We sent our in-house influencer, Zeeba Shaikh, to Sri Lanka on a travel research mission. Her firsthand experience brings you the most authentic tips and recommendations straight from the field.

Sri Lanka happens to be a place that precisely matches its postcards — everywhere I looked, there were palm trees swaying and tuk-tuks buzzing past. The vibe here is truly one-of-a-kind, and the locals go out of their way to help you out (even if you’re just trying to find the nearest ATM).

As for the weather, it’s warm and sunny most of the time, especially if you stick to the coast. But if you’re like me and want to explore those beautiful highland areas like Kandy or Nuwara Eliya, be ready for cooler evenings.

For clothes, trust me on this one – stick to comfy, breathable fabrics like cotton. I was so glad I packed light because the tropical heat is no joke. That said, don’t forget a light sweater or jacket for those hill-country nights.

SriLankan Airlines, and an arrival guide to Colombo airport.

I. Settling into Your Hotel

1. Check-In Process

Once you arrive at your hotel, head straight to the reception for check-in. I was asked for my passport for registration – a standard requirement in Sri Lankan hotels for international guests. Just make sure you get it back after they’re done with the paperwork.

Double-check your booking details, as sometimes there might be miscommunication, especially if you booked through third-party websites like Agoda, Booking.com, or Airbnb. If you booked a prepaid room, confirm that no extra charges will be added to your bill.

It's also a common occurrence for hotels in Sri Lanka to ask to see your visa specifically. So keep a mental note of the page in your passport containing your Sri Lankan visa, just in case.

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So you can skip the frustration and focus on exploring all that Sri Lanka has to offer.

2. Connect to The Internet

Many hotels offer free Wi-Fi, but in some budget accommodations, the connection might be spotty. Always ask for the Wi-Fi password during check-in. It’s wise to save it on your phone’s notes so you can access it later without asking again. 

For uninterrupted access, especially if you plan on working or streaming, consider purchasing a local SIM card or eSIM as a backup. We’ll cover this in detail in the next section.

3. Unwind and Get Organized

After a long flight, take a moment to settle in and prepare yourself for the adventure that lies ahead. Once you’ve arrived at your hotel, consider taking a quick shower or nap to recharge.

4. Explore Your Hotel Amenities and Refuel

• Check Out the Hotel: Many hotels in Colombo have stunning views of the Indian Ocean from rooftop bars or pools. Start your morning with a coffee and soak in the scenery.

• Ask the Front Desk for Tips: Staff can provide valuable insights into local spots or help arrange transportation for you.

• Grab a Quick Bite: Try Sri Lankan favorites like string hoppers (steamed rice flour noodles) or pol sambol (coconut relish) for a delicious introduction to local cuisine.

5. Check the Weather and Plan Your Day

• Weather Apps: Use AccuWeather or your phone’s weather app to check Colombo’s tropical climate. Temperatures can range from 28°C to 32°C (82°F to 89°F) year-round, so be prepared for heat and humidity.

• Dress Lightly: Given the warm weather, dress in lightweight, breathable fabrics.

• Pack Your Day Bag: Bring essentials like a water bottle, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and a light scarf in case you need to cover up at religious sites.

• Wear Comfortable Shoes: It’s best to wear comfortable footwear if your itinerary includes extensive periods of walking.

6. Secure Your Valuables

Sri Lanka is generally safe, but it’s always good to be cautious. Place your passport, cash, and electronics in the room's safe, if available. Ensure you double-check that it’s locked properly after storing your items. In case there’s no safe in your room, use a travel lock for your bags or hide valuables in less obvious places.

Pro Tip: If you’re carrying valuables, consider bringing a portable travel safe that you can attach to sturdy fixtures in your hotel room. This is particularly useful for budget travelers staying in hostels.

7. Grab a Hotel Business Card & Set Out

This is an essential tip that many travelers overlook. Grab a business card from the hotel reception before you head out. It will have the hotel’s name, address, and contact details in English and Sinhala/Tamil, making it easier to find your way back or communicate with a taxi driver if you get lost. Take a picture of the card and save it on your phone in case you lose the physical copy.

Pro Tip: Don’t be surprised if you spot a monkey casually stealing a papaya from a roadside stall or if you see people slurping their rice and curry with their hands—it’s totally normal here. And if you really want to blend in, try shaking your head in the classic Sri Lankan head wiggle, which somehow means ‘yes,’ ‘no,’ and ‘maybe,’ all at once.

II. Getting Connected: SIM Cards, eSIMs, and Staying Online in Sri Lanka

1. Why You Need a Local SIM Card

Staying connected is crucial for navigation, making bookings, or translating when interacting with locals. Sri Lanka’s mobile internet is generally fast, and coverage is widespread, even in rural areas.

2. Where to Get a SIM Card

You can purchase a SIM card at the airport upon arrival from operators like Dialog, Mobitel, and Hutch. Dialog and Mobitel are the most reliable with the best coverage. Alternatively, you can buy one from authorized stores in the city or near your hotel.

Pro Tip: The airport SIM card counters are open 24/7, and they offer tourist packages with data, local minutes, and international minutes. Always carry your passport, as you'll need it to register the SIM.

3. eSIM Option

If your phone supports eSIM, you can activate it before arriving in Sri Lanka. This is a hassle-free way to stay connected and saves you from hunting for a physical SIM card. Websites like Airalo and Holafly offer eSIMs specifically designed for Sri Lanka.

4. Cost and Data Plans

A basic tourist SIM card with 9 GB of data plus some calling minutes costs around LKR 1,500 - 2,000 (approximately USD 4-6). For heavy users who rely on maps, social media, and streaming, Dialog’s unlimited data plan, which costs about LKR 3,000 (USD 10), is ideal.

Pro Tip: Always check your balance regularly to avoid running out of data unexpectedly. You can do this by dialing *#456# on Dialog and following the prompts.

III. Essential Spots to Locate Around Your Hotel

1. Pharmacies (Locally Called ‘Suwasalas’)

Pharmacies in Sri Lanka are reliable, well-stocked, and open late, typically from 8 AM to 10 PM. They carry international brands and have pharmacists who can help with basic ailments, even if you don’t have a prescription. Keep a list of any medicines you might need translated into generic terms, as brand names might differ.

2. Supermarkets

Popular chains like Cargills Food City, Keells, and Arpico are found in almost every city. These stores sell essentials like bottled water, snacks, toiletries, and even alcohol (though not on public holidays). Prices are fixed.

Pro Tip: Always carry small denominations of Sri Lankan rupees, as supermarkets might not always accept large notes or cards.

3. ATMs

Major banks like Commercial Bank, Sampath Bank, and Hatton National Bank (HNB) have ATMs all over Sri Lanka. These ATMs accept international cards (Visa, MasterCard) and dispense Sri Lankan rupees. Look for ATMs inside shopping malls or near popular tourist areas for safety.

Pro Tip: Withdraw cash in larger amounts and in the local Sri Lankan currency to avoid hefty fees. Most ATMs charge around LKR 300 - 400 (USD 1-1.50) per transaction for foreign cards.

IV. Language and Key Phrases to Know

Sri Lanka has two official languages: Sinhala and Tamil, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. However, knowing a few local phrases can go a long way:

• Hello – "Ayubowan" (Sinhala) / "Vanakkam" (Tamil)

• Thank you – "Bohoma sthuthi" (Sinhala) / "Nandri" (Tamil)

• Yes – "Ow" (Sinhala) / "Aamaam" (Tamil)

• No – "Naa" (Sinhala) / "Illai" (Tamil)

• How much? – "Keeyada?" (Sinhala) / "Evvalavu?" (Tamil)

• Water – "Vathura" (Sinhala) / "Thanneer" (Tamil)

• Where is the bathroom? – "Saukyaya ko?" (Sinhala) / "Kazhiviyagam enge?" (Tamil)

Pro Tip: Sri Lankans appreciate even the smallest effort to speak their language. It creates goodwill and often leads to better service or prices in markets.

V. How to Get Around in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka offers an extensive network of public transportation that is cheap and covers most of the country. Here’s a breakdown of your options:

1. Buses

Buses are the most common and affordable mode of transport. The two types are government-run buses (SLTB) and private buses. SLTB buses are red and generally more reliable, while private buses are usually blue or white and might be a bit faster but can be chaotic.

• Cost: The average journey within Colombo costs around LKR 20-30 (USD 0.10-0.15).

Pro Tip: Bus conductors rarely speak English, so have your destination written down. Hold onto the bus seat railing tightly, as drivers can be erratic. And always carry change in public transport.

2. Trains

Sri Lankan trains are scenic, especially the routes from Colombo to Kandy, and Kandy to Ella. They offer 1st, 2nd, and 3rd-class options.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of Sri Lankan train classes and costs:

1. 1st Class: This class offers reserved seating, air conditioning, and sometimes observation windows for panoramic views, especially on the Kandy to Ella route. Costs around LKR 1,000 - 1,500 (USD 3-5) for routes like Colombo to Kandy, and up to LKR 2,500 - 3,000 (USD 7-9) for longer trips like Kandy to Ella.

2. 2nd Class: It offers cushioned seats, overhead fans, and an enjoyable experience. Costs approximately LKR 350-600 (USD 1-2) from Colombo to Kandy, and around LKR 800 - 1,200 (USD 3-4) for Kandy to Ella.

3. 3rd Class: It’s the most basic option, with unreserved seating on hard benches. Costs about LKR 100-200 (USD 0.50-1) for shorter routes and LKR 300-500 (USD 1-2) for longer trips.

Pro Tip: For scenic journeys like Kandy to Ella, book in advance, especially for 1st and 2nd class, as they fill up quickly. You can check train schedules and ticket availability through Seat61 or directly at Sri Lankan Railway counters.

3. Tuk-Tuks

Tuk-tuks are a popular and fun way to travel short distances in Sri Lanka. They offer a quick way to navigate narrow streets and crowded areas. Always make sure to agree on the fare beforehand if the tuk-tuk doesn’t have a meter, as drivers might quote higher prices to tourists. 

• Cost: Usually LKR 50-60 (USD 0.25) per km.

• Apps: PickMe and Uber offer tuk-tuk services with fixed rates, GPS tracking, and cashless payment options. These are safer than hailing one off the street.

Pro Tip: Some tuk-tuk drivers may try to convince you to visit non-existent or lesser-known attractions, only to take you elsewhere and demand a higher fare. Avoid getting into tuk-tuks if you're unsure of your destination, and always verify your route before setting off​.

4. Taxi Apps

PickMe and Uber are the most popular apps in Sri Lanka. They’re available in major cities and offer tuk-tuks, sedans, and even mini-vans.

Private cars are also available for those wanting more comfort to reach remote destinations, but these are often quoted in USD and can be expensive compared to local transport.

VI. What to Add to Your Shopping List in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is famous for its gemstones, tea, spices, and batik textiles. Here’s what you should know:

1. Gems and Jewelry

Sri Lanka is one of the world’s top producers of sapphires. If you’re planning to buy gems, ensure you buy from reputable shops in Colombo or Galle. Always ask for a certificate of authenticity.

2. Tea

Sri Lanka's Ceylon tea is renowned worldwide. Visit tea estates in Nuwara Eliya or Kandy, where you can sample different types and buy them directly.

3. Spices

Spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves are high-quality here. Consider buying them at supermarkets to avoid tourist markups.

Pro Tip: Always bargain in markets. Start at 50% of the asking price and adjust based on the seller's reaction. However, don’t expect to haggle in high-end stores or supermarkets.

4. Batik Textiles and Clothing

Sri Lankan batik clothing, wall hangings, and tablecloths are unique souvenirs. Shop in boutiques in Colombo or Kandy, or visit smaller stores where the batik is often handmade.

We’ll cover where to find these shops in detail in our upcoming blogs.

VII. Scams and Safety Tips in Sri Lanka

1. Currency Exchange Scams

If a guy on the street offers you a "super special rate" to exchange your currency, run away. Unless you want to own black money, stick to licensed exchange counters in hotels, banks, or shopping malls. And always count your cash before you leave the counter.

2. Tuk-Tuk Overcharging

The most common scam involves tuk-tuk drivers overcharging tourists. In cities, try to use tuk-tuks that have visible, working meters, and request that they are turned on before you start the ride. 

If you're in an area without metered tuk-tuks, make sure to negotiate and agree on the fare beforehand. Apps like PickMe can be a reliable alternative to avoid this issue. Have the exact amount agreed upon, exit the vehicle, and pay only after you've reached your destination​.

3. Gem & Spice Garden Scams

Sri Lanka is famous for its gems and spices, but not all of them are authentic. Friendly locals or tuk-tuk drivers might take you to so-called "gem museums," but these often sell fake or overpriced gems. 

To avoid this, only buy gems from reputable jewelers who provide authenticity certificates, such as those found in hotel arcades or established shops​.

They might also take you to 'doctors/professors' who will attempt to sell you various spices and herbal remedies, often fake, or of low quality. If you refuse, they may become aggressive or try to intimidate you into buying something.

Decline any unsolicited tuk-tuk rides to unfamiliar destinations. Instead, purchase spices from supermarkets where they are hygienically wrapped​.

4. Pickpocketing

Pickpocketing is common in crowded areas like Pettah market in Colombo, Kandy, and other tourist spots. Avoid carrying valuables in easily accessible pockets, and try to use bags with zippers or keep your belongings in front of you to prevent theft​.

5. Stilt Fishermen

The sight of stilt fishermen is iconic in Sri Lanka, but beware of individuals posing as fishermen who demand payment after you take their photo. It's best to avoid engaging with them or stick to taking landscape photos where they happen to be in the background, as it's not illegal to take pictures of the ocean​.

6. "I'll Be Back" Scam

Sometimes, a local may befriend you, suggesting going to a bar or restaurant. After eating or drinking, they'll disappear, leaving you to pay the entire bill, which is often inflated due to their arrangement with the establishment. Trust your instincts when befriending locals, and avoid situations where you feel uneasy​.

7. Railway Ticket Scam

Tickets for the scenic Ella to Kandy train ride are in high demand, and scammers might try to sell you fake tickets. Always buy your railway tickets directly from the station or authorized sellers to avoid this scam​.

VIII. Dining and Ordering Food in Sri Lanka

1. Top Dishes to Try

1. Rice and Curry: A staple meal that comes with several different vegetable curries and a meat option. Always eat with your right hand if you want to blend in with the locals.

1. Kottu Roti (chopped roti stir-fry): A delicious mix of chopped flatbread, vegetables, and your choice of meat. Perfect for dinner.

1. Hoppers (Appa) (crispy rice flour pancakes): Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour, ideal for breakfast.

1. Wattalappam (coconut custard): A must-try Sri Lankan dessert made from coconut milk, jaggery (palm sugar), eggs, cashews, and a hint of spices like cardamom and nutmeg. It’s rich, sweet, and has a silky texture. 

Always keep a little stash of local snacks like polos cutlets (jackfruit fritters) or coconut toffee in your bag for those unexpected hunger pangs.

Pro Tip: When in doubt about what to eat, try busy restaurants, as this is more or less an indicator of freshness and quality.

2. Ordering Online

Use apps like Uber Eats and PickMe Food for quick delivery options. The apps offer an English interface and are widely used in cities like Colombo and Kandy.

Sri Lanka is More Than Just Beaches, Temples, and Tea Plantations

It’s an experience that’ll have you laughing and learning (and maybe even sweating a little in the tropical heat). We’ve covered a lot, but there’s always more to discover once you’re actually on the ground.

Also, if you’re chilling in your hotel room after a long day, check out a Sri Lankan movie like Prasanna Vithanage's Ira Madiyama (August Sun), which offers a heartfelt glimpse into the local life. And for some tunes, try listening to some Baila music – it’s the perfect way to get into the island party vibe. Tracks by the Gypsies or Sunil Perera will definitely have you grooving along.

The best adventures happen when you let go a little, get lost in the moment, and say “yes” to new experiences. Sri Lanka is all about these little things—sharing a smile with a stranger, sipping sweet milk tea by the beach, or getting caught in a tropical downpour and loving every second of it.