Exchanging Currency
When travelling about Sri Lanka it is advisable and highly recommended for tourists to always carry Sri Lankan currency. It is rare within Colombo and even more unlikely in outstations that transactions can be done in regular retail shops with US Dollars or any other foreign currency. However most established or noted tourist establishments will accept foreign currency, yet it is highly advised to carry local currency at all times when travelling within the country.
Colombo International Airport (Bandaranaike International Airport)
The Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) is the primary airport servicing the city of Colombo. Located approximately 32 km from the Colombo city centre, it serves as the hub for Sri Lankan Airlines, the national carrier of Sri Lanka, and Mihin Lanka, the Sri Lankan Budget Airline. BIA connects passengers of over 50 destinations with over 30 International carriers and budget airlines operating flights to and from Colombo. The Airport has three passenger terminals. While Terminal 1 and 2 serves international flights, the new Terminal 3 handles all domestic flights.
Visas to Sri Lanka
Information for tourists on obtaining visas or ETA to Sri Lanka, types of Sri Lankan visas, eligibility, travel restrictions and links to visa services.
Travel Information Centres
Visitors to Colombo can obtain travel information from the two main travel information centers set up by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA). The centers are located conveniently in Colombo and at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA).