MileHacker Logo
Resources & References

Resources & References

The South, Sri Lanka

Digital Resources

Essential Apps

  • PickMe

    Ride-hailing app for upfront tuk-tuk pricing.

  • Google Maps

    Download offline maps for navigation without internet.

  • Google Translate

    Download the offline Sinhala pack for language communication.

  • WhatsApp

    Widely used for messaging with guesthouses and operators.

  • Weather App

    Check daily forecasts for your plans.

Useful Websites

  • Sri Lanka Tourism

    Official site: srilanka.travel for general information.

  • ETA Application

    Official website: eta.gov.lk for visa applications.

  • Sri Lanka Railways

    Online search for train schedules and booking information.

  • Embassy/Consulate

    Locate your country's embassy or consulate in Colombo.

  • Airline Website

    Verify flight status and check-in details.

Print Resources

Guidebooks & Maps

Reputable travel guidebooks offer comprehensive information on Sri Lanka's history, culture, and attractions. A physical map supplements digital navigation.

Books about Sri Lanka

Reading works like 'Running in the Family' or 'Anil's Ghost' deepens your appreciation for the country.

Local Publications

Local English newspapers or tourist magazines in larger cities provide current events and cultural insights.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Contacts

  • Police: 119
  • Ambulance/Fire: 110
  • Tourist Police (nationwide): 011-2421052
  • Local Mirissa Police Station: 041-2252222

Medical Facilities

  • Mirissa: Local clinics and pharmacies for minor ailments.
  • Matara General Hospital: Larger public hospital (30 mins from Mirissa).
  • Karapitiya Teaching Hospital (Galle): Major public hospital for serious conditions.
  • Nearby pharmacies for basic medications.

Further Exploration

Documentaries & Films

  • "A Common Man" (2013) offers a glimpse into Sri Lankan cinema.
  • Seek travel documentaries focusing on Sri Lanka's history or wildlife.
  • These provide visual context and spark further understanding.
  • Explore online streaming platforms for related content.

Music & Art

  • Listen to traditional Sri Lankan music, like Kandyan drumming.
  • Explore folk songs and contemporary Sri Lankan pop music.
  • Seek contemporary Sri Lankan art in galleries in Colombo or Galle.
  • Admire traditional art forms: masks, frescoes, wood carvings.

Online Communities & Learning

  • Join online travel communities or forums for Sri Lanka.
  • Ask questions and read firsthand accounts from other travelers.
  • Connect with fellow travelers and find specific recommendations.
  • Use language learning apps for basic Sinhala phrases.

Critical Travel Information

Important Safety Notices

Lost Documents

  • Report lost or stolen documents to local police for a report.
  • This report is for insurance claims and travel document applications.
  • Contact your embassy or consulate for emergency travel documents.
  • Keep digital and physical copies of all documents separate.

Natural Disasters

  • Familiarize yourself with tsunami evacuation routes near the beach.
  • Pay attention to local weather advisories during monsoon seasons.
  • Remain informed about potential flooding or rough seas.
  • Follow directions from local authorities.

Health & Safety

  • Drink only bottled or purified water to avoid stomach issues.
  • Use insect repellent, especially at dawn and dusk.
  • Be mindful of street dogs and other animals.
  • Seek shade and stay hydrated in the tropical heat.

Health Safety

Medical Preparedness

  • Consult a travel doctor for vaccinations and preventative medications.
  • Complete all advised vaccinations well in advance.
  • Carry any personal medications with accompanying prescriptions.

On-Site Precautions

  • Use reputable sources for food and drink.
  • Protect yourself from mosquito bites.
  • Wash hands frequently to maintain hygiene.

Travel Insurance

Insurance Coverage

  • Comprehensive travel insurance is advised.
  • Confirm coverage for medical emergencies and evacuation.
  • Check for trip cancellation and lost luggage clauses.

Policy Access

  • Keep your policy number and contact details accessible.
  • Share policy details with a family contact.
  • Understand claims procedures.

Important Guidelines

Before You Go

  1. Research local laws and customs.
  2. Check current travel advisories for Sri Lanka.
  3. Inform a trusted person of your itinerary.
  4. Secure your home before leaving.
  5. Charge electronic devices.

While There

  1. Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
  2. Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
  3. Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas after dark.
  4. Use trusted transportation options.
  5. Stay connected with family or friends.

Safety Essentials

Personal Safety

Trust your intuition and avoid isolated areas.

Valuables

Keep important documents and cash secure.

Emergency Kit

Carry basic first-aid items and necessary medications.

Critical Safety Note

Always have an emergency plan and share it with someone reliable.

Enhanced Travel Guidance

Solo & Family Travel Details

Solo Traveler Focus

  • Connect with others

    Meet fellow travelers at hostels or social spots.

  • Join activities

    Participate in local cooking classes or surf lessons.

  • Share plans

    Always inform someone of your itinerary if exploring alone.

Family Trip Considerations

  • Whale watching

    Book tours for families; check age recommendations.

  • Surfing for kids

    Weligama provides good spots for children learning to surf.

  • Safari adventures

    Safari day trips to Udawalawe National Park delight children with elephants.

Group Logistics

Group Transport

Consider hiring a private van with a driver for day trips or transfers.

Group Bookings

Book group accommodations and popular tours well in advance.

Group Dining

Make reservations for larger groups at beachfront restaurants, especially during busy times.

Accessibility

Infrastructure & Planning

  • Infrastructure for disabled travelers remains limited in Sri Lanka.
  • Detailed pre-planning and direct contact with hotels are advised.
  • Inquire about accessibility features from tour operators.
  • Private transport is often the most comfortable option for getting around.

Specific Needs

  • For visual or hearing impairments, traveling with a companion is advised.
  • Specialized services for impairments are limited.
  • Communicate specific needs to service providers.
  • Research accessible routes for attractions.

General Travel Guidance

Flexibility & Openness

  • Embrace the unexpected for memorable experiences.
  • Adapt to local customs and pace.
  • Be patient with local services.
  • Maintain a positive outlook.

Well-being Pointers

  • Prioritize sleep for daily energy.
  • Eat balanced meals.
  • Stay active through walking or swimming.
  • Practice sun protection diligently.

Smooth Arrival

A smooth arrival makes it possible for you to quickly settle in and start enjoying Mirissa.