Here you will find important tips and useful information for Sri Lanka.
in Swiss francs (CHF)
For ATM cash withdrawals
For cashless payments in shops, restaurants, hotels, and online
Payment by credit card is relatively common. For more detailed information, please contact the credit card issuer.
Use credit card with caution. Unauthorized use is widespread.
The Travel Mastercard card is accepted at major hotels and restaurant
For reasons of safety, it is advisable not to exchange cash over the amount needed immediately.
Keep exchange and transaction receipts.
Indian and Pakistani currencies prohibited!
Travelers are advised to bring cash in US dollar (in small amounts).
+ 5 h / + 4 h during our summer time
Colombo
Official language
Sinhala and Tamil
Language capabilities
English
230/240 volt / adapter required
Banks
9.00 - 13.00/15.00 h (Mon - Fri)
Stores
9.00 - 17.30 h (Mon - Fri)
9.00 - 13.00 h (Sat)
Do not drink tap water.
Mosquito protection advised.
Year-round risk of malaria and dengue fever in all parts of the country. No risk of malaria in Colombo, Galle, Kalutara, Nuwara and Eliya.
Vaccination against diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis A, polio and measles recommended.
Left-hand driving.
International driver's licence required for car rentals.
Local driver's license ("Recognition Permit") required (available at: Automobile Association of Ceylon and Department of Motor Traffic).
Minimum age for car rentals: 25 (varies by rental company).
Car rental with driver recommended.
Blood alcohol limit: 0.5 ‰.
00 41 (disregard '0' preceding Swiss area codes)
Colombo, 63 Gregory's Road
Tel. +94 11 269 51 17
Travelers are advised to carry with them their passport or a photocopy thereof (must include page with visa).
Security
Travelers who wish to travel to this country are advised to inquire about current traveler safety prior to departure.
Avoid demonstrations and large crowds.
Do not carry valuables (watches, jewelry, expensive cameras, etc.) on you.
Avoid nighttime driving.
Special legal regulations
Photographing persons wearing an uniform, military installations and public buildings (airports, bridges etc.) is prohibited.
Severe penalties for violations of drug laws (up to life imprisonment/death penalty).
Travel is the secure prepaid card for use away from home – without any annual fees. In the event of loss, the card including the balance will be replaced worldwide.
Find out more about TravelWhile every precaution has been taken to verify the information provided, Swiss Bankers Prepaid Services Ltd does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of Country Information. Swiss Bankers therefore shall not be held liable for any damage or loss sustained in connection with any errors or omissions contained therein.