Sri Lanka travel guide: Everything to know before you go
Sri Lanka can be best described as south Asia in miniature form, filled with beaches, elephants, tea plantations, curries, sacred rituals, colourful ceremonies, and most of all, warmly welcoming people. Hailed as the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean" and the "Teardrop of India", this ancient island nation has long been celebrated - and coveted - for its abundant landscapes, strategic significance, and rare beauty.
Sri Lanka's past is remarkably well preserved, despite years of unrest and strife. From Victorian-era colonial clubs to centuries-old Buddhist temples, layer after layer of Sri Lankan history is within reach. Its natural heritage is rich, too. Ten national parks provide sanctuary for sloth bears to sambars, leopards to lorises, and of course plenty of elephants. For such a small island (roughly the size of Ireland), the diversity here is striking - you can climb mist-robed mountains, surf silvery shores, trek through abundant jungle, all in the same day.
Sri Lanka's cities have that frenetic, cheerful chaos common to Asian cities, whether it's Colombo's colonial grandeur or Kandy's exalted lakeside lifestyle. Either way, the coast's serenity is never far, with some of the finest beaches in the world ready to embrace you: champagne-coloured sand, palms in regal repose, and the tropical waters of the Indian Ocean.
Best time to go
It depends on what you're looking for. Thanks to its dual monsoon pattern, December-April tends to be best for beaches and wildlife excursions on the south and west of the island, while the dry months of May-September unlock access to the north and east.
Each side has its pick of stunning locations, and if you want to see both (without getting drenched) then September-October and April are the shoulder seasons for you, offering cooler temperatures, fewer tourists and excellent hiking opportunities. April coincides with the local new year celebrations, so be wary of increased congestion on the transport networks.
Top cities and regions
Kandy
Kandy is Sri Lanka's beating heart: Holy town, hilltop enclave, and spiritual centre. Sri Lanka's ancient customs and natural beauty come together here, with temples, shrines and palaces reflected in the glassy surface of the lake, hugged by hills as green as any you'll ever see. Take the Main Line train from Colombo, wind your way up the mountains, and enjoy one of the world's most celebrated railway rides. Kandy is where Sri Lanka's kings resided, and it's easy to see why; today, the entirety of Kandy is a Unesco World Heritage site.
Despite the crowds, be sure to visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth, Sri Lanka's greatest religious relic, and said to be from the Buddha's own mouth. While you can't see the tooth itself - only the case is on display - the temple itself is beautiful, with many chambers, galleries and artefacts. Go in the evening to witness the prayers and the candlelight. Further along the train line is Ella, where the British plantation owners once resided, and home to Ella Rock, whose summit is a challenging but reasonable hike (three-four hours).
Galle
Whitewashed, manicured, and orderly, Galle feels like a prestigious Mediterranean seaside resort. No wonder: it was founded by the Portuguese and expanded by the Dutch. Galle's architecture and atmosphere have a distinctly European feel, from the prim and proper lighthouse to the austere Protestant churches. Gone are the laid-back surfer vibes of Weligama and Marisa, replaced by well-to-do couples, fashionable boutiques, and candlelit dinners.
Explore the well-preserved fort by daylight before taking a stroll down the tranquil lanes and avenues of the town itself. The seafood food is spectacular, the bars plentiful, and the nights balmy and untroubled. Just don't expect much nightlife.
People walk along a road in the Dutch Fort, in Galle, Sri Lanka. Reuters
Colombo
Crowded, frenetic, and choked up, Colombo used to be dismissed as merely the place from which to fly in and out. But Colombo has history, culture and excellent food.
If you're keen on colonial history, the city boasts some of the best-preserved architecture from anywhere in the former British Empire. If not, there are plenty of temples, museums, and shrines besides. Hop on a tuk-tuk and explore an anthology of Sri Lanka's past: the mind-melting stripes of Jami Ul-Alfar mosque; the statues of the Gangaramaya (Vihara) Buddhist temple; and St Anthony's Shrine, a Catholic church illuminated at night. Gathering these cultural riches is the Colombo National Museum, the biggest in Sri Lanka and featuring over 100,000 artefacts.
Anuradhapura and Sigiriya
The ancient city of Anuradhapura was abandoned in the 13th century, and was overgrown by jungle until the 19th century. Since then, it has flourished as a site for both Buddhist pilgrims and tourists, who flock to see the shrines and relics. One of the most visited is a sacred pipal tree, planted in 245BC from a cutting of the Bo tree, under which it's said the Buddha attained enlightenment. It's recognised as the oldest cultivated tree in the world.
Even more iconic are the Dagobas, the wide-domed Buddhist temples that dominate the city. Ruwanwelisaya, the oldest and the grandest, can get crowded. Instead, go wherever the ceremonies are taking place. Outside of the city lies Mihintale, a hilltop where the first Buddhist monastery is said to have converted a Sri Lankan king and his hunting party. The view from the peak of the hills is spectacular, but go at sunrise rather than sunset, or prepare to huddle among couples.
Just over an hour away is Sigiriya, a rock formation featuring an ancient fortress. It's another Unesco site, and possibly the single most popular attraction in the country. Although entry is a little pricey (£25 for foreign visitors), it's worth it. You'll see ancient frescoes, the centuries-old Mirror Wall, and the enormous - scarcely-believable - lion's paws guarding the summit (the remains of what was originally a towering stone lion). It's 350-odd metres to the summit, so wear your exercise gear and prepare to sweat.
Arugam Bay and Kumana National Park
Sri Lanka isn't short of beaches. The crescent-moon sands of Arugam Bay are among the best. While Weligama, Mirissa, and Hikkaduwa have more of a party vibe, Arugam Bay's tranquil beauty is better suited to relaxing. Pitched on the unspoilt east coast, the waves are best between May and October - when the rest of Sri Lanka is beset by monsoon rains and ocean currents. Arugam Bay's thatched huts and sleepy shoreline is one of the finest places to get away from it all. The waves at Main Point are some of the best in Sri Lanka.
When you're ready to explore again, hail a tuk-tuk and head to Kumana National Park. Unlike Yala, its famous neighbour, Kumana National Park retains much more of its wilderness - less zoo, more sanctuary. It's especially good for bird spotting, with hundreds of species nesting there. A guide is included with entry, which means you can't tour the park alone, but they're such good spotters that it makes for a much better experience.
The waves at Main Point are some of the best in Sri Lanka. Reuters
Best things to do
Take the train deep into the tea plantations Whatever else you get up to in Sri Lanka, make absolutely sure that you take the Main Line train from Colombo to Kandy, and then from Kandy all the way to Ella. It takes eight hours or more, but this is one of those journeys that's worth savouring. The train climbs inland from the coast, cutting through rock, farmland and jungle. You'll travel across mountains veiled in mist, hillsides carpeted with tea leaves, and imposing brick-arched bridges from another era. If you fancy a cocktail and a party, stay on until at Ella; if you want a cup of tea and tranquillity, get off at Nuwara Eliyah.
Get a taste of the surf culture
Surfing can be tough, physically draining, and utterly, blissfully exhausting. Getting on a board is daunting, especially when surrounded by confident surfers strutting about, so find a school that's right for you. Although Weligama is the surf hotspot, there are less crowded (and much prettier) places to learn all along the south coast, such as Mirissa, Ahangama, or Unawatuna, which are also great for beginners.
While you can surf just for the day, it takes some getting used to, so if you have the time check into a surf camp for a few days. Plunging into the sea every morning, feeling the pump and force of the waves, and collapsing on the sands in happy fatigue afterwards is a rewarding, nourishing, and vital experience - especially if you combine it with some yoga. Plus, there is no appetite quite like the one worked up on a surfboard, so when you finally sit down for your coconut curry it'll taste even better.
Get a taste of the surf culture. Reuters
Get up close to wildlife
Many conservation projects in Sri Lanka are preserving wildlife sustainably while also giving you unparalleled access. Since the early 1990s, numbers of elephants, leopards, and other endangered species have risen considerably, and sustainable tourism has helped. The Smithsonian Primate Research Station, near Polonnaruwa, is the oldest of its kind in the world and Bundala's flamingo-filled wetlands are a Unesco biosphere reserve. The safaris in the national parks - Wilpattu, Udawalawe, and Wasgamuwa - rival almost anything in Africa.
Getting around
Travelling by train isn't just convenient, it's also a quintessential journey through Sri Lanka's history and a window unto its landscapes, and is also very cheap.
For short journeys, it has to be tuk-tuk. Individually decorated, stubbornly persistent and formidably cheap, travelling by tuk-tuk quickly becomes addictive. It's not always comfortable, especially if you squeeze three or more into the backseat, but it's a great way to chat to locals and get the wind in your hair. Agree the fee in advance, especially in tourist areas, but remember the country has just come off suffering from a fuel crisis - if you can afford to fork out an extra hundred rupees, do it.
Otherwise, when you need that 6am ride to the airport or that drive down from the mountains to the coast, book a taxi. Many tuk-tuk drivers also have cars, so ask ahead about a taxi service. Roads are generally well maintained and safe, but driving can be erratic.
How to get there
Sri Lankan Airways offer direct flights between London and Colombo. Other airlines offer stopovers, often in Doha or Dubai.
Money-saving tip
Travel and food are cheap in Sri Lanka, but accommodation is comparatively expensive. Alcohol is pricey, too - this is a conservative island, and the drinking culture is much less raucous here than in the rest of south-east Asia. There's no real hostel culture either, so the best value are the guesthouses, which are often family-run and very friendly. If you want the full-on luxury experience, Sri Lanka offers an enviable abundance of Western opulence - at Western prices, so book in advance.
Tipping isn't expected, but haggling very much is. Friendly negotiation is part of the transaction here, so get stuck in.
Current travel restrictions and entry requirements
The Department of Immigration and Emigration has a online embarkation form. Foreign nationals can complete the online form three days prior to arrival in Sri Lanka. The service is free of charge. All visitors are advised to apply online for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter Sri Lanka; you can apply for on the ETA website.
As entry requirements are liable to change, check the UK's Foreign Office's travel advice website before any travel for updates.
Photo used for an illustrative purpose. AP
What's the weather like?
Thanks to its ocean winds, Sri Lanka is tropical and enjoyably warm most of the year round, with coastal temperatures averaging around 28C and upland areas averaging between 16-20C. The island experiences a dual monsoon, affecting one side of the island at a time. The south-western region and central highlands receive most of the island's rainfall, whilst the north and the east experience a distinct dry season from May to September. Take a jacket - the evenings can get chilly.
What time zone is it in?
Sri Lanka Standard Time, GMT+5:30
What currency do I need?
The Sri Lankan rupee. You can get hold of these before travel, or you can exchange or withdraw some after arrival. Exchanging at the airport will be more expensive, but it's also a reliable 247 service and a good place to set yourself up for the next few days. Although card payments are growing increasingly popular, most small shops, local restaurants and markets still aren't set up for it, so make sure you always have cash on you.
What language is spoken?
The primary language of Sri Lanka is Sinhala, although in the north Tamil is widely spoken. You'll find English spoken by many, particularly as the language of commerce.
What plug sockets are used?
Types D and G. Plug type D is the plug which has three round pins in a triangular pattern; type G is what is used in the UK.
The Independent
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Gulf Today
14 hours ago
- Gulf Today
Tourists are trickling into Afghanistan and Taliban government is eager to welcome them
By plane, motorbike, camper van and even on bicycles, tourists are beginning to discover Afghanistan, with solo travelers and tour groups gradually venturing into a country that until recently was wracked by war. And the country's Taliban government, which seized power more than three years ago but has yet to be formally recognised by any other nation, is more than happy to welcome them. "The Afghan people are warm and welcoming and wish to host tourists from other countries and engage with them,' Deputy Minister of Tourism Qudratullah Jamal told The Associated Press in an early June interview. "Tourism brings many benefits to a country. We have considered those benefits and aim for our nation to take full advantage of them.' Tourism is a vital, multi-billion-dollar industry for many countries. Deputy Minister of Tourism Qudratullah Jamal speaks with the Associated Press in Kabul. AP Afghanistan's isolation on the international stage, largely because of the Taliban's restrictions on women and girls, has left much of its 41 million people mired in poverty. As it struggles to attract foreign investment, the lucrative potential of tourism is far from lost on the government. "We are currently earning a considerable amount of revenue from this industry, and we are hopeful it will grow even more in the future,' Jamal said, noting money spent by visitors can reach more layers of society than revenue from other industries. "We are optimistic this sector will evolve into a large economy, bringing significant benefits. It plays an important role in strengthening our national economy.' Tourist visas are quick and easy to obtain and flights from major transit hubs such as Dubai and Istanbul operate several times a week. The government has even set up a training institute for men — and it is only for men — seeking jobs in the hospitality and tourism sector. Villagers walk in the fields near the niche of the giant Buddha statue destroyed by the Taliban in 2001, in Bamiyan, Afghanistan. AP While visitor numbers are still very much a trickle rather than a flood, they are increasing. Nearly 9,000 foreign tourists visited Afghanistan last year, while nearly 3,000 people visited in the first three months of this year, Jamal said. Four decades of near-continuous conflict kept nearly all vacationers away from this landlocked country of towering mountains, deep gorges and millennia of history. The Taliban's takeover from a US-backed government in August 2021 stunned the world and sent thousands of Afghans fleeing. But with the insurgency over, the bloodshed from frequent bombings and suicide attacks all but ended too. Attacks still occur, however. A Daesh affiliate in Afghanistan remains active and gunmen killed six people, including three Spanish tourists, in a May 2024 attack in Bamiyan, one of the country's main tourist attractions where centuries-old giant Buddhas carved into the cliffs were blown up by the Taliban in 2001. Band-e-Amir National Park, with its stunning blue lakes and towering cliffs, is seen in Afghanistan's central Bamiyan province. AP While Western countries still advise against travel to Afghanistan, a drop in violence from the two decades of US-led military presence is indisputable, as the government is keen to point out. "Afghanistan has gone through many years of war and hardship. Now, we want tourists to come and see the true traditions and customs of Afghans, to understand Afghan life, creativity and resilience,' Jamal said, noting there was "comprehensive security across Afghanistan.' Critics question the ethics of foreigners visiting Afghanistan for pleasure when its government discriminates so heavily against half the country's population. Education beyond primary school level is banned for girls and women and few professions are open to them. Women cannot enter parks, gardens or gyms. Beauty salons are forbidden. Authorities dictate how women dress and have demanded they cover their faces in public, a decree still flouted by many, particularly in Kabul. Some visitors say they contemplated the ethics, but ultimately wanted to see the situation for themselves. French-Peruvian Illary Gomez said she and her British partner, James Liddiard, debated for about a year whether to drive through Afghanistan as part of their U.K.-to-Japan camper van journey. "Some things didn't feel morally right,' she said. But once here, they said they found a warm, hospitable and welcoming people and beautiful landscapes. They didn't feel their presence was any form of support for the Taliban. By travelling, "you put money in the hands of the people, not the government,' Liddiard said. The treatment of women is particularly sensitive for government officials. Jamal declined to comment on the subject beyond saying male and female visitors were welcome. "Those who respect our laws and traditions have already come and can continue to come,' he said. While most restrictions are strictly enforced on Afghan women, they are far more relaxed for foreigners. Although they must still wear a headscarf in public, foreign women are more likely to gain entry into some restricted areas such as parks and are rarely asked to cover their faces in public. Opening the country to foreign visitors was also a way of building bridges, Jamal said. "It is a great way to promote interaction between the people of different countries. It helps build international relations and is also beneficial for trade,' he told the AP. "When foreigners come here, Afghans also learn a lot from them. In addition to expanding commerce, tourism also helps foster mutual understanding, cultural exchange and strengthens talents as people learn from one another.' A foreign traveler seeing the country with his own eyes "creates closeness, builds connections and fosters trust among people,' Jamal said. "They will respect each other's culture and the distance between peoples will diminish. "So this is not just economic development; it also brings spiritual and political benefits,' he said. Associated Press
Gulf Today
20 hours ago
- Gulf Today
Sri Lanka travel guide: Everything to know before you go
Sri Lanka can be best described as south Asia in miniature form, filled with beaches, elephants, tea plantations, curries, sacred rituals, colourful ceremonies, and most of all, warmly welcoming people. Hailed as the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean" and the "Teardrop of India", this ancient island nation has long been celebrated - and coveted - for its abundant landscapes, strategic significance, and rare beauty. Sri Lanka's past is remarkably well preserved, despite years of unrest and strife. From Victorian-era colonial clubs to centuries-old Buddhist temples, layer after layer of Sri Lankan history is within reach. Its natural heritage is rich, too. Ten national parks provide sanctuary for sloth bears to sambars, leopards to lorises, and of course plenty of elephants. For such a small island (roughly the size of Ireland), the diversity here is striking - you can climb mist-robed mountains, surf silvery shores, trek through abundant jungle, all in the same day. Sri Lanka's cities have that frenetic, cheerful chaos common to Asian cities, whether it's Colombo's colonial grandeur or Kandy's exalted lakeside lifestyle. Either way, the coast's serenity is never far, with some of the finest beaches in the world ready to embrace you: champagne-coloured sand, palms in regal repose, and the tropical waters of the Indian Ocean. Best time to go It depends on what you're looking for. Thanks to its dual monsoon pattern, December-April tends to be best for beaches and wildlife excursions on the south and west of the island, while the dry months of May-September unlock access to the north and east. Each side has its pick of stunning locations, and if you want to see both (without getting drenched) then September-October and April are the shoulder seasons for you, offering cooler temperatures, fewer tourists and excellent hiking opportunities. April coincides with the local new year celebrations, so be wary of increased congestion on the transport networks. Top cities and regions Kandy Kandy is Sri Lanka's beating heart: Holy town, hilltop enclave, and spiritual centre. Sri Lanka's ancient customs and natural beauty come together here, with temples, shrines and palaces reflected in the glassy surface of the lake, hugged by hills as green as any you'll ever see. Take the Main Line train from Colombo, wind your way up the mountains, and enjoy one of the world's most celebrated railway rides. Kandy is where Sri Lanka's kings resided, and it's easy to see why; today, the entirety of Kandy is a Unesco World Heritage site. Despite the crowds, be sure to visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth, Sri Lanka's greatest religious relic, and said to be from the Buddha's own mouth. While you can't see the tooth itself - only the case is on display - the temple itself is beautiful, with many chambers, galleries and artefacts. Go in the evening to witness the prayers and the candlelight. Further along the train line is Ella, where the British plantation owners once resided, and home to Ella Rock, whose summit is a challenging but reasonable hike (three-four hours). Galle Whitewashed, manicured, and orderly, Galle feels like a prestigious Mediterranean seaside resort. No wonder: it was founded by the Portuguese and expanded by the Dutch. Galle's architecture and atmosphere have a distinctly European feel, from the prim and proper lighthouse to the austere Protestant churches. Gone are the laid-back surfer vibes of Weligama and Marisa, replaced by well-to-do couples, fashionable boutiques, and candlelit dinners. Explore the well-preserved fort by daylight before taking a stroll down the tranquil lanes and avenues of the town itself. The seafood food is spectacular, the bars plentiful, and the nights balmy and untroubled. Just don't expect much nightlife. People walk along a road in the Dutch Fort, in Galle, Sri Lanka. Reuters Colombo Crowded, frenetic, and choked up, Colombo used to be dismissed as merely the place from which to fly in and out. But Colombo has history, culture and excellent food. If you're keen on colonial history, the city boasts some of the best-preserved architecture from anywhere in the former British Empire. If not, there are plenty of temples, museums, and shrines besides. Hop on a tuk-tuk and explore an anthology of Sri Lanka's past: the mind-melting stripes of Jami Ul-Alfar mosque; the statues of the Gangaramaya (Vihara) Buddhist temple; and St Anthony's Shrine, a Catholic church illuminated at night. Gathering these cultural riches is the Colombo National Museum, the biggest in Sri Lanka and featuring over 100,000 artefacts. Anuradhapura and Sigiriya The ancient city of Anuradhapura was abandoned in the 13th century, and was overgrown by jungle until the 19th century. Since then, it has flourished as a site for both Buddhist pilgrims and tourists, who flock to see the shrines and relics. One of the most visited is a sacred pipal tree, planted in 245BC from a cutting of the Bo tree, under which it's said the Buddha attained enlightenment. It's recognised as the oldest cultivated tree in the world. Even more iconic are the Dagobas, the wide-domed Buddhist temples that dominate the city. Ruwanwelisaya, the oldest and the grandest, can get crowded. Instead, go wherever the ceremonies are taking place. Outside of the city lies Mihintale, a hilltop where the first Buddhist monastery is said to have converted a Sri Lankan king and his hunting party. The view from the peak of the hills is spectacular, but go at sunrise rather than sunset, or prepare to huddle among couples. Just over an hour away is Sigiriya, a rock formation featuring an ancient fortress. It's another Unesco site, and possibly the single most popular attraction in the country. Although entry is a little pricey (£25 for foreign visitors), it's worth it. You'll see ancient frescoes, the centuries-old Mirror Wall, and the enormous - scarcely-believable - lion's paws guarding the summit (the remains of what was originally a towering stone lion). It's 350-odd metres to the summit, so wear your exercise gear and prepare to sweat. Arugam Bay and Kumana National Park Sri Lanka isn't short of beaches. The crescent-moon sands of Arugam Bay are among the best. While Weligama, Mirissa, and Hikkaduwa have more of a party vibe, Arugam Bay's tranquil beauty is better suited to relaxing. Pitched on the unspoilt east coast, the waves are best between May and October - when the rest of Sri Lanka is beset by monsoon rains and ocean currents. Arugam Bay's thatched huts and sleepy shoreline is one of the finest places to get away from it all. The waves at Main Point are some of the best in Sri Lanka. When you're ready to explore again, hail a tuk-tuk and head to Kumana National Park. Unlike Yala, its famous neighbour, Kumana National Park retains much more of its wilderness - less zoo, more sanctuary. It's especially good for bird spotting, with hundreds of species nesting there. A guide is included with entry, which means you can't tour the park alone, but they're such good spotters that it makes for a much better experience. The waves at Main Point are some of the best in Sri Lanka. Reuters Best things to do Take the train deep into the tea plantations Whatever else you get up to in Sri Lanka, make absolutely sure that you take the Main Line train from Colombo to Kandy, and then from Kandy all the way to Ella. It takes eight hours or more, but this is one of those journeys that's worth savouring. The train climbs inland from the coast, cutting through rock, farmland and jungle. You'll travel across mountains veiled in mist, hillsides carpeted with tea leaves, and imposing brick-arched bridges from another era. If you fancy a cocktail and a party, stay on until at Ella; if you want a cup of tea and tranquillity, get off at Nuwara Eliyah. Get a taste of the surf culture Surfing can be tough, physically draining, and utterly, blissfully exhausting. Getting on a board is daunting, especially when surrounded by confident surfers strutting about, so find a school that's right for you. Although Weligama is the surf hotspot, there are less crowded (and much prettier) places to learn all along the south coast, such as Mirissa, Ahangama, or Unawatuna, which are also great for beginners. While you can surf just for the day, it takes some getting used to, so if you have the time check into a surf camp for a few days. Plunging into the sea every morning, feeling the pump and force of the waves, and collapsing on the sands in happy fatigue afterwards is a rewarding, nourishing, and vital experience - especially if you combine it with some yoga. Plus, there is no appetite quite like the one worked up on a surfboard, so when you finally sit down for your coconut curry it'll taste even better. Get a taste of the surf culture. Reuters Get up close to wildlife Many conservation projects in Sri Lanka are preserving wildlife sustainably while also giving you unparalleled access. Since the early 1990s, numbers of elephants, leopards, and other endangered species have risen considerably, and sustainable tourism has helped. The Smithsonian Primate Research Station, near Polonnaruwa, is the oldest of its kind in the world and Bundala's flamingo-filled wetlands are a Unesco biosphere reserve. The safaris in the national parks - Wilpattu, Udawalawe, and Wasgamuwa - rival almost anything in Africa. Getting around Travelling by train isn't just convenient, it's also a quintessential journey through Sri Lanka's history and a window unto its landscapes, and is also very cheap. For short journeys, it has to be tuk-tuk. Individually decorated, stubbornly persistent and formidably cheap, travelling by tuk-tuk quickly becomes addictive. It's not always comfortable, especially if you squeeze three or more into the backseat, but it's a great way to chat to locals and get the wind in your hair. Agree the fee in advance, especially in tourist areas, but remember the country has just come off suffering from a fuel crisis - if you can afford to fork out an extra hundred rupees, do it. Otherwise, when you need that 6am ride to the airport or that drive down from the mountains to the coast, book a taxi. Many tuk-tuk drivers also have cars, so ask ahead about a taxi service. Roads are generally well maintained and safe, but driving can be erratic. How to get there Sri Lankan Airways offer direct flights between London and Colombo. Other airlines offer stopovers, often in Doha or Dubai. Money-saving tip Travel and food are cheap in Sri Lanka, but accommodation is comparatively expensive. Alcohol is pricey, too - this is a conservative island, and the drinking culture is much less raucous here than in the rest of south-east Asia. There's no real hostel culture either, so the best value are the guesthouses, which are often family-run and very friendly. If you want the full-on luxury experience, Sri Lanka offers an enviable abundance of Western opulence - at Western prices, so book in advance. Tipping isn't expected, but haggling very much is. Friendly negotiation is part of the transaction here, so get stuck in. Current travel restrictions and entry requirements The Department of Immigration and Emigration has a online embarkation form. Foreign nationals can complete the online form three days prior to arrival in Sri Lanka. The service is free of charge. All visitors are advised to apply online for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter Sri Lanka; you can apply for on the ETA website. As entry requirements are liable to change, check the UK's Foreign Office's travel advice website before any travel for updates. Photo used for an illustrative purpose. AP What's the weather like? Thanks to its ocean winds, Sri Lanka is tropical and enjoyably warm most of the year round, with coastal temperatures averaging around 28C and upland areas averaging between 16-20C. The island experiences a dual monsoon, affecting one side of the island at a time. The south-western region and central highlands receive most of the island's rainfall, whilst the north and the east experience a distinct dry season from May to September. Take a jacket - the evenings can get chilly. What time zone is it in? Sri Lanka Standard Time, GMT+5:30 What currency do I need? The Sri Lankan rupee. You can get hold of these before travel, or you can exchange or withdraw some after arrival. Exchanging at the airport will be more expensive, but it's also a reliable 247 service and a good place to set yourself up for the next few days. Although card payments are growing increasingly popular, most small shops, local restaurants and markets still aren't set up for it, so make sure you always have cash on you. What language is spoken? The primary language of Sri Lanka is Sinhala, although in the north Tamil is widely spoken. You'll find English spoken by many, particularly as the language of commerce. What plug sockets are used? Types D and G. Plug type D is the plug which has three round pins in a triangular pattern; type G is what is used in the UK. The Independent
What's On
5 days ago
- What's On
8 of the best bars in Dubai to watch the sunset this long weekend
Dubai's skyline is made for sunsets, and the city's bars know it. Nothing beats sipping something chilled while the sky melts into hues of gold and pink. These 8 of the best bars in Dubai deliver the perfect mix of atmosphere and cocktail creativity. Here's where to go when the day winds down and the sky puts on a show. Click through the gallery 3 of 12 SUSHISAMBA Two elevators, 230 metres, and suddenly, you're dining above the city. SUSHISAMBA, perched on the 51st floor of The St. Regis Dubai, offers an all-encompassing view of Palm Jumeirah, Ain Dubai, and beyond. The design is as much a spectacle as the setting, with intricate woodwork inspired by Japanese and Brazilian weaving traditions. At the heart of it all? A Robata grill and sushi bar bringing fire, flavour, and a front-row seat to the action. Location: SUSHISAMBA Dubai, Palm Tower, Palm Jumeirah Times: 12pm to 3pm Monday through Friday, and 1pm to 3.30pm on Saturday and Sunday. Dinner hours are 6pm to 2am Sunday through Thursday, and 6pm to 3am on Friday and Saturday. Contact: Tel: (0)4 278 4888. @sushisambadubai ZETA Seventy Seven High above the city on the 77th floor of Address Beach Resort, ZETA Seventy Seven serves Asian-inspired seafood with a side of sky-high views. With a menu built for sharing, signature cocktails, and Dubai's skyline stretching out in every direction, from Ain Dubai to Palm Jumeirah, it's rooftop dining at its finest. Location: ZETA Seventy Seven, Address Beach Resort, Dubai Marina. Times: Daily from 9am to 2am Contact: (0)4 879 8866. @zetaseventyseven Duck & Waffle If you're looking for a spot in Dubai that nails great food, vibes, and sunset views, Duck & Waffle in DIFC is the place. It's a 10,000-square-foot space with a greenhouse-inspired dining area, a radiant central dome, and a perforated metal tree framing views of Burj Khalifa. The menu is a playful twist on British-American comfort food, featuring dishes like the signature Duck & Waffle, foie gras creme brulee, and spicy ox cheek doughnut. They also offer inventive cocktails at their 360-degree chef's bar. Whether you're there for brunch, dinner, or late-night bites, the atmosphere is always buzzing, making it one of Dubai's best spots to enjoy a meal with a view. Location: Duck & waffle, Innovation Building, Trade Centre, DIFC. Times: 9.30am to 11pm Monday through Wednesday, 9.30pm to 1am on Thursday and Saturday, and 9.30am to 10pm on Sunday Contact: (0)4 336 9876. @duckandwaffledubai The Penthouse This award-winning rooftop lounge on the 16th floor of FIVE Palm Jumeirah is as much about the atmosphere as it is about the view. Known for its electric nightlife and Japanese fusion menu, The Penthouse blends city lights, deep house beats, and a crowd that knows exactly why they're here. Come for the sunset, stay for the DJs, and don't be surprised if you leave way later than planned. Location: The Penthouse Dubai, Rooftop lounge & Nightclub, Five Palm Jumeirah Contact: Daily from 4pm to 3am Tel: (0)52 900 4868. @thepenthousedubai CÉ LA VI Located on level 54 of Address Sky View, CÉ LA VI is known for some of the most stunning views in the city. The terrace looks straight onto the Burj Khalifa, making it the perfect spot for that picture-perfect shot – if you angle your phone just right. But it's more than just a backdrop. From the Dubai Fountains dancing below to the electric atmosphere as the night unfolds, the setting is pure spectacle. Even getting there is an experience, with a private glass elevator ride that whisks you up from the ground floor, leaving Sheikh Zayed Road twinkling beneath you. Location: CÉ LA VI, Address Sky View Address, Tower 2, Level 54, Address Sky View Hotel Times: Daily from 12pm to 3am Contact: (0)4 582 6111. @celaviedubai Attiko On the 31st floor of W Dubai, Mina Seyahi, Attiko is all about groovy nights and some of the best sunset views in the city. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the Palm Jumeirah, while DJs and live music set the mood. The pan-Asian menu pairs well with the skyline, and whether you're here for an early-evening drink or a late-night scene, the vibe keeps shifting in all the best ways. Location: W Dubai, Mina Seyahi, Dubai Marina Times: Sunday to Friday from 6pm to 2am, and Saturdays 1pm to 4pm, 6pm to 2am Contact: Tel:(0)4 350 9983. @attikodubai S Bar, SLS Dubai On the 71st floor of SLS Dubai, S Bar sets the bar high. With stunning views stretching across the city and a sleek, modern vibe, it's the kind of place that makes you feel like you're on cloud 9. The cocktails here are well-crafted, and the atmosphere is effortlessly chic. It's a space where you can relax, enjoy some great bites, and feel like you've found your new favourite hangout in the sky. Location: S Bar, SLS Dubai, Business Bay, Dubai Times: Daily from 8am to 1am Contact: Tel: (0)4 607 0757. @slsbardubai Above Eleven With much of Palm Jumeirah low-lying, finding a lofty perch to admire the sunset isn't easy. So when Bangkok-born Above Eleven opened on the 14th-floor rooftop of Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, it instantly became the go-to spot for picture-perfect skyline views of Dubai. Above Eleven is a box-ticker for sunset cocktails, laid-back vibes, and flawless service. Location: Above Eleven Dubai, Rooftop, West Palm Beach, Jumeirah Marriott Resort, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Times: Sunday to Thursday 4pm to 1am, Friday 4pm to 2am Contact: Tel: (0)4 666 1420. @abovelevendubai
