Travel Tips

What to wear Cotton garments are the ideal as Sri Lanka is a tropical island. However, viscose/cotton mixed garments are commonly worn. Light clothing is recommended in the lowland areas and light woolen clothing is suitable in the hill country. A sun hat and sun glasses may help to escape the heat during day time.

Currency Sri Lanka follows decimal currency system in Rupees (Rs.) and cents (Cts.) with 100 cents equal to a rupee. Currency notes are available in the denominations of Rs. 2,10,20,50,100,200, 500 and 1000. Coins are issued in values of Cts.1,2,5,10,25,50 and Rs.1,2,5 and 10.

Entering Places of Worship Visitors to Buddhist temples are advised to be properly clad covering the body in full. Briefs, shorts, bear backs and bare shoulders are against accepted norms. When entering Buddhist and Hindu shrines footwear and headgear should be removed.

Tourist Information Those who intend visiting Sri Lanka can obtain more information from the overseas offices of the Ceylon Tourist Board or the Sri Lanka Missions in their home country. A Travel Information Counter at the Airport operates twenty four hours of the day to assist visitors arriving in the Island.

Travel Information Centres at No.80, Galle Road, Colombo 3 (opposite Hotel Lanka Oberoi) and at Kandy also provide information to tourists.

** Information with the courtesy of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau