Sri Lanka Unbound
Frequent Questions
Sri Lanka is generally considered safe for travel. But, like any other destination, it is always important to practice caution and take the necessary precautions. Since the end of its civil war in 2009 security and stability has improved. The government has implemented measures to ensure the safety of both locals and tourists.
The economic crisis that started after COVID has now diminished. Fuel and power availability have been restored.
We advise you to stay informed about the current situation before planning your trip. We recommend checking travel advisories and following the guidance provided by your government. Also, make sure you’re sufficiently insured for the duration of your tour.
Sri Lanka is a popular destination for families due to its beautiful beaches, incredible wildlife, good food, and hospitality. There are many kid-friendly attractions and activities to experience. Hotels that cater to the needs of families as well. Sri Lanka offers a wide range of activities for kids.
When traveling with toddlers, make sure to get diapers and formula in major towns where supermarkets are available. Also, the kids should be vaccinated for rabies since there are many stray dogs around. Pack your mosquito repellents as well, since dengue is abundant. Consult with your hotel to confirm that they are baby- and child-friendly and can accommodate your special requests.
A few things to do with kids
- Boat trips
- Whale and Dolphin watching
- Seeing elephants on a wildlife safari in Yala or Udawalawe
- Visiting a sea turtle hatchery
- Visiting the Udawalwe Elephant transit home
- Discover the tea estates in Nuwara Eliya
- Visit Galle Fort
- Snorkeling in Pigeon Island
Since Sri Lanka is a small country, it makes it easier for kids as there is less time on the road.
The number of days recommended for a trip to Sri Lanka depends on your travel preferences and the places you wish to visit. Sri Lanka offers a wide range of attractions, including beaches, ancient ruins, wildlife reserves, and hill stations.
If you have limited time, a week-long trip could give you a taste of the country’s highlights. This would include visiting cultural sites such as Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Kandy. Also, you can explore the tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya and spend a few days relaxing on the southern coast.
For a more comprehensive experience, a 10- to 14-day trip would allow you to explore more regions, such as the cultural triangle, the hill country, and the east coast. You could also add in activities like a safari in one of the national parks or a visit to Ella Town.
The duration of your trip will depend on your interests and what you want to experience in Sri Lanka. It’s always a good idea to plan your itinerary in advance and allocate enough time to enjoy the destinations you wish to explore. If you need help planning your itinerary, please contact us.
The best months to travel to Sri Lanka are generally December through March. This is when the south and west regions experience their dry season and have pleasant weather. During this time, popular coastal towns like Galle, Unawatuna, Mirissa, Weligama, and Hikkaduwa are the driest and receive the most visitors.
It’s worth noting that January is the peak of the tourist season, so crowds may be larger during this time. Additionally, major events often take place in January, making it an appealing time to visit the country.
It’s important to consider that different regions of Sri Lanka may have different weather patterns and peak seasons. The east coast, for example, is favorable to visit from May to September. This period coincides with the traditional summer holiday months.
In hill country, temperature and humidity fluctuate both with altitude and the solar season. Though Sri Lanka has a tropical climate, the ‘cold tropics’ have a normal colder country spring-summer-fall pattern with associated vegetation.
A summary of the best months to travel for each region. The hill stations have mixed weather.
- Southwestern coast: December – February
- South coast: December – February (Except for the eastern half)
- East coast: July – September
Indeed, Sri Lanka beckons as a year-round destination, providing you with a wealth of benefits, especially during its shoulder periods. This opportune time grants you advantages such as more budget-friendly options compared to peak periods and the opportunity to explore less crowded tourist spots.
