Flight time
The flight from Auckland to Sri Lanka takes roughly 20 hours with a stopover, but you'll feel totally alive once you get off the plane into this riot of colour and warmth.
Beaches, rich history... and ELEPHANTS!
Sri Lanka is a captivating island that packs a serious punch – rich in history, surrounded by golden beaches, teeming with wildlife and full of flavour.
Explore bustling Colombo, climb the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya, or wander the sacred ruins of Anuradhapura. Kandy’s misty hills offer serene beauty and cultural depth, while Trincomalee is all about laid-back beach days and snorkelling in clear blue water.
Wildlife lovers won’t want to miss Minneriya National Park during “The Gathering,” when hundreds of elephants congregate in one of nature’s greatest shows.
Take a tea plantation tour, sample fragrant curries and dive into delicious street food like kottu roti and egg hoppers. Whether you’re hiking lush mountain trails, lazing on a quiet beach, or tucking into spicy sambols with the locals – Sri Lanka is an adventure of colour, warmth and unforgettable moments.
Let our Sri Lanka specialists help you plan your perfect island escape.
Best time to go
September to October and April are the best times for exploring the whole country and avoiding the monsoon season, but Sri Lanka is a nice warm destination all year.
Time difference
Sri Lanka is 6.5–7.5 hours behind New Zealand due to daylight saving in NZ. Yes that half hour is correct!
Sri Lanka FAQs
What is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on which part of the country you're exploring.
For popular areas such as Colombo, Galle, Bentota, Mirissa, Yala National Park and the southern and western coastline, the best time to travel is generally from December to April. If you're heading to the east coast, including Trincomalee and Pasikuda, the best weather is typically between May and September.
Because of its varied climate, Sri Lanka is a great destination almost any time of year.
How long should I spend in Sri Lanka?
Most New Zealand travellers spend 10 to 14 days in Sri Lanka, which allows enough time to experience the country's beaches, cultural sites, wildlife and hill country.
A popular itinerary includes Colombo, Kandy, Sigiriya, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Yala National Park and a few days relaxing on the coast.
If you have three weeks, you'll be able to explore at a more relaxed pace and discover some of Sri Lanka's lesser-known gems.
Where should I go on holiday in Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka offers an incredible mix of culture, nature, beaches and wildlife. Colombo offers eclectic markets, delicious food and city life, Kandy boasts ancient temples and cultural heritage, Sigiriya is famous for the iconic Lion Rock, Ella has stunning train journeys and mountainscapes, Yala National Park is popular for its leopard safaris, Galle for it’s colonial history and boutique accommodation, Mirissa for it’s beautiful beaches and whale watching, and Bentota is perfect for relaxing resort stays.
Many first-time visitors combine the Cultural Triangle, hill country, and south coast.
Is Sri Lanka a good holiday destination for New Zealanders?
Absolutely. Sri Lanka is becoming increasingly popular with Kiwis thanks to its beautiful beaches, rich culture, incredible wildlife, welcoming locals and excellent value for money.
In one trip, you can explore ancient cities, take a scenic train ride through tea plantations, spot elephants on safari and relax on tropical beaches.
Do I need a visa for Sri Lanka from New Zealand?
Yes, New Zealand passport holders generally require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before entering Sri Lanka.
Entry requirements can change, so it's important to check the latest visa and travel advice on Safe Travel before departure.
How do I find the best Sri Lanka holiday package?
The best Sri Lanka holidays often combine accommodation, private transfers, sightseeing and beach stays into one itinerary.
Many travellers choose a tailor-made holiday that includes culture, wildlife and relaxation. Booking in advance is recommended during peak travel periods, especially around Christmas and New Year.
Is Sri Lanka expensive to visit?
Sri Lanka offers excellent value for money.
Accommodation, food, transport and sightseeing are generally affordable, while luxury resorts and boutique hotels can often be enjoyed at a fraction of the cost of similar experiences elsewhere.
Where should I stay in Sri Lanka?
The best place to stay depends on your itinerary.
- Colombo is ideal for a short stay before or after your flight.
- Kandy is popular for culture and history.
- Ella is perfect for mountain scenery and hiking.
- Yala offers safari lodges close to wildlife parks.
- Mirissa and Bentota are favourites for beach holidays.
A multi-centre itinerary is often the best way to experience Sri Lanka.
Do I need travel insurance for Sri Lanka?
Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended.
A comprehensive policy can help cover medical expenses, travel delays, lost luggage, cancellations, and unexpected disruptions, giving you peace of mind throughout your trip.
What currency is used in Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka uses the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR).
ATMs are widely available in major cities and tourist destinations, while credit cards are accepted at many hotels, restaurants, and larger businesses.
Can I use New Zealand dollars in Sri Lanka?
No, New Zealand dollars are not accepted for everyday purchases.
You'll need to exchange NZD into Sri Lankan Rupees or withdraw local currency once you arrive.
Is Sri Lanka safe for travellers?
Sri Lanka is generally considered a safe destination for tourists.
The country welcomes visitors from around the world, but
What should I pack for Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka is warm year-round, so pack light and comfortable clothing.
We recommend bringing:
- Lightweight, breathable clothing
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Insect repellent
- A reusable water bottle
- Swimwear
- Modest clothing for visiting temples
- A light rain jacket or umbrella
If you're visiting the hill country around Ella or Nuwara Eliya, pack a light jumper as evenings can be cooler.
How do I get around Sri Lanka?
Getting around Sri Lanka is part of the adventure. The country has an extensive network of trains, buses, taxis, and private transfers that connect major cities, beaches, national parks, and cultural sites.
Many visitors choose a private driver for longer journeys, while trains are a popular way to experience the island's scenic landscapes. Ride-share apps are also available in larger cities such as Colombo.
Do I need a private driver in Sri Lanka?
While not essential, many travellers find hiring a private driver is one of the easiest and most comfortable ways to explore Sri Lanka.
Roads can be busy and travel times are often longer than they appear on a map. A local driver allows you to travel at your own pace, discover hidden gems along the way and make the most of your time on the island.
What are the best things to do in Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka offers an incredible variety of experiences. Some of the best things to do in Sri Lanka include:
- Climbing Sigiriya Lion Rock
- Taking the famous Kandy to Ella train journey
- Going on safari in Yala or Udawalawe National Park
- Visiting the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy
- Exploring Galle Fort
- Whale watching in Mirissa
- Relaxing on the beaches of Bentota, Unawatuna, or Tangalle
- Touring Sri Lanka's tea plantations and hill country
Can you see elephants and leopards in Sri Lanka?
Yes. Sri Lanka is one of the best wildlife destinations in Asia.
National parks such as Yala, Udawalawe and Minneriya are famous for elephant sightings, while Yala is one of the best places in the world to spot wild leopards. If you're travelling during the dry season, you may also witness "The Gathering" at Minneriya, where hundreds of elephants congregate around the reservoir.
Is Sri Lanka family-friendly?
Absolutely. Sri Lanka is a fantastic destination for families thanks to its friendly locals, diverse activities and variety of accommodation options.
Families often enjoy train rides through the hill country, wildlife safaris, beach stays, cultural attractions and outdoor adventures. Many resorts also offer family rooms and child-friendly facilities.
Can you drink alcohol in Sri Lanka?
Yes, alcohol is widely available in hotels, resorts, restaurants and licensed bars. However, some religious holidays and public holidays may have restrictions on alcohol sales. It's always worth checking locally during your stay.
What cultural etiquette should I know before visiting Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka is a welcoming country, but respecting local customs is important.
When visiting temples and religious sites, cover your shoulders and knees, remove shoes and hats before entering and avoid turning your back directly towards Buddha statues when taking photos.
A friendly smile and respectful behaviour will go a long way with locals.
Do I need cash or can I use cards in Sri Lanka?
Both are useful.
Credit cards are accepted at most hotels, larger restaurants, and tourist attractions, while cash is often preferred in local markets, small cafés and rural areas. Carrying some Sri Lankan Rupees is always recommended.
What apps should I download before travelling to Sri Lanka?
A few useful apps can make your holiday much easier:
- Google Maps
- PickMe
- Uber
- Google Translate
- XE Currency Converter
Downloading offline maps before you arrive is also helpful if you're travelling through national parks or more remote areas.
Meet our Sri Lanka experts
Nicky de Clifford
House of Travel Merivale
Having spent the last 30
years in the Travel Industry I can safely say "I love my job" !!
Getting to put together dream holidays is very rewarding and it's great to see
so many more Kiwis getting out to see this amazing world of ours...
I love to tailor holidays that are uniquely personal to you. Every person has
different needs, wants and "must do's" for their holiday. Nothing is
cookie cutter in the world of travel so being able to put together an itinerary
that is bespoke and personal is rewarding for myself and for you, the
traveller.
My favourite destinations would be Europe (especially France and Italy), South
East Asia (especially Vietnam and Thailand) and of course our Island
neighbours. I have been to Fiji numerous times and every time I just love it.
But there are so many places I have yet to travel to and I look forward to
sharing my travel stories along the way.
I look forward to working with you..
Nicky
Shelley Rich
House of Travel Mount Maunganui
I have been a part of the travel industry for over 30 years and still love it!
I love to travel and I often joke with my clients that I live vicariously through them.
Planning the perfect holiday for my clients fills me with joy. I take pride in what I do and love sharing my passion of travel.
Many of my clients have become life long friends.
Shelley
Laura Cook
House of Travel Whanganui
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Hey there! |
Laura
Tracey Edgecombe
House of Travel New Plymouth
I liken planning a holiday to baking a cake. It takes several well measured and thought out ingredients for a great result.
I have been lucky to have travelled extensively myself and being a travel consultant for more than 20 years, I use these 'ingredients' - experience and expertise - to draw on to help create amazing holidays and lifelong memories.
It is such a pleasure to help my clients get the best out of their holidays and manage an incredible team of travel professionals.
Tracey
Our Sri Lanka blogs
Customer holidays snaps
Best. Sri Lanka Holidays. Ever!
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