Sri Lanka

General Information

Time zone

GMT+5:30

Chair

Kolombo

Language

There are three official languages in Sri Lanka: Sinhala, Tamil and English.

Currency

The official currency of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR), which is divided into 100 cents.

1 USD = 290,91 LKR
1 EUR = 306,09 LKR
1 PLN = 70,52 LKR

The current exchange rate can be checked on the NBP website: https://nbp.pl/statystyka-i-powiedziałosc/kursy/tabela-a/

Surface

65 610 km2

Population

20,48 mln

Practical information

Visa information and airport fees

Polish citizens must apply for a visa before traveling to Sri Lanka. This can be obtained online through the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system, which can be found at: https://eta.gov.lk/slvisa/. As of May 25, 2026, Polish citizens are exempt from the visa fee, but they must still register in the ETA system (the waiting time for confirmation is approximately 72 hours, so don't leave it until the last minute).

The Travel Agency is not responsible for not obtaining a visa for the countries where the tourist event takes place and for transit countries. Obtaining a visa is 100% the responsibility of the participants of the trip.

Vaccinations

Before travelling to Sri Lanka, vaccinations against diphtheria and tetanus, typhoid fever and hepatitis A and B are recommended. There are no mandatory vaccinations; the decision to vaccinate is left to the individual traveller.

Tips

Tipping employees in the tourism sector in Sri Lanka will always be viewed positively. This is especially true for drivers taking tourists around the island on a sightseeing tour, elephant handlers or local guides. A few dollars for hotel staff, a restaurant waiter or a porter will be more than enough. It is worth remembering to leave a tip in the form of a donation in the designated containers when visiting temples.

Food prices

Prices in Sri Lanka vary greatly, depending on the location and the number of tourists. You can eat very cheaply or very expensively. The most cost-effective option is to eat in small restaurants where locals eat. Example prices: 3-course dinner in a good restaurant around 3500 LKR, lunch in a local restaurant around 800 LKR, Coca-Cola 200 LKR, large coconut around 100 LKR, freshly squeezed fruit juice 200 LKR, local beer 650 LKR.

Food

Sri Lankan cuisine is distinguished primarily by the number of spices used in it with an extremely distinctive flavor, especially spicy ones, such as chili, ginger, turmeric and cinnamon. Another spice most often consumed in Sri Lanka is curry, although this name also refers to a dish prepared with it, which can be ordered in virtually every local restaurant. The basis of the menu is rice, and coconut milk is also a fairly popular ingredient. Rice & curry usually consists of a mixture of rice with vegetables, meat or fish and intensive additions in the form of cumin, cloves, coriander or cardamom. A very characteristic dish for Sri Lanka is lamprais of Dutch origin - rice, meat cutlet or in a vegetarian version, boiled egg and fried banana, all wrapped in a banana leaf and baked in the oven. The most popular alcohol in Sri Lanka is arrak, which is produced from fermented juice from coconut palm flowers. Sri Lankans also like beer, especially Lion Lager. Exotic Sri Lanka is also famous for its abundance of fruits: sweet bananas, juicy pineapples, mangoes, papayas and rambutans. For dessert, kerd is traditionally served here, which is curdled buffalo milk with the addition of coconut palm blossom juice.

Interesting facts

Sri Lanka is among the top tea producers every year, and Ceylon tea is considered one of the best in the world.
It was in Sri Lanka that for the first time, not only in Asia but also in the whole world, a woman was elected as Prime Minister. The first female Prime Minister in the world was Sriimavo Bandaranaike.
Sri Lanka is commonly referred to as the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean" or the "Teardrop of India".
One of the most famous spices in the world, the basis of many excellent cuisines – cinnamon comes from Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka is said to have the lowest illiteracy rate in Asia.
The most commonly eaten dish in Sri Lanka is simply rice and curry in various combinations, which is eaten at virtually any time of the day, for lunch, breakfast or dinner.
It is a popular practice in Sri Lanka to season the sweet fruit with salt and pepper. It should come as no surprise that Sri Lankans eat pineapple or mango seasoned in this way.

Learn more about Sri Lanka

History

Even before our era, two civilizations in particular clashed in the area of present-day Sri Lanka: Sinhalese and Tamil, whose languages survived in these areas and are used here today. In the 1796th century, the first Europeans tried to gain dominion over the island - immigrants from Portugal, who were gradually pushed out by the Dutch, and the remnants of their presence in the Ceylon land can be seen to this day, especially in architecture. In 1948, Sri Lanka came under British rule, but Great Britain tried to fully subjugate the Sri Lankans for several decades. Sri Lanka did not become independent from Great Britain until 80, when it gained independence. In the independent state, right-wing and socialist factions clashed with each other, and the situation was rather unstable. There was an assassination attempt on Prime Minister Solomon Bandaranaike, a military coup was organized during his wife's rule, and in addition, Sinhalese Leninists organized an anti-government uprising. In the 2004s, the country was gripped by a civil war caused by the claims of the Tamils, who as a national minority demanded autonomy. The tsunami of XNUMX caused not only the deaths of tens of thousands of Sri Lankans, but also huge material losses, which for some time slowed down the development of tourism on the island. Over the years, the situation in Sri Lanka has normalized, and Sri Lanka is one of the most popular countries for vacations.

Location

Sri Lanka is a country located on the island of Ceylon about 50 km from India. The country has a humid equatorial climate with high temperatures and periodic rainfall. The low season lasts from May to August, when the rainy season occurs. The high season with low rainfall and great weather dates from December to March. The river network is quite dense, and the longest river in the country is the Mahaveli Ganga measuring 335 km. Two types of forests dominate here in particular - monsoon in the north of the country and equatorial in the south. The fauna of Sri Lanka is very rich, there is a real variety of animal species, from large Indian elephants, through Indian chevrotains or leopards to the smallest - mangabeys and bats of the species giant flying fox.

Culture and Religion

The population of Sri Lanka is divided primarily into two ethnic groups, of which the Sinhalese constitute the vast majority, and the Tamils only about 24% of the total population. The Sinhalese civilization appeared in Sri Lanka around the XNUMXth century BC and is primarily associated with the Buddhist religion, while the Tamils are mostly followers of Hinduism. Generally speaking, the Sri Lankans are an open, smiling and helpful nation. Contrary to popular belief, the inhabitants of Sri Lanka are rather conservative when it comes to the family model or the division of duties between women and men. It is not appropriate for women to drink alcohol or smoke cigarettes.

In Sri Lanka, Buddhism is dominant, with Islam, Christianity and Hinduism being in the minority. The dominant Buddhism among the Sri Lankans is Theravada, the oldest Buddhist school that claims to derive its teachings directly from Buddha. Religious customs on the island are primarily manifested in offerings, such as flowers to Buddha images. Hindus are particularly fond of colorful, ornate temples, which are quite an attraction for tourists. In the 8th century, Islam also arrived in Sri Lanka, and its followers concentrate in their own groups and tend not to engage in the cultural life of other residents, not taking part in festivals.

Trip to Sri Lanka

Holidays in Sri Lanka

We invite you to a unique journey to Sri Lanka - a picturesque island where history, nature and culture intertwine into a fascinating mosaic of experiences. This is a place where you can immerse yourself in thousands of years of history, feel the spirit of the colonial past and discover the richness of nature during an Asian safari. During a luxury holiday in Sri Lanka, every detail becomes a unique experience, and the taste of exceptional tea and the scent of exotic spices float in the air, surrounding the traveler with the magic of the island.

Why is it worth going on holiday to Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka, the pearl of the Indian Ocean, is a place where exotic nature, rich history and extraordinary landscapes create a unique charm. A holiday in Sri Lanka offers countless opportunities for exploration for both adventure lovers and those looking for quiet relaxation. In the heart of the island, you will find Sigiriya, an impressive fortress on a rock, known as the Lion Rock, from where there is a breathtaking view of the surrounding jungle. Another gem is Kandy, a city famous for the Temple of the Tooth of Buddha, one of the most important sites of Buddhism.

The eastern coast of Sri Lanka attracts tourists with its golden beaches and turquoise waters, ideal for diving and snorkeling. Trincomalee, with its natural harbours and beautiful beaches, is a great place to relax. In the south, the beaches of Mirissa and Unawatuna offer heavenly views and the possibility of whale watching. And let's not forget Yala National Park, where you can see elephants, leopards and countless species of birds in their natural habitat. Sri Lanka is a place that delights with diversity and leaves indelible memories.

Visiting Sri Lanka – what is worth seeing?

A trip to Sri Lanka is an unforgettable adventure that combines exotic nature, rich history and picturesque beaches. On the island, you will find both ancient cities and wild nature that will take your breath away. It is worth starting your journey from Anuradhapura - one of the oldest cities in the world, where there are impressive stupas and the sacred Bodhi tree. Then it is worth going to Polonnaruwa, the former capital of Sri Lanka, where you can admire perfectly preserved Buddha statues and ruins of royal palaces. If you like trekking, be sure to go to Adam's Peak - a sacred mountain to which both Buddhists and Hindus make pilgrimages. At dawn, you will see an amazing play of shadows and a sunrise that will remain in your memory for a long time. Another extraordinary place is the Knuckles Mountain Range - a mountain range full of waterfalls, green hills and wildlife, ideal for trekking lovers. On the eastern coast, Trincomalee awaits you, known for its beautiful beaches and one of the deepest natural bays in the world. It is a great place for diving and snorkeling. If you are looking for less touristy beaches, head to Tangalle – a quiet town with wide, golden beaches. You can end your journey in Jaffna, in the north of the island, where Tamil culture intertwines with colonial history. It is a place full of temples, lagoons and picturesque islands. Sri Lanka is an island full of surprises, where everyone will find something for themselves. Whether you are looking for adventure, history or blissful relaxation, this trip will definitely leave you with unforgettable memories.

Holidays in Sri Lanka – practical information

When planning a holiday in Sri Lanka, there are a few practical issues to consider. First, make sure your passport is valid for at least another six months after your planned return date. You will need a visa to enter Sri Lanka. You can obtain one online via the ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) system or at the airport. The fee for a standard tourist visa is around USD 50. The document allows for a stay of up to 30 days, with the possibility of extension. The currency in Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR). It is best to exchange money at banks, currency exchange offices or at the airport, although rates may vary. Credit cards are accepted in hotels and larger restaurants, but in smaller places it is worth having cash. Tipping is not mandatory, but is appreciated - in restaurants it is customary to leave around 10% of the bill, and a small amount for porters or tuk-tuk drivers will be enough. What vaccinations in Sri Lanka? Health wise, vaccinations against hepatitis A and B, typhoid and tetanus are recommended. Sri Lanka uses plug types D, M and G (like in the UK) so an adaptor may be required. The voltage in the sockets is 230V.

Sri Lanka attractions – holiday guide

Ceylon tea

Sri Lanka is currently the fourth largest exporter of tea, and the oldest local plantations recently celebrated their 150th anniversary. Luxury holidays in Sri Lanka, apart from discovering the extraordinary, undulating, evergreen fields where skilled pickers hand-select the leaves of this extraordinary plant, will also allow you to try all the varieties growing here! Try the one growing in Nuwara Eliya, Uva or Kandy, convincing yourself that each of them has its own, unique taste, and a cup of this drink drunk after the intense experiences waiting for you in Ceylon will be a great ending to each day of your trip.

34 thousand years of history

Ancient kingdoms that have ruled here for thousands of years, divisions and dissolutions, Portuguese, Dutch and British rule, and the last almost 75 years of independence, all contribute to Ceylon’s turbulent, yet rich and incredibly interesting history. A melting pot of cultures and communities from all over the world can be found in almost every part of the island during a luxury trip to Sri Lanka, where distant heritages, cultures and cuisines from all over the world coexist in a uniquely interesting way, and grand colonial administrative buildings sit side by side with ancient Tamil temples.

Asian Safari

Almost 10% of Sri Lanka's surface is covered by national parks, of which there are 26, and the country itself boasts one of the highest rates of biological endemism in the world, which means that 23% of the local flora and 16% of the fauna are unique to Ceylon! It is also one of the few places in the world where you can combine a land safari with watching humpback whales and whales in the ocean and a hot air balloon flight on the same day, allowing you to see the local nature from a slightly different perspective. During your luxury vacation in Sri Lanka, look for lazy wrasses and famous leopards in Yala National Park, look out for hundreds of species of birds living in the Horton Plains region and visit the elephants living in Udawalawe National Park.

Hotels in Sri Lanka

Staying in the best hotels in Sri Lanka can be an experience in itself. You can find boutique gems like Taru Villas Rampart Street Warwick Gardens, offering only 4 and 5 rooms respectively, immersed in the exotic vegetation of Ceylon, the lodge, as Cinnamon Lodge, or objects that will certainly stay in your memory even after you return from your luxurious vacation in Sri Lanka. Pay special attention to Uga Ulagalla, where each villa has its own private swimming pool, and the colonial one, where during your stay you can take advantage of a wide range of personalized Ayurvedic treatments.

Unique places in Sri Lanka

Formerly called Ceylon, Sri Lanka, despite its relatively small size, is a culmination of a thousand extraordinary attractions - chaotic metropolises and sleepy, lazy villages, exclusive boutiques and iconic restaurants and cheap stands with delicious street food. What's more, you can climb here, surf, discover the secrets of Buddhism in one of the local monasteries or relax on one of the paradise beaches ideal for both low-budget backpackers and people looking for a luxury vacation in Sri Lanka. Discover colonial Galle, climb the Lion Rock - Sigiriya, take a train ride to Ella, sip a cup of tea on a plantation in Nuwara Eliya, go on a safari in one of the national parks and enjoy an unforgettable, luxurious trip to Sri Lanka!

Which region to choose for a trip to Sri Lanka?

During your luxury vacation in Ceylon, you can explore the oldest tea plantations, surrounded by rolling evergreen fields, where skilled tea pickers hand-pick the leaves of this unique plant. Travel back in time as you discover the history of this turbulent country, from the ancient kingdoms to the present day, where Portuguese, Dutch and British influences have left their mark. Luxury hotels in Ceylon provide unforgettable experiences, offering private pools, exclusive Ayurvedic treatments and an extraordinary atmosphere. Not to be forgotten are the national parks and exciting game drives in search of wildlife. Sri Lanka is a place where luxury meets wilderness, and culture blends with history, creating unforgettable experiences for every traveler.