1. Visa Guide for Sri Lanka

Applying for a Sri Lanka visa from Pakistan is a straightforward process, but it requires careful planning. Learn everything about Sri Lanka’s visa process for Pakistani travelers, including types, fees, and application procedures.

Sri Lanka grants different types of visas, but focus here only on Transit ETA and Tourist ETA.

Documents Required for Visa:

• Passport: Must be valid for at least six months from the date of travel.
• Flight ticket details: Optional
• Address in Sri Lanka: If you are applying for Transit ETA, write Transit through Airport.

Visa Fees

The Sri Lanka e-visa fees is USD 20 for SAARC countries. These countries are: Pakistan, India, Nepal, Maldives, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Afghanistan, and Sri Lanka.

All other countries pay USD 50 for a Sri Lanka visa, including the USA, UK, Canada, and European countries.

Citizens of India, Singapore, Maldives, and Seychelles can enter Sri Lanka visa-free for 30 days.

Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka

The best time to visit Sri Lanka depends on the region. The west and south coasts, the central highlands, are best visited from December to April, while the east coast is ideal from May to September. Travelers should consider the monsoon seasons and plan accordingly.

Accommodation Options in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka offers a variety of accommodations, including budget hostels, mid-range hotels, and luxury resorts. Popular online platforms such as Booking.com and Airbnb provide options to suit different budgets. Staying in guesthouses or homestays can offer a more authentic experience. Budget-friendly hostel costs start from $5 to $20 per night.

Public Transport and Getting Around

Sri Lanka has a well-connected public transport system. Tuk-Tuks, PickMe, and Trains are among the most popular transportation options. You can travel from Bandaranaike Airport to Colombo for just LKR 80 ($0.27). The train station is 1.5 km away from the airport, and you can get a Tuk-Tuk from the road in front of the airport or walk 15 minutes to reach the train station. The train runs from Katunayake Railway Station to Colombo Fort Railway Station and takes 1 hour to reach Colombo city. Colombo Fort is the main train station in Colombo city, where you can catch trains to other destinations like Kandy, Nuwara Eliya.

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

The official currency of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). It is abbreviated as Rs and is available in both coins and banknotes. Commonly used denominations include Rs 20, Rs 50, Rs 100, Rs 500, and Rs 1000. Travelers can exchange their currency at banks, airports, and authorized exchange centers. Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities, but cash is recommended for small purchases in rural areas. 1 USD equals 293 LKR.

Famous Train Journeys

Sri Lanka offers some of the most scenic train journeys in the world:

Colombo to Kandy Train Journey

The train ride from Colombo to Kandy is a amazing journey through Sri Lanka’s lush green landscapes. The ride offers stunning views of rolling hills, dense forests, and charming local villages.

The journey takes about 3 to 4 hours and costs around LKR 500 (USD 1.70) for a second-class ticket.

Kandy to Ella Train Journey

One of the most scenic train routes in the world, this journey takes you through endless tea plantations, misty mountains, and breathtaking bridges. The highlight of this ride is crossing the Nine Arches Bridge, a marvel of colonial-era engineering.

The journey takes around 6 to 7 hours and costs approximately LKR 600 (USD 2.00) for a second-class ticket.

Colombo to Galle Train Journey

This coastal train journey offers breathtaking sea views as you travel along Sri Lanka’s western coastline. With the ocean stretching endlessly beside the tracks, this ride is a treat for those who love scenic beach views.

The journey lasts around 2 to 3 hours and costs about LKR 240 (USD 0.80) for a second-class ticket.

Colombo to Ella Train Journey

one of the best train journey in the world. The train pass through tunnels and Tea Gardens.

Flights to Sri Lanka

Here are some affordable flight options to Sri Lanka:

• Kuala Lumpur: $100
• Maldives: $100
• Abu Dhabi: $110
• India: $40