Important Things

useful contact details

Australian High Commission Colombo

Call: +94 112 463 200

24 Hour Consular Assistance (Australia)

Call: +61 2 6261 3305

🌴 Travel Tips for Your Trip to Sri Lanka

✈️ Arrival in Colombo

Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) is Sri Lanka’s main international airport, about 30–45 minutes north of Colombo city.
Currency: The local currency is Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR). You can exchange at the airport or withdraw cash from ATMs. Bring a small amount of USD or AUD just in case.
SIM Cards & Data: Pick up a local SIM (Dialog or Mobitel are reliable) at the airport. We use Airalo e-sims when we travel for easy access to data and Whatsapp/Messenger and Maps with no risk of crazy bills when we get home. Data plans start at USD$5 and take 60 seconds to setup. Receive US$5 off your first purchase using our code JOHN4197 when you sign up or at checkout.
Transport from Airport:
- Private transfer is easiest—your accommodation or the wedding party may help organise this.
- Uber and PickMe (local ride apps) are available but can be hit or miss at the airport.
- If staying in Colombo overnight, book transport in advance for peace of mind.

🏝️ Travel to the Southern Province (e.g. Galle, Unawatuna, Mirissa, etc.)

Distance & Time: It’s about 2.5 to 3.5 hours to the south by road depending on where you’re going.
Best Route: Take the Southern Expressway (E01) for a smooth ride—much faster than the coastal road.
Transport Options:
- Private taxi or van is the most comfortable. We can help arrange group transfers.
- Trains are scenic but can be slow and often lack air-conditioning. Fine for the adventurous!
- Local buses are budget-friendly but only for those happy with an authentic, bumpy experience.
Tuk Tuks: Great for short trips once you’re in the south, but always agree on the fare before hopping in (unless using PickMe).

🏨 Accommodation & Essentials

Power Adapters: Sri Lanka uses the British-style plug (Type G). Bring an adaptor or two.
Mosquito Protection: Bring repellent or buy local brands like Soffell. Most resorts have nets or coils.
Weather: Expect warm, humid tropical weather. Light clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are essentials.
Water Safety: Stick to bottled or filtered water. Most good hotels provide this. Avoid ice in street-side drinks.

🍛 Food & Drink

Cuisine: Sri Lankan food is delicious but can be spicy. Try hoppers, kottu, and seafood—but ease in if you're spice-sensitive.
Dietary Needs: Veg and vegan options are common. Just ask!
Alcohol: Available at most hotels and bars. Wine can be expensive, but Lion Beer is a local favourite. Some smaller towns have limited availability due to licensing.

💳 Money & Tipping

Cash is King: Many places are cash-only, especially in smaller towns and tuk tuks.
Tipping: Not mandatory, but appreciated—10% for restaurant staff, a few hundred rupees for porters or drivers.

💬 Culture & Etiquette

Dress Modestly at Temples: Cover shoulders and knees, remove shoes before entering.
Be Polite: Sri Lankans are very friendly and respectful. A smile and a “thank you” (“istuti”) go a long way.
Shoes Off Indoors: Many homes and guesthouses follow this rule.

📸 Extras & Practical Advice

Local Time: Sri Lanka is GMT+5:30.
Safety: Sri Lanka is generally very safe, especially in tourist areas. Just use standard travel awareness.
Travel Insurance: Always a good idea, especially for health or flight delays.
Packing Essentials: Swimsuit, sandals, lightweight clothes, a scarf or shawl for temple visits, power bank, and motion sickness tablets if you’re travelling by road.
Enjoy the Journey!: Take time to enjoy the scenery—palm trees, monkeys, tea fields, and the coast await you!

Consulate General of the Republic of the Philippines

Contact details

EML Building, Ground Floor,
61, W.A.D. Ramanayake Mawatha,
Colombo 02, Sri Lanka

Telephone No.: (+94) 11 4322268, 4322267
Mobile No.: (+94) 77 6656798
Fax No.: (+94) 11 2300090