Frequently Asked Travel Questions
Collection of questions first time traveller to Sri Lanka have had.
1. Is Sri Lanka safe to travel? Sri Lanka is generally considered safe for travellers, and has been named the top destination for solo female travel in 2024, by the popular timeout.com. Like any destination, it's important to stay informed and take common safety precautions. Here are some points to consider: Political and Social Stability: Sri Lanka has seen periods of political unrest and protests which is now over and stability has been maintained. Any political instability that did occur did so without any harm to tourists. Health Precautions: Ensure you have the necessary vaccinations and take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever and malaria, especially in rural areas. Natural Disasters: Sri Lanka is prone to monsoon rains, which can cause flooding and landslides. The main monsoon season runs from May to September in the southwest and from October to February in the northeast. Crime: Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in tourist areas. Keep your valuables secure and be cautious, especially in crowded places. Transportation: Road conditions can vary, and traffic can be chaotic in urban areas. Hiring a reputable driver or using well-reviewed transportation services can enhance safety. Local Advice: Follow the advice of local authorities and your travel agency, and consider registering with your embassy if you're staying for an extended period.
2. What is the best area to travel for each season? Sri Lanka's climate is characterized by two main monsoon seasons, which affect different parts of the island at different times of the year. Here's an overview of the seasonal patterns: Monsoon Seasons: 1. Southwest Monsoon (Yala Season): . Period: May to September . Affects: Southwestern part of the island (including Colombo, Galle, and the southern coast) . Characteristics: Heavy rainfall, particularly in the southwestern regions. It's still possible to have sunny days in between showers. 2. Northeast Monsoon (Maha Season): . Period: October to February . Affects: Northeastern part of the island (including Trincomalee, Batticaloa, and the eastern coast) . Characteristics: Heavy rainfall in the northeastern regions. This season also brings some rain to the northern and central parts of the island. Inter-Monsoon Periods: 1. First Inter-Monsoon: . Period: March to April . Characteristics: Transitional period with generally good weather. Short and intense showers are possible, but they are usually brief. 2. Second Inter-Monsoon: . Period: October to November . Characteristics: Another transitional period with thunderstorms and heavy rainfall, especially in the southwestern and central regions. Seasonal Highlights: Dry Season in the Southwest: December to March is the best time to visit the southwestern and southern coasts (Galle, Mirissa, Bentota, Colombo) as the weather is dry and sunny. Dry Season in the Northeast: May to September is the best time to visit the northeastern and eastern regions (Trincomalee, Arugam Bay, Batticaloa) as they experience dry and sunny weather. Central Highlands: Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella: These areas can be visited year-round. The weather is cooler due to the higher elevation. Rainfall can occur at any time but is more frequent during the monsoon seasons. Overall Travel Tips: Best Time to Visit: December to March is generally the best time to visit most of Sri Lanka, especially the southern and western parts. Surfing: The east coast (Arugam Bay) is best from May to September, while the southwest coast (Hikkaduwa, Weligama) is best from November to March.
3. Which company should I get a SIM card from? Dialog Axiata: Widely considered the best network in Sri Lanka in terms of coverage and speed. Offers a variety of prepaid packages tailored for tourists. Can be purchased at the airport and major cities. Mobitel: Another major provider with excellent coverage and competitive data plans. Offers specific tourist SIM packages with data, call, and text options. Available at the airport and Mobitel outlets. Tips for Buying a SIM Card: At the Airport: Purchasing a SIM card upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) is convenient. All major providers have kiosks there. Passport: You will need to present your passport to purchase a SIM card. Data Plans: Check the data plans and packages to choose one that suits your needs. Top-Up: Easily available at convenience stores, supermarkets, and online. Choosing one of these providers will ensure you have a good connection and can stay connected during your travels in Sri Lanka.
4. Which mode of transport should I use to get around? Private Tours We can offer customized private tours with guides, which can be an excellent way to see the sights with expert insights. By Train Sri Lanka has one of the most scenic train rides in the world, especially the route from Kandy to Ella through the central highlands. Trains are a popular and affordable mode of travel. Highlights: Kandy to Ella, Colombo to Galle, Anuradhapura to Jaffna Tips: Book tickets in advance, especially for first-class observation cars or second-class reserved seats for the best experience. By Bus Buses are the most common mode of transport for locals and cover almost the entire country. Highlights: Accessible to remote areas, affordable Tips: Be prepared for crowded conditions, and keep an eye on your belongings. By Car or Van We can help with hiring a car with a driver is a convenient way to explore Sri Lanka at your own pace. Highlights: Flexibility, comfort, and convenience Tips: Agree on the price beforehand and ensure the driver speaks your language. By Tuk-Tuk For short distances and city travel, tuk-tuks are a fun and efficient mode of transport. You can download the PickMe app which is available in colombo and some rural towns or Uber which is mostly available in Colombo. Highlights: Quick and easy for navigating cities Tips: Always negotiate the fare before starting the journey. Domestic Flights For quicker travel between distant locations, domestic flights are available. Highlights: Fast and convenient for long distances Tips: Book in advance and be aware of luggage restrictions.
5. How do I book the train ride to Ella? Booking a train ticket for the famous Ella train ride in Sri Lanka can be done in several ways. Here’s a detailed guide on how to book: 1. Online Booking Safest way to book your tickets online is through the Sri Lanka Railways Website: You can book tickets through the official Sri Lanka Railways website, though availability can be limited. Be cautious with using third party websites to book your tickets. 2. Through a Travel Agency Destinations Plus: As your travel agency specializes in planning trips, you can book tickets through your own agency, ensuring a seamless experience for your clients. 3. At the Railway Station Colombo Fort Railway Station: You can purchase tickets directly at major railway stations like Colombo Fort. It is advisable to book in advance, especially for the popular Ella train route. 4. Contact Hotels or Guesthouses Many hotels and guesthouses in Sri Lanka can help arrange train tickets for their guests. This can be a convenient option if you are already in the country. Booking Classes First Class: Offers reserved seating, usually with air conditioning. Ideal for a more comfortable journey. Second Class: Offers both reserved and unreserved seating. Windows can be opened, which is great for photography. Third Class: Offers unreserved seating and is the most economical option. Tips for Booking Book Early: The Ella train ride is extremely popular, so tickets can sell out quickly, especially in high tourist seasons. Flexibility: Be flexible with your travel dates and times to increase your chances of getting a ticket. Check Availability: Regularly check the availability of tickets online or through your travel agent.
**This space is continuously growing, the top most questions that we find will be added here.
