Find Cheap Flights to Sri Lanka and Book Your Trip Today

This is the best time to visit the island's western and southern coasts as well as the highlands. The weather is sunny and dry, but prices for flights to Sri Lanka and accommodation are higher.

Spring is a transition period. April is hot and dry everywhere, perfect for booking flights to Sri Lanka. May marks the start of the Yala monsoon in the southwest.

During these months, the Yala monsoon prevails in the southwest, but the east and north coasts (Trincomalee, Arugam Bay) have excellent weather. You can find cheap flights to Sri Lanka now.

This is a low season, which means cheaper prices on airline tickets from Sweden to Sri Lanka. It is a transition period with short, intense rain showers across the island.

Swedish citizens need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to visit Sri Lanka. This must be applied for online before departure. The ETA is valid for short tourist or business trips. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months after the arrival date. Always check the latest requirements close to your departure date, especially regarding health regulations, to avoid problems at the border. Having the ETA in advance makes entry quicker and easier. You can apply for the ETA via the official government website. For longer stays, a traditional visa is required from the Sri Lankan embassy. Make sure you have a copy of your ETA confirmation with you when you travel.

Sri Lanka offers several modes of transport. Trains are a fantastic way to see the beautiful landscape, especially the stretch between Kandy and Ella. Buses are cheap and reach almost every corner of the island, but can be crowded. For shorter distances, tuk-tuks are common; remember to negotiate the price in advance or use an app like PickMe. Renting a car with a driver is a convenient option for longer tours. Traffic is chaotic, so driving yourself is not recommended for inexperienced drivers. Domestic flights are also available between major cities but are more expensive. Compared to Sweden, public transport is much cheaper but less punctual. Always plan extra time for travel between cities.

Accommodation in Sri Lanka ranges from simple guesthouses to luxury beach resorts. In cities like Colombo and Kandy, you will find modern hotels. Along the coast, especially in the south, there are many affordable boutique hotels and villas. For those who want to stay close to nature, there are eco-lodges in the mountainous areas and near the national parks. Booking in advance is highly recommended during the high season (December to March). Compare prices online, but don't hesitate to negotiate the price a little if you book directly on site, especially during the low season. Staying at guesthouses provides a great insight into local life. The price level is generally much lower than in Sweden, allowing you to treat yourself to nicer accommodation for the same budget.

Sri Lanka is generally safe, but be aware of petty theft in crowded areas. Avoid displaying expensive items. Be careful with scams, especially tuk-tuk drivers offering "free" rides or taking you to expensive shops. Always negotiate the price before you go. Drink only bottled water and be careful with food hygiene. Mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever occur, so use mosquito repellent, especially at sunset. Make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance. In case of emergency, the police number is 119. Compared to Sweden, it is important to be more aware of your surroundings and always trust your gut feeling. Avoid walking alone on remote beaches at night.

Respect local customs, especially when visiting Buddhist temples. Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees) and take off your shoes and hat before entering. It is considered disrespectful to turn your back on a Buddha statue when taking photos. Use your right hand when giving or receiving objects, as the left hand is considered unclean. Sri Lankans are very friendly and hospitable; a smile goes a long way. Tipping is common in service professions. Avoid discussing politics or religion with strangers. Learning a few simple words in Sinhalese, such as 'Ayubowan' (greeting), is highly appreciated. Understanding these simple rules will help you interact positively with the locals.

Sri Lankan cuisine is rich in flavors, often featuring coconut milk, chili, and aromatic spices. Try 'rice and curry', which is the staple diet, and 'hoppers' (thin pancakes) for breakfast. 'Kottu Roti' (chopped bread fried with vegetables and meat) is a popular street food. The food can be very spicy, so ask for 'less spicy' if you are sensitive. Drink only bottled water and avoid ice in drinks if you are unsure of the source. Fresh juices and coconuts are excellent and safe alternatives. Don't miss trying the local teas, which are world-famous. Eating at small local places provides the most authentic experience and is very cheap. Don't be afraid to try new dishes; it's a big part of the journey.

Pack light, breathable clothing due to the hot and humid climate. Long-sleeved clothing is good protection against the sun and mosquitoes. Don't forget swimwear, high SPF sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. For temple visits, bring clothes that cover shoulders and knees. A rain jacket or umbrella is good during the monsoon season. Mosquito repellent is a must. Bring a universal adapter, as Sri Lanka uses British Type G sockets. Comfortable walking shoes are necessary for exploring temples and nature. A light backpack for day trips is practical. Compared to Sweden, you don't need to pack many warm clothes, but keep in mind that it can get cold in the mountainous areas like Nuwara Eliya.

To truly experience Sri Lanka, try to avoid the most tourist traps. Take the train through the tea plantations instead of flying. Eat at small, local 'rice and curry' places where the food is best and cheapest. Talk to the locals; they are often curious and helpful. Visit a local market early in the morning to see daily life. Instead of just visiting the major beaches, look for smaller, quieter coves. TICKETS.SE advises visiting Sigiriya Rock early in the morning to avoid the crowds and get the best light for photos. Exploring the ancient cities of Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura by bike gives a sense of freedom and history. This will give you a deeper and more rewarding experience of the island.