Travel Essentials
Preparing for your journey is part of the adventure. Here is everything you need to know to ensure a seamless and memorable experience in our island home.
International visitors require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before entering Sri Lanka. The ETA can be applied for via the official site: eta.gov.lk.
Applications can be submitted online. We recommend applying at least 48 hours before your arrival in Sri Lanka.
Tourist visas are typically valid for 30 days and can be extended if your stay is longer. Fees vary; please check the official site for current rates.
Citizens of countries that enjoy visa-free entry will be listed on the official site.
Our team can verify your application status once you have applied online. If you are unable to apply online, we can provide an itinerary to support your application — we ask that visa-support requests come from guests genuinely planning to travel with us.
Sri Lanka's climate is shaped by two monsoon seasons, each affecting a different side of the island, which means there is always a coast well suited to travel, whatever the month.
Best from December to April, before the south-west monsoon brings rain to this side of the island.
Ideal from May to September, when the south-west monsoon brings rain to the west, leaving the east sunny and dry.
These months offer a blend of both coasts, fewer crowds, and lush green landscapes, though brief intermittent light rain is possible.
Closer to your travel dates, we are happy to share our best assessment of expected weather conditions, based on the information available at the time.
Each of our journeys is rated by pace, so you know what to expect before you book — shown at a glance on every tour page.
Minimal transfers, unhurried days, and plenty of time to rest. Ideal for travellers who prefer a gentler rhythm with fewer early starts.
A full itinerary with regular transfers, early starts and limited free time. Our most common pace, balancing rich experiences with reasonable rest.
Frequent transfers and physically demanding excursions, with little downtime. Suited to travellers who want to make the most of every day.
Pace ratings reflect the overall itinerary — transfer times, number of early starts, and physical demands of included excursions — not fitness level required. If you are unsure whether a tour's pace suits you, our team is happy to talk it through before you book.
Sri Lanka is a land of diverse micro-climates. While the beaches are tropical, the highlands are cool, and religious sites require modesty.
Lightweight, breathable fabrics — linen or cotton — are essential for the lowlands. For the Hill Country (Kandy, Nuwara Eliya), pack a light jacket or sweater for evenings, along with a scarf for extra warmth.
When visiting temples, forts, and rural villages, shoulders and knees must be covered. Carrying a lightweight scarf or sarong is highly recommended. Beyond religious sites, modest dress is appreciated throughout Sri Lanka, including on beaches, at hotels, and around towns. Swimwear is fine at the pool or beach itself, but please cover up elsewhere, and avoid topless sunbathing or very revealing swimwear in public areas.
Some temples require footwear to be removed, while others require flip-flops to be worn. You may prefer to carry your own flip-flops for such occasions.
Comfortable walking shoes or sandals with grip are vital for exploring ruins and tea plantations. You will frequently remove shoes indoors, so slip-ons are practical.
High-SPF sunscreen, insect repellent (for mosquito protection), sunglasses, a hat or cap, a reusable water bottle — most hotels offer refills or filtered water on request — and a power adapter — Type D, M, and G plugs are used; a universal adapter is best.
A good camera and a pair of binoculars are well worth packing, particularly for wildlife safaris and scenic hill country journeys.
Tipping is appreciated but not strictly mandatory, reflecting the warm hospitality culture of the island.
On smaller private journeys, one person often serves as both driver and guide, and is tipped as such at the end of the trip. For larger group tours travelling by bus, a Tour Manager and coach driver are usually tipped separately. Tipping is also customary for Local Specialists joining at individual locations, such as safari trackers, jeep drivers, or boat operators. As tipping expectations vary by itinerary, we will advise you on what is appropriate closer to your travel dates.
Most upscale restaurants include a 10% service charge. If not, a tip of 10% is customary.
Tipping porters and spa therapists is common practice.
For small purchases like fruit or handicrafts, tipping is less expected but a kind gesture for exceptional service.
Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR) is preferred, though USD or other foreign currencies can also be used if you prefer.
Sri Lanka is generally safe for travellers, but a few precautions ensure peace of mind throughout your journey.
No specific vaccines are mandatory unless you are arriving from a country with Yellow Fever risk. However, routine vaccinations — Measles, Tetanus, Hepatitis A & B — should be up to date. Consult your doctor 6–8 weeks before travel.
Tap water is not recommended for drinking. Bottled water is widely available, and many hotels offer refill stations or filtered water for reusable bottles. It is best to avoid drinking from natural water sources such as waterfalls, rivers or streams.
Dengue fever risk exists in Sri Lanka and can vary by season and region. We recommend strong DEET-based repellent and wearing long sleeves during dawn and dusk.
Modern pharmacies in major cities stock most medications. However, your particular brand may not be available. We suggest bringing adequate medication to cover your entire visit duration.
Our team is happy to assist with any query — from packing advice to itinerary details. For questions about booking, private tours or our credentials, see our Frequently Asked Questions.
Ed-Et Tours (Pvt) Ltd