FAQs
Where is Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka is in the Indian Ocean, you can get there in almost a rowboat distance from the southeast tip of India. It is located just a little southwest of the Bay of Bengal.
What is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka is a tropical island which remains open for holiday makers year around, although the island is exposed to two monsoon seasons which are localised to certain areas alternatively, sunny beaches are available year around, with the exception of inter monsoon showers.
What is there to see in Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka’s cultural depth is recognized by UNESCO, which has declared eight archaeological World Heritage Sites. The remains of the ancient cities of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and Kandy feature enormous dagobas (dome-shaped structures) and statues of the Buddha. Dambulla has an extravagant stairway, while the Sigiriya rock withholds the remains of a palace on the summit and sensual frescoes. Kandy is home to the Dalada Maligawa, which houses the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha. Experience the colonial heritage of the country by heading south to the mid- 17c. Dutch Fort at Galle is considered the most well preserved in Asia. The seventh World Heritage Site known as The Sinharaja Forest, and the eighth is the central highlands which is made up of the Knuckles mountain range, Peak Wilderness Protection Area and the Horton Plains. The famous national parks are also a sight for sore eyes.
What kind of clothes should I wear in Sri Lanka?
In the low country, loose cotton skirts or trousers and tops/ a long-sleeved shirt for visiting temples, are ideal for women. Men can wear cotton trousers or shorts and a T-shirt. Take a sunhat and sandals, slippers or open shoes that are easy to slip on and off. Since Sri Lanka comprises of a conservative society, mainly in rural areas, it’s best that clothes that reveal too much skin be avoided. When it comes to hill country trips, pack a light sweater, and if you plan on going on a hike or along the nature trails, pack a pair of walking shoes or trainers. If you are traveling with children, pack long sleeved clothes to protect them from mosquito bites, as it will be needed. Most beach side destinations strongly advise against wearing swimwear on the roads.
Is Sri Lanka safe to visit?
Given the current global context of scattered terror attacks against humanity, the Sri Lankan government along with the security forces have taken the necessary steps to ensure the safety of its citizens and their guests. Sporadic checks are carried out to ensure the safety of all.
Are there National parks in Sri Lanka, and what kind of animals can I see?
Sri Lanka’s 22 National Parks offer the opportunity to see most of the wildlife Sri Lanka has to offer. Elephants, leopards, sloth bears, samburs, spotted deer, hogs, mice and barking-deer, wild boars, porcupines, ant-eaters, civet cats, loris, giant squirrels, and monkeys such as the macaque, purple-faced leaf money and grey langur. The largest of the parks is Yala, where jeep safaris provide close encounters with leopards and also abundant birdlife. The best park to see elephants is in Uda Walawe. Given the Indian ocean surrounds this beautiful island, the gentle giants of the ocean to the vividly colourful coral reefs await you.
How many languages are spoken in Sri Lanka?
English is widely spoken, however it is not the primary language. Sinhala (Indo-Aryan language) (language of 74% of the population). Though Tamil (Dravidian language) is language of only 18.1% of the population, Tamil too is an official language in Sri Lanka.
Are Sri Lanka and Ceylon the same country?
It is the same country; the name Ceylon was given by the British and was used until 1972 after which Sri Lanka was and still is used.
What currency is used in Sri Lanka?
Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR).
Which religions are practiced in Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka's population practices a variety of religions. As of the 2011 census 70.2% of Sri Lankans were Theravada Buddhists, 12.6% were Hindus, 9.7% were Muslims (mainly Sunni) and 7.4% Christians (6.1% Roman Catholic and 1.3% other Christian).
Is vegetarian food available in Sri Lanka?
While much of the local food is seafood based, Sri Lankan cuisine is also one of the most vegetarian-and vegan friendly countries in the world. When trying local cuisine including vegetable based curries, ensure to check the contents as most dishes include Maldive fish (Umbalakada – pounded dried fish which is used as a flavor enhancer).
Can you drink alcohol in Sri Lanka?
Yes, however full moon days known as poya days which fall once a month which see an enforcement of prohibition for sale at bars, restaurants and hotels. Most areas have a robust drinking culture, although drinking in public is unlawful. Licensing laws—though not always enforced—mean that some places serve no alcohol between 2-5pm any day of the year.