The only International airport is situated 32 km (20 miles) north of Colombo in a city called Katunayake. It is called the “Bandaranaike International Airport”.
Most hotels and tour operator’s offer transport from the airport; if possible confirm in advance. Buses and taxis are available. Also there is a train station close to the airport, but visitors are advised to arrange their own transportation.
Entry to the Bandaranaike International Airport, Katunayake, is not restricted anymore to visitors. There are several shops in the transit and departure lounge of the Bandaranaike International Airport which sell gems, ceramics, handicrafts, batiks, cut-flowers, books and picture postcards of Sri Lanka.
GMT + 5 & ½
24 hour service restaurants inside the terminals
Banks are located in the arrivals and departure lobbies which give 24 hour service
A mobile phone (GSM) rental booth is located at the arrival terminal at the public concourse. You can easily rent out a post paid mobile connection for your use in Sri Lanka. Top up cards are readily available in major towns. Advanced mobile technology such as 3G and GPRS service is available in the country.
Located at the arrival porch and transit lounge
Located at the outer porch of the arrival terminal /24 hour service. 24 hour Hotline +94 (0) 11 2252861
A Visa is required for Foreign nationals entering Sri Lanka. You could either get your visa before your arrival to Sri Lanka through ONLINE www.eta.gov.lk OR on arrival. (Fees vary for these services). It will be valid for a period of 30 days and extensions will be granted on request with / without a fee depending on the reason for stay. You should hold a Passport valid for six months or more.
Please Visit :
Please Visit : www.eta.gov.lk
Online Charges (Subject to change without prior Notice)
SAARC Nation Members - US$ 15.00
NON Members - US$ 30.00
Online Arrival (Subject to change without prior Notice)
SAARC Nation Members - US$ 20.00
NON Members - US$ 35.00
Please contact us for VISA assistance, if required.
The currency in Sri Lanka is the Rupee. The value fluctuates with world market rates. All commercial banks are authorized to exchange money and so are most tourist class hotels. American Express, Master Card and Visa Card are also widely accepted.
Widely accepted in banks and money exchanges, a 1% stamp duty is payable, plus a small commission.
Common in Large towns
Sri Lanka is a tropical country located closely to the equator; hence a day without the sun even in the wet season is fairly rare. Packing light weight cotton fabric clothing adds much comfort during the hot humid days. However, remember to pack a sweater when embarking on a trip to the misty hill country. Comfortable walking boots or walking shoes is a must if one plans on going hiking and trekking through the mountains of Sri Lanka.
Visitors should be mindful of what they wear when visiting Buddhist and Hindu temples. Temples have specific regulations however generally one is expected to be dressed modestly and in certain instances dressed in white. Be mindful to remove hats and shoes before entering a temple.
It would be useful to bring mosquito and insect repellent, especially if a visitor plans on hiking or trekking.
Bring plenty of Sun-tan for long blissful hours on the beach; but sunscreen lotion is a must as the sun can be harsh during the dry season and in the bright tropical sun, sunglasses are not merely a fashion - but a 'must have'.
Photography & Videoing near government or military buildings including checkpoints is prohibited & It is considered offensive to pose for photographs in front of a Buddha statue.
Restricted items include firearms, ammunitions, explosives and weapons, plants, fruits, birds and by-products, medication (unless it is for personal use), and goods for commercial purposes. Prohibited items include drugs or narcotics, pornographic material, and material that ridicules religious belief systems.
Sri Lanka has a number of laws on child protection and the prevention of child abuse including the Sale of Children, Child Prostitution and Child Pornography.
Under domestic law, the definition of a child is anyone below the age of eighteen years and child abuse includes all acts of sexual violence against, trafficking in and cruelty to children.
The law prohibits the use of children in exploitative labour or illegal activities. The penalties for sexual exploitation and child trafficking range from five to twenty years imprisonment and an unspecified fine. Procurers and those who knowingly allow a child to be abused on their premises also face the same sentences as those directly abusing a child.
Food and waterborne diseases are a primary cause for ill health in travellers. Visitors should only drink bottled water, avoid ice in drinks, and take care to eat well-cooked food. Hepatitis A vaccination is recommended for all travellers to Sri Lanka. Cholera is regarded as a serious risk and precautions are advised, while typhoid is more of a problem in rural areas. Yellow fever vaccination certificates are required by travellers coming from infected areas. Malaria, Chikungunya fever, Japanese encephalitis and dengue fever are a risk and protection against mosquito bites is essential. Prophylactics for malaria are also strongly recommended. There is also a particular danger from contaminated seafood. Travellers are strongly advised to take out good travel insurance, and seek medial advice at least three weeks before leaving for Sri Lanka.
Food and waterborne diseases are a primary cause for ill health in travellers. Visitors should only drink bottled water, avoid ice in drinks, and take care to eat well-cooked food. Bottled water, cartons of fruit juice and bottles of soft drink are usually safe to drink.
If you are an air traveler who thinks airport formalities are a hassle, here is the perfect way to avoid it.
Sri Lanka Express now offers an exclusive facility to all the discerning passengers like you. Branded "Silk Route". This facility dishes out ultimate pre-flight and post-flight comfort to those passengers who have a booking.
A distinct feature of this facility is that while the passenger unwinds in the cozy "Silk Route" Lounge, airport staff take care of all the formalities he is expected to complete before embarkation or after disembarkation as the case may be.
What is more, the staff will thereafter accompany him through a dedicated "Silk Route" passenger-way.
If it is pre-flight luxury, or post-flight comfort that you are looking for, take the "Silk Route" !
Contact - colombo@srilanka-express.com to BOOK
