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If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka with the family, you’ve picked a winner! It’s easy to navigate, loaded with unique experiences, and genuinely welcoming to families.

We spent two months exploring in Sri Lanka with the kids.

But like any destination, a bit of planning will make your trip even smoother. Here’s our top tips for Sri Lanka, from the essentials like getting your visa to practical tips on navigating daily life in Sri Lanka.

You have made the amazing decision to travel to Sri Lanka (we don’t blame you, it is one of our favourite destinations with kids)

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• Safari in Sri Lanka with Kids- How to choose the BEST Family Safari
• Travel around Sri Lanka with Kids- the easiest, the cheapest and the most exciting!
• Top Tips for Sri Lanka and The EASY way to get your Visa
• Surfing in Sri Lanka: The best surf spots for kids

See, we have a lot to say on this place.

But first, lets talk logistics and surely one of the first steps will be to make sure you can get into the country! So before you set foot on this enchanting island, there’s one essential step you must take – obtaining a visa.

Navigating the visa application process for Sri Lanka may seem like a daunting task, but actually this is definitely one of the easiest visa application processes we have been through (I’m looking at you Vietnam!) In this guide, we’ll unravel the details of securing your visa, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free start to your Sri Lankan adventure.

You will find all you need to know here. But bear in mind, information does change so remember to check out the links to the official information.

 Your Sri Lankan adventure begins here!

Here is where you will apply for your visa

What is the ETA?

To apply for a visa to Sri Lanka, you can obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online, which is the most commonly requested visa. The ETA is issued electronically and allows you to stay in Sri Lanka for up to 30 days, with the possibility of extending your trip to 6 months.

Who can apply for an ETA for Sri Lanka?

 Here is a link that provides information about who is eligible to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to Sri Lanka: . According to the information provided, to be eligible for a Sri Lankan ETA visa, you need to meet the following requirements:

1. Have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months upon the intended entry date to Sri Lanka.
2. Have sufficient funds for your stay in Sri Lanka and your return or onward travel.
3. Not need to be in possession of a Sri Lankan resident visa or a multiple entry ETA.
4. Have a current email address to which the Sri Lankan online visa will be sent.
5. Have a valid debit or credit card with which to pay the ETA Sri Lanka fee.

How much is the visa for Sri Lanka?

The cost of a tourist visa to Sri Lanka depends on several factors but here are some examples of visa costs:

How much does it cost to extend a visa?

The cost of extending your visa in Sri Lanka depends on the type of visa and the duration of your stay. Here are some examples of visa extension fees:

• For a short-term visit visa, you can apply for an extension of up to 270 days in three consecutive instances: 30 days on entry, 60 days at the first extension, and 90 days for the second and third instances¹.
• The fee for extending your Sri Lanka visa on arrival is currently $100 USD².
• The Sri Lanka visa extension fee is $60 USD for the first extension and $90 USD for the second extension³.

HERE IS THE SECRET TIP!

If there is any possibility at all that you will want to extend your visa, in fact, whatever your situation I would highly recommend applying for the 90 day tourist visa. It is the same price as the 30 day visa! This mistake cost us as we also had to pay to extend the children’s initial *free* visa!

1	Tourist Visa with Double Entry for 30 days.		US$ 50	Not applicable.
2	Tourist Visa Single Entry up to 90 days.		US$ 50	Relevant country Tourist Visa fee.

If you do decide to extend (why wouldn’t you? Sri Lanka is amazing!) extending your visa online is a simple process.

Please note that the information provided here is based on the available sources, and it is always a good idea to check the official Sri Lankan government websites for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

Top Tips for Traveling to Sri Lanka

Practical Tips for Daily Life in Sri Lanka

1. Money
Sri Lanka uses the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Cash is still king for smaller purchases, so it’s a good idea to have some on hand.

• ATMs: ATMs are widely available in most cities and larger towns.
• Credit Cards: Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, especially in hotels and restaurants in tourist areas. Just keep cash on you for tuk-tuks, small eateries, and market shopping.

2. Tipping Culture

Tipping isn’t mandatory, but it’s appreciated as a gesture of thanks. Here’s a quick guide:

• Restaurants: 10% is standard if no service charge is included.
• Hotel Staff: 100-200 LKR for housekeeping or porters.
• Guides and Drivers: If you’re on a tour, a tip for good service is always welcome. Around 500-1000 LKR per day for a driver or guide is a fair amount.

3. SIM Cards
Stay connected by getting a local SIM card, available from major providers like Dialog and Mobitel. You can pick one up at the airport or from local shops.

• Cost: Basic SIMs with data cost around $5-10. For reliable connectivity, opt for at least 5GB, especially if you’re navigating around the island.
• eSIM Option: If you prefer, many eSIM providers offer Sri Lanka plans, so you’re ready to go as soon as you land.

4. Power and Plugs
Sri Lanka uses Types D and G plugs (230V), so a universal adapter is handy. Power cuts aren’t uncommon, so pack a portable charger for essentials like phones and cameras.

5. Drinking Water
Stick to bottled water or bring a refillable bottle with a built-in filter. Avoid tap water, even for brushing your teeth if you have a sensitive stomach. Bottled water is widely available, and many accommodations offer filtered drinking water, which is a great eco-friendly option.

6. Food and Dining
Sri Lankan cuisine is rich, spicy, and diverse, so there’s a lot to explore.

• What to Try: Rice and curry, hoppers, kottu roti, and fresh seafood are must-tries. For kids, mild curries, fried rice, and rotis are popular options.
• Where to Eat: For a mix of local food and comfort meals, try family-friendly restaurants and cafes, especially in Colombo, Galle, and Kandy.
• Street Food: While delicious, it’s best to stick to well-cooked items. Avoid anything raw or pre-cut, especially salads and ice.

6. Shopping & What to Buy
Sri Lanka has a treasure trove of unique handicrafts, textiles, and teas to bring home.

• Popular Souvenirs: Pick up Ceylon tea, Ayurvedic beauty products, batik clothing, and handmade jewelry. Wood carvings, masks, and spices are also excellent buys.
• Where to Shop: Local markets like Pettah Market in Colombo are great for bargaining, while Galle Fort and Kandy have boutique shops with quality goods.

Getting Around Tips for Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s transportation options vary from tuk-tuks to long-distance trains and private cars. Here’s how to get around:

• Trains: Sri Lanka’s scenic train routes, especially the Kandy to Ella line, are a highlight. Book in advance if you want a reserved seat, especially in peak travel times.
• Tuk-Tuks: Perfect for short trips around town, tuk-tuks are everywhere. It’s best to agree on a fare upfront (or ask for the meter to be used) to avoid surprises.
• Buses: Buses are frequent and cheap, but they can be an adventure on their own. If you’re looking for a more comfortable journey, look for private buses instead of the packed local ones.
• Private Cars: If you’re traveling with kids and want a bit more control, hire a driver for a day or two. It’s a popular option for exploring places like the Cultural Triangle or Hill Country at your own pace.

When is the best time to travel to Sri Lanka?

December to March is ideal for the west and south coast, while April to September is best for the east coast. Avoid September for Yala National Park due to closures.

Responsible Tourism Tips

Sri Lanka is working hard to preserve its natural and cultural heritage, so here’s how you can be a responsible traveler:

• Wildlife Experiences: When booking safaris or animal encounters, choose ethical operators who respect wildlife boundaries. Avoid places that promote elephant rides or direct interactions.
• Conservation Areas: Stick to designated trails in parks to protect fragile ecosystems, and follow guidelines on litter and waste.

Support Local Businesses: Choose local homestays, guides, and small businesses to support the economy. Sri Lankans are warm and hospitable, and every interaction adds to a richer experience for both sides.

Our favourite family travel planning tools

TravelSpend– Helps us to keep track of our budget

Booking.com – The best all-around accommodation booking site with the widest selection of budget accommodation. It’s easy to filter and sort into price and availability.

Skyscanner– This is by far our favourite flight search engine. They are able to search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites often miss.

Kiwi– We use Kiwi for our destination inspiration, and to help find those routes which are a little cheaper. It has a very flexible search option for finding flights.

GetYourGuide– Get Your Guide is the place to go for tours and excursions offered all around the world including everything from walking tours, to street-food tours, cooking classes, desert safari’s and more!

SafetyWing – A great travel insurance option that offers load of flexibility. 

Genki – Travel insurance tailored for longterm travel and nomads (including those who have already left home). 

ESim– We always set up an esim for arrival into a country to help navigate our way around.

Discover Cars– Our go to for rentals, internationally. We always find the best deals here

12go– Our go to for booking buses, trains, coaches and boats

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