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The Ultimate Sri Lanka Travel Cheat Sheet for 2025 (Tips From 8 Visits)

Discover our comprehensive 2025 Sri Lanka travel cheat sheet packed with money-saving tips, local insights, cultural etiquette, and practical advice from a frequent visitor who's learned the hard way.

Introduction: Why Sri Lanka Should Be Your Next Destination

Sri Lanka has stolen my heart in ways I never expected. During my first visit in 2017, I arrived at Bandaranaike International Airport completely unprepared for the sensory overload that awaited me. The humid air thick with the scent of spices, the kaleidoscope of colorful tuk-tuks, and the immediate warmth of locals who saw my obvious confusion—it all overwhelmed me in the best possible way. After eight visits (and countless mistakes), I’ve compiled this comprehensive cheat sheet to save you from my early blunders and help you experience the magic of this island nation like a semi-local in 2025.

Sri Lanka packs an astonishing diversity into its compact size—pristine beaches, mist-shrouded mountains, ancient ruins, and wildlife encounters that rival Africa’s but at a fraction of the cost. The country has evolved significantly since reopening to tourism, with improved infrastructure while maintaining its authentic charm. This guide distills everything I’ve learned through trial, error, and occasionally embarrassing cultural faux pas!

Essential Pre-Trip Planning for Sri Lanka

My first Sri Lanka trip was nearly derailed when I showed up without the required ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization). Don’t make my mistake! Here’s your pre-departure checklist:

Visa Requirements and Documentation

Most visitors need an ETA before arrival. The application is straightforward through the official Sri Lanka ETA website. While tourist visas cost $35-$40 for most nationalities, here’s an insider tip: if you’re staying less than 48 hours, apply for the transit visa instead ($20) – I’ve used this successfully twice when doing short stops en route to the Maldives.

For 2025, Sri Lanka has introduced a new digital arrival form that must be completed before immigration. I recommend downloading the official app in advance, as airport WiFi can be unreliable.

When to Visit: Navigating the Monsoon Seasons

Sri Lanka has two distinct monsoon seasons affecting different parts of the island:

  • Southwest Monsoon (May-September): Affects the southwest coast and hill country. Colombo and Galle experience heavy rainfall.
  • Northeast Monsoon (October-January): Affects the northeast and east coast. Areas like Trincomalee receive significant rainfall.

The sweet spot for visiting most of the country is January to April, when the entire island experiences relatively dry weather. However, this is also peak tourist season, with higher prices and crowds. My personal favorite time is the shoulder season of April-May, just before the southwest monsoon intensifies. The humidity rises, but you’ll enjoy discounted accommodations and fewer tourists at major attractions.

Budgeting for Your Trip: 2025 Costs Breakdown

Expense Category Budget Option Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1,500-3,000 LKR ($5-10) 6,000-12,000 LKR ($20-40) 15,000+ LKR ($50+)
Meals (per day) 1,200-1,800 LKR ($4-6) 3,000-6,000 LKR ($10-20) 9,000+ LKR ($30+)
Local Transport 300-900 LKR ($1-3) 1,500-3,000 LKR ($5-10) 6,000+ LKR ($20+)
Activities 3,000-6,000 LKR ($10-20) 9,000-15,000 LKR ($30-50) 15,000+ LKR ($50+)

Note: Prices are based on my Spring 2024 visit and adjusted for 2025 inflation projections. $1 USD ≈ 300 LKR (Sri Lankan Rupees).

Insider Money-Saving Tip #1: The Two-Currency Strategy

I’ve saved hundreds of dollars using this approach: Bring both USD and Euros. While USD is widely accepted, I’ve found that money changers in smaller towns offer better rates for Euros. In Ella, I received nearly 5% better exchange rates with Euros compared to dollars. Keep both currencies and exchange based on the best daily rates.

“Don’t exchange money at the airport! The rates are typically 10-15% worse than in Colombo city. If you need immediate cash upon arrival, exchange only the minimum (about $20) and find a reputable money changer in town for the rest.”

Understanding Sri Lankan Culture and Etiquette

One of my most cringe-worthy moments happened when I casually patted a child on the head in a rural village near Sigiriya. I hadn’t realized that in Sri Lankan Buddhist culture, the head is considered sacred. The family was gracious, but I could tell I’d committed a faux pas. Cultural awareness goes a long way in building meaningful connections.

Essential Cultural Customs to Respect

  • Religious Etiquette: Remove shoes before entering temples. Cover shoulders and knees (both men and women). Never turn your back to a Buddha statue or image.
  • Physical Contact: Public displays of affection are inappropriate. The head is sacred, so avoid touching anyone’s head, even children’s.
  • Hand Gestures: Use right hand for giving and receiving items (the left hand is considered unclean).
  • Photography: Always ask before photographing people, especially in rural areas and religious sites.
  • Dress Code: Sri Lanka is more conservative than many Southeast Asian countries. Even at beaches, extremely revealing swimwear may draw unwanted attention.

When visiting sacred sites, you’ll often see locals in pristine white clothing. While this isn’t required for tourists, wearing white at major Buddhist sites like Anuradhapura shows cultural respect and often results in more meaningful interactions with locals.

Useful Sinhala and Tamil Phrases

Sri Lanka has two official languages: Sinhala and Tamil. While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, learning a few basic phrases shows respect and usually leads to warmer interactions:

English Sinhala Tamil Pronunciation (Sinhala)
Hello Ayubowan Vanakkam Eye-boh-wahn
Thank you Istuti Nandri Is-too-tee
How much? Keeyada? Evvalavu? Key-ya-dah
Delicious Rasa nai Suvaiyana Raa-sa nai
Too expensive Goḍak ganan Romba vilai Go-dak ga-nan

My most-used phrase is definitely “bohoma istuti” (thank you very much). The genuine appreciation locals show when visitors attempt even basic Sinhala or Tamil is heartwarming.

Getting Around Sri Lanka: Transportation Insights

Transportation in Sri Lanka can be adventurous, sometimes frustrating, but ultimately part of the experience. My biggest mistake was trying to cram too many destinations into a two-week trip, underestimating travel times between places. What looks like a short distance on the map can take hours due to winding roads and traffic.

The Iconic Train Journeys

Sri Lanka’s railway system, a legacy of British colonial rule, offers some of the world’s most scenic train journeys. The Kandy to Ella route is justifiably famous for its breathtaking views of tea plantations and mountain landscapes. In 2025, this route now requires advance booking due to overwhelming popularity.

My hard-learned tips for Sri Lankan trains:

  1. Book reserved seats 30+ days in advance through the official Sri Lanka Railways site or through a local agency like 12Go Asia.
  2. For the Kandy-Ella route, choose the observation car or 1st class for the best views and comfort.
  3. If reserved tickets are sold out, arrive at least 90 minutes early for unreserved tickets (I once waited 3 hours in Peradeniya because I arrived only 30 minutes early).
  4. The left side of the train (when facing forward) offers better views on the Kandy to Ella journey.

An overlooked but equally beautiful train journey is the coastal route from Colombo to Galle, where the tracks sometimes run right alongside the Indian Ocean. This route is less crowded and easier to book.

Tuk-Tuks: Negotiation and Navigation

Tuk-tuks (three-wheeled auto rickshaws) are ubiquitous throughout Sri Lanka. They’re convenient but require some negotiation skills:

  • Metered vs. Unmetered: In Colombo, insist on using the meter (starting fare is 50 LKR, then 40 LKR per km in 2025). In smaller towns, negotiate the fare before getting in.
  • Pricing Benchmark: A fair price is approximately 80-100 LKR per kilometer for unmetered rides.
  • Apps: The PickMe app (Sri Lanka’s version of Uber) offers reliable, metered tuk-tuks in major cities.

“My embarrassing tuk-tuk story: During my second visit, I agreed to a ‘special price’ without negotiating for a ride from Mirissa Beach to my hotel. I paid 1000 LKR for what should have been a 300 LKR journey. The driver was friendly but clearly saw me coming. Always agree on the price before entering the tuk-tuk!”

Insider Money-Saving Tip #2: Local Buses for the Adventurous

Public buses are by far the cheapest way to travel in Sri Lanka, with fares rarely exceeding 200 LKR ($0.70) even for journeys of several hours. While they’re crowded and not always comfortable, they offer an authentic local experience. I’ve saved over $300 on my longer trips by using buses for most intercity travel.

For bus travel:

  • Red buses are government-operated (slower but cheaper)
  • Private buses (often white or colorful) are slightly more expensive but faster and sometimes have air conditioning
  • You pay the conductor on board, not the driver
  • Bus stations can be chaotic – ask locals or your accommodation for help finding the right bus

Sri Lankan Cuisine: Beyond the Tourist Menu

Sri Lankan food is criminally underrated globally. After my first bland “tourist curry” in a hotel restaurant, I nearly wrote off local cuisine entirely. What a mistake that would have been! It wasn’t until a local family in Haputale invited me for dinner that I discovered the explosive flavors and diversity of authentic Sri Lankan cooking.

Must-Try Dishes Beyond the Obvious

While rice and curry is the national staple, these lesser-known dishes deserve your attention:

  • Kottu Roti: A street food favorite made with chopped flatbread, vegetables, egg, and spices, stir-fried on a hot griddle. The rhythmic sound of metal spatulas chopping the ingredients is as much a part of the experience as the flavor.
  • Lamprais: A Dutch-influenced Sri Lankan dish of rice, meat, and sambol wrapped in banana leaf and baked. The banana leaf imparts a unique aroma.
  • Isso Wade: Spicy lentil cakes topped with prawns, found at street vendors along Galle Face Green in Colombo.
  • Curd and Treacle: Buffalo milk yogurt served with kithul palm syrup – a deliciously simple dessert.
  • Jaffna Crab Curry: If you venture north to Jaffna, this fiery crab curry is not to be missed – easily one of the best seafood dishes I’ve had anywhere in the world.

Eating Like a Local: Where and How

To find authentic food at reasonable prices:

  • “Kades” (local eateries): Look for small, simple restaurants with plastic chairs and tables, often with display cases of pre-prepared dishes. Point to what looks good!
  • Markets: The Pettah Market in Colombo or any municipal market is perfect for fresh tropical fruits and snacks.
  • Street vendors: Especially in the evenings, street food carts offer delicious, freshly prepared snacks.

“A note on spice levels: When Sri Lankans say something is ‘a little spicy,’ prepare for what most Westerners would consider extremely hot! I learned this the hard way with a ‘mildly spiced’ prawn curry in Negombo that had me chugging yogurt for relief. If you’re sensitive to spice, be very explicit about your preference.”

Insider Money-Saving Tip #3: The “Rice Packet” Strategy

One of my favorite budget hacks is buying “rice packets” (bath packet) for lunch. These takeaway parcels wrapped in paper or banana leaf contain rice, curry, and vegetable sides for about 200-350 LKR ($0.70-1.20). They’re freshest before noon, when locals buy them. One packet provides a hearty lunch, and buying from the same place regularly often results in larger portions as you become a recognized customer.

I’ve befriended a rice packet vendor in Kandy who now adds extra papadum and vegetable curry to my packet without charging more – these small relationships make travel more meaningful while being budget-friendly.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka offers remarkable variety in accommodation, from $5 guesthouses to $1000+ luxury villas. What’s changed dramatically since my first visit is the growth of unique, boutique options in the mid-range category.

Types of Accommodation and What to Expect

Type Price Range (2025) Pros Cons
Homestays 1,500-6,000 LKR ($5-20) Cultural immersion, home-cooked meals, local insights Basic facilities, limited privacy
Guesthouses 3,000-9,000 LKR ($10-30) Good value, personal service Variable quality, limited amenities
Boutique Hotels 12,000-30,000 LKR ($40-100) Unique design, attention to detail Book well in advance for popular locations
Beach Cabanas 6,000-15,000 LKR ($20-50) Direct beach access, relaxed atmosphere Can be basic, insect issues in budget options
Luxury Resorts 30,000+ LKR ($100+) Full service, beautiful settings Can feel isolated from local culture

Unexpected Accommodation Gems

Some of my most memorable stays have been in unconventional accommodations:

  • Tea Estate Bungalows: Around Nuwara Eliya and Hatton, colonial-era tea planter’s bungalows offer a glimpse into Ceylon’s past, complete with butler service and enormous bathtubs. Ceylon Tea Trails is the premium option, but smaller independent bungalows offer similar experiences at lower prices.
  • Eco-Lodges in Knuckles Range: The mountainous Knuckles Forest Reserve now hosts several off-grid eco-lodges that combine sustainability with comfort.
  • Converted Ancient Structures: Several boutique hotels have repurposed historic buildings, like Fort Bazaar in Galle, a 16th-century merchant’s house turned boutique hotel.

Booking Strategies and Timing

Through trial and error, I’ve developed a hybrid booking approach:

  1. For high season (December-March) and popular destinations (Ella, Mirissa, Galle Fort), book at least 3 months in advance.
  2. For shoulder seasons, book your first 2-3 nights, then arrange subsequent accommodations once in the country.
  3. For budget options, platforms like Booking.com and Airbnb often have higher prices than direct bookings. Once you find a place you like, contact them directly for better rates.
  4. Many excellent guesthouses aren’t on international booking platforms. For these hidden gems, consult local blogs like IslandLife or the Sri Lanka section of the Lonely Planet Thorntree forum.

Must-Visit Destinations in Sri Lanka

With only 25,332 square miles, Sri Lanka packs astounding diversity into a compact island. Rather than listing all tourist spots, here are some locations I believe offer the most authentic experiences, organized by region:

The Cultural Triangle: Ancient Treasures

The north-central plains contain Sri Lanka’s most significant archaeological sites:

  • Sigiriya: This 5th-century rock fortress with its cloud maidens’ frescoes deserves its fame, but visit at 7 AM opening to avoid crowds and heat. The lesser-known nearby Pidurangala Rock offers equally stunning views with fewer tourists.
  • Polonnaruwa: The second ancient capital has better-preserved ruins than Anuradhapura and can be explored by bicycle. The Gal Vihara Buddha statues are particularly moving.
  • Anuradhapura: Sri Lanka’s first ancient capital is vast and best explored with a knowledgeable guide who can explain the significance of the various stupas and pools.

Hill Country: Tea Plantations and Cool Mountains

When the coastal heat becomes overwhelming, retreat to the central highlands:

  • Ella: Once a sleepy village, now a bustling tourist hub. Still worth visiting for Little Adam’s Peak, Nine Arch Bridge, and excellent eateries. Stay in nearby Haputale for a quieter experience with similar views.
  • Nuwara Eliya: “Little England” retains its colonial character with Tudor-style buildings and manicured gardens. Visit Pedro Tea Estate for an informative factory tour.
  • Knuckles Mountain Range: For serious hikers, this less-visited range offers pristine forests, waterfalls, and traditional villages without the crowds of more famous areas.

Southern Beaches: Beyond the Obvious

The south coast has developed rapidly, but you can still find pockets of tranquility:

  • Hiriketiya: This horseshoe-shaped bay near Dikwella offers gentle waves for beginner surfers and a laid-back vibe that’s increasingly rare.
  • Tangalle: The beaches east and west of town feature dramatic rock formations and near-empty stretches of sand.
  • Galle Fort: Not a beach destination but essential. This walled UNESCO site blends Dutch colonial architecture with Sri Lankan culture and boutique shops. Go beyond the main streets to find quiet corners and local life.

Wildlife Encounters: Ethical Safari Options

Sri Lanka offers world-class wildlife viewing opportunities, but choose operators carefully:

  • Yala National Park: Famous for leopards but often overcrowded. Visit the less-frequented Block 5 instead of popular Block 1, or consider nearby Lunugamvehera National Park for a more peaceful experience.
  • Minneriya/Kaudulla: The “Gathering” of elephants during dry season (June-September) is spectacular. Book with ethical operators who maintain proper distance from wildlife.
  • Sinharaja Forest Reserve: This ancient rainforest offers amazing birdwatching and endemic species spotting. Requires more effort but rewards with authentic wilderness.

Sustainability and Responsible Travel

During my visits, I’ve witnessed both inspiring conservation efforts and troubling exploitation. Sri Lanka’s tourism has grown faster than regulations to protect its natural and cultural heritage.

Ethical Wildlife Tourism

One of my biggest regrets was visiting an “elephant orphanage” during my first trip, only to later learn about the questionable practices behind some of these attractions.

What to avoid:

  • Elephant riding (the training process is harmful)
  • Orphanages that allow direct contact with baby elephants
  • Turtle hatcheries that keep turtles in tanks long-term for tourist viewing
  • Whale watching boats that chase or crowd marine mammals

Ethical alternatives:

Reducing Your Environmental Impact

Sri Lanka faces significant challenges with waste management, particularly plastic pollution. Some practical ways to reduce your impact (that will also save you money):

  • Carry a refillable water bottle with a purifier (I use Grayl). You’ll save approximately 1500 LKR per day on bottled water.
  • Use reef-safe sunscreen, especially at popular beaches and coral reefs like Pigeon Island near Trincomalee.
  • Choose accommodations with environmental initiatives like Jetwing Hotels, which have impressive sustainability programs.
  • Opt for train travel over private cars when covering longer distances – it’s not just greener but offers better views and cultural experiences.

“During my last visit, I joined a beach cleanup in Mirissa organized by a local surf school. We collected over 50kg of plastic in just two hours. The experience connected me with environmentally conscious locals and other travelers while making a small positive difference.”

Supporting Local Communities

Tourism dollars have the greatest positive impact when they reach local communities directly:

  • Shop at Lak Hands Handicraft Centers, government-supported outlets ensuring artisans receive fair compensation
  • Take cooking classes with local families rather than at hotels (I recommend Ella Spice Garden)
  • Stay at community-based tourism initiatives like MyLocalHoods in rural villages
  • Hire local guides directly rather than through large agencies or hotels

Health and Safety Considerations

Sri Lanka is generally a safe destination, but some precautions will ensure your trip remains trouble-free. My worst experience involved a severe case of dengue fever during monsoon season in 2019 – an experience I don’t recommend!

Health Precautions

Vaccinations and medications:

  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if arriving from certain countries
  • Consider hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus vaccinations
  • Malaria risk is low but dengue fever is endemic – use mosquito repellent, especially at dawn and dusk
  • Bring over-the-counter medications for traveler’s diarrhea, just in case

Water and food safety:

  • Stick to bottled, purified, or boiled water
  • Street food can be safe if it’s freshly cooked and hot
  • Popular tourist areas have higher food safety standards

Common Travel Scams and How to Avoid Them

While Sri Lankans are generally honest, tourist areas attract opportunists:

  1. The “Temple Festival” or “Special Puja” Scam: Tuk-tuk drivers claim a special ceremony is happening today only at a distant temple. They earn commission by taking you to gem shops or other stores along the way.
  2. The “Museum/Garden is Closed” Trick: Guides near popular attractions claim the site is closed but offer to take you to an “alternative” location.
  3. Gem Scams: Sri Lanka is famous for gems, but unscrupulous dealers sell fakes at inflated prices. Only buy from certified stores if you’re serious about gemstones.

“Twice I’ve been approached near Kandy Lake by friendly locals claiming the Temple of the Tooth was closed for a special ceremony but would reopen later. They suggested a spice garden tour while waiting. It’s almost always a detour to commission-paying shops.”

Emergency Information and Medical Facilities

In case of emergencies:

  • Tourist Police: 1912 (dedicated English-speaking police for tourism-related issues)
  • Ambulance: 1990 (“Suwa Seriya” free ambulance service)
  • Major hospitals with English-speaking staff:
    • National Hospital of Sri Lanka (Colombo)
    • Nawaloka Hospital (private, Colombo)
    • Asiri Hospitals (private, multiple locations)

For minor ailments, pharmacies in tourist areas usually have staff with good English and can recommend appropriate medications. Travel insurance with evacuation coverage is essential, as serious medical conditions may require treatment in Colombo or even medical evacuation to Singapore or Thailand.

Conclusion: Your 5-Step Action Plan for Sri Lanka

After eight visits to Sri Lanka since 2017, I’ve made countless mistakes so you don’t have to. The island continues to evolve, with 2025 bringing new infrastructure and experiences while maintaining the cultural authenticity that makes it special. Here’s your actionable plan to experience the best of Sri Lanka:

Your 5-Step Action Plan

  1. Plan your visit strategically: Consider the monsoon patterns and choose regions accordingly. January-April offers good weather countrywide but comes with higher prices. The shoulder seasons (May and September-November) offer good value if you focus on areas away from active monsoons.
  2. Book critical accommodations and transport in advance: Reserve your first few nights’ accommodation, scenic train journeys (especially Kandy-Ella), and national park visits at least 30 days ahead, leaving room for spontaneity elsewhere in your itinerary.
  3. Embrace local connections: Learn 5-10 basic Sinhala phrases, eat where locals eat at least half the time, and stay in family-run guesthouses for at least part of your trip. These connections will transform your experience from tourist to traveler.
  4. Balance well-known sites with hidden gems: For every famous attraction (Sigiriya, Galle Fort, Yala), add a lesser-known alternative (Pidurangala, Matara Fort, Bundala) to your itinerary.
  5. Travel more slowly than you think you should: Sri Lanka rewards slow travel. Rather than checking off 8-10 destinations in two weeks, focus on 4-5 areas with day trips. You’ll reduce travel fatigue and discover the authentic experiences that most rushed tourists miss.

What makes Sri Lanka truly special isn’t just its diverse landscapes, ancient sites, or wildlife – it’s the genuine warmth of its people. Despite economic challenges and a complex history, Sri Lankans consistently display a resilience and hospitality that transforms good trips into unforgettable journeys.

The island nation has given me some of my most treasured travel memories: drinking king coconut water with an elderly spice farmer who shared his civil war experiences, spotting a leopard in the golden afternoon light of Yala, and joining an impromptu cricket game with schoolchildren in Jaffna. These unplanned moments are what I cherish most from my Sri Lankan adventures.

As you plan your own journey to this remarkable island, leave room in your itinerary for serendipity – it’s no coincidence that an old name for Sri Lanka was Serendib, the origin of the word “serendipity.” The unexpected discoveries might just become the highlights of your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sri Lanka Travel

Is Sri Lanka safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, Sri Lanka is generally safe for solo female travelers, though standard precautions apply. Based on my female friends’ experiences and travel forums, I recommend:

  • Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites
  • Use registered tuk-tuks or apps like PickMe rather than flagging vehicles at night
  • Join free walking tours in Colombo and Galle to meet other travelers
  • Book female-friendly homestays and guesthouses (many are run by families)

The tourism areas have become very accustomed to solo female travelers, and many hotels now offer female-only floors or sections.

How many days do I need to see Sri Lanka properly?

For a meaningful experience covering the highlights, allow at least 10-14 days. This gives you enough time to experience the cultural triangle, hill country, and southern coast without excessive rushing. With 3 weeks, you can add the less-visited north and east coast regions. My ideal itinerary length is 12-15 days, focusing on 4-5 base locations with day trips.

What’s the best way to handle money in Sri Lanka?

The Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) is a closed currency, meaning you’ll need to exchange money in the country. In 2025, the best approach is:

  • Bring a mix of USD and Euros in cash (clean, newer bills)
  • Use ATMs in major towns and cities (Bank of Ceylon and Commercial Bank have the most reliable networks)
  • Exchange money at banks or authorized money changers (avoid airport exchanges)
  • Credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas but carry cash for smaller towns
  • Inform your bank of travel plans to prevent card blocks

Many places now offer 5-10% discounts for cash payments to avoid credit card processing fees.

What’s the internet and mobile connectivity like?

Mobile connectivity has improved dramatically in recent years. In 2025:

  • 4G is available in most populated areas, with 5G in Colombo and major tourist hubs
  • Purchase a local SIM card at the airport (Dialog and Mobitel offer the best coverage)
  • Tourist SIM packages cost 1,000-2,000 LKR ($3-7) for ample data
  • WiFi is reliable in mid-range and upscale accommodations
  • Remote areas (parts of the central highlands, national parks) still have limited connectivity

Is Sri Lanka suitable for family travel with young children?

Sri Lanka is very family-friendly with several advantages for those traveling with children:

  • Sri Lankans adore children and will go out of their way to accommodate families
  • Many hotels offer family rooms or connecting options
  • The food can be prepared with reduced spice levels for children upon request
  • Wildlife viewing opportunities are excellent and accessible
  • Beaches like Bentota and Mirissa have protected coves suitable for children

The main challenges are the heat, which can be tiring for young children, and long travel times between destinations on winding roads. Base yourself in fewer locations and take day trips to reduce transit time with kids.

Are there any cultural taboos I should be aware of?

Beyond the basics mentioned earlier, these cultural sensitivities are worth noting:

  • Avoid discussion of the civil war unless initiated by a local
  • Political opinions, especially about current government, are best kept private
  • Public nudity, including topless sunbathing, is illegal and culturally offensive
  • Remove shoes before entering homes and temples
  • Ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural areas
  • When visiting temples, never turn your back to Buddha images or statues

References and Further Reading

These resources have helped me plan my trips and understand Sri Lanka more deeply: