Explore Sri Lanka with Walkers Tours through a curated guide to the island’s diverse regions. Each destination highlights its unique landscapes, culture, and charm, while attractions showcase iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Dive deeper with our experiences, from wildlife safaris and city adventures to immersive cultural activities. Stay informed about Sri Lanka’s vibrant festivals, sporting events, and cultural celebrations, offering travellers the perfect way to engage with the island’s dynamic traditions.
Sri Lanka is a year-round destination with warm, sunny weather across most regions, averaging 27°C–30°C. Temperatures drop in the hill country, sometimes below 10°C at night. The island experiences two brief monsoon seasons—May to July in the southwest and December to January in the northeast—but tropical showers are short-lived, leaving plenty of clear, sunny days. Sri Lanka is 5½ hours ahead of GMT.
Yes, advance booking is recommended, especially during peak season from December to March when European travellers flock to Sri Lanka’s sunny beaches. Popular destinations like west coast resorts, Kandy, and Nuwara Eliya often fill up quickly. July and August can also be busy, particularly in Kandy, due to the famous Perahera festival, which attracts large crowds of visitors.
Pack light! Sri Lanka’s tropical climate makes cotton clothes ideal, along with swimwear for beaches. Casual, modest attire is suitable for most places. Bring your preferred sunscreen, essential gadgets for staying connected, a spare pair of glasses, and enough prescription medicines, as local brands may not be available. Comfort and practicality are key for an enjoyable trip.
Plan your trip around your flight arrival to maximise your stay. If arriving in the morning, driving directly to Habarana—a central hub for Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, and Dambulla—is ideal. Evening arrivals are best spent in Colombo, just 40 minutes from the airport via the expressway, before heading to central destinations the next day.
Yes, all visitors except Maldivian or Singaporean passport holders need a visa. The easiest way is to apply online in advance at the official site (www.eta.gov.lk) using a credit card. Avoid third-party websites that charge extra. If you haven’t applied beforehand, a visa can also be obtained at a special desk in the immigration arrivals hall.
Foreign currency and traveller’s cheques can be exchanged at hotels, though banks offer better rates. Keep receipts when converting to Sri Lankan rupees, as they are needed to change back to foreign currency. Airport banks operate 24/7 for conversions. Notes in circulation include 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000, 2000, and 5000 rupees. Remember, the Sri Lankan rupee is different from the Indian rupee.
American Express, Visa, and MasterCard are the most commonly accepted credit cards. You can also obtain cash advances at bank ATMs. It’s wise to confirm card acceptance before using services. Banks generally operate 9:00 am–1:00 pm weekdays, with some open until 3:00 pm or offering night banking. Banks are closed on weekends, public, and special holidays, but ATMs are available nationwide.
Explore Sri Lanka like never before with Walkers Tours’ exclusive deals. From boutique stays to immersive adventures, each package is crafted to provide personalised, seamless, and remarkable holidays.
Walkers Tours lets you craft a completely customised holiday. From sights to activities, every detail can be tailored to your preferences, ensuring a unique and unforgettable Sri Lankan experience.
Inquire Now