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ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
South African citizens need an electronic visa (eVisa) to visit Sri Lanka for tourism or business, effective April 17, 2024. The eVisa is the quickest and easiest way to obtain a visa for Sri Lanka.

VISA INFORMATION
WEATHER
- Year-Round Experience: Sri Lanka’s tropical climate ensures a generally warm and sunny experience throughout the year, making it a versatile destination regardless of the season. The island’s climate is influenced by two monsoon seasons, which affect different parts of the country at different times.
- Summer Months (May to September):
- East Coast and Northern Areas: These regions enjoy dry conditions and are ideal for travel during this period. It’s the perfect time for beach activities, surfing, and exploring coastal attractions.
- West and Southwest Coasts: Expect significant rainfall during these months. While this might limit outdoor activities, it’s a good time to enjoy the lush greenery and reduced tourist crowds.
- Post-Monsoon and Winter (October to February):
- West and Southwest Coasts: These areas experience pleasant weather with reduced rainfall, making it an excellent time to visit for beach lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those interested in exploring historical sites. The weather is typically warm and dry, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
- East Coast and Northern Areas: This period coincides with the monsoon season in these regions, bringing heavier rainfall and potentially less favourable conditions for beach and water-based activities.
- Ideal Travel Period:
- Best Time to Visit: For optimal weather conditions across most of Sri Lanka, the period from June 1st to February 15th is recommended. During this time, travellers can enjoy the best weather conditions across the island, whether they are looking to explore the cultural sites, embark on wildlife safaris, or relax on the stunning beaches.
- Sri Lanka’s diverse climate patterns offer unique travel experiences throughout the year, ensuring that visitors can find the perfect time to suit their interests and enjoy the island’s natural beauty.
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
MAP
“Wisdom can be found travelling.”
– Sri Lankan Proverb