So, you have decided on travelling to Sri Lanka, but you are stuck with a lot of questions in your mind? Scroll down to find answers to frequently asked questions about the paradise isle!
What is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka is a year-round destination and anytime is ideal to visit the island. Since it is located in the tropics and it receives monsoonal rains throughout the year, the island receives two types of monsoonal rains during two halves of the year. Each of the rainfall conditions leaves a part of the island with rains and the other with sunny weather. So, in summary, if you plan on visiting the Western and Southern regions of the country the duration between December and April is the ideal time, if you are planning to visit the North and Eastern regions, May to September is the ideal time.
What languages are spoken in Sri Lanka?
English, Sinhala and Tamil are the official languages of Sri Lanka and almost all young Sri Lankans can communicate with you in English.
What are the kinds of accommodations available for tourists?
Being a popular tourist destination, Sri Lanka offers a wide variety of accommodation options for its guests. Travellers who visit Sri Lanka can choose to stay at hostels, Airbnbs and star-class resorts that go all the way up to 5 stars.
Is Sri Lanka a Kid-friendly destination?
Sri Lanka is an ideal family vacation destination. Locals love foreign children and they go out of their way to keep them entertained. Almost all the resort properties on the island come replete with kid-friendly amenities and you could even get baby cribs or extra bedding to accommodate your child in your room upon request.
What kinds of clothes should you wear when in Sri Lanka?
Due to the country’s tropical location, it might get really hot in the dryer regions of the country during summer non-monsoonal conditions, so, you can wear anything that you feel comfortable at most of the destinations (breathable loose clothing). But, travellers will have to wear conservative clothing while visiting religious and heritage sites covering their knees and shoulders. Also, keep in mind that topless sunbathing and wearing clothes that have images of Lord Buddha are prohibited in the country.
What is the international dialling code for Sri Lanka?
Any Sri Lankan number can be directly called from any part of the world when dialled with the code +94
What unit of measurement is used in Sri Lanka?
Although many different units were used to measure quantities such as mass, length and capacity, the country adopted the metric system in the year of 1970.
Is Sri Lanka and Ceylon are the same country?
Yes, they are. The name Ceylon was given by the British who colonized the country from 1815AD to 1948AD. The nation has been known the world over as Sri Lanka since the year of 1972.
Is Sri Lankan food Spicy?
Yes, it is! most of the regular eateries that locals visit serve food that will be extremely spicy for the western palate. So, inform them in advance that you don’t prefer spicy food so that they will use less spices when they prepare your food.
What can you buy as souvenirs?
Local handicrafts are extremely ornate and beautiful, and they make ideal souvenirs for your loved ones back at home. Amulets and ornaments made from coconut shells, wooden statues, accessories made from straw, and local paintings are some of the options you could consider buying. But, be mindful not to buy items that are made from animal shells, corals or any other suspicious materials since they can be illegal.
