17 Things You Should Know Before Visiting Sri Lanka

TLDRLearn the essential tips and insights before traveling to Sri Lanka, including cultural customs, transportation, best travel seasons, bargaining, and more.

Key insights

🤔The head bobble in Sri Lanka signifies agreement, not disagreement.

🌍While Sri Lanka may appear small, it takes a long time to travel within the country due to the infrastructure.

🤝The local people in Sri Lanka are friendly and speak good English, making communication easy for tourists.

🌧️Sri Lanka has two monsoon seasons, so the ideal travel time varies depending on the region.

💰Bargaining is common in Sri Lanka, especially for transportation and market purchases.

Q&A

Do I need a Sri Lankan driving license to rent a vehicle?

Yes, you need a Sri Lankan driving license to legally rent a car, motorbike, or tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka.

Are there big party destinations in Sri Lanka?

No, Sri Lanka is not known for its big party scenes like other Southeast Asian countries.

Is the Wi-Fi reliable in Sri Lanka?

The Wi-Fi in Sri Lanka can be inconsistent, but getting a local SIM card with data is a good alternative.

What is the best way to travel within Sri Lanka?

Public transportation, such as buses and trains, is affordable but time-consuming. Tuk-tuks and taxis are convenient options for shorter distances.

Is elephant riding ethical in Sri Lanka?

No, elephant riding involves cruelty and should be avoided. Opt for ethical wildlife experiences instead.

Timestamped Summary

00:00The head bobble in Sri Lanka means agreement, not disagreement.

00:41Sri Lanka may seem small, but transportation within the country takes time.

01:38The locals in Sri Lanka are friendly and English-speaking, making communication easy for tourists.

02:28Sri Lanka experiences two monsoon seasons, so the ideal travel time varies by region.

02:53Bargaining is common in Sri Lanka for tuk-tuks, taxis, and market purchases.

04:17A Sri Lankan driving license is required to legally rent vehicles in Sri Lanka.

05:03Sri Lanka is not known for its big party destinations.

06:08Wi-Fi in Sri Lanka can be unreliable, but getting a local SIM card with data is a good alternative.