First Time in Sri Lanka: A Practical Guide

For a first trip to Sri Lanka, apply for your ETA online before you fly, plan 10 - 14 days, carry some cash in rupees, and travel with a private driver or by train. Cover your shoulders and knees at temples, and allow extra time on the roads: 100 km can take three hours.

Sri Lanka packs ancient cities, tea - covered hills, leopard safaris and palm-lined beaches into an island smaller than Ireland. That variety is exactly what makes a first visit exciting, and a little confusing. These Sri Lanka travel tips cover everything you need to know before you land, from visas and money to temple etiquette and a proven first-time route.

Sri Lanka at a Glance

Sri Lanka Travel Tips: Before You Go

Get your ETA (visa) online

Every visitor needs an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before arrival, applied for on the official site, eta.gov.lk. Since 25 May 2026, the tourist ETA is free for nationals of 40 countries, including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, most of Western Europe, India, China, Japan, Saudi Arabia and the UAE. It allows a 30-day stay with double entry. Other nationalities pay a fee (see the official fee page). Only use the official site: third-party sites charge extra.

Choose the right season

Sri Lanka has two monsoons, so one coast is always sunny. December to April suits the south coast and hill country; May to September suits the east coast. See our full guide to the best time to visit Sri Lanka.

Plan 10 to 14 days

Ten days covers the highlights at a comfortable pace; two weeks adds beach time. Read how many days to spend in Sri Lanka for sample plans.

What to pack    

• Light cotton or linen clothes, plus a sarong or scarf to cover shoulders at temples
• A warm layer for the hill country, where nights in Nuwara Eliya can drop below 10°C
• Sandals that slip off easily (you will remove shoes at every temple)
• Reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent and a refillable water bottle
• A universal plug adapter