Fact File: Sri Lanka Mainland

CLIMATE
Low Lands ' tropical, average 27 C
Central Hills ' cooler, with temperatures dropping to 14 C. The south-west monsoon brings rain to the western, southern and central regions from May to July, while the north-eastern monsoon occurs in the north and east in December and January. Sri Lanka has a good climate for holiday-makers throughout the year.

VISA
Residents from foreign countries are issued visas on arrival. Consult your local Sri Lanka embassy, consulate, tourist office or your travel agent.

TIME
GMT + 6hrs

WHAT TO WEAR
Cotton garments are the ideal as Sri Lanka is a tropical island. However, viscose/cotton mixed garments are commonly worn. Light clothing is recommended in the lowland areas and light woolen clothing is suitable in the hill country. A sun hat and sun glasses may help to escape the heat during day time.

CURRENCY
Sri Lanka follows decimal currency system in Rupees (Rs.) and cents (Cts.) with 100 cents equal to a rupee. Currency notes are available in the denominations of Rs. 2,10,20,50,100,200, 500 and 1000. Coins are issued in values of Cts.1,2,5,10,25,50 and Rs.1,2,5 and 10.

ENTERING PLACES OF WORSHIP
Visitors to Buddhist temples are advised to be properly clad covering the body in full. Briefs, shorts, bear backs and bare shoulders are against accepted norms. When entering Buddhist and Hindu shrines footwear and headgear should be removed.

HEALTH/IMMUNISATIONS
No vaccination is required for travelling to Sri Lanka from UK and Ireland. However, inoculations against Typhoid, Hepatitis and Meningitis are strongly recommended alongside precautions for Malaria. Please consult your doctor for more advice. For more information visit www.dh.gov.uk

Always use bottled water for drinking, brushing teeth and washing your hands. Eat fruits you can peel or wash with bottled water. If you fall ill - Drink plenty of fluids e.g. Coconut water and lassi (yoghurt drink) will kill bacteria. Eat plain rice or simple Khichdi (an easily digestible mixture of rice and lentils). Consult a doctor is symptoms persist.

Carry a basic first aid kit with mosquito repellent and an anti-diarrhoeal.