Yala National Park The South, Sri Lanka Travel Guide
Large cell phone companies 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 the main languages of Sri Lanka. English is common 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 secluded natural areas.
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 usually 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 start early and close late. Hotel dining 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.
Knowing about local business hours and holiday schedules prhappenings inconvenience and unforeseen disruptions to your itinerary. Local service variations exist.
Observe cultural norms for courteous exchanges.
Modest dress is appreciated throughout Sri Lanka, especially outside of beach resorts. Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting temples or other holy sites. 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 Ceylonese society is generally conservative.
If eating traditional rice and curry with your hands, use your right hand. Avoid gesturing with a finger with your feet, as feet are considered unclean.
Always ask for permission before photographing individuals, especially monks or at the time of religious ceremonies.
Contact specific hotels or travel agencies directly to inquire about their accessibility characteristics and discuss your personal needs. Thorough planning and advance communication of needs are recommended. No dedicated national source for accessibility information for tourists in Sri Lanka.
Prioritizing your well-being with essential information.
Small clinics and pharmacies are available in Tissamaharama. For severe emergencies, seek a hospital in Hambantota.
Sri Lanka is generally safe for tourists. Petty crime, like bag snatching, can occur, specifically in crowded areas. Always safeguard your things.
Within Yala, stay inside your african adventure vehicle. Do not attempt to feed or approach wild animals. Follow your escort's instructions at all times.
Tap water is not safe for drinking. Purchase bottled water or else use a water filter. Be cautious when bathing in the ocean, as currents can be strong, especially on unpatrolled beaches.
Always maintain your embassy or consulate's contact details readily available. Share your itinerary with someone, especially when venturing into remote areas or undertaking activities alone. Local guidelines for safety.
