12 Travel Tips for First Timers in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is home to different cultures, a varied landscape, a plethora of wildlife and smiling locals. Located just south of India, the country’s geography is as diverse as its culture. If you are looking to soak up some good vibes, the warm and sandy beaches of Sri Lanka can offer some respite. In your quest for Sri Lanka Private Tours, here are some useful travel tips to help you make the most of your time in the island nation.

1. The Weather is Warm Throughout the Year

Located just north of the Equator, Sri Lanka enjoys a temperate climate throughout the year, with the average temperature ranging between 28 and 34 degree Celsius. The temperature, however, remains a few degrees lower in the central mountainous region. The best time to visit the southern part of the country is between November and April, while the northern region can be explored between May and September. The central region is best explored between January and March.

2. Budget-Friendly Accommodation and Transportation

Sri Lanka is way affordable than its immediate neighbor, Maldives, which is just 983 km away! Granted Sri Lankan tourism is still in its nascent stage, but the pace has picked up in the past few years. There are numerous budget hotels and hostels in the country, apart from opulent resorts. Take your pick while planning your itinerary. Most major towns and cities are connected by a network of highways and the railway. If you are not keen on using public transportation, you could ask tour operators in Sri Lanka to set you up with a group. This way you get to rent a private vehicle and split the fare equally.

3. Apply for a Visa Before Traveling

Sri Lanka only allows tourists from Seychelles, Maldives and Singapore to travel without a Visa. Although, tourists from other nations can collect their Visa on arrival, completing the formalities in advance will save you from the hassles of dealing with documentations while battling a jetlag.

4. The Locals Love Tea

If you are a tea lover, you must have heard of Ceylon, a popular variety of leaf. What you might not know is that Sri Lanka was the Dominion of Ceylon till 1972. Being one of the largest tea exporting nations, Sri Lankans are very passionate about the brew. If you are keen on visiting a few of the large tea estates, travel agents in Sri Lanka organize day trips on special request.