5 Essential Tips for an Unforgettable Trip to Sri Lanka

Marine Vesier
Feb 23
4 min read

Dreaming of exploring Sri Lanka and wondering what to expect? Before packing your bags, check out my 5 best tips to make the most of your adventure. You’ll be ready to set off with peace of mind and create unforgettable memories!

1. Choosing the Right Transport

Transportation is one of the most important aspects of traveling, especially in a country like Sri Lanka, where the options are varied but can be a bit tricky for first-timers. Here are my tips:

Tuk-tuks: Convenient for short distances.
- Price: Always negotiate before getting in. Start by cutting the initial price in half, then find some middle ground.
- Contacts: Save the number of the tuk-tuk drivers you use so you can easily call them again! (I share the one of my good friend at the end of this article).
- You can also use the local app PickMe (similar to Uber), but be aware that due to tuk-tuk mafias, drivers might not always be able to pick you up.
Trains: One of the most authentic ways to travel, though schedules can be a bit chaotic. It’s perfect for long distances and offers breathtaking views—especially between Ella and Kandy.
Buses: The cheapest option, but often the longest. For short trips, especially along the coast (from Tangalle to Galle), it’s still a good option—but you have to be ready for some exotic adventure!
Bike or scooter: Be very careful—the traffic can be chaotic. If you’re comfortable driving, renting a bike or scooter can be convenient for exploring harder-to-reach towns or beaches. Otherwise there are tuktuks everywhere.

Tip: Download an offline map app like Maps.me to help you get around, as internet connection can be unstable in some areas.

2. Finding Accommodation for Solo Travelers

Accommodation is key and can be a good opportunity for very authentic experience — here are my recommendations:

Hostels: Very common and a great way to meet other solo travelers. They’re often located near major attractions. (Booking.com, Hostelworld...)
Guesthouses or homestays: Perfect for experiencing local culture. You’ll get to chat with locals and discover more authentic, off-the-beaten-path places. (Booking.com, Agoda...)
Tip: Contact the owner via WhatsApp—they often offer cheaper prices this way.

Hotels or Airbnbs: If you’re looking for more comfort, there are plenty of hotels and private rentals.

Tip: Always check reviews and prices on Google Maps before booking. If possible, contact the owner via WhatsApp for better rates, especially if you’re staying for several nights.

3. Staying Safe While Traveling in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is generally a safe destination, including for woma solo travelers, but here are a few precautions to take:

Tips to avoid scams:

Tuk-tuks: Before asking a driver for a price, check with your hostel staff or even a nearby shopkeeper to get an idea of the fair rate for your journey.
Safari: Many hostels near safari parks offer very cheap rooms (around 2-3€ per night) in hopes that you’ll book a safari through them. If you don’t, they might cancel your room with a random excuse. (Don’t worry—there are plenty of alternatives nearby, but it’s better to book a room for at least 15€ to secure your stay.)

Personally, I never felt scammed during my travels in Sri Lanka. My biggest advice? Don’t isolate yourself—always ask locals for advice or help when needed.

Keep copies of your documents: Photocopy your passport, visa, and other important documents, and keep them separate from the originals.
Get travel insurance: I personally experienced a serious accident in Sri Lanka, and thankfully my insurance (Chapka) covered everything.
Stay updated on local alerts: Sometimes, certain regions can be less safe due to protests or weather conditions. Follow recommendations from local authorities or your embassy.

If you are a woman traveling to Sri Lanka I posted another article about it that you can find here:

Stay safe in Sri Lanka

4. Interacting with Locals: Enjoy Sri Lankan Hospitality

Sri Lankan people are known for being incredibly kind and welcoming. Their rich culture comes with customs you should respect:

Respect local culture: Sri Lanka is a predominantly Buddhist country, so it’s important to follow cultural norms—such as removing your shoes before entering a home or temple. You should also cover your knees and shoulders when visiting temples.
- Note: Buddha tattoos can be seen as highly disrespectful, and some travelers have even been denied entry into the country for this reason.
Be open to conversations: Sri Lankans are often curious and love chatting with travelers. It’s also a great way to discover hidden spots, great restaurants, or get insider tips on what to visit—so don’t hesitate to share your plans! They often know someone who can take you to places you wouldn’t have found on your own.
Local markets: Visit local markets! People love sharing their products, and you’ll learn a lot about Sri Lankan culture through these interactions.

Tip: If you really want to immerse yourself, take part in local workshops (cooking, crafts, etc.) or hire a guide from time to time to ask questions and learn about their culture. It’s a great way to build connections and gain a deeper understanding of daily life.

5. Managing Your Budget in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a very affordable country, but it’s always good to plan your spending:

Local food: In local restaurants, a typical rice and curry will cost you less than €3. In more Western-style cafes, expect to pay around €5 for something like avocado toast.
Local SIM card: Don’t bother with an eSIM—it’s not worth it! A local SIM card (Dialog) with 10GB of data costs around €2 for a week, and you can recharge it via the app. I’d advise against buying it at the airport—wait until you reach your destination. You can also ask your taxi driver for a hotspot on the way from the airport to your accommodation.
Tourist attractions: Some attractions, such as temples or national parks (like safaris), can have higher entrance fees for foreigners.
Local transport:
- By bus: Expect to pay around 100 LKR (~€0.30) for a trip from Weligama to Hiriketiya (92 km – 1.5 hours). You’ll need to buy a new ticket each time you change buses.
- By tuk-tuk: Around 4,000 LKR (~€12) for the same journey (1 hour).
- Taxi from the airport to the south: Around 18,000 LKR (~€60).