Saturday, April 19, 2025

Contact Us

Here’s your “Contact Us” section with the official information for the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) — the main body responsible for tourism in Sri Lanka.

Contact Us

For official travel assistance, tourism information, or inquiries, you can reach out to the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA).

Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA)

Address:
No. 80, Galle Road,
Colombo 03,
Sri Lanka

Phone:
+94 112 426 900 / +94 112 426 900-3

Fax:
+94 112 238 2465

Email:
info@srilanka.travel

Website:
www.srilanka.travel

Office Hours:

  • Monday to Friday: 8:30 AM – 4:15 PM

  • Saturday, Sunday & Public Holidays: Closed

For travel updates, safety alerts, visa information, or promotional tours, tourists are encouraged to contact SLTDA directly or visit their website.

Travel Security

Travel Security in Sri Lanka

In general, travelers can travel safely to Sri Lanka. However, the government has set up a dedicated Tourism Police unit to help visitors during their stay for extra security and assistance.

Tourism Police in Sri Lanka

The Tourism Police Division is a dedicated branch of the Sri Lanka Police Department, aimed at ensuring the safety, comfort, and protection of both local and foreign tourists.

Key Roles and Services:

  • Protecting tourists and tourist sites

  • Assisting travelers with lost items, fraud, or scams

  • Providing information and travel guidance

  • Maintaining order in popular tourist zones

  • Coordinating with embassies in case of emergencies

Where to Find Tourism Police:

Tourism Police stations are located in major tourist areas such as:

  • Colombo

  • Kandy

  • Galle

  • Anuradhapura

  • Sigiriya

  • Negombo

  • Mirissa

  • Nuwara Eliya

Officers often patrol areas like beaches, hotels, historical sites, and festivals to maintain safety and offer help when needed.

Emergency Contact

  • Tourism Police Hotline: +94112421451

  • Sri Lanka Police Emergency: 118

Tips for Tourists

  • Keep a copy of your passport and travel documents.

  • Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps.

  • Report any suspicious behavior to the Tourism Police immediately.

  • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables.

  • Respect local customs and laws.

Travel Agents

You can count on expert travel agents who provide personalized tour packages, transportation, hotel reservations, and more to make your trip to Sri Lanka stress-free and delightful. These are Sri Lanka's top three travel agencies

1. Aitken Spence Travels



Overview:
One of the most experienced travel companies in Sri Lanka, Aitken Spence Travels provides personalized tour packages for individuals, groups, and business travelers.

Services Offered:

  • Tailor-made holiday packages

  • Cultural and nature tours

  • Airport transfers and transport services

  • Hotel and resort reservations

Website: www.aitkenspencetravels.com

2. Jetwing Travels



Overview:
Jetwing Travels is part of the Jetwing Group, one of Sri Lanka’s leading names in tourism and hospitality. They specialize in eco-friendly and luxurious experiences.

Services Offered:

  • Wildlife and heritage tours

  • Adventure and honeymoon packages

  • Guide services in multiple languages

  • Inbound tour operations

Website: www.jetwingtravels.com

3. Walkers Tours



Overview:
Established in 1969, Walkers Tours is a premium destination management company, known for excellent service and sustainable tourism.

Services Offered:

  • Escorted and self-guided tours

  • Nature, wellness, and cultural trips

  • Luxury and eco-travel options

  • Business and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) travel

Website: www.walkerstours.com

Transportation Services

Visitors can choose from a range of methods of transportation in Sri Lanka, including private vehicles, buses, and trains. Here's how to travel the nation effectively and securely.

1. Train Services

Sri Lanka’s railway network is scenic, affordable, and connects most major cities.
  • Popular Routes:

    • Colombo to Kandy – Famous for hilly views and tea plantations

    • Kandy to Ella – Considered one of the most beautiful train rides in the world

    • Colombo to Galle/Matara – Coastal views along the southern line

  • Ticket Types:

    • 1st Class (with A/C and reserved seating)

    • 2nd Class (reserved or unreserved)

    • 3rd Class (basic, budget option)

Note: Book early for scenic routes like Ella–Nuwara Eliya as they sell out quickly.



2. Bus Services

Public and private buses are widely available and budget-friendly.

  • SLTB (Sri Lanka Transport Board) – Government buses (red or blue)

  • Private Buses – Often faster, more frequent, and sometimes air-conditioned

  • Intercity Services – Connect major cities like Colombo, Kandy, and Galle

Note: Buses can get crowded during peak hours. Always check the route number and destination.


3. Tuk-Tuks (Three-Wheelers)

Tuk-tuks are a convenient way to get around towns and cities for short distances.

  • Easily available in all urban areas

  • Always negotiate the fare before starting, unless the driver uses a meter

  • Ideal for quick trips to tourist attractions or markets

5. Private Transport & Car Rentals

  • Many travel agencies and hotels offer chauffeur-driven vehicles

  • Ideal for families or those wanting to explore on a flexible schedule

  • Self-drive car rentals are available, but you’ll need:

    • A valid international driving permit (IDP)

    • Familiarity with left-hand driving






Hotels

 1. Cinnamon Grand Hotel - Colombo


Located in the center of Colombo, Cinnamon Grand is a 5-star hotel ideal for business and leisure travelers.
  • Over 500 luxurious rooms and suites

  • 14 dining options including Sri Lankan, Indian, and Western cuisines

  • Outdoor pool, spa, and gym facilities

  • Close to Galle Face Green and major shopping malls

Website: https://www.cinnamonhotels.com/cinnamon-grand-colombo

2. Earl’s Regency – Kandy 


A peaceful getaway just minutes from the sacred city of Kandy, this hotel offers stunning mountain views.
  • Elegant rooms and suites with private balconies

  • Infinity pool, spa, and fine dining

  • Surrounded by lush greenery and river views

  • Ideal base to explore the Temple of the Tooth and Royal Gardens

Website: www.aitkenspencehotels.com/earlsregency

3. Jetwing Lighthouse – Galle 



Designed by the famous architect Geoffrey Bawa, this beachfront hotel combines colonial charm with modern comfort.
  • Ocean-view rooms with elegant interiors

  • Gourmet restaurants and seafood grills

  • Direct access to a private beach

  • Near Galle Fort and other heritage sites

Website: www.jetwinghotels.com

4. Heritance Tea Factory – Nuwara Eliya


This unique hotel was converted from an old tea factory and is located in the hills of Nuwara Eliya.

  • Rooms with stunning views of tea estates

  • Tea-inspired spa treatments

  • Fine dining in a restored train carriage

  • Tea-plucking experiences and plantation tours

Website: www.heritancehotels.com

Attraction

Colombo – The Capital City Attractions

Colombo blends modern city life with colonial heritage. Top attractions include:

  • Galle Face Green – A long ocean-side promenade perfect for evening strolls.

  • Gangaramaya Temple – A mix of modern architecture and traditional culture.

  • Colombo National Museum – The country’s largest museum with ancient artifacts.

  • Independence Memorial Hall – A national monument commemorating Sri Lanka’s independence.

  • Pettah Market – A busy, colorful market ideal for local shopping experiences.

Kandy – The Sacred Cultural City

Kandy is the spiritual and cultural heart of Sri Lanka. Must-see attractions include:
  • Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) – Holds the sacred tooth of Buddha.

  • Royal Botanical Gardens (Peradeniya) – Beautiful gardens with thousands of plant species.

  • Kandy Lake – A peaceful lake in the heart of the city, ideal for relaxing walks.

  • Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue – A giant Buddha statue offering panoramic city views.

  • Cultural Dance Show – Experience traditional Kandyan dancing and drumming.

Galle – Colonial Charm and History

Galle is a historical city surrounded by sea. Popular attractions include:
  • Galle Fort – A UNESCO World Heritage Site with colonial Dutch architecture.

  • Galle Lighthouse – Located inside the fort with scenic coastal views.

  • Dutch Reformed Church – One of the oldest Protestant churches on the island.

  • National Maritime Museum – Showcasing maritime artifacts and shipwreck history.

  • Flag Rock Bastion – A perfect spot to watch the sunset over the Indian Ocean.

Nuwara Eliya – Nature and Tea Country

Also known as “Little England,” Nuwara Eliya is a cool-climate retreat. Top attractions include:

  • Gregory Lake – Ideal for boating and picnics with a mountain backdrop.

  • Horton Plains National Park – Famous for “World’s End” cliff and cloud forests.

  • Tea Plantations and Factories – Learn how world-famous Ceylon Tea is made.

  • Victoria Park – A beautiful, well-maintained garden in the center of town.

  • Seetha Amman Temple – A Hindu temple with connections to the Ramayana legend.

Sigiriya – The Ancient Rock Fortress

A true wonder of Sri Lanka and one of its most visited landmarks:

  • Sigiriya Rock – A 200m high ancient rock fortress with stunning views.

  • Frescoes of the Sigiriya Maidens – Beautiful wall paintings inside the rock.

  • Mirror Wall – An ancient graffiti-covered wall that still shines today.

  • Water Gardens – Advanced 5th-century landscaping and engineering.

  • Museum of Sigiriya – Provides history and context to the site and its builders.


Friday, April 18, 2025

Destination

Tourism Destination 


1. Colombo

Colombo combines colonial splendor with contemporary living. Colombo offers a fast-paced urban atmosphere combined with traditional Sri Lankan hospitality, from upscale retail centers to historic locations like the Independence Memorial Hall and Galle Face Green.

2. Kandy

One of the most significant Buddhist sites in the world, the Temple of the Tooth Relic, is situated in Kandy's central hills. It is also well-known for the attractive Peradeniya Botanical Gardens and Kandy Lake.













3. Galle

With its Dutch-colonial architecture, cobblestone lanes, quaint cafes, and a stunning lighthouse by the sea, Galle Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. An ideal location for photographers and history buffs.















4. Nuwara Eliya

This mountain town is well-known for its beautiful tea plantations, cold environment, and sense of British colonialism. Enjoy a cup of fresh Ceylon tea while taking in the picturesque highlands of Gregory Lake and Horton Plains.















5. Sigiriya

Sigiriya is an impressive rock fortification that rises to a height of almost 200 meters. It is renowned for its beautifully manicured gardens, historic frescoes, and stunning vistas from the top. It is frequently referred to as the "Eighth Wonder of the World."












Contact Us

Here’s your “Contact Us” section with the official information for the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) — the main body res...