Why This Sri Lanka Tour Package?
This meticulously planned Kandy, Nuwara Eliya & Bentota Tour caters to the best of Sri Lanka in one amazing holiday. The routes will take you through ancient temples, colonial towns, lush tea plantations, misty mountains and golden beaches, and UNESCO World Heritage sites - a combination of culture, nature, relaxation and adventure!
From a Sri Lanka Family Tour, to a Sri Lanka Honeymoon Package and your first Sri Lanka Vacation Package, this trip highlights the best of the country including the most iconic sights, comfortable accommodation, scenic roads, local delights and memorable experiences.
Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka
A major question that travelers have is what is the best time to visit Sri Lanka. There are two monsoons and the best time to travel around the country can vary according to the region visited.
From November to April is the best time to travel to popular destinations like Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Bentota, Galle, Colombo and the southwest coast. These months offer nice weather, sunny skies, flat water and ideal sights, beach vacation and outdoor activities.
In the hill country mornings and evenings may be cold, particularly in Nuwara Eliya, so it is advisable to take a light jacket if included in your Sri Lanka Tour Package.
Visa Requirements for Sri Lanka
An Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is typically required for most travelers from abroad wishing to visit Sri Lanka. The online application process is easy, quick and typically requires just a few minutes to fill out.
Prior to booking your Sri Lanka Holiday Package, you should check that:
Your passport will be valid for at least 6 months after you arrive.
You have a return or onward flight ticket that has been confirmed.
If asked, you can show proof of accommodation.
Before traveling, you research the up-to-date visa requirements, as they can vary.
You have a smoother arrival when you apply your visa in advance.
Money and ways to pay in Sir Lanka
Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) is the official currency.
ATMs can be found in all major cities and tourist hot spots and most hotels, restaurants, shopping malls and supermarkets accept international credit and debit cards.
When visiting, however, it is recommended to have some local currency on hand:
Local markets
Small souvenir shops
Tea plantations
Rural villages
Street food vendors
Independent cafés
It's also convenient to carry small change for tips and small purchases throughout your Sri Lanka Vacation Package.
Weather and What to Pack
Sri Lanka has a tropical climate, with a variety of weather conditions along different parts of the coastline and central highlands.
On Sri Lanka Tour consider packing:
Lightweight cotton clothing
Comfortable walking shoes
Sunglasses
Full brimmed hat or cap
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Swimwear
Rain jacket or umbrella
Reusable water bottle
Universal travel adapter
Personal medications
Camera or cell phone for Photography
If you are staying in Nuwaraeliya be prepared for very cold nights as it chills quite a bit at night, so a sweater or light jacket would be useful.
Transport on Your Sri Lanka Tour
The scenic interior trips are another highlight of travelling to Sri Lanka Tour Package.
Road trips take travelers through:
Tea plantations
Waterfalls
Mountain passes
Coastal highways
Lush forests
Traditional villages
Comfortable travel experience is with private vehicles with experienced local drivers. While the map might suggest a short distance, mountain roads can be longer than they seem because of the windy roads and spectacular vantage points to take a break at.
Language and Communication
Sri Lanka has two official languages which are:
Sinhala
Tamil
Hotels, restaurants, tourist attractions, shopping centers, transportation services, and many other areas are known to be widely spoken in English. Communication is rarely an issue and travellers can easily visit the country alone or with a guide.
It is always appreciated by locals to learn a few local greetings, and also it enhances your Sri Lanka Travel Guide experience.
Local Foods to Try in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is heaven for every Foodie. Each area has its own local delicacies that are made from spices that are aromatic, and ingredients are fresh.
Must-try dishes include:
Sri Lankan Rice and Curry
Hoppers (Appam)
String Hoppers
Kottu Roti
Lamprais
Fish Ambul Thiyal
Coconut Sambol
Egg Hoppers
Seafood Curries
Fresh Tropical Fruits
Authentic Ceylon Tea is also a great treat for tea lovers, to be savored at the famous tea estates which are offered in many Sri Lanka Hill Country tour packages.
There are many cuisines available throughout the country for vegetarians, vegans, people with diabetics and for those who strictly follow the halal rule and international cuisines as well.
Cultural Etiquette and Temple Visits
There are several sacred Buddhist and Hindu sites in Sri Lanka that will be part of your journey, where the respect of culture is important.
If you visit a temple, like Temple of the Tooth Relic or Seetha Amman Temple, it is important to remember:
Clothed up to shoulders and knees.
Take shoes off when entering a religious institution.
Speak softly within temples.
Do not take direct pictures of Buddha statues with your back to the statue.
Obey the directions of the Temple personnel.
By following local traditions, you will not only enrich your Sri Lanka Cultural Tour experience but also help maintain these heritage sites.
Safety and Health Tips
Sri Lanka is one of the safest tourist destinations in South Asia and attracts millions of tourists each year.
To ensure an enjoyable and safe journey:
Drink bottled or filtered water.
Bring sun cream with you all day long.
Use mosquito repellent in the evenings.
Have those emergency numbers on hand.
Store valuables securely.
Travel insurance before you go: buy comprehensive travel insurance before going abroad.
Major cities have healthcare facilities and pharmacies can be found across the country.
Shopping in Sri Lanka
Visiting the colourful markets and buying from artisan shops is an integral part of Sri Lanka Sightseeing.
Popular souvenirs include:
Pure Ceylon Tea
Local spices such as cinnamon.
Blue sapphires, gemstones.
Wooden masks
Batik clothing
Handwoven textiles
Handmade jewelry
Ayurvedic wellness products
Coconut shell handicrafts
Traditional wooden carvings
Kandy, Colombo, Galle and local craft villages are the best places to go shopping.
Photography Opportunities
Sri Lanka is a place with numerous amazing photography spots.
The following are some of the most Instagram worthy locations:
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
Temple of the Tooth Relic
Ramboda Waterfall
Nuwara Eliya has a tea plantation site.
Gregory Lake
Hakgala Botanical Garden
Bentota Beach
Madu River
Galle Fort
Coastal sunsets
Traditional fishing boats
Always take permission before taking photos of locals and religious practices.
Beach Activities in Bentota
Bentota is one of the top destinations on Sri Lanka Holiday Packages and is one of Sri Lanka's best coastal locations.
Popular optional activities include:
Jet Skiing
Banana Boat Rides
Parasailing
Windsurfing
River Safaris
Mangrove Boat Tours
Beach Walks
Sunset Photography
Spa & Ayurveda Treatments
Fresh Seafood Dining
Bentota has something for everyone, whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation.
Quick Travel Tips
Always carry your travel and passport documents.
Have small denominations of cash for local shopping.
When visiting religious places, dress in a modest manner.
Hydrate, particularly when going out on the coast.
Show consideration for local traditions and practices.
Buy travel insurance prior to travel.
Book Sri Lanka Tour Package in advance in the peak seasons.
Don't miss tasting authentic Ceylon Tea.
Carry a light jacket for the hill country.
Have space in your bags for mementoes and souvenirs.
Your Sri Lanka Tour is guaranteed to be a once in a lifetime experience filled with stunning scenery, cultural heritage, mouth watering food, warm hospitality and adventures. From the misty tea gardens of Nuwara Eliya to the sacred temples of Kandy, the Madu River or golden beaches of Bentota, each day is unique. With proper preparation and the help of this South Asia Travel Guide, you'll be able to make the most of one of South Asia's most interesting places to visit.