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ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
South African passport holders require a visa to enter Sri Lanka. The most convenient way to obtain one is through the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system.
VISA INFORMATION
WEATHER
Sri Lanka’s tropical climate varies with monsoon seasons affecting different regions at different times. The southwest monsoon impacts the west and south coasts from May to September, while the northeast monsoon affects the east coast from December to February.
- Spring (March to May): Spring is hot and humid in most parts of Sri Lanka, with daytime temperatures ranging from 28°C to 35°C. This period marks the end of the northeast monsoon, bringing drier weather to the north and east, while the southwest begins to experience increasing rainfall. It’s a great time to visit cultural sites like Anuradhapura or relax on the east coast beaches.
- Summer (June to August): The southwest monsoon brings heavy rain to the southern and western regions, including Colombo, Galle, and the Hill Country. Temperatures stay around 26°C to 32°C. However, the north and east remain mostly dry and sunny, making destinations like Trincomalee and Arugam Bay ideal for beach holidays and surfing.
- Autumn (September to November): This is the inter-monsoon period with scattered thunderstorms across the island. Temperatures remain warm, between 27°C and 33°C. The rain can be unpredictable, but it’s still a good time for wildlife viewing in national parks like Yala and Wilpattu, as vegetation is lush and animals are active.
- Winter (December to February): Winter is one of the best times to visit Sri Lanka, especially the south and west coasts and the central highlands. The weather is warm and mostly dry, with temperatures ranging from 22°C in the highlands to 30°C along the coast. It’s perfect for exploring historic cities, tea plantations, and enjoying beach resorts.
- Best Time to Travel: December to March is ideal for visiting the south, west, and central parts of Sri Lanka. For the east coast and northern areas, the best weather is from May to September. The country’s varied climate means there’s always a good place to visit, depending on the time of year.
GENERAL INFORMATION
| Country: | Sri Lanka |
| Capital City: | Colombo (executive and judicial) Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte (legislative) |
| International Airports: | Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) Jaffna International Airport (JAF) Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI) |
| Area: | 65,610 sq. km |
| Population: | 23,103,565 (2024 est.) |
| Time Zone: | GMT+5:30 |
| Religion: | Buddhism (70% of the population; 90% of Sinhalese) Hinduism (15% of the population; 80% of Tamils) Islam (8%) Catholic (7%) |
| Language: | Sinhala Tamil English as the link language |
| Currency: | Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) It’s best to bring USD, AUD, Pounds, or Euros and exchange them at the airport or a bank for fair rates. Hotel exchange rates may be less favourable. |
| Exchange Rate: | Please consult your local bank as exchange rates fluctuate. |
| Credit Card Payment Availability: | Available at many places. |
| ATM Accessibility: | ATMs are available in major cities and accept VISA, MasterCard, and American Express. Withdrawal fees may apply; check if your card is suitable for overseas use. |
| Dialing Code: | +94 |
TRAVEL TIPS
| Electricity: | Standard voltage is 220-240V with 5 amp – 15-amp sockets. The socket standard is a square pin. Carry a universal adapter as a backup; hotels often provide them on request. |
| Water: | Drink only bottled or treated water to avoid gastrointestinal issues. |
| Business Hours: | Government offices: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday. Shops serving tourists: 10:00 AM – late evening. Village shops: 6:00 AM daily. Supermarkets: 8:00 AM – late evening. Shopping malls: 10:00 AM – late evening. Restaurants and bars: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM. Wine shops: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM. Private offices: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM, Monday to Friday. |
| Banking Hours: | Typically, Monday – Friday, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. |
| Photography Restrictions: | Always ask for permission before taking photos of people and respect their privacy. |
| Tipping: | Not mandatory but appreciated for good service. A service charge may be included in restaurant bills. |
| Vaccination Requirements: | Consult a vaccination centre before traveling. Check recommended inoculations at least a month prior. |
| Dress Code Restrictions: | Wear lightweight, breathable clothing. Swimsuits for the beach, light long-sleeved shirts and trousers to protect against mosquitoes, comfortable walking shoes, and modest clothing for temples (cover shoulders and knees). |
| Peculiar Customs to Observe: | Avoid pointing with your index finger. Use your chin or a flat hand to reference objects. Show respect to Buddha statues by bowing and keeping your head below theirs. Leaving a small amount of food on your plate indicates you’re full. |
FESTIVALS
- Duruthu Full Moon Poya: January
- The Initial Aluth Sahal Mangallaya (New Rice Festival) at the Temple of the Tooth: January
- Patti Pongal: January
- Patti Kiri Ithirima: January
- National Day (Independence Day): February
- Navam Full Moon Poya: February
- Maha Shivaratri: March
- Mawlid: March
- Medin Full Moon Poya: March
- Day Prior to Sinhalese and Tamil New Year: April
- Sinhalese and Tamil New Year: April
- National Herbal Oil Ceremony: April
- Bak Full Moon Poya: April
- Good Friday: April
- Easter: April
- May Day: May
- Watching the New Moon for the New Solar Year: May
- Vesak Full Moon Poya: May
- Poson Full Moon Poya: June
- Ramadan (Eid al-Fitr): June
- Esala Full Moon Poya: July
- Nikini Full Moon Poya: August
- Kandy Esala Perahera: August
- Binara Full Moon Poya: September
- Vap Full Moon Poya: October
- Diwali: October
- Il Full Moon Poya: November
- Hajj (Eid al-Adha): November
- Unduvap Full Moon Poya: December
- Christmas: December
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“Wisdom can be found travelling.”
– Sri Lankan Proverb