Travelling to Sri Lanka

A little guide for our favourite people travelling from abroad

So, you’re coming all the way to Sri Lanka for our wedding — and we couldn’t be more excited!

If you’ve never been before, Sri Lanka can feel like a long way from home, but once you arrive you’ll have everything from beaches and tropical jungles to tea plantations, ancient cities, incredible food and millions of tuk-tuks waiting for you.

We’ve put together a little guide to help you get from your location → Colombo → Lily Pod (our venue) → exploring Sri Lanka, without having to figure everything out yourselves.

Getting There…

  • The easiest way to get to Sri Lanka is to fly into Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB)

  • Return flights from London to Colombo are usually around £600–£700, depending on when you book and the dates you choose.

  • You will need an E-Visa (ETA): You can apply online, super easy process and valid for 30 days - https://eta.gov.lk/slvisa/ (some countries including UK nationals can get a free visa)

  • We recommend staying for at least 10 days (only if you can, no pressure) and you can find itineraries and all our suggestions on things to see and do below!

Countries eligible for free visas (up to 30 days):

Once you land…

  • SIM Cards:

    • There are E-SIMs available just before the immigration counters once you’re past baggage claim.

    • We usually get SLT-Mobitel, they have packages for 30 days for about £10 which is our go to, and some cheaper options too depending on how long you stay.

  • Cash:

    • Sri Lanka has only recently started card payments so a lot of local shops/ transport only take cash.

    • We recommend you have a little bit of cash on you. There is a cash exchange counter once you’ve gone through baggage claim.

  • Transport

    • From the airport to your hotel, there are several car/van hire services as you exit but definitely negotiate the price. Or alternatively you can order an Uber or PickMe.

    • There is Uber and PickMe available, which is usually better than getting a tuktuk from the road (they tend to charge crazy prices for tourists so we suggest using the apps where possible)

    • Tuktuks and motorbikes aren’t allowed on the highway but for other vehicles there are highways charges which the passengers would have to cover (quite cheap though).

      • Little tip on tuktuks: Don’t use them for longer journeys, it’s not the most comfortable and some drivers will make you hold on for dear life.

    • Local buses: probably the cheapest option. It’s quite an experience, the bus stops are quite difficult to find so we recommend heading straight to the nearest bus station and don’t be afraid to ask around. The bus stops are not announced or written anywhere so follow google maps, we usually sit at the front near the driver so it’s easier to communicate with the conductor/ get out of the bus.

      • Don’t forget to keep an eye on your belongings!

    • Trains: there are trains from pretty much all the big towns. Another cheap option specially for longer journeys. You can get tickets at the station (1st or 2nd class tickets are ideal).

    • If you plan to rent a car or scooter let us know (we will look into it for you). You will need a temporary driving permit, which you can get at the airport, on the spot for about £30pp.