Popular Travel Destinations in Sri Lanka

Updated on Oct 01, 2024 | Sri Lanka e-Visa

Imagine a place where ancient temples stand next to pristine beaches, where lush jungles hide secret waterfalls, and where you can spot elephants roaming freely. Such is the beauty of Sri Lanka, a small island that packs a big punch when it comes to travel experiences.

Before you pack for your Sri Lankan trip, though, you'll need to sort out your visa (if your country falls on the list of countries that need a visa to travel to Sri Lanka).

However, the good news is that Sri Lanka offers an e-visa service, making it easy for travelers to get their paperwork sorted from the comfort of their own homes. You can check here in the eligibility checker tool if your country is eligible for a Sri Lankan e-Visa.

10 Popular Travel Destinations in Sri Lanka

  • Sigiriya (See the famous 'Lion Rock' fortress here)
  • Kandy (The famous UNESCO Heritage Site in Sri Lanka, Temple of the Tooth Relic, is here)
  • Galle (a coastal town that gives Dutch colonial vibes)
  • Yala National Park: Wildlife spotting heaven
  • Nuwara Eliya: Sri Lanka's 'Little England'
  • Ella: A laid-back mountain town with stunning views
  • Mirissa: Beach paradise and whale-watching spot
  • Polonnaruwa: Ancient city with impressive ruins
  • Dambulla: Cave temples filled with Buddha statues
  • Unawatuna: Golden beaches and turquoise waters

READ MORE:
Currently, there are eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Sri Lanka. These historical sites range from historical cities to sacred shrines to beautiful woods and incredible caves.

Must-Do Activities in Sri Lanka

  • Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress at sunrise.
  • From Kandy, take a beautiful train ride to Ella.
  • Tour Yala National Park on a safari.
  • See a tea plantation in the hilly terrain.
  • Watch for whales off the coast of Mirissa.
  • Explore the streets of Galle Fort.
  • Trekking in Horton Plains National Park to the World's End.
  • Learn to surf in Arugam Bay.
  • Volunteer at an elephant sanctuary.
  • Try your hand at cooking Sri Lankan curry.
  • Shop at some famous Sri Lankan markets and buy goods from local artisans.

Get Your Sri Lankan e-Visa

Getting your Sri Lankan e-visa is pretty straightforward. To fill out the Sri Lanka e-Visa application form, you'll need to provide:

Step 1: Personal info like Your full name, birthdate, gender, nationality, birthplace, and job

Step 2: Passport details like Number, when it was issued, and when it expires

Step 3: Travel plans: How long you'll stay, when you'll arrive, why you're visiting, and where you'll enter the country are also proof of your stay in Sri Lanka

Step 4: A recent photo of your face and a scan of your passport.

Step 5: Pay the Sri Lanka e-tourist visa fee online (keep the payment confirmation screenshot when you travel).

Step 6: Wait for your Sri Lanka e-Visa approval.

What is the time-taken to process the Sri Lanka e-Visa?

It usually takes 2-3 working days for a Sri Lanka e-tourist visa to process. You'll get an email letting you know if your Sri Lankan e-Visa is approved. If you get the green light, they'll send your e-Visa as a PDF attachment.

Keep in mind that your e-visa lets you stay for 30 days from when you arrive. Remember that a 30-day Sri Lanka e-tourist visa can only be extended for an additional 30-day period, and this can be requested online.

READ MORE:
Sri Lanka is undoubtedly known for its stunning natural attractions, lush landscapes, scenic beauty and pristine beaches/islands. However, at the centre of all tourist destinations lies the mesmerizing cities/towns in Sri Lanka. Learn more at The Most Divine Cities In Sri Lanka To Visit .


Apply for Sri Lanka e-Visa 3 days in advance of your flight. Citizens from many countries including Brazilian citizens, Omani citizens, German citizens, Greek citizens and New Zealand citizens can apply online for Sri Lanka e-Visa. Travelers from eligible countries can enjoy a smooth and convenient entry into the country for Tourist and Business purposes.