Sri Lanka Overview
Geography
Sri Lanka is an island situated at the southern tip of india in the Indian Ocean.
- From North to South - 432 km
- From East to West - 224 km
- Total area - 65, 525 sq. km
The majority of Sri Lankans are Singhalese and Buddhists, but the total population is a mixture of Tamil, Moor, Burgher (people of european descent).
Sinhala, Tamil and English are the national languages. English is spoken throughout the island.
Currency
The currency in Sri Lanka is the Rupee ( Currency Rate 1GBP = 209 Sri Lanka rupees ). The value fluctuates with world market rates. All commercial banks are authorized to exchange money and so are most tourist class hotels. American Express, Master Card and Visa Card are also widely accepted.
Clothing
Lightweight clothing is recommended. It is a good idea to be conservatively dressed on the streets and shorts are not permitted in places of worship. Footwear off in temples. A light sweater is recommended in the hill country.
Bring rain proofs, avoid synthetics.
Telephones
Card operated telephone booths and cyber cafes can be found in most towns. Cards can be obtained at the nearest shop or kiosk. Mobile telephone rentals are also freely available.
Health
It is safer not to drink water from the tap though water in major towns are treated. Boiled water, bottled water and water and ice at reputed hotels are safe. Government run hospitals and a number of private hospitals are available in the event of an emergency. Most hospitals are well equipped with medical specialists on call at any time of day. Reputed hotels have a Doctor on call.
Electricity
210-240 volts, 50Hz, Alternating Current / Plug sockets take round pins.
Time
Sri Lanka is +5 ½ Greenwich Mean Time.
Visas
Nationals of most countries may obtain visas on arrival, at the airport. It is best to check with your nearest Sri Lankan diplomatic mission or consulate. The visa that is issued at the point of entry is only valid for 30 days. Extensions can be obtained, if required, from the Department of Immigration & Emigration in Colombo.
Shopping
Sri Lanka offers good bargains in ceramics, garments, leather goods, gems etc.
Communications
The general post office is situated in the city of Colombo. Other towns have central post offices. Privately run agency post offices, cyber cafes, communication centers also function throughout most of the country.
Photography and Video
Photography and video filming often require permits at historical and sacred sites- it is advisable to check with the officials at each place. Film rolls and videotape are freely available in all main cities.
Thing to do in Sri Lanka
You will never be short of something to do in Sri Lanka - wherever you are based on your project you will be able to reach some of the most incredible beaches, cultural sites including ancient temples and cities, aromatic tea plantations and exhilarating waterfalls in the rolling hill country.
In Sri Lanka, every sight, sound and smell will engulf you with new experiences. Take an early morning train ride from Colombo to Hikkaduwa and watch in awe as you travel past some of the most incredible scenery. Smiling children will wave at you from shanty towns lining the outskirts of Colombo, but these soon give way to views across paddy fields where buffalo and cows can be seen grazing. As your journey continues the train tracks begin to run parallel to the beach and you will be left mesmerised by the incredible sights in this friendly country.