PASSPORT & VISA REQUIREMENTS
All Australian passport holders can enter Sri Lanka as a tourist without prior visa and remain 30 days without payment.

CURRENCY
The official currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee.  You can easily change Australian dollars at the reception of your hotel.  Major credit cards are accepted in most tourist hotels, restaurants and major stores.  ATMs are widespread.

LANGUAGES
Sinhalese is the national language.  English is widely spoken in cities and tourist area.

VOLTAGE
Voltage in most places is 220 volts.  You are advised to the check the voltage before using any electrical appliances.  Socket sizes vary, so it is advised to take a set of adapters.

TIME DIFFERENCE
Sri Lanka has one uniform time zone - it is 5½ hours ahead of GMT.

HEALTH REGULATIONS
We strongly recommend that you check with your local doctor or vaccination centre for any vaccination requirements.

TIPPING
10% is general practice.  AUD$5 per day for your guide and for 10-15 day tours AUD$50-75 for the guide.

TRANSPORTATION
The three-wheel or tri-shaw is the most common mode of transport within Sri Lanka.  Also known as tuk tuks, this is the most cost effective method to travel around Sri Lanka. Rented cars and cabs are safer than three-wheelers and are therefore recommended by most hotels.