FAQs About Sri Lanka
1. When is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?
This little island has two monsoon seasons, so the “best” time really depends on where you’re headed. The south and west coasts (Colombo, Galle, Mirissa, Bentota) are sunny from December to April. The east coast (Trincomalee, Arugam Bay) is at its best from May to September.
If you’re planning to move around the country, December to April is usually the safest bet for good weather across most regions. It’s also peak season, so book early if you want the best villas.2. How do I get to Sri Lanka, and what entry requirements should I know about?
Most travellers arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), just outside Colombo. Almost everyone needs an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), which you can easily apply for online before flying. Your passport should be valid for at least six months after your trip.
And here’s a tip: we can arrange an airport pickup with a trusted driver, so you can start your holiday stress-free instead of haggling for taxis.3. Is Sri Lanka safe for tourists and families?
Yes — Sri Lanka is a warm, welcoming country where families, solo travellers, and groups all feel at ease. The people are famously kind, and you’ll often find locals going out of their way to help. The main things to keep in mind are keeping valuables secure in crowded areas, and being mindful of currents when swimming at the beach.
For added peace of mind, our concierge can arrange vetted babysitters, licensed guides, and reliable drivers — so you can focus on enjoying yourself while we take care of the practicalities.4. What about health, vaccinations, and drinking water?
We always recommend travel insurance. Routine vaccinations (like Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus) are usually advised, but check with your doctor before you travel. Tap water isn’t safe to drink, but bottled water is available everywhere — and all our villas are stocked with it.
If you’re travelling with kids, just let us know. Our concierge can make sure your villa is stocked with snacks, recommend English-speaking doctors if needed, or even arrange in-villa wellness treatments so you feel cared for throughout your stay.5. How do I get around in Sri Lanka?
Distances are longer than they look on the map, and traffic can be unpredictable. Trains are scenic (the Kandy–Ella ride is world-famous), but they’re slow. Driving yourself is not recommended. The most comfortable way to travel is to hire a private driver with a car for the duration of your stay.
Our villa experts can suggest the best routes based on your itinerary, and our concierge will book reliable drivers who know all the scenic stops along the way.6. Which areas are best for families with kids?
Each region has something different to offer:
South Coast (Galle, Bentota, Weligama, Mirissa): calm beaches, turtle hatcheries, whale watching — great for families.
Hill Country (Kandy, Ella, Nuwara Eliya): train rides through tea fields and cooler mountain air.
Cultural Triangle (Sigiriya, Dambulla, Polonnaruwa): fascinating ruins, cave temples, and safari parks.
East Coast (Trincomalee, Passikudah, Arugam Bay): best in May–September, with quiet beaches and snorkeling.
Not sure where to base yourself? Ask our villa experts. We’ll help you pick a region (or a mix of them) based on your kids’ ages, how much moving around you want to do, and the kind of holiday you’re imagining.7. What are must-see attractions and family-friendly activities?
Here are some favourites we often recommend:
Climbing the Sigiriya Rock Fortress (older kids love the adventure)
Spotting wild elephants at Minneriya or Udawalawe National Parks
Riding the scenic Kandy–Ella train
Visiting turtle hatcheries along the south coast
Exploring the cobblestone streets of Galle Fort
Whale watching in Mirissa or snorkeling in Trincomalee8. What’s included when I book a villa in Sri Lanka?
Every villa is different, but most include daily housekeeping, private pools, and spacious living areas. Many also have a chef or cook on hand, so you can enjoy homemade Sri Lankan curries (or familiar comfort food for the kids) without leaving home. Villas give you the privacy of your own space with the added bonus of service — the best of both worlds.9. Can I request special services like babysitters or private chefs?
Yes, and these extras are often what make holidays truly special. Many families ask for babysitters so parents can enjoy a quiet dinner, and private chefs are always popular for everything from fresh seafood feasts to poolside barbecues.
Our concierge team can also arrange yoga sessions, massages, or birthday surprises right in your villa. Just tell us what will make your trip memorable, and we’ll handle the details.10. How do I choose the right villa for my group?
Think about who you’re travelling with:
Young kids: villas with fenced pools, cribs, and shaded gardens.
Extended families: plenty of bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms.
Groups of friends: villas with big dining areas, sea views, or direct beach access.
Our villa experts personally inspect every villa. Share your group’s size, ages, and wishlist, and we’ll shortlist the ones that fit you best. Once you book, our concierge will take care of everything from groceries to airport transfers.11. What happens if something goes wrong in my villa?
No need to worry. Villas come with management staff to handle the small stuff, and our concierge is available 7 days a week for anything bigger. Whether it’s a Wi-Fi issue, a pool check, or last-minute babysitting, we’ll make sure your holiday keeps running smoothly.12. Are villas in Sri Lanka affordable compared to hotels?
Yes — and often more cost-effective than you’d expect. A villa with several bedrooms and a private pool can cost less than booking multiple hotel rooms, with far more space and flexibility. You’ll also save by dining in, with chefs who can cook family-style meals at a fraction of restaurant prices.13. Can I visit Sri Lanka with toddlers or infants?
Absolutely. Many of our guests travel with little ones. Villas can be equipped with cribs, high chairs, and pool fences. Parents love the flexibility of villa living — nap times, meals, and playtime all feel easier.
Our concierge can also arrange babysitters, cars with child seats, and suggest toddler-friendly beaches like Bentota or Unawatuna. With the right villa, travelling with young kids in Sri Lanka can feel surprisingly stress-free.14. How do I stay connected — Wi-Fi, SIM cards, power?
Most villas have reliable Wi-Fi. SIM cards with lots of data are cheap and easy to pick up at the airport.
Sri Lanka uses Type D and Type G plugs (three round pins or three rectangular pins), with a standard voltage of 230V. A universal travel adapter is your best bet, but many villas also keep a few spares for guests.15. What are common mistakes first-time travellers make in Sri Lanka?
Trying to see too much too quickly — the island is bigger than it looks.
Forgetting how hot and humid it can be (plan downtime!).
Drinking tap water.
Skipping travel insurance.
Choosing accommodation far from the beach or main attractions.
When you book with Villa Finder, we’ll help you avoid these pitfalls by planning a trip that’s realistic, comfortable, and fun for everyone.
