How much money do you need for you?trip to Sri Lanka?You should plan to spend around 8804 LKR ($30 USD) per day on your Sri Lanka vacation,average daily pricebased on the consumption of other visitors. Previous travelers spent an average of LKR 1,871 ($6.42) on meals for a day and LKR 1,096 ($3.76) on local transportation.average hotel price in Sri Lankafor a couple it is LKR 8,671 ($30). Thus, a trip to Sri Lanka for two people per week will cost an average of 123,262 LKR (423 USD). All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
How expensive is Sri Lanka? How much money do I need for Sri Lanka?
How much does it cost to travel to Sri Lanka? Is Sri Lanka cheap or expensive? Here are the average costs of traveling to Sri Lanka broken down by category. All these prices for Sri Lanka are calculated based on the actual budget of the traveler to determine the cost of the trip.
Calculation of accommodation in Sri Lanka
Average daily costs
Calculated based on travelers like you
Averageprice paidfor one person for accommodation in Sri Lanka is 4,336 LKR. For two people sharing a typical hotel room for two, the average price paid for a hotel room in Sri Lanka is LKR 8,671. These costs are derived from the reported costs of actual passengers.
Accommodation1Hotel or hostel for one person
LKR4.336
Accommodation1A typical double room
LKR8.671
Hotel prices in Sri Lanka
Looking for a hotel in Sri Lanka? Prices vary by location, date, season and level of luxury. See below for options.
Find the best hotel for your travel style.
Current hotel prices
Average price of a hotel room in Sri Lanka based on current data from Kayakhotel roomsit costs $52. (Prices in US dollars, before taxes and fees.)
Kayak helps you find the best prices on hotels, flights and car rentals for destinations around the world.
Featured features
Transport budget in Sri Lanka
Average daily costs
Calculated based on travelers like you
Fromthe cost of a taxi ridethere is much more to Sri Lanka than public transport. On average, past travelers spent LKR 1,096 per person per day on local transportation in Sri Lanka.
Transport1Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
See AlsoRetirement Visa Program Requirements for Sri Lanka - Dream HomeSri Lanka Air Quality Index (AQI) and Air Pollution Information | IQAirOnline visa applicationSri Lanka vs Maldives: How different are they? Click to find out!LKR1.096
Recommended services
Budget for intercity transport in Sri Lanka
Average daily costs
Calculated based on travelers like you
Transportation between cities and towns in Sri Lanka costs an average of LKR 5129, based on the cost of the trip. Of course, prices vary depending on the length of the route, the type of transport used and the date.
Intercity transport1Traveling between cities
LKR5.129
Flights to Sri Lanka
How much does it cost to Sri Lanka? Of course it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals on all airlines.
Car rental in Sri Lanka
The cost of renting a car in Sri Lanka depends on the dates, type of car, location and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals from all car rental companies.
Food budget in Sri Lanka
Average daily costs
Calculated based on travelers like you
Whilemeal prices in Sri Lankamay vary,average price of food in sri lankais 1,871 LKR per day. Based on the spending habits of past travelers, an average meal in Sri Lanka costs around LKR 748 per person if you eat out. Breakfast prices are usually slightly lower than lunch or dinner prices. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in Sri Lanka is often higher than that of fast food or street food.
Food2Meals for a day
LKR1.871
Budget entertainment in Sri Lanka
Average daily costs
Calculated based on travelers like you
Entertainment and activities in Sri Lanka typically cost an average of LKR 2,386 per person per day, based on previous travel expenses. This includes fees paid for entrance fees to museums and attractions, day trips and other places of interest.
Fun1Tickets, performances, etc.
LKR2.386
Recommended activities
Tips and brochures Budgeting in Sri Lanka
Average daily costs
Calculated based on travelers like you
The average cost of tips and brochures in Sri Lanka is LKR 397 per day. Thethe usual tipping amount in Sri Lanka is 5% - 15%.
Tips and brochures1For guides or service providers
LKR397
Alcohol budget in Sri Lanka
Average daily costs
Calculated based on travelers like you
The average person in Sri Lanka spends about 1862 LKR per day on alcoholic beverages. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you can have despite a bigger budget.
Alcohol2A drink for a day
LKR1.862
Water supply in Sri Lanka
Average daily costs
Calculated based on travelers like you
On average, people in Sri Lanka spend 214 LKR per day on bottled water. Public water in Sri Lanka is usually not considered safe to drink.
Water2Bottled water for one day
LKR214
Last updated: March 13, 2023
Sri Lanka on a budget
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is an interesting island country located south of India in the Indian Ocean. It is a tropical island with a diverse culture and people. There are two official languages, Sinhalese, spoken by the majority of the Sinhalese population, and Tamil, spoken by the Tamil and Muslim minority groups. You can find people who speak English in most major cities, but it's more of a challenge if you're in smaller towns and rural areas.
The island is divided into several provinces. The most popular areas for tourists are located in North Central Province, Southern Province and Western Province. The western province is home to the country's capital, Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte, as well as some popular resorts. The southern province is famous for the historic city of Galle, but there are several national parks nearby that are worth visiting. The North Central Province is home to a rich culture and history that is fascinating to experience.
Traveling in Sri Lanka is a fun experience. The most common form of transportation is a tricycle or tricycle. This vehicle is similar to a tuk-tuk in most nearby countries. Although they are fun to drive, there are some safety issues. Many visitors choose to rent a car during their stay in Sri Lanka. These cars often come with a driver, leaving you free to enjoy the scenery and not worry about the crazy traffic that is ubiquitous in most Sri Lankan cities. If you are on a particularly tight budget, you can travel around Sri Lanka by public bus. These buses run almost everywhere on the island. They are quite uncomfortable, but they are very cheap. For about twice the price, you can buy a ticket for an air-conditioned bus with a reserved seat. Seat reservation is very attractive because many buses can be very busy. Traveling by train is another popular option. It is more comfortable than the bus, but it is also slower. Observation decks are available to tourists who want to enjoy the scenery during their trip.
The island has two major monsoon seasons. You should take these into account when planning your trip as they can dramatically affect travel times. Roads are difficult to navigate and flooding can be a major hazard during the monsoon season. The first season lasts from October to January, and the second from May to July.
On first sight
- There are many interesting historical sites and national parks in Sri Lanka. To see everything, check this outSri Lanka travel itinerary. Although the prices remain quite low, don't be surprised if you have to pay significantly more as a foreigner. Sometimes the prices are more than ten times higher. This is part of the course, so it's best not to get too frustrated with the experience. It is beneficial for locals to be able to afford to visit local attractions at a reasonable price for their budget.
- The tap water in Sri Lanka is not drinkable so you will find yourself drinking a lot of bottled water. When buying bottled water, check that it has the Sri Lanka Standard Institute (SLS) label. This ensures that you are buying the highest quality water.
- Thambili is a popular local drink that you can buy on the street all over Sri Lanka. It is made from fresh coconut water and is very refreshing. It is also a cheaper option than bottled water.
- If you are interested in hiring a guide, consider renting a car (see car rental priceshere). Or you can hire a car with a driver instead of driving yourself. The driver is often quite knowledgeable about the history and culture of the area. The car is often free, but you pay for the driver's service. Be sure to meet the driver beforehand so you know his area of expertise and how well he speaks English.
- Since Sri Lanka is an island, the weather can vary widely across the country. Visit it during the best time of the year for selected destinations. It is best to avoid the monsoon season as well.
Connected
Sri Lanka has so much to offer. So if you're not sure where to go or what to see, go check it outthis incredible 10-day trip to Sri Lanka.
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Top tourist attractions
Arugam-baai:This is a city with a beautiful beach that is attractive to many tourists. It is located on the east coast of Sri Lanka and the area is very convenient for travelers. It is a popular place to surf or relax, but was hit hard by the 2004 tsunami.
Ella:This is a small town located high in the mountains of Sri Lanka. It offers an incredible view through the Ella Gap. There are excellent hiking opportunities nearby and a pleasant climate where you can relax for a few days. One of the best things to do here isI run Little Adam's Peak.
Nuwara Eliya:This town is located more in the center of the country. As a base for exploration, visit nearby tea plantations, wilderness areas and waterfalls. Rafting on the nearby river is also recommended. For more information see thisDrive to Nuwara Eliya and Yala National Park.
Yala National Park:This national park is a great place to go if you are hoping for a safari in Sri Lanka. It is the most visited national park in the country and the second largest. It is possible to see elephants, leopards and all kinds of reptiles.
One of the easiest ways to travel to Sri Lanka is with Tripadeal.Check this out for more information and a review of Tripadeal.
Popular food
Sri Lankan food is very similar to South Indian cuisine. Many restaurants often advertise that they serve both Sri Lankan and South Indian cuisine. The food is often prepared with rice and curry and can be very spicy. There are local restaurants that serve cheap food for less than a dollar, but there are also tourist spots where you could pay more than ten dollars.
Below are some common dishes. Or log outthis comprehensive guide to Sri Lankan foodwith nice photos and descriptions.
Kottu Roti:This is a unique Sri Lankan dish that is prepared from a mixture of roti (bread), vegetables and meat. It's delicious when it comes from street vendors, but keep the quality high and the ingredients fresh.
Sambol coconut:This is a popular side dish made from ground coconut, chili, fish and lime juice. It is often served with curry and can be quite spicy.
stab:This dish is made from rice cooked in curry sauce and served with meatballs. It is often wrapped in a banana leaf before cooking. You can get both vegetarian and meat versions.
1Categories averaged per item.
2Categories on average per day.
For example food2Daily average is for all meals for the whole day, while Entertainment is1is for each individual purchase.
FAQs
How much does a 1 week trip to Sri Lanka cost? ›
The average price of a 7-day trip to Sri Lanka is $1,627 for a solo traveler, $2,899 for a couple, and $1,473 for a family of 4. Sri Lanka hotels range from $32 to $207 per night with an average of $59, while most vacation rentals will cost $40 to $400 per night for the entire home.
How much money do I need for 2 weeks in Sri Lanka? ›This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. A vacation to Sri Lanka for one week usually costs around LKR61,631 for one person. So, a trip to Sri Lanka for two people costs around LKR123,262 for one week. A trip for two weeks for two people costs LKR246,525 in Sri Lanka.
How much does Sri Lanka trip cost? ›| Sri Lanka Packages | Day/Night | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Best of Sri Lanka - 3 cities special (Standard Hotels) Package | 7 Days/6 Nights | ₹52,394 |
| Best of Sri Lanka - 3 cities special (Deluxe Hotels) Package | 7 Days/6 Nights | ₹59,269 |
| Discover Sri Lanka - 3 cities special (Deluxe Hotels) Package | 6 Days/5 Nights | ₹49,142 |
| Restaurants | Edit |
|---|---|
| Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant | 600.00Rs |
| Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course | 4,500.00Rs |
| McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent Combo Meal) | 1,650.00Rs |
| Domestic Beer (1 pint draught) | 500.00Rs |
Local currency is Sri Lanka Rupees (LKR). You can bring Dollars, Pounds and Euros which are widely accepted but rates will vary across different cities and Banks for currency conversions.
Is 7 days enough in Sri Lanka? ›How many days are enough for Sri Lanka? If you want to cover all the major cities, then you would need at least a week. We spent 7 days in Sri Lanka and found it enough with time to relax in-between as well. If you are covering so many cities, it is good to have 1 or 2 leisure days as well.
How much cash can you carry to Sri Lanka? ›Import and Export Foreign Currency
equivalent in any other foreign currency. Persons in or resident in, Sri Lanka may take out of, or bring into Sri Lanka, respectively, Sri Lanka currency up to the value of Sri Lanka Rupees 20,000.
There's a lot to see in Sri Lanka—two weeks will allow you enough time to explore all the island's top sights or even travel to other countries in the surrounding area. However, you can still enjoy Sri Lanka in a shorter time frame.
What money should I take to Sri Lanka? ›Sterling Pound (GBP, £) is the best currency to carry since it attracts the best exchange rate in Sri Lanka (however Scottish or Northern Irish bank notes are not accepted).
Which month is best to visit Sri Lanka? ›Generally, the best time to visit the west and south coasts as well as the Cultural Triangle is between December and April, while on the east coast the climate is at its finest from May through to October.
What is the best time year to visit Sri Lanka? ›
The best time to visit is between January and March when sunshine and temperatures are at there best and rainfall is lowest. The hottest month of the year is April with an average daily maximum of 33 C and an average low of 25 C.
Is Sri Lanka tourist friendly? ›Without hesitation, we respond… “absolutely, yes it is.” There is really no doubt in our minds that Sri Lanka is generally one of the safest places to visit in Asia, if not the world. While the economic and political issues are by no means solved, they will no longer impinge in any way on travellers.
Is Sri Lanka cheap for tourists? ›Generally speaking, you can travel around Sri Lanka on a budget of $25-$50 per day (per person). With a budget of $25 a day, you'll stay in budget hotels, travel with public transport, make the most of the (many) free activities Sri Lanka has to offer, and eat (delicious) local food.
How much is a bottle of water in Sri Lanka? ›Forgot to mention the price for bottled water. 0.5 l approx. LKR 30, 1 l approx. LKR 50.
Do you need cash in Sri Lanka? ›Take money to Sri Lanka and spend travel money for less on the ancient island. Sri Lanka is packed with beauty, adventure and history, and is overall affordable for US tourists. Cash, credit cards and debit cards are all accepted, and you can exchange 1 USD for around 156 Sri Lankan rupee (LKR).
Do you tip taxi in Sri Lanka? ›Tips are not necessary but appreciated. Rounding up the fare is normal practice and so you should expect to pay a little more than the local fare. Nonetheless, it is important to bargain; locals would not want you paying vastly over the odds and thereby inflating prices.
Is it better to exchange money in Sri Lanka? ›For convenience and the best exchange rate, we strongly suggest exchanging all the money you will need for your time in Sri Lanka before departing for Sri Lanka. Be sure to keep any exchange receipts, as you may need to present them if converting excess currency upon departure from Sri Lanka.
How do you get around Sri Lanka? ›Buses are the standard (and often the fastest) means of transport, with services reaching even the remotest corners of the island. Trains offer a more relaxed means of getting about and will get you to many parts of the country – eventually.
Why is Sri Lanka worth visiting? ›Why Visit Sri Lanka? This South Asian island is brimming with rich history, diverse culture, spectacular wildlife, stunning landscapes and unparalleled experiences. Here you can go on thrilling safaris, taste incredible cuisine, enjoy beautiful weather and so much more.
What to do in Sri Lanka for a week? ›If you have a week to spend in Sri Lanka, you might opt for a highlights tour that features stops at ancient temples and national parks. Another great option is to focus on wildlife viewing, choosing an itinerary that includes multiple Jeep safaris and a whale-watching tour.
Can I wear shorts in Sri Lanka? ›
2. Can you wear shorts in Sri Lanka? The answer to this question is pretty straightforward: yes, you can. Even the locals wear shorts to combat the heat, but please remember to steer clear of hotpants when you are packing for your trip.
Can I use my debit card in Sri Lanka? ›Using credit and debit cards in Sri Lanka
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Sri Lanka, even in smaller towns. Visa and MasterCard are the most commonly accepted cards. AmEx is also accepted, but to a lesser extent. That said, it's still a good idea to carry some cash with you just in case.
Credit cards are widely accepted in Sri Lanka, particularly Visa and Mastercard. This is true for cities, most towns and other touristed areas. It's illegal in Sri Lanka to make card transactions in a foreign currency so be sure to choose Sri Lankan rupee if given the choice.
Which area to stay in Sri Lanka? ›- GALLE. (History, Food) ...
- MIRISSA. (Beaches, Honeymoon, Nightlife, Surfing, Relaxation) ...
- ARUGAM BAY. (Beaches, Honeymon, Nightlife, Surfing, Safari) ...
- SINHARAJA. (Nature, Relaxation) ...
- ELLA. (Nature, Hiking) ...
- SIGIRIYA. (Nature, Archeology, Sightseeing) ...
- KANDY. (Tea Plantations. ...
- NUWARA ELIYA.
- Tips for Planning 7 days in Sri Lanka.
- What to Pack For 7 Days In Sri Lanka.
- Day 1: Land in Colombo and explore it.
- Day 2: Dambulla and safari in Habarana.
- Day 3: Climb the legendary Sigiriya rock.
- Day 4: Discover Sacred City of Kandy.
- Day 5: Train trip from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya.
- Day 6: Hills of Neuwara Elliya.
A 10 per cent charge is usually added to food and accommodation bills, but there's no way of knowing if this actually goes to the workers. More often than not, the owner will pocket this 'tip'. We recommend tipping 10 per cent in cash to servers in restaurants, bars and cafes, and the same for drivers.
Can I use a Chase card in Sri Lanka? ›You can't use foreign cards in ALL ATMs in Sri Lanka.
What card to use in Sri Lanka? ›Most major banks will allow Visa and Mastercard cash withdrawals. There are ATMs in major towns and cities but not all of them accept international cards. It's relatively easy to send funds to Sri Lanka.
What is the coldest month in Sri Lanka? ›The coldest month with respect to mean monthly temperature is generally January, and the warmest months are April and August. The mean annual temperature varies from 27°C in the coastal lowlands to 16°C at NuwaraEliya, in the central highlands (1900m above mean sea level).
Do you need a visa for Sri Lanka? ›Do I Need a Visa for Sri Lanka? Yes, everyone needs some form of visa before they are allowed to travel or enter Sri Lanka. However, for a large number of people, getting a Sri Lanka visa is fairly easy, as it is possible to apply online (Electronic Travel Authorization) or on arrival at the airport.
What is the hottest month in Sri Lanka? ›
May is generally the hottest month of the year all over Sri Lanka and the east coast sees temperatures consistently over 30°C and remaining high all the way through the summer. Levels of rainfall on the east coast are low throughout the majority of this period.
What is the flight time to Sri Lanka? ›The long-haul flight to Sri Lanka takes over 10 hours and will include a stopover, usually in Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Oman, depending on the airline.
What is off season in Sri Lanka? ›Low season in Sri Lanka starts with the coming of the Yala monsoon in May, which pounds the west and south, as well as the Hill Country, through August.
What is the monsoon season in Sri Lanka? ›Monsoon seasons in Sri Lanka
Essentially, the south-western monsoon runs between May and July. This tends to be the gentler of the two monsoons and, as the name suggests, affects only the southwest of the country. By contrast, the northeast monsoon runs between October and November.
Ultimately, the advantage of an All Inclusive stay in Sri Lanka is that it secures all of your essentials and lets you know that you're going to have a full tummy and a cosy bed every night, all without any further fretting about the travel budget.
What is the dress code in Sri Lanka? ›The Sri Lankan attitude to dress is fairly relaxed. However, in order to ensure locals are comfortable with you, you may want to ensure you dress modestly – and this applies to both men and women. In this context, dressing modestly really means covering your shoulders and your knees.
Can you brush your teeth with tap water in Sri Lanka? ›Sri Lanka's tap water could theoretically be used for brushing your teeth but we don't recommend it, and it's certainly not safe for drinking. Bottled water is plentiful and better hotels provide clean drinking water for guests.
What is Sri Lanka's most popular food? ›Rice and curry are mainly the staple diet of Sri Lanka, where the curry could be made up of a variety of things like meat, seafood, lentils, vegetables, sambols, mallums, to achcharus.
What is a traditional Sri Lankan breakfast? ›The typical breakfast in Sri Lanka includes curry and hoppers. Coconut milk and rice are the focused ingredients in most meals. Sri Lankan breakfast also comes in a combination of rice, roti, and hoppers. Most of their breakfast tastes gently spicy and creamy.
What is the most eaten food in Sri Lanka? ›Considered the national dish of the country, Sri Lankan rice and curry consists of steaming hot, fluffy rice (samba or kakulu varieties) that is served with a variety of side dishes commonly called curries.
How much does 10 days in Sri Lanka cost? ›
How much will a 10 days in Sri Lanka itinerary cost? This whole trip cost us around 140,000 Sri Lankan rupees. That amount is for two people for ten days, including all food, private accommodation, in-country transport and activities (even the safari!).
Is Sri Lanka cheaper than Bali? ›Cost of living in Colombo (Sri Lanka) is 17% more expensive than in Denpasar, Bali (Indonesia)
How much is Sri Lanka visa? ›| Charges in United States Dollars | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tourist Visa with Double Entry for 30 days. | US$ 20 |
| 2 | Tourist Visa Single Entry up to 90 days. | US$ 20 |
| 3 | Tourist Visa with Double Entry up to 90 days. | US$ 20 |
| 4 | Business Visa with Multiple Entry for 30 days. | US$ 30 |
Most people in Sri Lanka drink their tea with milk and sugar. Faluda is another popular drink served cold and mixed with syrup, ice cream, jelly pieces and basil seeds. Fruit juices are a favourite way to beat the heat and Arrach is considered the unofficial distilled national drink by many.
How much is a Coke in Sri Lanka? ›| Sri Lanka - Coca-Cola - price, September 2022 | |
|---|---|
| LKR | 135.000 |
| USD | 0.457 |
| EUR | 0.424 |
If you have a week to spend in Sri Lanka, you might opt for a highlights tour that features stops at ancient temples and national parks. Another great option is to focus on wildlife viewing, choosing an itinerary that includes multiple Jeep safaris and a whale-watching tour.
Is a week long enough in Sri Lanka? ›There's a lot to see in Sri Lanka—two weeks will allow you enough time to explore all the island's top sights or even travel to other countries in the surrounding area. However, you can still enjoy Sri Lanka in a shorter time frame.
How much cash can you take to Sri Lanka? ›Visitors to Sri Lanka bringing in excess of US$ 10,000 should declare the amount to the Customs. All unspent monies, which were converted from foreign currencies declared on arrival, can be re-converted to original currency. You are required to produce encashment receipts or payment bills.
What is the best time to visit Sri Lanka? ›Generally, the best time to visit the west and south coasts as well as the Cultural Triangle is between December and April, while on the east coast the climate is at its finest from May through to October.
Is Sri Lanka cheaper than Thailand? ›The average cost of living in Sri Lanka ($344) is 61% less expensive than in Thailand ($876). Sri Lanka ranked 195th vs 90th for Thailand in the list of the most expensive countries in the world.
What vaccinations do I need for Sri Lanka? ›
Courses or boosters usually advised: Tetanus. Other vaccines to consider: Hepatitis A; Hepatitis B; Rabies; Typhoid. Selectively advised vaccines - only for those individuals at highest risk: Japanese Encephalitis.
Do I need visa for Sri Lanka? ›What's a Sri Lankan ETA? An Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) or Sri Lanka Visa for Indians, is a travel document all Indians visiting Sri Lanka are required to get before traveling to the country. The whole process to obtain a Sri Lankan ETA is done online and without any need to ever step into an embassy.
Is it easy to get around Sri Lanka? ›Sri Lanka is a quite small country/ island where the distances between the sights are relatively short, making it an easy country to travel in. Getting around Sri Lanka can, however, be a bit frustrating and time-consuming as many roads are narrow, windy, and in bad conditions.
How long do I need to spend in Sri Lanka? ›Sri Lanka has to be one of the greatest travel destinations of all time, a beautiful tropical island in the middle of the warm Indian ocean waters. Three weeks is an ideal length for a Sri Lanka route, as you cross through the jungle, mountains, tea plantations, and paradise coastline.
Is Thailand or Sri Lanka better? ›If you are looking for a typical holiday with theme parks, nightlife, street food, and mass tourism then Thailand may be for you. But if you are looking for something beyond the standard or a raw touristic experience then Sri Lanka is your go-to place.
Is Sri Lanka better than Maldives? ›Duration. The Maldives can be ideally explored for a duration of 4 to 5 days. Unless you are into specific activities that demand time such as deep-sea fishing and diving, Maldives is a perfect short stay as compared to a long one. Sri Lanka tour itinerary will be ideal for 6 nights and 7 days.