Yala National Park The South, Sri Lanka Travel Guide
Major mobile providers in Sri Lanka include Dialog, Mobitel, Etisalat, Airtel, and Hutch. Purchase a local SIM card upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) with your passport.
Sinhala and Tamil are the official languages of Sri Lanka. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and by safari guides.
Learning a few basic phrases in Sinhala can enhance your interactions with locals.
Reliable 4G coverage is available in towns. Coverage can be spotty within Yala National Park itself due to its remote nature.
English proficiency is common in tourist areas, minimizing language barriers. For local engagement, a few Sinhala phrases help. Download language packs for offline access.
Useful information on operating hours and potential service disruptions.
Shops generally open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Smaller shops and street vendors may open earlier and close later.
Banks typically operate on weekdays from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Some may have limited Saturday hours. ATMs are widely available in Tissamaharama and Kataragama.
Restaurant hours vary widely. Local eateries open early and close late. Hotel restaurants align with standard meal times. Yala National Park is open for safari entry from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Poya Days (full moon days) are monthly public holidays; alcohol sales may be restricted. Sinhala and Tamil New Year (April), Vesak (May), and Kataragama Esala Perahera (July/August) are major holidays.
The main Block 1 of Yala National Park typically closes for maintenance for several weeks, usually in September or October.
Being aware of local business hours and holiday schedules prevents inconvenience and unexpected disruptions to your itinerary. Local service variations exist.
Observe cultural etiquette for respectful interactions.
Modest dress is appreciated throughout Sri Lanka, especially outside of beach resorts. Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting temples or other sacred places. Remove shoes and hats before entering.
Treat all Buddha images with respect. Do not turn your back to a Buddha statue for photos. Keep public displays of affection to a minimum, as Sri Lankan society is generally conservative.
If eating traditional rice and curry with your hands, use your right hand. Avoid pointing with your feet, as feet are considered unclean.
Always ask for permission before photographing individuals, especially monks or during religious ceremonies.
Contact specific hotels or tour operators directly to inquire about their accessibility features and discuss your specific needs. Thorough planning and advance communication of requirements are recommended. No dedicated national resource for accessibility information for tourists in Sri Lanka.
Prioritizing your well-being with essential information.
Small clinics and pharmacies are available in Tissamaharama. For serious emergencies, seek a hospital in Hambantota.
Sri Lanka is generally safe for tourists. Petty crime, like bag snatching, can occur, notably in crowded areas. Always secure your belongings.
Within Yala, stay inside your safari vehicle. Do not attempt to feed or approach wild animals. Follow your guide's instructions at all times.
Tap water is not safe for drinking. Purchase bottled water or use a water filter. Be cautious when swimming in the ocean, as currents can be strong, especially on unpatrolled beaches.
Always keep your embassy or consulate's contact details readily available. Inform someone of your itinerary, especially when venturing into remote areas or undertaking activities alone. Local guidelines for safety.
