SRILANKA
Visa information
All tourists travelling to Sri Lanka have to fill in the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) form on-line and apply for your visa prior to arrival. For more information, visit www.eta.gov.lk
When to travel
Sri Lanka is tropical, with distinct dry and wet seasons. There are two monsoons as follows: one brings rain to the southwest from May to August, and the other brings rain to the north and east from October to January.
The driest and best seasons in Sri Lanka are from December to March for the west coast, the south coast and the hill country, and from April to September for the ancient cities region and the east coast.
Health information
Before traveling to Sri Lanka it is advised that you consult your doctor or local travel clinic regarding any inoculations you may need. Malaria preventive course may be taken before your trip, but again this should be consulted with your doctor. Fit for Travel (a UK based website) is a good source of advice and information on travel health http://www.fitfortravel.scot.nhs.uk/home.aspx
Currency& Foreign Exchange
The unit of Sri Lankan currency is the rupee.(100 Sri Lankan cents = 1 rupee). Visiting foreigners can exchange money at international airports where 24-hour exchange facilities are available, through banks and approved moneychangers. Because you will not be spending any time in the cities we suggest you get all necessary currency at the airport on arrival.
Travelers’ Cheques should be of well-known brands like Thomas Cook, American Express and Visa. The hotels generally accept Major Credit Cards like American Express, Master Cards, Visa, etc, including hotels, shops and airlines. The most useful foreign currency here however is US Dollars.
Time difference
Sri Lanka is 5.5 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time.
Electricity
The standard is 220/240 volts. Bring 50 hz. adaptors for electrical gadgets and laptops to protect equipment from voltage fluctuations. Triple and double round pin plugs are very useful, though high-end hotels provide these.