04 Getting there and around

4.1 How to get there
By Air :- The only way to enter Sri Lanka is by air. Colombo is the international gateway for direct flights from Europe, Asia, Australia and the Middle East. There are several flights available between Colombo and Chennai, Trichy, Thiruvananthapuram and Mumbai.

Not all airlines are the same. When booking your flight, it's important to shop around to find your ideal blend of cost and comfort.

There are no domestic passenger flights in Sri Lanka, thus the land transport is dominant. Train travel is more comfortable but slower. Tour operators can arrange for local transportation for your comfortable journey in Sri Lanka.


4.2 Airlines Info
Sri Lanka isn't on the A-list of destination for major airlines. Most of the airlines flying between Europe and Sri Lanka are from the Arab world - Kuwait Airways, Emirates, Royal Jordanian and Qatar Airways, Emirates, Royal Jordanian and Qatar Airways. A generally better range of airlines fly between Sri Lanka and Asia (with connection elsewhere), including Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Thai Airways, Malaysia, Cathay Pacific, Thai Airways, Malaysia Airlines and Srilankan Airlines.


4.3 Transfer to the city:
Most hotels and tour operator’s offer transport from the airport; Ii is advisable to confirm in advance. Buses and taxis are available, and there is a train station close to the airport, but visitors are advised to arrange their own transportation.


4.4 Car rental:
Cars can be hired with a driver through most tour operators; there are several car rental agencies.

4.5 Transport:
Catching a bus in Sri Lanka is an experience in itself and is perhaps recommended only for hardened travellers. Buses become incredibly crowded and are erratic, with no obvious schedule. A far safer way to negotiate the country is by taxi. Prices should be agreed on before hand as very few have meters, though they are usually cheap and easy to hail. Driving in the country is as much of an adventure as taking a bus and normal traffic rules do not seem to apply. It would be well worth to hire a car with a driver. Three-wheeled auto rickshaws are also available. Although cheaper than taxis, it is not a comfortable ride.



4.6 Travelling with Children:

4.6.1 Baby Needs
Fresh or powdered milk, baby food, baby diapers and other necessities are widely available and familiar brands can be found in any supermarket.

Baby seats are not required by law in cars, so there are very few around. If you consider this essential equipment, you’ll have to bring one with you.

When ordering Sri Lankan food for children, be sure to specify not to put chillies.


4.6. 2 Dangers
Be sure the kids keep their hands clean – microbes thrive in the tropics. You may want to carry soap with you since many public toilets don’t provide any.

Rabies is fairly common, so playing with the dogs or cats on the street should be strictly forbidden.

Be sure to apply insect repellent at all times of the year, but especially in the rainy season, since children are particularly susceptible to dengue fever, which is carried by mosquitoes.


4.6.3 Hazards
Unlike the padded world of the West, Sri Lanka has a number of hazards such as open manholes, and unfenced swimming pools, so keep a close eye on the children.

Drivers may not respect pedestrian crossings, so don’t assume it safe to cross if there are vehicles coming.




4.7 Trekking in the Countryside
The best time to go trekking is during the dry season, from September/October to January/early February.

Nights are chilly around Christmas and New Year in the hills, so take warm clothing.

You can go trekking at other times, but February to April is hot, and it rains heavily from May to September.

4.8 Rural Sensitivities
Villagers are generally very hospitable and friendly, but you should take care not to offend their sensitivities.

Always ask before taking photographs of people and homes, and show respect for their religious beliefs, items and ceremonies.

Avoid the temptation to shower candies and other gifts on children, as this can create certain expectancies when other trekkers come through.

Guides can mediate to arrange donations for the community if you want to give.