Time Zone
Sri Lanka is 1.5 hours ahead of Tbilisi time.
Cuisine
Sri Lankan cuisine is similar to Indian cuisine, which is not surprising given the two countries are separated only by the narrow Palk Strait. Like Indians, Sri Lankans eat a lot of rice, fish, greens, and spices. Many dishes include coconut flakes, coconut milk and oil, as well as palm nectar (called treacle). A popular ingredient is umbalakada – a powdered dried fish used to add aroma to curries.
Most dishes are very spicy, so when ordering, it's best to ask for a milder, more European-adapted version.
Currency
The official currency of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR).
1 rupee = 100 cents.
Banknotes in circulation come in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000, and 5000 rupees, and coins are available in 10, 25, 50 cents, as well as 1, 2, 5, and 10 rupees.
It is recommended to exchange currency at Colombo Airport, where the exchange rates are usually the most favorable. Be sure to keep the receipt from the currency exchange — you’ll need it to exchange any leftover rupees back into foreign currency at the airport bank when leaving Sri Lanka.
Export of the national currency from Sri Lanka is prohibited.
Language and Religion
The official languages of Sri Lanka are English, Sinhala, and Tamil. The major religions practiced in the country are Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity, and Islam.
The majority of the population (about 70%) practices Buddhism, mainly among the Sinhalese. The Tamils, who make up around 15%, are predominantly Hindus.
Transport
Public transportation in Sri Lanka mainly consists of trains and buses. For getting around within cities, the most convenient option is to use local taxis, especially the iconic three-wheeled tuk-tuks. They are inexpensive and widely available, making them a popular choice for short-distance travel.
Medical Information
No special vaccinations are required for a beach holiday in Sri Lanka. However, if you plan to travel into the jungle or remote inland areas, it's recommended to take malaria prevention tablets in advance. When visiting national parks or nature reserves, use insect repellent to protect yourself from mosquito bites and other insects.
If you need medical assistance during your stay, use the insurance policy provided when you booked your tour.
Useful Recommendations for Traveling in Sri Lanka:
- When visiting Buddhist or Hindu temples, do not wear shorts or clothing that exposes shoulders or back.
- You must remove your shoes and headwear before entering the temple.
- In some hotels, entry to restaurants in shorts or swimwear is not allowed — keep this in mind when choosing your outfit.
- Always pay close attention to prices, watch out for hidden fees, and count your change carefully after payments.
