The Sri Lankan government announced free visa access to citizens from 35 countries in effect from October 1, 2024, for six months. It is a measure to promote Sri Lanka’s fast-growing popularity as a holiday travel destination. The 35 countries on the list are;
| 1. Australia | 11. India | 21. Oman | 31. Czech Republic | |||
| 2. Austria | 12. Indonesia | 22. Poland | 32. Netherlands | |||
| 3. Bahrain | 13. Italy | 23. Qatar | 33. UAE | |||
| 4. Belarus | 14. Iran | 24. Russia | 34. UK | |||
| 5. Belgium | 15. Israel | 25. Saudi Arabia | 35. US | |||
| 6. Canada | 16. Japan | 26. South Korea | ||||
| 7. China | 17. Kazakhstan | 27. Spain | ||||
| 8. Denmark | 18. Malaysia | 28. Sweden | ||||
| 9. France | 19. Nepal | 29. Switzerland | ||||
| 10. Germany | 20. New Zealand | 30. Thailand |
What does this mean for travellers?
Tourists to Sri Lanka need to obtain a visa before or upon arrival. Single-entry tourist visas are generally valid for 30 days and cost US $50. During the concession period, nationals of the designated 35 countries will receive their visa without charges.
What other exemptions does Sri Lanka offer to tourists?
Singapore, Maldives and Seychelles nationals gain entry without visa fees. A tourist visa for Singapore nationals is valid for 30 days, while a visa for Maldivian nationals is 60 days. Seychelles nationals get a 90-day visa validity. It is per reciprocal agreements.
How to enjoy Sri Lanka within the free visa period
Sri Lanka is a year-round destination with sun, sea, beaches, jungles, ancient ruins, monuments, hills, mountains, rocks and trails to keep you active. It is also a leading destination for Ayurveda and Yoga. And, if you love its famous Ceylon Tea, the hill countryside of the island offers endless tea plantations and world-class processing factories to see the journey of tea from leaf to tin.
Experiencing the shoulder season of October
October falls within Sri Lanka’s inter-monsoon period. Weather is unpredictable, with rain expected on most afternoons. No worries! Even the tropical rains of Sri Lanka are a beautiful sight.
Cultural Triangle still experiences dry weather. Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya and Dambulla in the northcentral province contain the country’s most important heritage attractions. These are also UNESCO sites.
The east coast remains dry, and surf lovers can still catch those marvellous waves at Pottuvil Point and Arugam Bay. With fewer crowds and lower rates, you can enjoy some slow-paced relaxation.
Prelude to High Season
Come November, the southwest monsoon is tapering off. Weather is improving on the south and southwest coasts. You can get better accommodation deals and the attractions remain less crowded. The surf season begins, and whale sightings become frequent.
Southern destinations like Galle, Mirissa, Tangalle, Hikkaduwa, Weligama, Unawatuna and Bentota start to come alive. Big parks are opening, and it is favourable for bird watching. November to December is also one of the whale and dolphin watching seasons in Kalpitiya on the west coast.
The central hills get cooler with occasional rains. The misty hills get mistier, shrouding the dense cloud forests. Waterfalls have ferocious cascades due to the high volume of water. We strongly advise against swimming in their pools or going too near them when they are at their peak spill. The Highlands come to its own. The many colonial bungalows nestled amidst the scenic tea plantations, complete with fireplaces, add the quaint charm of bygone days and cosiness to your stay.
High Season – December to March
Blue skies and bright sun are now in full swing on the south and southwest coasts. You can find plenty of opportunities for surfing, swimming, turtle watching, safaris and adventure sports.
March brings the whales to Kalpitiya waters, and in Mirissa, on the south coast, whale sightings are peaking. It is also the kite surfing season in Kalpitiya.
Mammal sightings at Yala, Wilpattu and Udawalawe rise. Nuwara Eliya and Ella are lush and green. January to March brings the best weather to explore Horton Plains and World’s End. You can add Trekking, tea plantation strolls, tea factory visits and Hindu shrine visits to your activity list.
It is also time to climb Adam’s Peak, Sri Lanka’s holiest mountain. Visit the UNESCO city of Kandy and its sacred Temple of the Tooth. White water rafting in Kitulgala, anyone? December gives you some excellent rapids.
The perks of tailor-made luxury travel with Blue Lanka Tours
Make the best of the free visa opportunity extended to 35 countries. Whether you are a citizen of the nations listed or not, warmth and love are never lacking in your Sri Lankan holiday. Low season, shoulder season or high season – Sri Lanka never disappoints.
Plan your trip with Blue Lanka Tours to discover authentic experiences and responsible travel. We curate itineraries around your interests and budget to give you unforgettable memories that showcase the uniqueness and diversity of this stunning island. From airport pickup to chauffeuring, we ensure your comfort and convenience 24/7. Talk to one of our travel agents today, and book your holiday designed especially for you.