Sri Lanka Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
📅 Planning & Logistics
When is the best time to visit? West/South coasts are best December–April. East coast is best May–September.
Is two weeks enough? It’s the “standard” duration, but 3 weeks allows you to visit the North (Jaffna) without rushing.
Do I need a visa? Yes, most nationalities need an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) applied for online.
Can I get a visa on arrival? Yes, but it’s more expensive and usually involves a longer queue.
Is it safe for solo female travelers? Generally yes, but stick to well-lit areas at night and use ride-hailing apps rather than random tuk-tuks.
What’s the “Rule of 50” for hotels? Travelers suggest avoiding any guest house with fewer than 50 reviews to avoid “fake” high ratings.
Is the country back to normal after the 2022 crisis? Yes, but prices for fuel and electricity are higher than they used to be.
Should I book trains in advance? Yes, especially the Kandy–Ella route. 1st and 2nd class sell out weeks ahead.
Can I buy train tickets online? Yes, through the official Sri Lanka Railways site or authorized agents like 12Go.
What’s the deal with “Boutique Hotels”? In SL, this often means a renovated colonial villa or a high-end designer property with 5-10 rooms.
Do I need a physical SIM? E-SIMs are great, but a local physical SIM (Dialog or Mobitel) is often cheaper and more reliable in rural areas.
Should I bring cash or use cards? Carry cash for local shops/taxis, but most hotels and high-end restaurants in Colombo/Galle take cards.
What’s the best way to get from the airport? Use the “PickMe” or “Uber” apps for a fixed, fair price to Colombo or Negombo.
Is Negombo or Colombo better for the first night? Negombo is closer to the airport (20 mins) and much more relaxed for a first-day jetlag recovery.
What vaccinations do I need? Tetanus, Typhoid, and Hepatitis A are standard recommendations.
Is the tap water safe? No. Stick to filtered or bottled water, even for brushing teeth if you have a sensitive stomach.
Can I drive a car myself? You need a local driving permit (even with an IDP). Most travelers find it easier to hire a driver.
How much should I tip? 10% is standard in restaurants. For drivers, 1,000–2,000 LKR per day is appreciated.
What’s the power plug type? Type D (three round pins) and Type G (UK-style three square pins).
Is there a dress code for temples? Shoulders and knees must be covered. No hats, and shoes must be removed.
🚆 Transport & Getting Around
Is the Kandy–Ella train overrated? Most say no—it’s stunning. But it is 7+ hours; many recommend breaking it up with a stop in Nuwara Eliya.
Which side of the train has the best views? Kandy to Ella: Right side. Ella to Kandy: Left side.
What is “PickMe”? It’s the local version of Uber. It is essential for avoiding “tourist prices” in tuk-tuks.
Can I rent my own tuk-tuk? Yes, companies like TuktukRental allow this. You need a special SL permit they can help you get.
Are local buses safe? They are very cheap but drive aggressively. Not recommended if you have large luggage or a weak stomach.
What’s the “Expressway” bus? A more comfortable, air-conditioned bus that uses the highway to connect Colombo to the South (Galle/Matara).
How do I tell if a tuk-tuk has a meter? Look for the “Taxi Meter” sign on the roof or a digital box inside. If they won’t use it, walk away.
Is it easy to find a driver for a 10-day tour? Yes, many travelers book via WhatsApp recommendations.
What is the “Nanu Oya” station? It’s the closest station to Nuwara Eliya (about 15-20 mins away by tuk-tuk).
Is there Uber in the hill country? Very limited. PickMe works better, but often you’ll have to negotiate with local drivers.
Are trains crowded in 3rd class? Extremely. If you don’t have a reserved seat, you will likely be standing for hours.
Can I take a bike on the train? No, but you can sometimes pay to put it in the luggage van if there is space.
Is the coastal train to Galle worth it? Yes, it runs right along the ocean. Sit on the right side when heading south.
How long does it take to drive Colombo to Ella? About 5-6 hours by car, but much longer by bus/train.
Are roads well-lit at night? Main roads are, but rural mountain roads can be dark and have wandering wildlife (elephants!).
Do I need a 4×4? Only for safaris (which come with their own jeep). Regular cars are fine for all public roads.
What is a “highway interchange”? Where you get on/off the toll roads. These are the fastest ways to travel long distances.
Are there domestic flights? Cinnamon Air offers small “sea-plane” style flights, but they are expensive.
Is parking easy? In cities, no. In guest houses, yes.
How do I avoid motion sickness in the mountains? Take the train rather than a car; the turns are much wider and slower.
🐘 Wildlife & Nature
Which safari is best: Yala or Udawalawe? Yala for leopards; Udawalawe for guaranteed elephants and fewer crowds.
When is the “Gathering” of elephants? Minneriya National Park, usually between August and September.
Are there leeches on hikes? Yes, especially in Sinharaja or after rain. Wear “leech socks” or apply soap/salt to your shoes.
Can I see blue whales? Yes, from Mirissa (November–April) or Trincomalee (June–August).
Is it ethical to visit the Elephant Orphanage? Pinnewala is controversial. Many travelers recommend the Elephant Transit Home in Udawalawe instead.
Where can I see turtles? Rekawa for nesting (night) or Hikkaduwa for feeding them in the shallows.
Is Sigiriya worth the $30 USD? Most say yes for the history, but if you’re on a budget, climb Pidurangala nearby for $3 to see the view of Sigiriya.
What time should I climb Adam’s Peak? Start around 2:00 AM to reach the summit for sunrise.
Is Horton Plains worth it? Yes, but arrive by 6:00 AM before the clouds roll in and block the “World’s End” view.
Are there crocodiles in the rivers? Yes, many. Don’t swim in lagoons or rivers unless locals say it’s 100% safe.
Can I see leopards in the wild? Yala and Wilpattu are your best bets, but it requires luck.
What should I wear for a safari? Neutral colors (khaki/green), a hat, and a face mask (it gets very dusty).
Is Sinharaja Rainforest worth a guide? Yes, you aren’t allowed in without one, and they are experts at spotting tiny snakes and frogs.
Are the “Turtle Hatcheries” scams? Some are. Look for ones that don’t allow tourists to touch the babies or “release” them during the day.
Where is the best surfing? Beginner: Weligama. Intermediate/Pro: Arugam Bay or Hikkaduwa.
Can I hike the Knuckles Range solo? Not recommended. The trails are poorly marked and the weather changes instantly.
Are there wild elephants on the road? Yes, especially near Habarana or Buttala. Do not stop to feed them; it’s dangerous for you and them.
What is “Lipton’s Seat”? A famous viewpoint in the tea country. Take the first bus at 6:00 AM for the best experience.
Are the botanical gardens in Kandy good? Yes, Peradeniya is world-class and very peaceful.
Is whale watching “sea-sickness” prone? Yes, the Indian Ocean is rough. Take medication beforehand.
🍲 Food & Drink
What is a “Kottu Roti”? Chopped flatbread with veggies/meat/egg. It’s the ultimate Sri Lankan street food.
Is the food very spicy? Yes. If you can’t handle heat, ask for “white curry” or tell them “no spice.”
What is a “Hopper”? A bowl-shaped rice flour pancake. Try the “Egg Hopper” for breakfast.
Can I drink the tea at tea factories? Yes, most offer a free tasting after a tour.
What is “Lion Beer”? The local lager. It’s cheap and pairs perfectly with spicy food.
Are there vegetarian options? Sri Lanka is a paradise for vegetarians. “Rice and Curry” usually comes with 5–6 veggie sides.
What is “Arrack”? A local spirit distilled from coconut flower sap. Usually mixed with ginger beer.
Is street food safe? Usually, if it’s cooked fresh in front of you (like Kottu). Avoid pre-cut fruit.
What is “Buffalo Curd”? A thick yogurt usually served in clay pots with “kithul” treacle (syrup).
Do people eat with their hands? Yes, the right hand only. It’s the traditional way to mix flavors in rice and curry.
What is a “Short Eat”? Savory snacks like samosas, rolls, and patties found in local “petti kade” shops.
Is alcohol sold everywhere? No. You must go to a “Wine Store” (which looks like a caged-off shop).
What are “Poya Days”? Full moon days where no alcohol is sold anywhere in the country.
Can I find Western food? Easily in Colombo, Galle, Ella, and Mirissa. Less so in the cultural triangle.
What is “Ginger Beer” (EGB)? A local favorite soda. It’s much spicier than Western ginger ale.
How much does a meal cost? A local “Rice and Curry” is $2–$4. A tourist restaurant meal is $10–$20.
What is “Wood Apple”? A fruit that smells a bit like blue cheese but makes a delicious (if polarizing) juice.
Is the coffee good? It’s improving, but Sri Lanka is a tea nation. Look for specialty cafes in Colombo or Ella.
What is “Lamprais”? A Dutch-influenced dish of rice and meat wrapped in a banana leaf and baked.
Can I find gluten-free food? Yes, as most Sri Lankan food is based on rice and coconut milk rather than wheat.
🏛️ Culture & Etiquette
Should I tip my driver at the end of the trip? Yes, if they did a good job, a “bonus” tip of $50–$100 for a week-long trip is common.
Can I take photos with Buddha statues? Never turn your back to a Buddha statue for a selfie. It’s considered highly disrespectful.
Are there “Tourist Prices” for attractions? Yes. Foreigners pay significantly more for National Parks and UNESCO sites than locals.
What should I do if a “guide” approaches me at Sigiriya? If you don’t want one, say “No thank you” firmly and keep walking.
Is it okay to wear swimwear on the street? No. Keep bikinis for the beach/pool. Cover up when walking through town.
How do I say “Thank you” in Sinhala? “Istuti” (pronounced Is-too-tee).
What is the “head waggle”? It usually means “Yes,” “Okay,” or “I understand.” It’s not a “No.”
Are people friendly? Sri Lankans are famously hospitable. Many will invite you for tea; it’s usually genuine.
Is bargaining expected? In markets and for tuk-tuks, yes. In pharmacies or grocery stores, no.
What is “Vesak”? A major Buddhist festival in May. Cities are covered in lanterns and free food is given out (Dansal).
Can I visit the Jaffna Peninsula? Yes, it’s very different from the South—more Hindu temples and a slower pace.
Is the “Temple of the Tooth” in Kandy crowded? Yes, especially during “puja” (prayer) times. Go early.
What is the “Nine Arch Bridge” schedule? Trains pass roughly every hour, but they are often delayed. Ask a local cafe owner for the “real” time.
Should I bring a gift for a local family? Small items like pens, stickers, or sweets for kids are appreciated if you are staying in a village.
Is there much nightlife? In Colombo and coastal spots like Hikkaduwa/Mirissa, yes. In the mountains, things close early.
Can I fly a drone? You need prior approval from the Civil Aviation Authority and the Ministry of Defense. It’s a process.
What is a “Beach Boy”? Local guys who hang around beaches offering tours or friendship. Be polite but cautious.
Is public displays of affection (PDA) okay? Keep it modest. Holding hands is fine; heavy kissing in public is frowned upon.
How do I handle the heat? Stay hydrated with “Thambili” (King Coconut) sold on the side of the road.
What’s the one thing I shouldn’t miss? The sunrise. Whether it’s over the ocean, a tea plantation, or a rock fortress, it’s the best part of the day.