Sri Lanka, just a short hop from India, is an enchanting mix of tropical beaches, rolling tea gardens, UNESCO-listed heritage sites, and warm local hospitality. Known as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean”, it offers Indian travelers a budget-friendly international vacation with stunning diversity. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful beachside escape, a honeymoon amidst misty hills, or a heritage-filled family vacation, Sri Lanka has it all. With close cultural ties, visa-on-arrival for Indians, and easy flight access, this island nation is fast becoming a favorite international destination for Indian tourists. Mauzee Holiday offers fully personalized Sri Lanka tour packages, ensuring a memorable experience from arrival to departure.
✈️ Visa and Flights from India
Indian passport holders need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter Sri Lanka, which is a simple online process often approved within 24–48 hours. Mauzee Holiday assists with all visa formalities, ensuring you travel worry-free. Direct flights to Colombo are available from major Indian cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Delhi, Mumbai, and Kochi. Carriers like SriLankan Airlines, Air India, IndiGo, and Vistara provide frequent connections, with flight times ranging between 1.5 to 4 hours depending on the departure city.
🏞️ Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka
Start your journey in Colombo, the capital city, with colonial architecture, buzzing markets, and vibrant nightlife. Then head to Kandy, a sacred city nestled around a scenic lake and home to the Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of Buddhism’s most revered sites. The cultural triangle including Dambulla, Sigiriya, and Polonnaruwa offers ancient ruins, rock fortresses, and cave temples. For cooler climes, visit Nuwara Eliya, also called “Little England”, known for its tea plantations, strawberry farms, and colonial charm. Ella is a backpacker favorite with hiking trails, waterfalls, and the famous Nine Arches Bridge. Beach lovers can head to Bentota, Mirissa, or Unawatuna for golden sands, water sports, and whale watching. End your trip in Galle, a fortified old city with Dutch-era architecture, art cafes, and seaside serenity.
📅 Suggested Itinerary – 6 Nights / 7 Days
Day 1: Arrive in Colombo and relax. Day 2: Transfer to Sigiriya, climb the ancient rock fortress, and explore Dambulla Cave Temple. Day 3: Drive to Kandy, visit the Temple of the Tooth and enjoy a cultural dance show. Day 4: Head to Nuwara Eliya, stopping at waterfalls and tea estates en route. Day 5: Visit Ella for scenic hikes and photography. Day 6–7: Spend two days at leisure on the beach in Bentota or Mirissa before heading back to Colombo for your flight home. Mauzee Holiday can tailor this itinerary to suit honeymooners, family groups, or solo explorers.
🥘 Indian Food and Local Cuisine
Sri Lankan cuisine is similar to South Indian food in many ways—expect flavorful curries, coconut-based dishes, and rice meals. For Indian tourists, vegetarian and Jain food options are available in most cities and resorts. Popular Indian restaurants like Chana’s in Colombo, Balaji Dosai in Kandy, and Indian Summer in Galle cater to North and South Indian tastes. Mauzee Holiday ensures your dietary needs are met, from vegetarian meals to pre-booked Indian dinners at hotels.
💰 Currency & Budget Tips
The local currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). 1 INR = approx. 3.5 to 4.0 LKR. Credit cards are accepted in most tourist areas, but it’s advisable to keep local currency for tuk-tuks, shopping, or small eateries. Sri Lanka is a great value destination, where quality stays, meals, and transport are affordable. Mauzee Holiday offers customized tour packages across budget, mid-range, and luxury categories—making it easy to plan your dream vacation within your budget.
📲 Connectivity & SIM Cards
Getting a local SIM is easy at Colombo airport—Dialog and Mobitel offer reliable tourist SIMs with data and call packs. Free Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and tourist spots. Mauzee can pre-arrange your SIM card or assist on arrival for hassle-free connectivity throughout your trip.
🧳 What to Pack for Sri Lanka
Light cotton clothes, comfortable footwear, a sunhat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are must-haves. For temple visits, carry modest clothing to cover shoulders and knees. If you’re heading to hill stations like Nuwara Eliya or Ella, pack a light sweater or jacket. Don’t forget swimwear and flip-flops if you’re planning beach days.
🚖 Getting Around
Sri Lanka has excellent intercity road connections. Mauzee Holiday arranges private cars with drivers for safe, scenic, and flexible travel. Local travel options include tuk-tuks, trains (like the famous Ella–Kandy route), and intercity buses, though private transfers are recommended for comfort and convenience.
🎁 Shopping & Souvenirs
Sri Lanka is great for buying Ceylon tea, Ayurvedic products, spices, gemstones, Batik clothes, handicrafts, and elephant-themed souvenirs. Local markets like Pettah Market in Colombo or Kandy Market offer authentic gifts at reasonable prices. Always bargain when shopping in local markets!
📸 Instagram Spots in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is Instagram heaven. Snap your best shots at Sigiriya Rock Fortress, the Nine Arches Bridge in Ella, Galle Lighthouse, tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya, and Mirissa’s Coconut Tree Hill. Beaches with palm trees and heritage sites make for the perfect reels and couple photos.
📅 Best Time to Visit
Sri Lanka has two monsoon seasons depending on the coast. The west and south coasts (including Bentota, Galle, Colombo) are best from December to April, while the east coast (Trincomalee, Arugam Bay) is best from May to September. The hill country like Nuwara Eliya and Ella is pleasant year-round. Mauzee helps plan based on weather so you get the best seasonal experience.
⚠️ Travel Tips & Etiquette
Sri Lanka is safe and welcoming for Indian travelers. Always remove shoes at religious sites and dress modestly when visiting temples. Avoid smoking or public displays of affection in sacred areas. Tap water isn’t safe for drinking—stick to bottled water. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Respect the local pace and enjoy the laid-back charm!
🧭 Why Book Sri Lanka with Mauzee Holiday?
Mauzee Holiday takes care of everything—flights, visas, hotel stays, transfers, Indian meals, and personalized sightseeing in Sri Lanka. Whether it’s a romantic beach honeymoon, a spiritual temple circuit, or a mix of culture and coast, we curate unforgettable journeys for Indian travelers with 24×7 support and reliable local partners.
📞 Ready to Plan Your Sri Lanka Getaway?
Let Mauzee Holiday design your perfect Sri Lankan escape. Contact us today to get your customized quote with handpicked hotels, seamless transfers, and the best deals!
