Travel Tips

It is more important than ever to be well informed about a destination before you visit. The following are some helpful tips and suggestions which will assist you in ensuring a trouble free holiday.

Visas

All tourists and business travellers to Sri Lanka must have an electronic travel authorization for entering into Sri Lanka. For more information and to apply, please visit http://eta.gov.lk/. For nationals of most countries, a 30 day visa will be granted. For a list of countries exempt from visa fees and to obtain information on extensions of stay please visit www.immigration.gov.lk

Vaccinations

Yellow fever vaccinations maybe required for certain nationals. For details please visit www.immigration.gov.lk Although it is not a compulsory requirement, recommended immunizations are Diphtheria, Tetanus, Typhoid, and Hepatitis A+B. It is also advisable to take anti- malarial precautions,

Currency

Sri Lanka follows the decimal currency system in Rupees (Rs.) and cents (Cts.) with 100 cents equal to a rupee. Currency notes are available in the denominations of Rs.10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000, 2000 & 5000. Coins are issued in values of Cts. 25, 50 and Rs.1, 2, 5 and 10. ( Cents 1, 2, 5, 10 are no longer in circulation)

Travel Documents

Check your travel documents. Air tickets , valid passport and foreign Exchange before you leave. Carry a copy of your passport, if the original is lost or stolen it will ease the procedure of obtaining a replacement travel document from the relevant Embassy/Consulate.

Banks

All major banks are represented at the Bandaranaike airport and, we recommend that you en- cash your foreign currency from the airport for convenience and a better exchange rate. All major currencies are accepted by hotels. Credit cards such as Master, Visa, American Express are widely accepted.

Re-confirmation

Although most airlines may not have a re–confirmation policy it may be advisable to provide the relevant airline with your local or foreign agent’s telephone number so that the airline may notify you of any flight delays etc. You may either contact the airline concerned once you arrive.

Airport /Airport Services

The Bandaranaike International Airport at Katunayake, around 30 km north of Colombo, is Sri Lanka’s International airport. Lounge facilities available are: Sri Lanka “First Class and Peacock”, and Airport & Aviation Service “Lotus”. Left Luggage Facilities are also available 24 hours a day. Restaurants situated within the airport offer a 24 hour service

Holidays

Sri lanka is probably the country with the most number of holidays in the world. Among several other holidays each full moon day of the month is a Poya holiday.On this day most shops will remain closed. No alcohol will be sold nor will it be served in public areas. However for hotel in-house guests liquor may be served to the room.

Airport Tax

Airport and Departure Tax is generally included in the Air Ticket

What to wear

Cotton garments are ideal, as Sri Lanka is a tropical island However, viscose/cotton mixed garments are commonly worn. Light clothing is recommended in the lowland areas and light woolen clothing is suitable in the hill country. A sun hat and sun glasses may help to escape the heat during day time.

Entering Places of Worship

Visitors to Buddhist temples are advised to be properly clad covering the body as much as possible. Briefs, shorts, bear backs and bare shoulders are against accepted norms.When entering Buddhist and Hindu shrines footwear and headgear should be removed.
Be conscious and respect the traditions , the culture and the people of your host country. Especially at places of worship

Shopping

For shopper’s, Sri Lanka has much to offer A wide variety of traditional handicrafts are available at reasonable prices. We are also renowned for quality gemstones and jewelry, spices fine porcelain and tableware. Other best buys are garments locally produced for foreign Department Store chains .
The purchase and export without a license of any wild animal, bird or reptile dead or alive; the export of parts of such animals bird or reptiles such as skins, horns, scales and feathers is strictly prohibited under the Fauna and Flora protection ordinance. Occasional exports are however permitted exclusively for bona fide scientific purposes.

Discover Your Next Destination

From iconic cities to hidden gems, our curated selection of destinations offers something for every traveler. Whether you dream of exploring historic landmarks, relaxing on sun-kissed beaches, or immersing yourself in vibrant cultures, Chaya Tours brings the world to your doorstep one unforgettable destination at a time.

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