Travel tips

While the distances are listed in kilometers, it is important to plan your journey in terms of time. While some major highways and towns are being rapidly rebuilt, traffic congestion can create delays. After an early breakfast or after lunch is the optimum time to travel. Buses and trains are the primary modes of public transportation. On long-distance routes, these are usually busy at peak hours and before and after weekends.

Sri Lanka Visas

Obtaining a visa in advance to visit Sri Lanka is simple for all nations; simply apply online and a 30-day entrance permit will be printed in your passport.

Sri Lankan Dining

In addition to the staple meal of rice and curry, Sri Lanka offers a diverse range of international food.

Attractions

The people of Sri Lanka are charming, and there are mystery ruins and gorgeous scenery to see.

Travel Insurance

Airline delays, unforeseen sickness, and injuries are all common occurrences. While in Sri Lanka, all Magical Vacations clients are completely covered by a comprehensive insurance policy. Travel with us with the assurance that you will be safe while in our care.

We have collaborated with an Insurance company to provide our customers with the following benefits: Hospitalization expenses for accidents, injuries, and illnesses. The insurance policy also covers the following actions.

Scuba diving, Trekking tours, Elephant rides, White water rafting, Cycling tours, Camping Snorkelling, Bird watching, Wildlife safaris, Whale & dolphin watching, Hot air balloon rides, Other additional activities organised by Magical Vacations.

Compensation for death and permanent disability.

Compensation will be provided for lost or damaged baggage.

Medical cover for food and beverage poisoning.

Sri Lanka is covered by an insurance policy that extends to 25 nautical miles out to sea.

Don’t allow all of your hard work and planning go to waste; as MV Clients, you deserve to travel with confidence, knowing that your vacation is fully insured.

Information Service

The Tourist Information Center (TIC) run in Colombo by the Ceylon Tourist Board is located at 78, Steuart Place, Galle Road, Colombo 3. Tel:(+94) 112 437059 (+94) 112 437060 , (+94) 112 437055

Kandy TIC – Headman’s Lodge, 3, Deva Veediya, Kandy, 0812 222661. Open 900 hrs. to 1645 hrs. on weekdays. Saturday 0900 to 1300 hrs.

Negombo TIC – 12/6, Lewis Place, Negombo. Open 0900 – 1715 hrs.

Hikkaduwa TIC – Commercial Bank Bldg., Galle Road, Hikkaduwa. Tel : 09122-223397

Airport TIC – Located in the arrivals lounge of the International Airport, Katunayake and open day and night. Tel: +94 11 2 452411

Tourist Police Units

Special Tourist Police Units are available to assist our visitors – Hotline +94112421451

Regional tourist units can be found – http://www.police.lk/index.php/tourist-police/235

Traveling within the country

Buses:

A relatively low-cost means of transportation. Buses are run by both the government and private companies. Comfortable air-conditioned buses are available on major routes connecting cities like as Galle, Kandy, Kurunegala, and Colombo, however at a premium price. The extra cost is certainly worth the added comfort on lengthy travels.

Trains:

It is slightly more expensive than taking the bus. On long-distance trains, there is a good chance of getting a seat. It is without a doubt the most interesting way to appreciate the island’s scenic beauty, as the railway lines were designed to connect cities in order to transport produce to Colombo in the shortest time possible, in an era when packing crates and jute bags were the norm and refrigeration was difficult. The railway lines pass through magnificent mountain passes and extensive tunnels into the hills, as well as through calm lagoons and winding rivers, and on bridges built over them.

Taxis (radio cabs):

Please contact your hotel’s front desk/reception, as many will gladly provide you with a taxi cab. Cars can be rented for visits to areas of interest on a planned itinerary for a set charge, with maps and guidebooks readily accessible for information

Three-wheelers:

This is a choice that many visitors are happy to make. No matter the language you speak, the drivers of these ‘TUK TUKs’ (a fitting name resonant with the noise made) are capable of communicating. The gesticulations and creative terminology they use to clarify a point are entertaining in and of themselves. Most of these now have fare meters, which eliminates the need for haggling and are extremely cheap.

Domestic passenger flights:

Chartered flights from Ratmalana Airport near Colombo are available to those who want to get to their destination faster and view the island with a scenic eye. For transfers or day trips, you can also lease a light aircraft or arrange a private helicopter.