Climatically, Sri Lanka has no off-season. Bright sunny warm
days are the rule and are common even during the wet season. Population
Nearly 20 million of which, 70% of the population are Sinhalese,
while 12% are Tamils and the remaing 18% comprising Moors,
Malays and Burghers.
The literacy rate averages 90% - one of the highest in the
Asia.
Language
Communication is rarely a problem because English is widely
spoken in all parts of the country. Sign boards and names
of places are in the national language and often translated
in English as well.
Official Languages: Sinhala, Tamil and English
National Languages: Sinhala and Tamil
Religion
Predominantly Buddhists but also Hindus, Muslims and Christians.
Time
Sri Lanka's standard time is 6 hours ahead of Greenwich.
Airlines
The island is served by a network of scheduled airlines from most capitals
of Europe and Asia apart from chartered air services, cruise ship and ferry
services.
Currency
The currency of Sri Lanka is the Rupee divided into cents. Foreign currencies
enjoy a favourable exchange rate.
Business Hours
Sri Lanka generally has a five-day week. Working hours are from 8.30 a.m. to
4.30 p.m. Poya (Full Moon Day) which falls every month is a Public, Mercantile
and Bank holiday.
Clothing
Cottons and light-drip fabrics, comfortable shoes or sandals and light woolens
for the hill country are recommended. Swimwear is considered essential. A
certain modesty of dress is appreciated on visits to temples.
Toiletries, Cosmetics, personal hygiene needs
Most well known brands available locally, but those who must have their special
favourites should bring their own stock.
Communication
International telegraph, telex, telephone and telefax services available as
well as e-mail facilities.
Electricity
Voltage 230/240 volts 50 cycles.
Water
Filtered water and mineral water as well as bottled drinking
water is freely available for sale.
Medical
Comprehensive and skilled national health services. Most hotels have resident
doctors or a doctor on call. Private medical aid is also available.
Tipping
Optional. 10% is considered a fair tip. Most hotels include a 10% service charge
plus taxes.
Visa
Entry visas are not required from tourists from Commonwealth and SAARC countries.
It is also advisable to make inquiries from the Sri Lankan Embassy for updates
on any regulations.
Health
Immunisation against cholera, smallpox or yellow fever is
not required unless the visitors have arrived from or passed
through infected areas.
Customs
It is a requirement to fill a baggage declaration form on arrival. Duty free
allowances include the usual tourist quotas of tobacco, spirits, and perfumes.
Embassies
All major countries are represented.
Departure Tax
Departure tax is Rs. 1500 (approximately US $ 16.00) and
may change according to government regulations.
|
