Travel Guide to Sri Lanka

For Our Dearest Guests Traveling from the U.S.

We are so excited to welcome you to Sri Lanka for our wedding! 
Whether you’re an adventurous traveler or this is your first time visiting Asia, we’ve put together this guide to help you prepare for a safe, comfortable, and unforgettable experience. 
Thank you for making the journey—we can’t wait to celebrate with you.
 

Navigate the travel guide:

Passport & Visa
Flight
Hotels
What to Bring
Staying Connected
Currency & Rates
Exploring Sri Lanka
Arrival & Commuting

Passport & Visa Requirements

  • Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date to Sri Lanka.
  • U.S. citizens are required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online via the official portal: eta.gov.lk
    • Processing typically takes 1–2 business days, with a fee of approximately $50.
    • Save or print your authorization for presentation upon arrival.

Booking Your Flight

U.S. travelers will fly into Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), about 45–90 minutes north of Colombo. We recommend booking at least 3–6 months in advance for better prices and availability. There are several travel services to find great flight and hotel fares, we find Skyscanner to have the best rates. You’ll likely connect through major international airlines such as:

How Long to Stay:

As long as you want! We suggest arriving 2–3 days before the wedding so you can recover from jet lag, settle in, and relax. A 7–10 day stay is ideal if you’d like to explore more of Sri Lanka!

Hotels in Colombo

If you would like to stay at the Cinnamon Life City of Dreams Hotel (the wedding venue), email quinn.matula@gmail.com to confirm the booking with a discounted rate. 

If you'd like to explore other options in Colombo, here are few suggestions below:

What to Pack

  • Lightweight, breathable clothes
  • Swimsuit, sunscreen, sunglasses
  • Comfortable shoes and sandals for walking
  • Insect repellent
  • Refillable water bottle
  • Universal travel adapter. Sri Lanka uses Type G plugs (UK-style)

Communication & Phone Apps

  • For phone and data use when you're traveling around Sri Lanka, you can purchase an eSIM (remote activated digital SIM allowing your phone to temporarily switch cellular providers) with 5–10 GB of data for ~$5–10 USD (Dialog or Mobitel). This can be purchased online prior to your trip or after landing at the airport.
    • Unless you have a phone service that includes free roaming, it will be expensive to use your phone without Wi-Fi.
  • Most hotels, cafes and venues offer free Wi‑Fi.
  • Suggested mobile apps to install before traveling:
    • Uber for transport
    • WhatsApp for communication
    • Google Translate for Tamil/Sinhala language assistance

Currency and Expenses

  • The local currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
  • Current exchange rate: $1 US Dollar = approximately 300 LKR
  • Use currency exchange services at the airport or major banks to exchange USD for rupees - CMB Airport Money Exchange 
    • Avoid street money changers; use licensed exchange counters  for security and fair rates
  • Cash is King! keep cash handy for tuk-tuks, cabs, tips, street food, and small shops. Most travel services or small shops don't take cards. 
  • Credit cards are accepted at hotels, most restaurants, and stores
    • Check your card to confirm it can be used internationally

Arriving in Sri Lanka & Getting Around

  • You’ll arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Katunayake.
    • After landing at the airport and making your way though immigration, you’ll find ATMs, currency exchange counters, and SIM card booths.
Here are your best options for getting to your hotel:
  • Hotel Transfer - Most major hotels offer airport pickups—ask them in advance to arrange it for you. A driver will be waiting with your name at arrivals.
  • Uber - Local rideshare apps. Safe, affordable, and air-conditioned. 
  • Airport Taxi Booth - Fixed rates. Confirm your destination and fare at the official counter inside the airport.
  • Avoid drivers offering rides near baggage claim. Always use a registered taxi or app-based service.

Getting Around:

  • Avoid “tourist pricing” by using apps or hotel-arranged cars when possible.
  • Tuk‑tuks remain a popular cultural experience. Use Uber, or agree to a fixed price before boarding offline. 
  • For intercity travel or day tours, consider booking a private driver through a hotel or trusted local agency. Reliable drivers typically know key routes and can assist with luggage.

Exploring Sri Lanka

Suggested Local Activities in Colombo:

  • Visit the One Galle Face Mall that offers seven stories of shopping, eating and entertainment.
  • Enjoy the signature 3-tiered Afternoon High Tea at the Sapphyr Lounge inside the Shangri-La Colombo Hotel (located next to One Galle Face Mall).
  • Visit Galle Face Green for sea‑front strolls—especially at sunset.
  • Explore LCafé Kumbuk, or Barefoot Garden Café for familiar and local cuisine.
  • Browse local design boutiques and markets (Paradise Road, Barefoot).
  • See cultural sites like the National Museum, Independence Square, and Galle Face Hotel’s Chequerboard terrace.

    Popular Day Trips (within ~2 hours):

  • Galle Fort – colonial-era fort city with charming streets, galleries, and beaches.
  • Negombo – gateway beach town near the airport with a relaxed vibe.
  • Bentota – river cruises, beach resorts, relaxation.

    Extended Itineraries (multi-day):

  • Kandy – cultural capital featuring Temple of the Tooth and serene gardens.
  • Sigiriya – climb the dramatic rock fortress with lush jungles below.
  • Ella – scenic hill country with waterfalls, trekking, and train rides.
  • Hatton - Climb Adam's peak, enjoy scenic hill country, beautiful waterfalls and lush tea estates 
  • Hikkaduwa - vibrant coastal vibes, snorkeling with sea turtles, surfing, explore coral reefs, nightlife
  • Unawatuna - beach relaxation, great resorts, snorkeling, surfing
  • Mirissa or Weligama – beachfront towns known for surfing and wildlife tours.
  • Jaffna - cultural landmarks such as Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil (Hindu temple), enjoy the local cuisine (don’t miss Jaffna crab curry), and nearby islands to explore
  • Trincomalee - Scenic beaches, snorkeling and diving, coral reefs, historic temples