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Resources & References

Resources & References

The South, Sri Lanka

Digital Resources

Essential Apps for the Destination

  • Maps.Me / Google Maps

    Download offline maps of Sri Lanka and the Yala region.

  • Google Translate

    Download Sinhala and Tamil language packs for offline use.

  • PickMe / Uber

    For ride-hailing in larger towns (limited in Yala area).

  • XE Currency Converter

    Quickly converts Sri Lankan Rupees to your home currency.

  • Booking.com / Agoda

    Widely used for accommodation bookings in Sri Lanka.

Useful Websites for Additional Planning

  • Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC) Sri Lanka

    Official website for Yala National Park information, fees, and closure dates.

  • Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA)

    Official source for general tourism information about Sri Lanka.

  • ETA Sri Lanka Official Application

    Use the official government portal for visa applications.

  • Social Media Accounts to Follow

    Follow official tourism boards, wildlife photography, and trusted travel bloggers.

  • Podcasts and Digital Content

    Search for podcasts on Sri Lankan history, culture, or wildlife.

Print Resources

Recommended Guidebooks

Reputable general guidebooks on Sri Lanka are recommended. Check for recent editions for up-to-date information, especially regarding prices and travel conditions.

Books About the Destination

Reading about Sri Lanka’s history, culture, or fiction set on the island deepens your connection to the place. Examples: "Running in the Family" by Michael Ondaatje, "The Village in the Jungle" by Leonard Woolf, "A Brief History of Sri Lanka" by C.R. De Silva.

Local Publications

English-language newspapers like Daily News or The Sunday Times offer current events, local insights, and cultural perspectives during your stay. Look for them at newsstands.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Numbers and Contacts

  • Police: 119
  • Ambulance/Fire: 110
  • Tourist Police: +94 112 421 052 (Colombo)
  • Lost Documents: Report to local police immediately, contact embassy.

Hospital and Consulate Information

  • Government Hospital Tissamaharama: Basic medical care.
  • Private Hospitals: In larger cities (Galle, Colombo) for specialized treatment.
  • Embassy/Consulate: Keep contact details available.
  • Natural Disaster Protocols: Follow local instructions for tsunami warnings, move to higher ground.

Further Exploration

Documentaries and Films

  • Look for documentaries featuring Sri Lankan wildlife or culture.
  • BBC's "Planet Earth" or "Dynasties" featured Sri Lankan leopards/elephants.
  • These provide a visual understanding of landscapes and animals.
  • Wildlife viewing insights.

Online Communities and Forums

  • Travel forums (like TripAdvisor or Reddit) offer current advice.
  • Ask specific questions.
  • Gain insights from fellow travelers.
  • Share experiences.

Music and Art

  • Explore traditional Sri Lankan drumming.
  • Kandyan dance or contemporary music.
  • Engaging with artistic expressions deepens cultural appreciation.
  • Language learning apps (Duolingo, Memrise) or phrasebooks for phrases.

Safety & Well-being

Alert: Travel Advisories

Personal Safety

  • Be mindful of personal belongings.
  • Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night.
  • Follow local advice.
  • Stay aware of surroundings.

Health Precautions

  • Consult doctor for vaccinations.
  • Carry prescription medications with documentation.
  • Drink bottled water.
  • Protect against mosquitos.

Safari Safety

  • Stay in the jeep at all times.
  • Follow guide's instructions.
  • Do not make loud noises.
  • Never attempt to feed animals.

Pre-Trip Planning

Health Consultation

  • Consult your doctor or travel clinic.
  • Discuss required and recommended vaccinations.
  • Obtain any recommended medications.

Travel Insurance

  • Arrange comprehensive travel insurance.
  • Cover medical emergencies.
  • Cover trip cancellations and safari activities.

On Arrival

Local Essentials

  • Exchange currency at the airport (CMB).
  • Purchase a local SIM card for connectivity.
  • Buy bottled water and necessities.

Arrival Logistics

  • Meet pre-arranged transfer or arrange taxi/bus.
  • Familiarize yourself with accommodation area.
  • Confirm safari pick-up times.

Planning Your Stay

Advance Planning

  1. Check passport validity (6+ months beyond departure).
  2. Apply for ETA visa online (well in advance).
  3. Book international flights (early for better fares).
  4. Book high-season Yala safari lodges/luxury accommodations.
  5. Book Yala safari jeep if not included with accommodation.

Pre-Departure Tasks

  1. Confirm all bookings (flights, hotels, safaris).
  2. Pack essential documents, medications.
  3. Inform bank/credit card companies of travel plans.
  4. Arrange airport transfers for arrival.
  5. Download offline maps and translation apps.

Cultural Immersion

Cultural Sites

Kataragama temple complex is significant. Visit outside main puja times for fewer crowds.

Daily Life

Explore local markets for authentic experiences and goods. Engage politely.

Nature Connection

Stroll around Tissa Wewa lake for serene views and local life observations.

Emergency Information

Police: 119, Ambulance/Fire: 110. For tourist police, call +94 112 421 052. Keep embassy contact details for lost documents or emergencies.

Arrival & Departure

Essential Preparations

Required Bookings

  • Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) visa.

    Application well in advance.

  • International flights.

    Early booking often secures better fares.

  • Yala National Park safari (jeep and park entry).

    Advance booking recommended.

Home Preparations

  • Secure your home

    Lock all doors and windows.

  • Arrange for pet care and plant watering.

    Ensure their well-being while away.

  • Hold your mail or arrange for collection.

    Prevent overflow and maintain security.

First Steps Upon Arrival

Clear Immigration

Present your passport and ETA approval notice upon arrival.

Collect Luggage

Retrieve your luggage from the baggage claim area.

Currency Exchange

Exchange currency at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) upon arrival.

Arrival Logistics

Orientation Strategies

  • Familiarize yourself with your accommodation area.
  • Locate nearby restaurants, ATMs, and shops.
  • Confirm safari pick-up times and other activity details with your operator.
  • Purchase a local SIM card (highly recommended).

Transportation from Entry Point

  • Utilize your pre-booked taxi or an airport taxi.
  • A combination of domestic flight and taxi might be an option.
  • Reach your accommodation in Tissamaharama or Kataragama.
  • Exchange enough Sri Lankan Rupees for initial expenses.

Departure Preparation

Souvenir and Shipping

  • Plan souvenir purchases in advance.
  • Be aware of customs restrictions in your home country.
  • For larger purchases, shipping services available from Colombo.
  • Avoid issues upon re-entry regarding specific products.

Pre-Departure Timing

  • Allow ample time from Yala area to Colombo or CMB (5-7 hours).
  • Factor in potential traffic delays, especially towards Colombo.
  • Arrive at CMB at least 3 hours before your international flight.
  • Allow for check-in, immigration, and security procedures.

Return Trip Preparation

Confirm your return flight details and check for any schedule changes. Ensure all visa requirements for your next destination (if applicable) are met. Pack carefully, leaving space for any souvenirs you have acquired. Check airline baggage allowances.

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