Last week the FCO removed the warning against travelling to Sri Lanka. This follows China, India, Germany, Sweden and Switzerland having already lifted warnings, in May. Both Ireland and Australia still currently have warnings in place. Many British customers with future plans to visit Sri Lanka were waiting to see if warnings would change, so will be relieved to hear that their travel insurance will now cover their trip.
Note that the FCO website now states that “terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Sri Lanka” so visitors should take care and remain vigilant. Security levels remain tight and there are curfews in place. So, if you plan to visit Sri Lanka in the coming months, take care. It’s also monsoon season from May to August so head north or east to stay dry and enjoy the beaches rather than explore too much.
Sri Lanka is a beautiful island. With its close proximity to India, it has a number of similarities. By comparison, I personally found it generally less of a culture shock to India. So, I feel this is a good destination choice if you want to dip your toe into this type of travel experience.
A boost in tourism followed the Sri Lanka, civil war which ended in 2009. With that came an increase in the prices of accommodation, transport and everything else. From a tourist’s perspective, it remains a budget destination, but the locals pay entry fees which are just a fraction in comparison.
Safety
Although I generally felt very safe everywhere, there were many people who took advantage of the fact we were tourists. As a traveller this is a common feeling in many developing countries. In Sri Lanka it could wear you down if you’re not prepared, as there are a lot of touts in the more popular destinations.
Be prepared for scammers, don’t agree to anything that seems too good to be true, plan ahead and be generally vigilant and you will be fine.
Local experiences
Away from the sites and off the beaten track the attitude is one more of curiosity. The afternoon I spent at a Children’s centre in Colombo, back in 2012, was a highlight for me. The girls were so welcoming and enthusiastic. Plus of course I got a chance to do something creative with them, making Christmas cards.
Transport
As a slowly developing country, travelling around Sri Lanka can be challenging at times. Particularly with difficult and unreliable public transport connections. Some of the train journeys eg from Ella to Kandy or Nuwara Eliya are through beautiful scenery.
An alternative solution to travelling independently is to hire a private driver, to get from each destination. Most hotels will provide food and a bed for the drivers if they will continue on with you. It’s common practice and the cost of travelling this way is very reasonable.
Finally, watch out for the tuk tuk drivers with their inflated prices. They are everywhere so if you can’t bargain them down to the price you are willing to pay, then just try another one.
Accommodation
Places to stay range through all levels, but be prepared for a lower standard than you might be used to compared to the Western world. Fortunately accommodation prices will fit within your own particular budget and there is plenty to choose from.
Sites
The ticket prices for museums, parks, trips and tours, for a non Sri Lankan is often 8/10 times the price that the locals will pay. You quickly learn to just accept this fact, but it does often leave you questioning a place.
There are many places in Sri Lanka to consider including in a visit. See my other post with recommendations for when you plan a trip to Sri Lanka, to steer you in the right direction. I would suggest a visit after the monsoon season ends in August, to allow you better weather to travel around the island.
Tourist visa’s are normally issued for 30 days – the latest information regarding obtaining an ETA can be found on the Sri Lankan visa site.
