NKAR Travel House is in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The address of NKAR Travel House is 45, Ananda Coomaraswamy Mawatha, Colombo 07, Sri Lanka.
NKAR Travels offers a range of services for travelers to Sri Lanka. These services include:
Our expertise extends across all facets of the inbound travel domain, including transportation, accommodation, culinary delights, and unique experiences. With a proven track record spanning 43 years, we are well-equipped to cater to your every need and ensure a memorable journey.
At NKAR Travel House, we present an extensive array of travel packages and services tailored to the realm of travel and tourism. Our offerings cater to diverse interests and preferences, ensuring a seamless and stress-free travel experience. Our services encompass personalized tours, airline ticketing, cruise getaways, hotel reservations, group travel arrangements, and more. Notably, we specialize in fulfilling all your travel needs, with our distinctive touch as the leading experiential tourism provider in Sri Lanka.
NKAR is a tour operator. Simply a Destination Management Company (DMC)
NKAR was founded in 1980 by industry veteran Mr. Nilmin Nanayakkara. It was initially a rent-a-car company but gradually evolved into a fully-fledged travel company, which offers a multitude of services.
NKAR is a member of a diversified group of companies named Devagiri Group (Pvt.) Ltd. Devagiri Group has diversified itself into Plantations, the manufacturing of tea and rubber, and hoteliering.
NKAR is a proud member of
Yes, we can arrange flight tickets and hotel reservations for our clients.
Sri Lanka is generally considered safe for travel. But, like any other destination, it is always important to practice caution and take the necessary precautions. Since the end of its civil war in 2009 security and stability has improved. The government has implemented measures to ensure the safety of both locals and tourists.
The economic crisis that started after COVID has now diminished. Fuel and power availability have been restored.
We advise you to stay informed about the current situation before planning your trip. We recommend checking travel advisories and following the guidance provided by your government. Also, make sure you’re sufficiently insured for the duration of your tour.
Sri Lanka is a popular destination for families due to its beautiful beaches, incredible wildlife, good food, and hospitality. There are many kid-friendly attractions and activities to experience. Hotels that cater to the needs of families as well. Sri Lanka offers a wide range of activities for kids.
When traveling with toddlers, make sure to get diapers and formula in major towns where supermarkets are available. Also, the kids should be vaccinated for rabies since there are many stray dogs around. Pack your mosquito repellents as well, since dengue is abundant. Consult with your hotel to confirm that they are baby- and child-friendly and can accommodate your special requests.
A few things to do with kids
Since Sri Lanka is a small country, it makes it easier for kids as there is less time on the road.
Yes, Sri Lankans are generally known for their friendly and hospitable nature. They are often warm, welcoming, and helpful towards tourists. Sri Lankans take pride in their culture of hospitality. Also, locals go out of their way to make visitors feel comfortable and at home. Interacting with locals can be a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the local culture and gain insights into the country.
The number of days recommended for a trip to Sri Lanka depends on your travel preferences and the places you wish to visit. Sri Lanka offers a wide range of attractions, including beaches, ancient ruins, wildlife reserves, and hill stations.
If you have limited time, a week-long trip could give you a taste of the country’s highlights. This would include visiting cultural sites such as Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Kandy. Also, you can explore the tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya and spend a few days relaxing on the southern coast.
For a more comprehensive experience, a 10- to 14-day trip would allow you to explore more regions, such as the cultural triangle, the hill country, and the east coast. You could also add in activities like a safari in one of the national parks or a visit to Ella Town.
The duration of your trip will depend on your interests and what you want to experience in Sri Lanka. It’s always a good idea to plan your itinerary in advance and allocate enough time to enjoy the destinations you wish to explore. If you need help planning your itinerary, please contact us.
These natural features provide an abundance of avenues for exhilarating activities such as deep-sea fishing, sea kayaking, wind and kite surfing, flyboarding, paragliding, white-water rafting, canoeing, waterfall abseiling, river kayaking, rock climbing, zip-lining, and canoeing. Moreover, boasting over 200 shipwrecks scattered around its coastline, the island offers an enticing prospect for diving enthusiasts as well.
The best months to travel to Sri Lanka are generally December through March. This is when the south and west regions experience their dry season and have pleasant weather. During this time, popular coastal towns like Galle, Unawatuna, Mirissa, Weligama, and Hikkaduwa are the driest and receive the most visitors.
It’s worth noting that January is the peak of the tourist season, so crowds may be larger during this time. Additionally, major events often take place in January, making it an appealing time to visit the country.
It’s important to consider that different regions of Sri Lanka may have different weather patterns and peak seasons. The east coast, for example, is favorable to visit from May to September. This period coincides with the traditional summer holiday months.
In hill country, temperature and humidity fluctuate both with altitude and the solar season. Though Sri Lanka has a tropical climate, the ‘cold tropics’ have a normal colder country spring-summer-fall pattern with associated vegetation.
A summary of the best months to travel for each region. The hill stations have mixed weather.
Indeed, Sri Lanka beckons as a year-round destination, providing you with a wealth of benefits, especially during its shoulder periods. This opportune time grants you advantages such as more budget-friendly options compared to peak periods and the opportunity to explore less crowded tourist spots.
There are several notable places to visit in Sri Lanka. Here are some top recommendations:
Although not as cheap as Thailand or Vietnam, Sri Lanka is an affordable country to visit. You can save money by avoiding overpriced western restaurants and eating at local and Indian restaurants. For transportation, you can save money by traveling by bus and in 2nd class on trains.
By sticking to homestays and Airbnbs, you can cut costs on accommodation. Taking a tour or renting a car can eat up your budget. Please note that the entrance fees to cultural attractions and museums are higher for tourists. There is a considerable gap between the tourist prices and the local prices.
Certainly! Sri Lanka is a budget-friendly country to travel to, with plenty of affordable accommodation, transport, and food options. Here are some tips for traveling to Sri Lanka on a budget.
The ideal number of days to visit Sri Lanka can vary depending on your interests and the places you would like to explore. Some travelers may prefer a shorter trip to cover the major highlights. Some may choose to have a more relaxed and comprehensive experience by spending more time in the country.
A popular recommendation is to plan a trip of at least 10 to 14 days in Sri Lanka to explore its cultural and natural treasures. This timeframe allows for a well-rounded itinerary. Including visits to iconic landmarks such as Sigiriya, Kandy, and Galle. Also adding national parks like Yala or Udawalawe plus southern beaches.
But, even if you have a limited amount of time, you can still enjoy Sri Lanka by focusing on specific regions or attractions. A shorter trip of 7 to 8 days can cover some of the country’s highlights, such as the Cultural Triangle (Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Polonnaruwa). And can also include the scenic hill country (Nuwara Eliya or Ella), and a couple of days on the coast.
The best area to stay in Sri Lanka depends on your preferences and the type of experience you are looking for. Some popular bases that offer a range of accommodations and attractions include:
The rainy seasons in Sri Lanka vary depending on the region. The southwest monsoon brings rain to the southwestern part of Sri Lanka between May and September. While the dry season in this region runs from December to March, In the northeast, the rainy season starts in October and lasts until January.
It’s important to note that Sri Lanka has two monsoon patterns that affect its weather and climate. This is somewhat unusual for such a small island. The short dry seasons between monsoons still experience some rain.
So, to summarize, the rainy seasons in Sri Lanka are:
Sri Lanka offers a wide range of outdoor activities and adventure sports. Here are some popular activities:
In the east coast, Trincomalee, visitors can spot species such as Blue Whales, Sperm Whales, and Fin Whales, as well as several types of dolphin. Season : March to September.
The best time to visit Sri Lanka’s beaches depends on the specific region. The southwest coast and southern coast, including Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna, Bentota, and Mirissa, are best visited between November and April. During this time, you can expect pleasant weather and calm seas on the southwest coast.
Then again, the east coast is best visited from May to September. This is when the weather is ideal for beach activities on the east coast of Sri Lanka. Popular east coast beaches are Nilaveli, Pasikudah, Uppuweli, and Arugambay.
The best time to visit Colombo, Sri Lanka, is during the dry season, which is from January to March. During this time, the weather in Colombo is generally pleasant with lower humidity. The temperature during these months’ ranges from 23 to 28 degrees Celsius, making it comfortable for exploration.
It is worth noting that Sri Lanka experiences sunshine year-round, but April and May can be particularly hot and humid in Colombo.
The ideal time to visit Ella, Sri Lanka, is from October to February. During this period, the average temperature and humidity in Ella are favorable for tourism. The weather is usually pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities and exploring the attractions in and around Ella.
Yet, it’s important to note that Ella can be visited year-round, and each season has its own charm and attractions. It’s best to avoid the monsoon season in Ella, which usually occurs from April to September, as it may limit some travel options due to heavy rainfall.
The best time to visit Sigiriya, Sri Lanka, is during the dry season, which is from late December to early April. The best month for visiting Sigiriya is March due to visibility and weather conditions. During this time, the climate is moderate, making it ideal for day trips and exploring Sigiriya Rock.
It’s worth noting that Sigiriya can be quite hot during this period, so it’s advisable to come prepared with sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water. Additionally, Sigiriya experiences a tropical climate with a humidity of 80% year-round, but May to August is the dry season
In Sri Lanka, there is a strong tipping culture. Tipping is considered an important extra way of making money, as wages in Sri Lanka are generally low. While it is not mandatory to tip, it is appreciated and customary in many situations.
When dining in restaurants, it is generally expected to leave a tip of around 10% of the bill. If you receive exceptional service, you may consider tipping closer to 15-20%. We also recommend tipping in the local currency, and using cash is the most common method.
For drivers and tour guides, tipping is also customary. It is recommended to tip drivers around 10% of the total fare. Tour guides can be tipped at the discretion of the traveler, depending on their level of satisfaction with the service provided.
It’s important to note that many tour operators in Sri Lanka have a “Tip-Inclusive” policy. Meaning the total cost of the holiday already includes tips for guides, drivers, and other in-country experience providers.
Tipping hotel staff in Sri Lanka is common, especially if you stay in a small hotel or villa. As per the custom, guests can give a collective tip to the senior member of the staff, specifying that it should be shared among the team.
It’s worth noting that some hotels in Sri Lanka already include tips for their staff. While others might discourage tipping and encourage guests to inform management if they have received good service.
Taxi tipping in Sri Lanka is generally not expected.
If you hire a taxi for an entire day, but you could adjust the amount based on your level of satisfaction with the service provided.
It’s important to note that not all taxi drivers may be familiar with the concept of tipping, and it’s up to the discretion of the traveler.
Type G, 13-ampere plug and socket outlet, known as the ‘square pin’ plug and socket, is the only approved national standard for use in Sri Lanka.
It’s important to note that if you have existing equipment with a 5-ampere plug, you may need a converter to connect it to a 13-ampere socket outlet. When purchasing new electrical equipment, make sure to check for the appropriate plug and socket outlet standard in Sri Lanka.
In Sri Lanka, the Type G 13-ampere plug, and socket outlet is the only approved national standard for use. This means that the UK plug (type G plug) can be used without the need for a voltage converter or a plug adapter. Sri Lanka operates on a 230V supply voltage at 50 Hz, which is compatible with the standard voltage in the UK and most of Europe.
When planning a trip to Sri Lanka, it is important to be aware of the visa requirements to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.
To get a tourist visa for Sri Lanka, travelers have two options. Applying for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online before arrival or obtaining a visa on arrival at the airport.
You can get ETA by visiting the official website of the Department of Immigration and Emigration of Sri Lanka. The application process is quite easy. It requires basic personal information and details about your travel plans.
If you prefer not to apply online in advance, you can also get a visa on arrival at the Colombo Airport. This option allows for more flexibility but may involve longer waiting times on arrival.
It’s important to note that certain nationalities are exempt from obtaining an ETA or visa on arrival. These include citizens from Singapore, the Maldives, the Seychelles
The fee for a tourist visa is $20 for travelers from SAARC countries. For travelers from other countries, it is $50.
But it’s important to note that the processing fees for ETA are subject to revision. And we suggest checking the official website for the most up-to-date information.
To get a visa for Sri Lanka, you need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) through the official ETA Sri Lanka website. You can complete the application online, and the following documents are generally required:
Tourist visas for Sri Lanka are generally issued for 30 days. Yet, visitors wishing to stay longer can apply for an extension by using the online portal.
You can extend the validity of your visa by applying via the online portal. The initial extension is usually granted for 60 days, and the maximum length of a tourist visa is 270 days. You can get extensions up to three times. The first time, you’ll get only 60 days, but on the second and third, you’ll be given 90 days.
If you wish to apply for an extension, make sure you do so before your current visa expires. And you must also check that your passport is valid for at least two months after your intended stay.
Any genuine traveler can obtain the 60-day extension. Any further extensions will only be given for valid reasons.
All foreigners must fill in the arrival card. You can do it online within 03 days before your arrival.
The elephant is the most famous animal in Sri Lanka. It is highly revered and holds cultural and religious significance in the country. Sri Lanka is home to the largest population of Asian elephants. With both wild and domesticated elephants found throughout the island. The Sri Lankan elephant (Elephas maximus maximus) is a subspecies of the Asian elephant and is native to Sri Lanka.
You can see elephants in several national parks and reserves, such as Udawalawe National Park and Minneriya National Park. Where visitors can observe them in their natural habitat.
Yala National Park is the largest wildlife area in Sri Lanka. The park is home to a diverse range of animals, including Sri Lankan elephants, leopards, sloth bears, water buffalo, and a variety of bird species.
It covers an area of 979 square kilometers. And it is in the southeastern part of the country. Apart from Yala National Park, Sri Lanka has several other popular national parks and wildlife reserves. Such as Udawalawe National Park, Wilpattu National Park, and Minneriya National Park.
Yes. The Sinharaja Forest Reserve is the most famous wildlife sanctuary in Sri Lanka. It is a lush evergreen forest located in the southwestern part of the country and is home to a unique variety of flora and fauna. Sinharaja Forest Reserve is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This is due to its exceptional biodiversity and high endemism. The reserve is home to a wide range of birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. This includes many endemic species, such as the Sri Lanka Grey Hornbill and the Purple-faced Langur. It is a popular destination for ecotourists and nature lovers who want to experience Sri Lanka’s rich natural heritage.
There are currently 26 national parks in Sri Lanka. These national parks cover an area of 5,734 square kilometers (2,214 square miles) in total. Sri Lanka’s national parks offer diverse habitats and provide protection for a variety of wildlife species.
The parks are home to many animal species, including elephants, leopards, deers, sloth bears, water buffalo, and bird species.
The best time to visit Yala National Park is during the dry season, which is from February to June. During this time, the water level is lower, and animals are more likely to come out into the open in search of water. Yala National Park is closed during September month for maintenance purposes.
There are many turtle hatcheries scattered around Kosgoda. Kosgoda The Sea Turtle Conservation Project is one of the oldest and most reputed of such establishments.
Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home (Close to the National Park) serves as a halfway house for orphaned baby elephants. After restoring them, they are released into the Udawalawe National Park. Visitors are not allowed to get close to the elephants. You can observe them as they are fed milk by the caretakers.
There are several types of accommodations available in Sri Lanka, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury resorts.
Sure! Sri Lanka has a rich culinary heritage with a variety of traditional dishes to try. Some popular options include:
The currency used in Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). When visiting Sri Lanka, it is advisable to exchange your currency for LKR to have the local currency for your transactions.
There are several options available for exchanging money in Sri Lanka. One of the most easiest ways is to use authorized money exchangers at airports, hotels, or banks. These centers usually offer competitive exchange rates and provide a safe and reliable service.
Additionally, you can also withdraw cash from ATMs using your international debit or credit card. But it is important to check with your bank in advance about any fees or restrictions that may apply for international withdrawals.
It is better to carry smaller denominations of LKR, as some smaller vendors and businesses may not accept larger bills. It’s also a good idea to keep some US dollars or other major currencies as backup in case you encounter any issues with exchanging money.
Major supermarket chains and shopping centers accept card payments. But street markets and small shops may not, so it’s better to keep change handy.
In Sri Lanka, there are several transportation options available for getting around the country. These include:
You can book tickets directly through Sri Lanka Railways’ website. However, this website has been known to have issues with payment processing, and sometimes tickets are not available online.
If you prefer to book in person, you can visit a train station in Sri Lanka. Note that during peak season, train tickets may sell out quickly, so it is advisable to book in advance. Book train tickets online
The train ride from Kandy to Ella in Sri Lanka takes approximately 7 hours. Although the train timetable might suggest a shorter duration, it is recommended to expect some delays or longer travel time
The best part of the Kandy to Ella train ride in Sri Lanka is the stretch between Nanu Oya and Ella. This part of the journey offers stunning views of tea plantations, hills, and waterfalls. Additionally, the train passes through several tunnels and over several viaducts, making it a thrilling ride for many.
When traveling to Sri Lanka, it is important to be aware of the cultural customs and etiquette to show respect for the local traditions. Here are some key points to keep in mind
Here are some general health precautions and vaccinations that we recommend for travelers to Sri Lanka:
Sri Lanka, dengue fever is commonly found in various areas across the country. The districts that have reported the highest number of dengue cases include Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara, and Kandy. These districts are known to be highly affected by dengue.
Return to top