Travel Information
Essential Info and more
Essential Info
Main Airport - Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA)
Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), located in Katunayake, 32 km north of Colombo, serves as the main international gateway to Sri Lanka.
Getting to the City
Arriving at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) is the first step of your journey. Reaching the city is easy, with several convenient transport options available. Most hotels and tour operators provide reliable airport transfer services. We recommend confirming your transfer in advance to ensure a smooth and stress-free arrival.
Your Transport Options
- Private Transfers: Pre-booked private taxis or vans offer the most comfortable and hassle-free experience, especially after a long flight. This is the recommended option for safety, convenience, and direct service to your destination.
- Ride-Hailing Services: Apps such as PickMe and Uber operate from the airport and provide a convenient and affordable way to travel to the city.
- Airport Taxis & Public Buses: Official airport taxis and public buses are readily available outside the terminal for budget-conscious travelers.
- Train Services: A nearby railway station connects to Colombo and surrounding areas. However, for first-time visitors or those traveling with luggage, private transport is generally the more convenient choice.
Southern Gateway – Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport
In addition to Bandaranaike International Airport, Sri Lanka also has a second international airport in the south — Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA). Located near Hambantota, this airport primarily handles charter flights, with many seasonal arrivals from Eastern Europe and Russia. It provides convenient access to the island's southern and southeastern coastal regions, making it an ideal entry point for travelers heading directly to popular beach destinations and wildlife parks in the south.
List of Airlines flying to Sri Lanka
https://www.airport.lk/flight_info/list_of_airlines
Time Zone
Sri Lanka operates on UTC+5:30 (GMT+5:30) with no daylight saving.
Climate & Best Time to Visit
Sri Lanka enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, averaging between 26°C and 32°C. Due to two monsoon seasons, the best time to visit depends on the region:
- West & South Coasts + Hill Country: December to April
- East Coast: May to September
This unique weather pattern makes Sri Lanka a year-round destination — there is always sunshine somewhere on the island. Light cotton clothing is recommended, along with sun protection for coastal areas and a light jacket for cooler evenings in the hill country.
Photography & Respectful Behaviour
Restricted Areas: Photography and videography are strictly prohibited near government or military buildings, including checkpoints.
Cultural Respect: It is considered disrespectful to pose for photographs in front of Buddha statues. When visiting temples or sacred sites, please remain mindful of local customs.
Legal & Social Conduct: Public nudity and prostitution are strictly prohibited in Sri Lanka. Visitors should always respect local laws and societal norms.
Need Assistance with Your Travel Plans?
Our team is here to help you with visa assistance and travel arrangements
Important Notice
Please obtain your visa before arrival for your convenience and speedy clearance at the airport. All charges mentioned are subject to change without prior notice.
24/7 Hotline
+94 (0) 11 2252861
Airport Facilities
Restaurants
24 hour service restaurants inside the terminals
Banks
24 hour banking service in arrivals and departure lobbies
Mobile Rental
GSM mobile phone rental available. 3G and GPRS service ready
Post Office
Located at arrival porch and transit lounge
Documentation
Visa Requirements
Most visitors to Sri Lanka require a visa prior to arrival. The easiest way to obtain entry approval is through the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system.
Tourist Visa (ETA)
- Apply online before travel through the official Sri Lanka ETA portal
- Typically issued for short stays (up to 30 days)
- Extensions may be possible through the Department of Immigration
- Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of arrival
We recommend checking the latest visa requirements based on your nationality before traveling.
Apply OnlineCurrency Information
The official currency of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Exchange rates fluctuate according to global market conditions, so it's a good idea to check current rates before traveling.
Where to Exchange Money
- Commercial Banks: Available at airports, in all major cities and towns — reliable for large transactions.
- Hotels: Many tourist-class hotels provide currency exchange, convenient for small amounts.
- Authorized Money Changers: Licensed exchange centers in cities and tourist areas.
Payment Methods
American Express, Master Card, Visa widely accepted
1% stamp duty plus small commission
Widely available in cities and tourist hubs; most accept international debit/credit cards
Travel Tips
Clothing
Sri Lanka is a tropical island close to the equator, enjoying warm temperatures year-round. We recommend natural fabrics such as cotton or linen for comfort. Smart casual attire is suitable for coastal evenings. A light sweater or jacket is useful in the central highlands. Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended for cultural visits, nature walks, and trekking.
Temple Visits: Shoulders and knees must be covered. Remove shoes and hats before entering places of worship. Wearing white is appreciated at certain sacred sites.
Water Safety
Only consume bottled or properly treated water and avoid ice in drinks unless you are certain it is made from safe water. Eat only well-cooked food and be cautious with raw or undercooked seafood.
- Bottled water
- Packaged juices
- Tap water
Sun Protection
The tropical sun can be harsh. Essential items include:
- High SPF sunscreen
- Quality sunglasses
- Mosquito repellent
Regulations
Prohibited Items
- Drugs or narcotics
- Pornographic material
- Firearms and weapons
- Offensive religious material
Restricted Items
- Plants, fruits, and birds
- Medication (personal use exempt)
- Commercial goods
- Explosives and ammunition
Child Protection Laws
Sri Lanka has strict laws to protect children and prevent abuse, including the Sale of Children, Child Prostitution, and Child Pornography. Under domestic law, a child is anyone under the age of 18. Child abuse includes all acts of sexual violence, trafficking, and cruelty against children. The law strictly prohibits the use of children in exploitative labour or any illegal activities. Penalties for sexual exploitation and child trafficking range from five to twenty years imprisonment, along with fines. Individuals who procure or knowingly allow a child to be abused on their premises are subject to the same legal consequences. Visitors are reminded to respect these laws fully — violations are met with severe legal consequences.
Health & Safety
Vaccinations & Health Precautions
- Hepatitis A: Recommended for all travelers
- Cholera: Considered a serious risk; take necessary precautions
- Typhoid: More prevalent in rural areas
- Yellow Fever: Vaccination certificate required if arriving from infected regions
- Mosquito-borne Illnesses: Malaria, dengue fever, Chikungunya, and Japanese encephalitis are present — use mosquito protection
Seek medical advice at least three weeks prior to departure. Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly advised.
Personal Safety
- Sri Lanka is generally safe for tourists, but usual precautions apply
- Avoid poorly lit streets at night and keep valuables secure
- Be cautious when using ATMs or handling cash in public
- Road Safety: Traffic drives on the left. Roads can be narrow and winding in rural areas — hiring a private driver is safer for first-time visitors.
Emergency Numbers
Transportation
Private Vehicles
The most comfortable and popular way to explore — ideal for flexibility and personalized travel.
Domestic Flights
Available between selected destinations, offering quick access to key regions of the island.
Scenic Train Journeys
Among the most scenic in the world — especially routes through the hill country tea plantations.
Buses & Taxis
Public buses connect most towns; taxis and ride-hailing services (PickMe, Uber) available in urban areas.
VIP Airport & Fast Track Services
For travelers who wish to bypass the usual airport formalities, Sri Lanka Express offers an exclusive VIP Airport & Fast Track service — designed for comfort, efficiency, and a seamless journey. This premium service caters to discerning passengers, ensuring both pre-flight and post-flight luxury.
Services Include:
- Personalized assistance — staff handle check-in, immigration & baggage
- Relax in an elegant Lounge while formalities are completed
- Dedicated VIP passenger-way — speed, convenience, and privacy
- Available for both arrivals and departures