Sri Lanka celebrates a wide range of holidays and events, reflecting its multicultural and multi-religious heritage.

Spiritual celebrations include:
Vesak: Buddhist celebration of Buddha's birth, enlightenment, and passing (usually in May). The Poya Days: Monthly Buddhist observances on full moon days.
Deepavali: Hindu festival of lights (October/November).
Christmas: Christian celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ (December 25).
Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha: Muslim festivals marking the end of Ramadan and commemorating Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son, respectively

National Holidays include:
Independence Day in February (February 4)
National Day in May (May 22)

Cultural celebrations include:
Sinhala and Tamil New Year: Marks the end of the harvest season (April 14).
Thai Pongal: Tamil harvest festival (January 14).

Renting a vehicle in Sri Lanka provides a variety of options, each offering a unique travel experience. When renting a vehicle, it is essential to have valid documents, follow local traffic laws, and consider the type of terrain you will face. Selecting a reputable rental service and understanding the terms and conditions of the rental agreement is critical for a seamless and happy travel experience in Sri Lanka.

4-Wheel

Car | SUV | Van

Rental cars are a popular option for comfort and convenience. International and local car rental companies provide a wide selection of vehicles, from compact cars to SUVs. This choice lets you explore Sri Lanka's diverse landscapes, historical sites, and cities at your own pace.

Pricing: Self-drive from $30-65/day | With driver from $55-70/day (includes fuel, insurance, driver accommodation)

International Rental: Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt

Local Rental: Casons Rent a Car, Malkey Rent a Car, SR Rent a Car

Requirements: Minimum age 21, valid driver's license, International Driving Permit recommended

Rent a Car

2-Wheel

Motorbike | Scooter

For a more adventurous and flexible travel experience, renting a motorcycle or scooter is a popular choice. It allows you to navigate through traffic easily and explore scenic routes. Coastal areas like Arugam Bay and Mirissa are especially popular for motorbike rentals.

Requirements: A valid motorcycle license is often required. Ensure you have appropriate safety gear and insurance coverage.

Rent a Bike

3-Wheel

Tuk-Tuk (Three-Wheeler)

Tuk-tuks are a common mode of transportation in Sri Lanka, especially for short distances. While they are commonly hired for individual rides, some companies offer tuk-tuk rentals for tourists who want a unique and adventurous way to explore the country.

Tip: Use apps like PickMe or Uber to avoid overcharging. Always confirm the fare before starting your journey.

Hire a TukTuk

Popular Routes | Scenic Journeys

Train Tickets

Scenic Routes Sri Lanka's train journeys are world-famous for their beauty. The Colombo-Kandy-Ella route takes you through misty mountains and emerald tea plantations. The coastal route from Colombo to Galle offers stunning ocean views.

Online Booking Book train tickets online through the official Sri Lanka Railways website at pravesha.lk or via Mobitel (dial 365). First class tickets should be booked in advance as they sell out quickly.

Important Update Some routes (Colombo-Kandy-Badulla) are still recovering from 2025 cyclone damage. Routes to Galle, Trincomalee, and Batticaloa are running normally. Check current status before booking.

Classes First Class (Reserved, AC), Second Class (Reserved/Unreserved), Third Class (Unreserved). Observation cars available on select routes.

Book Train Tickets Online

Government Buses | Private Services

Bus Tickets

Extensive Network Sri Lanka's bus network connects every corner of the island. Government-run SLTB (Sri Lanka Transport Board) and private buses operate on all major routes with frequent services.

Online Booking Book bus tickets online through official SLTB eSeat or the new EasyBus.lk app with real-time tracking. Hotline: 1315 for reservations.

Affordable Public buses are the most cost-effective option, making them popular with both locals and budget travelers. Prices updated July 2025.

Types Regular buses, AC coaches, and luxury express services. For long-distance travel, air-conditioned buses offer more comfort.

SLTB Online Booking EasyBus App

🎉 BIG NEWS: Visa-Free Entry Starting January 2026!

Travelers from 40 countries can now visit Sri Lanka FREE for up to 30 days!

Sri Lanka's visa system has been modernized to make travel easier. Most visitors can obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online before arrival. The latest major update allows visa-free entry for citizens of 40 countries starting January 2026.

FREE Entry for 40 Countries | ETA System | Extensions

VISA Information 2026

🆓 Visa-Free Entry (January 2026)
Citizens of 40 countries can enter Sri Lanka visa-free for up to 30 days starting January 2026. Countries include: USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Germany, France, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, UAE, Saudi Arabia, India, China, Japan, South Korea, and 25 more.
• Still requires free online ETA application
• Double entry allowed within 30 days
• Can extend up to 270 days total

ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization)
For countries not on the visa-free list, apply for an ETA online before travel through the official government website. The ETA system is currently operational (as of 2026).
• Tourist ETA: 30 days, double entry
• Business ETA: For meetings, conferences
• Processing: Usually 1-2 days

Official Immigration Website →

Extensions
Tourist visas can be extended online or at the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo:
• Stage 1: +60 days
• Stage 2: +90 days
• Stage 3: +90 days
• Total possible stay: 270 days

Requirements
• Passport valid for 6+ months from arrival date
• Return ticket or onward journey proof
• Sufficient funds for stay
• No work allowed on tourist visa

Note: Visa policies are subject to change. Always check the official Sri Lanka Immigration website for the most current requirements before booking your trip.

As a tourist, obtaining a driver's license in Sri Lanka is not a common practice. Instead, tourists are typically allowed to drive in Sri Lanka using their valid foreign driver's license with proper endorsement. Always check for the latest information and regulations, as requirements may change.

License | IDP | Local Rules | Insurance | Renting a Vehicle

Driver's License

Two Options for Driving
1. International Driving Permit (IDP) with AA Endorsement: Tourists can drive with an International Driving Permit obtained in their home country. To drive legally in Sri Lanka, visit the Automobile Association of Ceylon (open Monday-Friday, 9 AM-4 PM) to get your permit endorsed.

2. Temporary Sri Lankan Driving Permit: Foreign license holders can obtain a temporary permit from the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT). Required documents include:
• Your country's driving license (English version) + photocopy
• National passport + photocopy of photo page and visa page
• Fee payment

DMT Sri Lanka Website

Local Rules
• Drive on the LEFT side of the road
• Minimum driving age: 18 years
• Seat belts mandatory
• Avoid driving in cities during rush hours (7-9 AM, 4:30-7 PM)
• Road conditions vary - highways are excellent, rural roads can be narrow
• Watch for pedestrians, tuk-tuks, and wildlife

Insurance
Ensure you have comprehensive insurance coverage for driving in Sri Lanka. Most rental agencies include basic insurance in their packages, but verify what's covered.

Renting a Vehicle
Requirements: Valid foreign driver's license, IDP (recommended), minimum age 21. Many travelers prefer hiring a car with a driver for safety and convenience.

Ayubowan | Vanakkam | Assalamu Alaikum

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