sri-lanka – Dan Travels

2-Day Kandy Itinerary (Sri Lanka) And Travel Guide On A Budget

By Dan Forteza

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It was September 2019 when I first visited the island country of Sri Lanka where I traveled to two of the most populous cities in the country–Colombo and Kandy.

I must say that Kandy is a more chill and relaxed city than that of Colombo; and also way cheaper! Although I only have two days to spend in Kandy as I need to get back to Colombo to catch my next flight going to Tehran, Iran, this never stopped me from exploring the best of Kandy and what it has to offer in only two days.

That’s why in this blog, I’ve put together the perfect 2-day Kandy itinerary, specifically for budget travelers, which includes the city’s top attractions.

Hi there! First of all, I am Daniel – a solo backpacker from the Philippines. If you don’t know my story yet, feel free to read this article where I talked about how I quit my job in order to travel. This article was also featured on TripZilla Philippines.

This is me at the entrance gate of Vahirawakanda Buddha Temple in Kandy, Sri Lanka | Dantravels.org — Me at the entrance gate of Vahirawakanda Buddha Temple in Kandy, Sri Lanka | Dantravels.org

DO YOU NEED A VISA?

Depending on your nationality, you might or might not need a visa. Check out my Sri Lankan visa guide to check if you’re eligible for an e-visa or visa on arrival or no visa at all.

WHERE IS KANDY?

Kandy is located in central Sri Lanka and is just about three hours northeast of Colombo. The historic city of Kandy was once the capital of the Central province of Sri Lanka. It was the last capital of the Sinhala Kingdom, a monarchy that flourished for over 2,300 years until it was ended by the British colonial rule in 1815.

Language: Sinhala, Tamil
Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
Nearest Int’l Airport: Bandaranaike (CMB)
Preferred mode of transportation: Tuktuk or Uber Tuktuk, Bus
Time Zone: GMT +4 ½

HOW I GOT THERE FROM COLOMBO:

Before going to Kandy, I first visited and explored Colombo, the commercial capital and most populous city of Sri Lanka.

NOTE: Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport is the only international airport serving the whole island country of Sri Lanka.

Thus, you might want to find a flight ticket first going to Colombo, Sri Lanka. If you’re coming from Southeast or South Asia, it is relatively easy and cheap. I booked mine coming from Bangkok, Thailand.

I suggest you check Kayak (click HERE) as they usually offer cheap fare rates compared to other booking sites.

Colombo is where most people will be coming from when they visit Kandy. You will need to head to Colombo Fort train station and buy yourself a train ticket.

It would be better if you go there before 8:00 AM, so you can catch the 8:30 AM or 9:00 AM train. Then, you can expect to arrive in Kandy at around 1:00 PM.

For this Colombo-Kandy train route, you will have three classes to choose from – 1st, 2nd, and observation.

How much is the train ticket: I bought my ticket from the observation class costing to 250 LKR (it is actually the cheapest.)

But you can also book your ticket in advance–head to this site where you can buy it online.

NOTE: Another way to get to Kandy from Colombo is by bus or by private transfer. The latter will be considerably more expensive, though.

What I love about this train route is you’ll see a lot of scenic views during the day. And yes, travelers were never wrong when they said the train ride in Sri Lanka is one of best in the world!

HOW TO GET AROUND KANDY?

Tuktuk – Also known as a tri-shaw, Tuktuk is a three-wheeled vehicle which I think is the best way to get around Kandy. But as I mentioned in my budget travel tips blog – “walk as much as you can!“.

Uber Tuktuk – Ensure you have an Uber mobile app to book your ride.
Private Tuktuk – There are so many Tuktuk drivers in the city who will ask you for a private tuk-tuk tour. I think it’s okay, I got mine for only 200 LKR (1.10 USD) and the driver took me to 3-4 different famous places in Kandy.

TIP: Haggle as much as you can when negotiating a Tuktuk ride! =)

City Buses – The best way to find out which bus to take is just to ask people at the nearest stop. Although it’s not advisable for short-term travelers you’ll be surprised how cheap they are (way cheaper than Tuktuk).

Bus in Kandy Sri Lanka — Bus in Kandy, Sri Lanka | Dantravels.org

WHERE DID I STAY IN KANDY?

The hostel I booked is located in the city center. From the Kandy train terminal, I just walk about 10-20 minutes to reach my hostel.

Elephant Shed Tourist Hostel: (click here to book)
- Hostel room type: Bunk Bed in Mixed Dormitory Room

Elephant Shed Tourist Hostel Kandy Sri Lanka blog review — Elephant Shed Tourist Hostel

Book AGODA here

Book BOOKING.com here

Get AIRBNB $43 free credit

You can book a room at any hotel in Kandy through Agoda or Booking.com. I usually book my room accommodations through booking.com. Room accommodation ranges from cheap hostels to luxury hotels. Book hostels through booking.com as they have free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel option.

If Kandy hotel isn’t to your liking, try AirBnb. Airbnbs are immersed in neighborhoods, condos, and townhomes. There is a feeling you get when you stay in an Airbnb that makes you feel like you belong in that city or town. Since it is someone’s home, there is a certain amount of pride you feel while staying there. I have used Airbnb on some of my other trips and I loved it!

If you’re new to AirBnB, then you can get up to 42 USD free travel credit by signing up via this link

MY 2-DAY KANDY ITINERARY

DAY 1:

1st Stop: Kandy Lake

I visited this lovely artificial lake before I went to see the Temple of Buddha’s Tooth Relic (2nd stop). It was built in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe and is located next to the Temple of the Tooth. It has a nice island in the middle that has a garden on it.

It is lovely to walk around the lake in the evening and there are lots of marble benches that you can use to appreciate the view.

Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
How I got there: By foot (from hostel)
Entrance fee: FREE

2nd Stop: Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

Also known as Sri Dalada Maligawa, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is a Buddhist temple located in the royal palace complex which houses the Relic of the tooth of Buddha. Since ancient times, the relic has played an important role in local politics because it is believed that whoever holds the relic holds the governance of the country. The temple is one of the holiest shrines in the entire Buddhist world.

Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
How I got there: By foot (from my 1st stop)
Entrance fee: 1,500 LKR (8.3 USD) per person

3rd Stop: Kandy Clock Tower

Kandy Clock Tower is built in 1950 and is located at a major intersection, along with the city bus stand. The Clock Tower blends in with the surrounding and does not attract special attention, however, it does registers on the memory, subconsciously, while passing by. On closer scrutiny, I found it to be simple yet beautiful.

It was built there at the behest of Haji Mohamed Ismail as a memorial to his son who lost his life in a rockfall in 1947.

Duration (getting there + visiting): 1 hour
How I got there: By foot (from my 2nd stop)
Entrance fee: FREE

4th Stop: Royal Palace Park

Royal Palace Park is a small but very well maintained park sited up on the hillside above Kandy Lake. The mature trees do not allow for perfect lake views but it is good to see glimpses of the water from above. It is worth going for some moments of peace and tranquility above the bustling crowded city. There are plenty of seats and shade so it is a good place to bring a picnic.

Duration (getting there + visiting): 2-3 hours
How I got there: By foot (from my 3rd stop)
Entrance fee: 100 LKR (0.55 USD) per person

5th Stop: Kandy Viewpoint

Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
How I got there: By Tuktuk: 50 LKR* (from my 4th stop)
Entrance fee: FREE

Don’t forget to haggle when negotiating a Tuktuk =)

DAY 2:

6th Stop: Udawattekele Sanctuary

I went to Udawattekele for a walk to escape the busy city setting of Kandy. It’s only a 10 to 15-minute walk from the center of town, so I expected nothing more but a small forest. What I got though was a full jungle-experience with monkey, snake and barking-deer sightings. You can decide how much time you want to spend walking through as there are several loops, marked out on a big map by the entrance.

This place to near at Kandy lake and Sri Daladha Maligawa (Temple of Tooth).

Duration (getting there + visiting): 2-3 hours
How I got there: By foot (from my hostel stop)
Entrance fee: 660 LKR (3.7 USD) per person

7th Stop: Kandy Garrison Cemetery

This small graveyard is found just behind the Temple of Buddha’s Tooth Relic. I had the absolute pleasure of meeting George, the caretaker, who has heaps of knowledge about every grave there. It’s free but make sure you leave a donation to help protect and fund further restorations of the area.

Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
How I got there: By foot (from my 3rd stop)
Entrance fee: FREE

8th Stop: Vahirawakanda Buddha Temple

You will certainly get your exercise if you decide to walk uphill to see the gigantic Buddha. I went for a quick hike later in the afternoon towards Vahirawakanda Buddha temple in Kandy. From my hostel, it takes about 20 minutes to hike up on foot with a nice view as a reward. Not bad.

Duration (getting there + visiting): 2-3 hours
How I got there: By foot (from my 3rd stop)
Entrance fee: 250 LKR (1.4 USD) per person

What do you think of this 2-day Kandy itinerary?

I hope that you find this 2-DAY KANDY ITINERARY and GUIDE useful!

If you have more days to spend in Kandy or Sri Lanka in general, you might consider these cool package tours:

(you may choose one or more tours that may suit your travel needs.)

If you have any questions, please feel free to ask in the comment section below.

More Tours Here

BOOKING ESSENTIALS

Hotel / Hostel
- Booking.com. I usually book my hostel accommodation at booking.com. Thus, I recommend you guys trying it as well for your Kandy Itinerary. Room accommodation ranges from cheap hostels to luxury hotels. Book hostels through booking.com as they have free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel option.
- Airbnb. Try Airbnb in finding comfy and cozy rooms for your Kandy itinerary! I have used Airbnb on some of my other trips and I loved it!

Have you tried Airbnb? Sign up with my link and you will get up to 42 USD (2,200 Php) off your first stay. Click this link to get that discount.

Flights
- KAYAK. All of my flight bookings are all from KAYAK. Kayak is one of the world’s leading travel search engines and searches hundreds of travel sites.

I suggest you check Kayak (click HERE) as they usually offer cheap fare rates compared to other booking sites.

Colombo to Kandy train ticket.

Click here to book the ticket.

Sri Lanka Package tours
- Viator. Viator is the world’s leading resource for researching, finding and booking the best travel experiences worldwide. Perfect for your Sri Lanka itinerary!

Click here to find the best Viator deals in Sri Lanka

2-Day Colombo Itinerary (Sri Lanka) And Travel Guide On A Budget

By Dan Forteza

Deciding what to do and what to see in Colombo, Sri Lanka depends on how much time you have (and your budget as well.) If you only have 2 days in Colombo (like me…) but surely don’t want to miss those must-see places in this beautiful city, this is for you. In this blog, I’ve put together the perfect 2-day Colombo itinerary, specifically for budget travelers, which includes Colombo’s top attractions.

Hi there! First of all, I am Daniel – a solo backpacker from the Philippines. If you don’t know my story yet, feel free to read this article where I talked about how I quit my job in order to travel. This article was also featured on TripZilla Philippines.

DO YOU NEED A VISA?

Depending on your nationality, you might or might not need a visa. Check out my Sri Lankan visa guide to check if you’re eligible for an e-visa or visa on arrival or no visa at all.

WHERE IS COLOMBO?

Colombo is a city located on the western coast of the island country of Sri Lanka. It is the commercial capital and largest city of Sri Lanka. It is a 3 ½-hour flight away from either Bangkok or Delhi, about 4 hours away from Singapore and, 4 ½ hours away from Dubai.

Language: Sinhala, Tamil
Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
Airport: Bandaranaike International (CMB)
Preferred mode of transportation: Tuktuk or Uber Tuktuk, Bus
Time Zone: GMT +4 ½

HOW I GOT THERE:

Finding a cheap flight ticket to Colombo, Sri Lanka from Southeast and South Asia is relatively easy (and cheap, too!) I booked mine coming from Bangkok, Thailand.

I suggest you check Kayak (click HERE) as they usually offer cheap fare rates compared to other booking sites.

HOW TO GET AROUND?

Tuktuk – Also known as a tri-shaw, Tuktuk is a three-wheeled vehicle which I think is the best way to get around Colombo. But as I mentioned in my budget travel tips blog – “walk as much as you can!“.

Many three-wheelers have meters and some can be booked through Uber App. Some drivers, however, will try to not use the meter or won’t have one. Avoid meter-free three-wheelers or agree to a firm price before setting out. I even got victimized by just agreeing with meter-free Tuktuk (haha!) and I paid 3 to 4 times its normal price.

Uber Tuktuk – Ensure you have an Uber mobile app to book your ride.
Private Tuktuk – There are so many Tuktuk drivers in the city who will ask you for a private tuk-tuk tour. I think it’s okay, I got mine for only 200 LKR (1.10 USD) and the driver took me to 3-4 different famous places in Colombo.
City Buses – The best way to find out which bus to take is just to ask people at the nearest stop. They are way cheaper than Tuktuk.

HOW I GOT TO THE CITY:

I arrived at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) at around 9:30 AM from a 3 ½-hour flight from Bangkok. The first thing I looked for at the airport was the ATM to withdraw some Rupees. Then you can also purchase a sim card with mobile internet data to help you navigate the city.

First, a little heads up, when stepping out of the arrival hall at the airport, you will probably be “attacked” by drivers looking for new customers. They can be quite pushy, so keep calm.

Next, I looked for the bus going to downtown Colombo. I found a minibus parked on the road just a short walk from the airport’s arrival exit.

Bus fare from the airport to downtown Colombo: 300 LKR (1.65 USD)
Travel time: 1-2 hours (depending on traffic)

Minibus from Airport to Colombo City | Dantravels.org

WHERE DID I STAY?

The hostel I booked is located in the city center. From the bus terminal, I just walk about 20 minutes to reach my hostel. It is close to the Lakehouse building.

Colombo Downtown Monkey Backpacker’s Hostel: (book here)
- Room type: Bunk Bed in Mixed Dormitory Room
- Rate: 6 USD per night

Colombo Downtown Monkey Hostel 1 — Colombo Downtown Monkey Backpacker’s Hostel | Dantravels.org

Colombo Downtown Monkey Hostel 2 — Colombo Downtown Monkey Backpacker’s Hostel | Dantravels.org

Colombo Downtown Monkey Hostel 3 — Colombo Downtown Monkey Backpacker’s Hostel | Dantravels.org

Book AGODA here

Book BOOKING.com here

Get AIRBNB $43 free credit

MY 2-DAY COLOMBO ITINERARY

DAY 1:

1st Stop: Murugan Hindu Temple

Formally known as the Temple of Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Kovil, this is the oldest and largest Hindu temple in Colombo and is dedicated to the Gods Shiva and Ganesh. A visit is a must and is included in most Colombo tours. Its monumental towers, with hundreds of colorful ornaments, will delight your eyes.

Murugan Hindu Temple in Colombo — Murugan Hindu Temple | Dantravels.org

Duration: 1 hour

2nd Stop: Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple

This temple is huge and takes about 45 minutes – 1 hour to look around. There are Buddha statues all around the temple and the various rooms. My favorite was the Tiny Buddha encased by a miniature glass dome whose face can be seen very clearly through the magnifying disc—it is supposedly the world’s smallest Buddha statue.

Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple in Colombo — Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple | Dantravels.org

Duration: 1-2 hours
Cost: 300 LKR (1.65 USD) per tourist

3rd Stop: Seema Malakaya Temple

Also known as Lakeside Buddhist temple, Seema Malakaya is situated at the center of Baira lake. This is one of the most photographed landmarks in Colombo.

NOTE: The 300-LKR-ticket for Gangaramaya also covers the ticket fee for Seema Malaka Temple if you visit them on the same day.

Lakeside Buddhist Temple in Colombo — Lakeside Buddhist Temple | Dantravels.org

Duration: 1-2 hours
Cost: Included with Gangaramaya ticket

4th Stop: Independence Square

The Independence Square is where independence from the British colonization was celebrated in 1948. Now this place stands as a recreation area for the public to relax and take photos. There’s also the famous Independence Memorial Hall, so make sure you check it out.

Independence Square in my Colombo itinerary — Independence Square | Dantravels.org

Duration: 1-2 hours

DAY 2:

5th Stop: Lotus Tower

Lotus Tower is the latest iconic landmark of Sri Lanka. It includes a rotating restaurant, hotel, and broadcasting stations. If you are a visitor, don’t forget to add this iconic location to your wish list for some great selfies.

Lotus Tower in Colombo — Lotus Tower | Dantravels.org

Duration: 1 hour

6th Stop: Galle Face Green

Galle Face Green is an urban park on the ocean side. Locals call it “Colombo’s front lawn,” and it comes to life in the late afternoon with kids flying kites, lovers overlooking the ocean, and stalls selling delicious seafood snacks.

Duration: 1-2 hours

7th Stop: Colombo Municipal Council Hall

Located in front of Viharamahadevi Park, this building is often called “the White House” due to its resemblance to the US building. It is the office of the Mayor and a major striking landmark in the city center.

Duration: 1 hour

8th Stop: ViharamaDevi Park & Buddha Statue

The biggest park in Colombo, situated right opposite the Municipal Council Hall. It features well-landscaped gardens, lotus ponds, fountains, and a golden image of Buddha. It’s a perfect place for leisure activities.

Duration: 1-2 hours

What do you think of this 2-day COLOMBO itinerary?

I hope that you find this guide useful! If you have more days to spend in Sri Lanka, consider these package tours:

More Tours Here

BOOKING ESSENTIALS

Hotels: Booking.com (I recommend this for free cancellation options).
Flights: KAYAK (Best for finding cheap fare rates).
Tours: Viator (Leading resource for travel experiences).

Have you tried Airbnb? Sign up with this link and you will get up to 42 USD off your first stay!

How To Apply For Sri Lanka e-Visa / ETA (2022’s Best Visa Guide Updated)

By Dan Forteza

If you’re planning to visit Sri Lanka and looking for a guide on how to apply for a Sri Lanka e-Visa or e-Tourist Visa, then you’re in the right place. With Sri Lanka’s tropical climate, sandy beaches and scenic train rides, I’m sure no one can say no in skipping this beautiful South Asian country on their travel bucket list!

WAYS IN OBTAINING SRI LANKA’S TOURIST VISA

Apply e-Visa / ETA online – This is the online visa application process that I’ll be discussing on this blog. Moreover, visitors are STRONGLY urged to use the online system to avoid lengthy delays at the port of entry. ~~e-Visa costs USD 35~~ (please see update below). An application can be done either as an individual or as a group.
Get Visa on Arrival/VOA – Visitors with tourism purposes may visit Sri Lanka with a Visa on Arrival for up to 30 days. There is a counter at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) for people who arrive without a visa, although you’ll have to wait with the other visa-less masses which can take several hours ~~and then pay a higher fee: USD 40~~ (please see update below).
You can also obtain visas at Sri Lankan embassies abroad. This is not very convenient though.

NOTE: If you’re a citizen from these 21 countries*, unfortunately, you’re not eligible to get an e-VISA or VOA but instead are required visa in advance from one of Sri Lankan diplomatic missions.

*Afghanistan; Cameroon; Republic of the Congo; Democratic Republic of the Congo; Cote d’Ivoire; Gabon; Ghana; Guinea; Guinea-Bissau; Kenya; Liberia; Mali; Myanmar; Nigeria; North Korea; Sierra Leone; Sudan; Syria; Uganda.

UPDATE as of July 31, 2019: Tourism Minister John Amaratunga says tourists or those visiting for business purposes could get their FREE visa on arrival or by applying online. The measure will be effective for six months, starting August 1, 2019.

WHAT IS SRI LANKAN EVISA?

e-Visa, also known as Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), is an official authorization for a Short Visit to Sri Lanka and is issued electronically. The ETA is introduced with the intention of providing an efficient, reliable and simplified service to those who visit Sri Lanka. ETA holders will be issued a 30 day Short Visit visa at the port of entry in Sri Lanka. The ETA has taken effect since January 1, 2012.

NOTE: If you’re a citizen of Maldives, Seychelles, and Singapore, you do NOT need a visa to enter Sri Lanka (per basis of reciprocity). How lucky!

But don’t you worry! Getting an e-Visa is not that complicated. I received my ETA document attached via email on the same day I applied! The process is fast, simple and straightforward.

But again, just like in other visa application blogs I’ve written, no one can give you the guarantee of your Sri Lankan e-Visa’s approval – not me, not even a lawyer or a travel agent. If anyone does, is most likely a scammer.

As a travel blogger, what I can offer you here is just a guide with helpful tips to increase your chances of getting that e-Visa. =)

GET YOUR SRI LANKA E-VISA IN 4 EASY STEPS

STEP 1: GET YOUR ROOM ACCOMMODATION READY

When filling up the application form online, you need to indicate your Address in Sri Lanka under the “Contact Details” section. if you’re not visiting a family or friend, fill it in with the address of your hostel/hotel.

Contact Details section from Sri Lanka e-visa website | Dantravels.org — Contact Details section from Sri Lanka’s e-visa website | Dantravels.org

You can book a room at any Sri Lanka hotel through Agoda or Booking.com.

I usually book my room accommodations through booking.com. Room accommodation ranges from cheap hostels to luxury hotels. Book hostels through booking.com as they have free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel option.

Use my link to book your hostel and you’ll get 10% of your booking back after your stay. Click this link to get that discount.

If hotel isn’t to your liking, try AirBnb. Airbnbs are immersed in neighborhoods, condos, and townhomes. There is a feeling you get when you stay in an Airbnb that makes you feel like you belong in that city or town.

Since it is someone’s home, there is a certain amount of pride you feel while staying there. I have used Airbnb on some of my other trips and I loved it!

If you’re new to AirBnB, then you can get up to 42 USD free travel credit by signing up via this link.

STEP 2: APPLY AT SRI LANKA’S e-VISA WEBSITE

For you to be able to facilitate your application ONLINE, just follow the through the below steps:

Go to www.eta.gov.lk and select your preferred language (English for me!)
Click the “Apply” tab and under “Submission of ETA application by the applicant”, click the “Apply” link.
If you are applying as a group, there is an appropriate link for that in the next section below it.

From Sri Lanka e-visa website | Dantravels.org — From Sri Lanka’s e-visa website | Dantravels.org

Then it will lead you to the terms and conditions page, just choose “I Agree”.

Under Tourist ETA section, select the option that applies to you. Since I was applying as an individual, I clicked on “Apply for an Individual”.

Complete the requested information under sections:

Applicant Information;
Child information in parent’s passport (if applicable);
Travel Information;
Contact Details – Add here your hotel name and its address from Step 1.
Declaration

Then confirm that the information you provided are correct before click the “next” button.

4. On the next page – Review your information. Make sure your email is correct since your ETA will be sent to you via email. Then confirm to proceed with your payment.

From Sri Lanka’s e-visa website | Dantravels.org

REMEMBER: Once you proceed, you can NO longer change any of the information, so make sure you’ve got everything right.

STEP 3. PAY THE VISA FEE

You will then be directed to the next page to provide your payment.

Pay the relevant ETA processing fee using your electronic payment cards (credit card/e-commerce enabled debit cards) and submit the application. Only Visa, Master and American Express Cards are accepted.

HOW MUCH DOES THE VISA COST?

Countries from SAARC:
- Tourist visa with Double Entry for 30 days – USD 20.00
All Other Countries:
- Tourist visa with Double Entry for 30 days – USD 35.00

Check out the detailed visa fee here.

NOTE: Payment is non-refundable & non-transferable.

UPDATE as of July 31, 2019: Tourism Minister John Amaratunga says tourists or those visiting for business purposes could get their FREE visa on arrival or by applying online. The measure will be effective for six months, starting August 1, 2019. This is Sri Lanka’s latest effort to revive the island nation’s lucrative tourism industry, which was badly hit by the Easter bomb attacks.

Check out the related news here.

I submitted my e-visa application on Aug 1, 2019 and thus, I did not pay anything. It’s totally FREE!

The acknowledgment page prompts you with notification – “Your ETA application to visit Sri Lanka has been received. You will receive a response to your application within 24 hours.“

However, there was no confirmation email that your application has been received so just be patient for the next 24 hours.

STEP 4. WAIT FOR THE RESULTS OF YOUR APPLICATION

After you completed the whole online application process, you just have to wait for the result of your e-Visa application.

In my case, I submitted my application at around 8:30 AM (GMT+8) and then I received an email at around 2:40 PM (GMT+8), the same day, that my e-Visa application status is APPROVED!

Once approved, print out your e-visa approval confirmation. Upon arrival, it is advisable for you to bring a copy of the ETA approval notice along with you.

See how easy it is to apply for Sri Lanka e-Visa? I hope this blog helps you in any way. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a reply in the comment section below. I’ll reply as soon as I can.

With all that said, I wish you all the best on your Sri Lanka e-Visa application!

SUMMARY:

Visa Type: ETA / e-Visa

Visa Validity: 30 Days from your initial arrival

Entry type: Double Entry

Visa Fee: FREE

BOOKING ESSENTIALS

Hotel / Hostel
- Booking.com. I usually book my hostel accommodation at booking.com. Thus, I recommend you guys trying it as well. Room accommodation ranges from cheap hostels to luxury hotels. Book hostels through booking.com as they have free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel option.

Use my link to book your hostel and you’ll get 10% of your booking back after your stay. Click this link to get that discount.

- Airbnb. Try Airbnb in finding comfy and cozy rooms! I have used Airbnb on some of my other trips and I loved it!

Have you tried Airbnb? Sign up with my link and you will get up to 42 USD (2,200 Php) off your first stay. Click this link to get that discount.

Flights
- KAYAK. All of my flight bookings are all from KAYAK. Kayak is one of the world’s leading travel search engines and searches hundreds of travel sites.

I suggest you check Kayak (click HERE) as they usually offer cheap fare rates compared to other booking sites.

Travel Insurance
- World Nomads. If you don’t have travel insurance when times get tough, basically you are screwed. Traveling always comes with inherent risks attached. Whether you are trekking in the Nepalese mountains or wandering the streets of Colombo, unforeseen events can suddenly upend your world.
- Generally speaking, travel insurance covers you for the following:
  - Medical Costs – hospital visits, emergencies, evacuations;
  - Property Loss – luggage and their contents;
  - Travel Issues – accommodation and transportation expenses.
- Thus, I highly recommend you guys getting a travel insurance. I bought one from the World Nomads (available in 130+ countries) where most travelers get their travel insurances.

Go to this link to get to your World Nomads travel insurance.