting for a seaplane transfer, which is faster and smoother.

Alcohol is prohibited on local islands due to Islamic law, but it is freely available at resort islands. Most resorts have bars offering a wide range of international beverages, including cocktails and fine wines. However, you cannot bring alcohol into the country from abroad.

It is strongly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance when visiting the Maldives. This should cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and any water sports activities you plan to do. Healthcare is available in Male, but medical evacuation can be costly from the resort islands.

The official language is Dhivehi, but English is widely spoken in the resorts and by tour operators. You’ll find most staff at tourist establishments fluent in English, making communication easy.