3:06 am
+5h from you
Weather in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka
30°
Slight rain showers
Sun
23
30
Mon
22
30
Tue
23
30
Wed
22
30
Thu
23
32
SPF level in Sri Lanka
Recommended: SPF 50+ (extreme)
Spring
SPF 50+
Summer
SPF 50+ (extreme)
Autumn
SPF 50+
Winter
SPF 50+
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Transportation in Sri Lanka
Tipping in Sri Lanka
Tipping is appreciated in Sri Lanka for good service, but it's not always expected. A service charge is often included in restaurant and hotel bills. If not, a small tip is customary.
Restaurant
5-10% if service charge isn't included
Bar/Café
Small change or round up the bill
Taxi
Round up the fare
Hotel Porter
100-200 LKR per bag
Hotel Housekeeper
100-200 LKR per day
Tour Guide
500-1000 LKR per day depending on the quality of service
Safety & security in Sri Lanka
Tips for British travellers
Sri Lanka is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Carry your passport at all times as official identification.
Be alert to bag snatching by thieves on mopeds and carry bags away from the road.
Store belongings safely in hotels and minimise personal items carried to avoid theft.
Use ATMs inside banks or hotels and keep bank cards in sight when paying to avoid fraud.
Do not take drinks from strangers or leave drinks unattended due to the risk of spiking.
Bonus tips:
Nude or topless sunbathing is not allowed on beaches.
Alcohol is often unavailable on religious holidays and public drinking may be culturally insensitive.
Driving in Sri Lanka
Side of road
left
Motorway speed limit
100 km/h
Urban speed limit
50 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.08%
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
119
Ambulance
110
Fire
110
Save 119 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in Sri Lanka
Voltage
230V / 50Hz
Plug types
Type D, Type G, Type M
UK adapter needed?
Yes
Cards & payments
Credit and debit cards are accepted in larger establishments, hotels, and restaurants, especially in tourist areas. Smaller shops and local restaurants may only accept cash. Always check before making a purchase.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +13039671096
ATMs in Sri Lanka
ATMs are readily available in major cities and tourist areas. You may find limited availability in rural areas.
Local name
ATM
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
Most ATMs accept international cards. Look for ATMs affiliated with major international banks for better reliability. Be aware of potential transaction fees from both the local bank and your home bank.
Mobile & roaming
Since Brexit, EU roaming agreements no longer apply. Check with your mobile provider about international roaming charges in Sri Lanka before you travel. Roaming charges can be high. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for cheaper data and calls.
Local SIM data package
10 GB for 1500 LKR (~£4)
Network coverage
4G, 3G, 2G
Local carriers
Dialog, Mobitel, Hutch
WiFi & internet
WiFi is available in many hotels, cafes and restaurants, particularly in tourist areas.
Average speed
25 Mbps
While WiFi is generally available, the speed and reliability can vary. Mobile data via a local SIM is a good alternative for more consistent connectivity. Some hotels may charge for WiFi.
Health & vaccinations
Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including repatriation. While Sri Lanka has a reciprocal healthcare agreement with the UK, it is limited. GHIC/EHIC is not applicable in Sri Lanka.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Dengue fever
Consult your doctor or a travel clinic well in advance of your trip to discuss necessary vaccinations and health precautions. Dengue fever is a risk, so take mosquito bite avoidance measures. Food and water hygiene are important to prevent traveller's diarrhea. Seek medical attention if you become ill.
Calling Sri Lanka
Country code
+94
00 94 [area code] [local number]
To call the British High Commission in Colombo from the UK, dial 00 94 11 5390000.
To call Sri Lanka from the UK, dial the exit code (00), followed by the country code (94), then the area code (if applicable) and the local number.
UK Embassy in Sri Lanka
British High Commission Colombo
389 Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 7
Airports in Sri Lanka
Frequently asked questions about Sri Lanka
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.