Travel Info
Travel info
Visas, climate, currency and everything practical for your Sri Lanka trip.
Visa (ETA)
German, Austrian and Swiss citizens need an electronic travel authorisation (ETA), applied for online. Current fee: about USD 50. Validity: 30 days, extendable. We help free of charge with the application.
Climate & best time
Sri Lanka has two monsoons. South/west coast plus highlands: main season November–April. East coast (Trincomalee, Arugam Bay): May–September. Coastal temperatures stay at 27–32 °C year-round, the highlands 15–22 °C — pack a pullover for Nuwara Eliya.
Currency & payment
Sri Lankan rupee (LKR). 1 EUR ≈ 320 LKR (as of 2026). Cash from ATMs in any larger town. Bigger hotels and upper-end restaurants accept Visa/Mastercard. For markets and tuk-tuks always carry cash.
Mobile & internet
SIM cards available at Bandaranaike airport (Dialog or Mobitel). About EUR 10 for 30 days with generous data. WiFi in almost every hotel and café.
Health & vaccinations
No mandatory vaccinations for entry. Recommended: hepatitis A, tetanus, typhoid. Check your government health portal for the latest advice. Mosquito repellent is helpful everywhere. Only drink bottled water.
What to wear
Light cotton or linen. In temples, cover shoulders and knees (we'll remind you on the ground). For the highlands, a warm pullover and a light rain jacket. Two pairs of comfortable shoes — one will be soaked with sweat after Sigiriya.
Electricity
230 V, 50 Hz. Plug type G (British style). Bring an adapter — most hotels can lend one.
Tipping
Common but never mandatory. In restaurants 10 %, drivers EUR 5–10 per day, guide about EUR 10 per day (always welcome in EUR or USD).