From Wikitravel

Sri Lanka, [2] formerly known as Ceylon, is in Southern Asia. It is an island country in the Indian Ocean, south of India.

[edit] Regions

Provinces:

• Central
• North Central
• North Eastern
• North Western
• Sabaragamuwa
• Southern
• Uva
• Western

[edit] Cities

Sri Lanka has many cities and towns. Below is a selection of the most important to travelers.

• Colombo - the capital.

• Jaffna - Northern Capital [limited accessibility as it's controlled by the Sri Lankan Army, no press is allowed so that the army can keep everything under wrap]
• Beregala
• Galle - a home for a Dutch fort, and a a gathering point for travelers from the nearby beach resort villages
• Kandy - the spiritual heart of the country, home to a tooth of the Buddha
• Matara
• Nuwara Elya
• Trincomalee
• Anuradhapura - ruins of ancient capitals (partially restored)
• Polannaruwa - ruins of ancient capitals (partially restored)
• Kurunegala
• Kegalla
• Kaluthara
• Ratnapura
• Bandarawela
• Badulla
• Monaragala
• Puttalama
• Gampaha
• Matale

[edit] Towns

• Ella
• Tangalle

[edit] Other destinations

• Yala National Park
• Adam's Peak
• Horton's Plains and World's End

See also: Sacred sites of the Indian sub-continent

[edit] Understand

[edit] Climate

Tropical monsoon; northeast monsoon (December to March) only affects east coast; southwest monsoon (June to October) affects mostly the west coast and mountains.

[edit] Terrain

Mostly low, flat to rolling plain; mountains in south-central interior.

Highest point: Pidurutalagala 2,524 m

[edit] History

The Sinhalese arrived in Sri Lanka late in the 6th century B.C., probably from northern India. Buddhism was introduced beginning in about the mid-3rd century B.C. and a great civilization developed at such cities as Anuradhapura (kingdom from c. 200 B.C. to c. 1000 A.D.) and Polonnaruwa (c. 1070 to 1200).

Occupied by the Portuguese in the 16th century and by the Dutch in the 17th century, the island was ceded to the British in 1796 and became a crown colony in 1802. As Ceylon, it became independent in 1948; the name was changed to Sri Lanka in 1972.

Tensions between the Sinhalese majority and Tamil separatists erupted in violence in the mid-1980s. Tens of thousands have died in that violence. Since late 2001 there has been a ceasefire and slow-going peace talks (as of January 2008 the ceasefire is formally ended ), and even war-torn parts of the island are now open for travel.

Since the outbreak of hostilities between the government and armed Tamil separatists in the mid-1980s, several hundred thousand Tamil and Sinhala civilians have fled the island; as of mid-1999, approximately 66,000 were housed in 133 refugee camps in south India, another 40,000 lived outside the Indian camps, and more than 200,000 Tamils have sought refuge in the West (July 2002 est.)

[edit] Get in

[edit] By plane

Sri Lankan Airlines [3] is a national flagship carrier operating to and from Colombo-Bandaranayake. Flights are available from origins throughout Europe, United States, Southeast Asia, China, Japan, the Middle East, India, and Pakistan. SL also flies to the nearby resort areas of Goa, India and the Maldives.

Sri Lankan also code shares with Emirates Airlines of the United Arab Emirates. This allows for connections from places SL doesn't fly to itself such as North America.

Mihin Lanka [4], Sri Lanka's first (and only) low-cost airline started operating in 2007. They fly to various points in India as well as Bangkok, Dubai, Male and Singapore.

Other airlines include Singapore, Malaysia, Thai, Cathay Pacific, Qatar, Saudi Arabian, and LTU (Germany).

[edit] From USA/Canada

From the west coast of the USA/Canada, the distance is almost half-way around the world. Depending on your preferences, and how much spare time you have, consider a stopover in Europe or SE Asia. Another option (for both coasts) is the non-stop flights over the north pole to New Delhi, India from Chicago and Newark. In many cases, this may be the fastest route, but check if an Indian transit visa is required.

[edit] By ship

You can take Indian Shipping lines cargo and passenger ship from Trivandrum cheaper than the planes. WWW.SLPA.LK Sri Lanka port authority has information.

[edit] Get around

[edit] Three-wheeler

The most common mode of transport in Sri Lanka is via a three-wheeled automobile appropriately referred to as a three-wheeler (Tri-Shaw). Also known as Tuk-Tuks from the noise of their motors. These operate in a manner similar to taxis, and is a highly cost-efficient way to get around. However, three-wheelers have been linked to many illegal and criminal activities, including an assasination attempt on a foreign ambassador, in the recent past.

[edit] By car

Rented cars usually turn out cheaper than three-wheelers, and are less prone to road accidents--and are recommended by most hotels.

Rented cars often come with their own drivers. Often the automobile itself is free, whereas the driver will charge a fee for his services. Some drivers/guides are government-licensed; some are extremely knowledgeable and multi-lingual, specializing in historical and cultural knowledge, and environment/natural history for your visits to the ancient sites and the natural reserves.

[edit] Tour operators

Tour Operators are happy to get you a van and a driver who will take you all over the island but beware, the roads are bumpy and slow. Ask to be shown on a map where you are going before agreeing to any 'tour' of the island. Senseless backtracking to lengthen the trip and increase the cost is a real danger. Again, insist on seeing a day-to-day planned tour map before agreeing to a tour operator's idea of seeing Sri Lanka.

[edit] By bus

For those on a budget buses are everywhere. They're ridiculously crowded and massively uncomfortable, but they get you around for almost nothing; it costs about a dollar to get half-way across the island. If you're planning on splashing out, AC buses run most routes for twice the price, which offer air-conditioning and a guaranteed seat. However, they're still uncomfortable. Bus stations are confusing places, especially the big ones, but almost everyone will be delighted to practice their English and help you.

[edit] By train

Trains also run in some places - these can be slower than buses, depending if you are on a line that offers an express train or not, but more comfortable and picturesque and even less expensive than buses. The Railway system in Sri Lanka is very picturesque when entering the hill country because of the winding tracks along the mountains especially on the Badullu-Nanu Oya line. Make sure, if you can, to sit on the right side of the train, as it offers the better view. Sri Lanka has an extensive railway system serving all major towns and cities in the island except for the North and the East. There are special Observation cars for tourists that like to take in the scenery.

We are trying to buy new train class number 150 from England for use on Sri Lanka railway then it will be faster.

[edit] By plane

Sri Lankan Airlines operates small Seaplane service to destinations such as Nuwara Eliya, Kandy, Galle and many more locations. This is perfect for Photography trips because you can get a bird's eye view of the island and takes less time to get to a destination than using the road. Also the seaplanes land on picturesque lakes and tanks around the island.

Aero Lanka operates domestic flights between Colombo-Ratmalana, Jaffna and Trincomalee

[edit] Talk

The majority of Sri Lankans speak Sinhala, with Tamil as the second language. English is commonly used by government and tourism officials. Don't expect everyone, everywhere to be able to speak it fluently. It's much more common in the beach and tourist areas. Most people in rural villages cannot speak any English, beyond a few simple words.

• Sinhala Language The greeting in Sinhala is "aa-yu-BO-wan" It means that "May you live longer"; 'Thank you' is "sthu-thee"
• Tamil Language: The greeting in Tamil is "Vanakkam"; 'Thank you' is "Nanri"
• Sri Lankan Moor: If you meet a Muslim it is polite to say "Assalamu Aliakum" (Arabic); and Thank You "Jaza-ka Alla" (arabic)

[edit][add listing] Buy

The currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee. The exchange rates are approximately 110Rs/ USD, or 170Rs/ EUR. There are coins for 25 and 50 cents (bronze), 1 rupee (old version is big and silver, new version is small and gold,) 2 rupees (silver,) and 5 rupees (gold,) as well as banknotes ranging from 10- 2000 rupees. Coins that are more than a few years old are typically in quite bad condition.

Handicrafts Of Sri Lanka. For reed, cane, cotton, paper, leather, wood, clay, metal, and gemstones have been transformed and re-expressed in a array of batiks, toys, curios and jewelery, all exquisite hand made treasures.

[edit] Credit cards and ATMs

ATMs are located in many places (specially at bank branches) in the cities and suburbs, less so in the countryside.

You can withdraw from debit cards too (Cirrus, Maestro, Visa Electron etc) where the logos are displayed - so no need to carry wads of US dollars when entering the country.

[edit][add listing] Eat

Sri Lanka and South Indian food share a lot in common, and many local restaurants will describe their menus as Sri Lankan & South Indian. There are a number of regional variations thought, the different types of hopper, devilled prawns/cuttlefish/chicken/etc. and the common fiery addition to any curry, pol sambol made of grated coconut, red chilli powder and lime juice.

The food is very cheap generally, with a cheap meal costing about a dollar. The most expensive, tourist-orientated places seldom charge more than ten dollars. The staple food of Sri Lankans is rice and curry - a massive mound of rice surrounded by various curries and delicacies. If you want to eat a cheap lunch you can follow the Sri Lankan crowds and duck into any of a million small cafes, confusingly called 'Hotels'. These normally sell a rice and curry packet, as well as 'short eats', a collection of spicy rolls. This is ideal for backpackers and those who want to get past the touristy hotels selling burnt chicken and chips - you're charged by how much you eat, and unless you're absolutely ravenous it probably won't cost over a dollar.

Kottu (Kothu) Roti (a medley of chopped roti, vegetables and your choice of meat) is a must-have for anyone - tourist or otherwise - in Sri Lanka. It is uniquely Sri Lankan and tastes best when made fresh by street vendors.

Note that Sri Lankans eat with their right hands - this isn't a major problem, because everywhere will be able to provide cutlery if you can't eat otherwise. But try the Sri Lankan way (tips of fingers only!), it's harder than it looks but strangely liberating.

There are many upscale restaurants to choose from in the city of Colombo. There are many fine dining restaurants at the 5 star hotels which offer both Local and International cuisine.

[edit][add listing] Drink

Water is not always healthy for unseasoned travelers, and so it is recommended that either purifying tablets or bottled water be used whenever possible. Fresh milk, due to the climate, spoils easily, and so is often very expensive. Powdered milk, however, is safe and is often substituted.

Thambli the juice from yellow coconuts, is very refreshing. It's sold at the side of streets throughout the island, you know it's clean as the coconut is cut open in front of you and it's cheaper than bottled drinks at about R20/- each.

Soft drinks are available almost everywhere, normally in dusty-looking glass bottles. The local producer, Elephant, make a range of interesting drinks - try the ginger beer and cream soda.

"Coca Cola" and "Pepsi" also available in large and small sizes (plastic bottles) including several local soft drink brands - all available at rapidly multiplying supermarkets all across the country and grocery shops.

The most common local beer is Lion Lager. For something a bit different try Lion Stout. It is characterized by it's tar-like oiliness of body and chocolate finish. Other brews include Three Coins, which is brewed by the Mt Lavinia hotel chain, allegedly to a Belgian recipe.

The traditional spirit is Arrack, which costs about 4 USD for a bottle, and is often drunk with ginger beer. The quality can vary depending on how much you want to pay. However, widely recommended brand would be "Old Reserve" and worth paying 7.5 USD for it.

[edit][add listing] Sleep

Accommodation is very cheap. Guesthouses normally don't offer a single rate, but you can always try bargaining.

The Galle Face Hotel [5] in Colombo is a romantic colonial pile on the Indian Ocean. The terrace is a great place to have a drink and watch the sun go down, and the sea breeze is a blessed relief after the heat of the city.

• Club Palm Garden, [6] is located in Kaluwamodera, Beruwala, in the Western province of Sri Lanka. Being a member of the Confifi Hotels, this hotel provides a wide variety of recreational facilities and services. More information available at the Club Palm Garden Official Website.
• Eden Resort & Spa is a 5-star luxury resort and spa offering an array of business and recreational amenities for a memorable vacation. Stand beside the clear blue Indian Ocean and walk on the golden sandy beaches of Beruwela. Address: Galle Road, Kaluwamodera, Beruwela, Kalutara, Sri Lanka. Email: eden@confifi.net.
• Riverina Hotel is a 4-star hotel offering holistic spa treatments, world-class facilities, impeccable service, and prime location along the golden shores of the Beruwela Beach. Bring the whole family and enjoy a bevy of fun recreational activities. Address: Kaluwamodera, Beruwela, Sri Lanka. Email: resvmgr@confifi.net.

[edit] Learn

[edit] Work

[edit] Stay safe

Violent crime is not a serious problem for tourists in Sri Lanka. As in most tourist locations, beware of pickpockets, and don't leave valuables unguarded. Women should not be alone at night on the beach or streets. There has been a slight increase in violent crimes involving tourists in the past few years, but it is still rare.

The Tamil Tiger (LTTE) rebels do not target tourists, although in very rare instances, a few tourists have been wounded (mostly minor) by terrorist actions, while a somewhat larger number have witnessed and been frightened by them. Historically, the Tamils have had a close relationship with the British, and are not anti-Western. It's believed that the Tigers would prefer to have no Western or foreign casualties, and they have planned their operations accordingly. In general, traffic accidents should be a greater concern than terrorism. There is heavy security in all sensitive locations, and together with the country's long experience in dealing with it would probably make any radical or foreign terrorism less likely than elsewhere. In addition, Sri Lanka has good relations with all nearby countries (who aren't always at peace with each other) and internationally as well. One block on the inland side of Galle Road in Kollupitiya (across from the US embassy & British High Commission) is closed to pedestrians in front of the Prime Minister's residence (called The Temple Trees). This may not be well marked on the southern side.

It's advised that tourists not travel to areas under control of the Tamil Tiger (LTTE) rebels. Some areas may contain land mines, and the facilities in cities and towns are war torn. Military action by the government is also possible. It is highly unlikely, though, that someone could inadvertently go into a war zone due to the large number of government checkpoints. Such areas are far distant from places tourists normally visit. Note though, it is common to see well-armed soliders on the streets, main highways and airport.

Con artist and touts are a serious problem throughout all tourist areas. Using the services of a tout for accommodation, local travel, etc. will most likely increase the price. Do not believe anyone who claims to be a professional (e.g. airline pilot), or in charge of a location (like a bus terminal) without proof. Scams involving gemstones are common. Do not buy with the intention of selling them in your home country for a profit. Also, beware of single males who wish you to accompany them after a religious service. First, ask other members if the person is honest and reliable. Dishonest Sri Lankans (mostly male) are very adept at talking tourists out of their money, and generally prefer this method over violence.

Although snake bites are extremely rare among tourists (comparable to being struck by lightning), anyone bitten should seek prompt medical care. This is true even if the bite doesn't result in any pain and swelling.

[edit] Stay healthy

• Vaccination are recommended for Hepatitis A+B, Polio, and Tetanus. Also, the Typhus vaccination outside of tourist areas especially in the wet season.

• Dengue fever: During the rainy season use mosquito repellent. When head and joint aches occur get a blood check. There is no vaccination yet.

• Malaria : Gampaha (e.g. Negombo), Colombo, Kalutara, Galle, and Nuwara Eliya districts are considered malaria free, as is the city (but not the entire district) of Kandy. Elsewhere, malaria exists and is most likely in Anuradhapura. In the dry season, using DEET repellent for a mid-day road or train trip to Kandy (including visits to the Peradeniya Gardens) or Nuwara Eliya should suffice. Risk increases after sunset. Malaria prophylaxis (anti-malarials) are warranted for trips to the north (especially Anuradhapura), east, and southeast (however some types are not available locally.)

• Yellow fever: A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travelers over 1 year of age coming from infected areas.

[edit] Respect

There are several customs that (for Westerners) take a bit of getting used to.

• As in many Asian countries, toilet paper is not common - a hose or bucket of water by the side of the toilet is provided as an alternative. If you prefer to use paper, bring your own, but be conscientious about local sewer systems and throw used paper in the trash. As always, the touristy places will be accustomed to Westerners and supply toilet paper. It is readily available at any Keells Super or Cargills Foodcity outlet.
• It is customary to remove shoes and wear respectful attire (i.e. no miniskirts, tank tops, short pants etc.) when visiting temples. It is also the custom to remove shoes before entering a home, though this is not as strictly followed as in places such as Japan.
• Never touch or pat the top of the head of Buddhists, including children. Exceptions are made for cutting hair, etc., but it should never be a surprise without permission. Assume all strangers could be Buddhists for this purpose (except in exclusively Tamil areas).
• Do not turn your back to (or be alongside) a Buddha statue when within a reasonable distance (observe what others are doing). This includes posing for photos. It's OK to photograph a statue, but all persons should be facing it.
• Public nudity (including females being topless) is not only unacceptable but illegal in Sri Lanka - though a few German-owned hotels may make an exception in designated areas.
• Although much latitude is given to tourists, it is more polite to use your right hand when shaking hands, handing money and small objects, etc. Of course you can use both hands for something big and/or heavy.
• Be respectful to monks. There's no particular etiquette for Westerners - just be polite. Always give them a seat on a crowded bus (unless you're disabled or very elderly).
• No photography of sensitive locations (inside and outside), and inside of shopping malls and tea factories (outside OK). Be especially careful in Fort, Colombo (except on the beach). If soldiers are guarding something, it probably shouldn't be photographed. Don't rely on signs alone, as sometimes they are old or missing. For example, one end of a bridge may have a "No Photography" sign, but not the other.
• Do not mix up Dravidian indigeneous people with people of African descent, or call them "black," no matter how dark their complexion.

[edit] Contact

[edit] Phone

The country code for Sri Lanka is 94.

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