SL TravelPal

Free 30-Day Visa for Tourists Visiting Sri Lanka – What You Need to Know (August 2025 Update) Still It is Not Free Planning a trip to Sri Lanka in 2025? You may have heard the good news: Sri Lanka has announced a 30-day visa-free entry for visitors from 40+ countries. But here's the catch: While this announcement was made publicly, the visa-free policy is not yet officially implemented at immigration points — and many travelers are still being asked to pay the standard visa fee on arrival or online . Let’s clear up the confusion so you can travel stress-free. 🗓️ What Was Announced? In July 2025 , the Sri Lankan government proposed granting free 30-day tourist visas to 40 countries. ❗ Current Reality: Not Yet Active Despite the official announcement, the visa-free scheme is still pending final implementation . Many tourists are arriving at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) or sea ports expecting free entry, only to find they still need to pay for a visa . This ha...

  🌴 One Day in Hikkaduwa – Sun, Surf, Chill,  Beach, Reefs & Local Culture  🐢                                                       Only have a day in Hikkaduwa? No worries — this lively beach town packs plenty of charm, color, and local flavor into just 24 hours. Here’s how to make the most of it: Look for 👉👉 Hotels in Hikkaduwa 🌅 Morning Beach Walk & King Coconut Kick off your day with a peaceful walk along Narigama Beach and sip on a fresh king coconut. Snorkel the Coral Gardens Head to Hikkaduwa National Park for snorkeling — swim among vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and if you're lucky, friendly sea turtles! Prefer to stay dry? Try a glass-bottom boat tour. 🌞 Midday Turtle Hatchery Visit 🐢 Stop by a local turtle conservation center to see rescued sea turtles up close and learn about efforts to protect...

Relax and Rewind: Your Ultimate Stay at Mirissa Beach, Sri Lanka If you're planning a beach getaway in Sri Lanka, Mirissa should be high on your list. Nestled on the southern coast, Mirissa offers a perfect mix of serenity, scenic beauty, and seaside adventure . Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple looking for romance, or a backpacker chasing waves — this tropical gem has something for everyone. Why Stay in Mirissa? Mirissa is famous for its stunning crescent-shaped beach , laid-back vibe, and vibrant sunsets. The beach is lined with cozy guesthouses, boutique hotels, and beachfront cafes where you can enjoy fresh seafood with your toes in the sand. Top Things to Do in Mirissa Relax on Mirissa Beach – Soft golden sand and swimmable waters perfect for a lazy day. Whale Watching Tours – One of the best places in Sri Lanka to spot blue whales and dolphins (best from November to April). Parrot Rock – Climb this small rock island for an Instagram-worthy panoramic...

Discover Unawatuna: A Tropical Paradise in Southern Sri Lanka If you're dreaming of golden beaches, turquoise waters, and a laid-back tropical vibe, Unawatuna is the place to be. Located just a few kilometers from Galle in southern Sri Lanka, Unawatuna is one of the island’s most popular coastal towns — and for good reason. Why Visit Unawatuna? Unawatuna offers the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and culture . Its curved beach, lined with palm trees and beachside cafés, is ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The calm, shallow waters make it a great spot for families and casual snorkelers alike. Top Attractions in Unawatuna Unawatuna Beach – A crescent-shaped bay with safe swimming and beachfront restaurants. Jungle Beach – A quieter, hidden beach perfect for snorkeling and a bit of solitude. Japanese Peace Pagoda – A serene Buddhist stupa on the hill offering panoramic ocean views. Rumassala Hill – Steeped in legend, this lush forest area is rich in biodi...

Unforgettable Yala Safari Experience: Exploring Sri Lanka’s Wild Side If you're looking for an unforgettable wildlife adventure in Sri Lanka, a safari in Yala National Park should be at the top of your list. Known for its rich biodiversity and high density of leopards, Yala offers an up-close experience with nature that few other places can match. Why Visit Yala National Park? Located in the southeastern part of Sri Lanka, Yala is the country's most visited national park. It spans over 970 square kilometers and is home to an incredible variety of wildlife — from leopards, elephants, and sloth bears to crocodiles, deer, and over 200 species of birds. The Safari Experience A typical Yala safari starts early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when animals are most active. You'll ride in an open-top 4x4 jeep with an experienced guide who helps spot wildlife and shares insights about the ecosystem. The thrill of seeing a leopard resting on a tree branch or an elephan...

Riding the Rails Through Paradise – The Iconic Kandy to Ella Train Journey Sri Lanka's most scenic adventure isn't on foot or by road — it’s aboard a slow-moving train that winds through misty mountains, lush tea plantations, and tiny hillside villages. The Kandy to Ella train journey is more than just a way to get from point A to B — it’s a bucket list experience that captures the soul of the island. Why It’s Called the Most Beautiful Train Ride in the World This 6 to 7-hour journey takes you through the heart of Sri Lanka’s hill country. From the cool air of Kandy , past the rolling green hills of Nuwara Eliya , and eventually into the charming mountain town of Ella , each stretch of track reveals breathtaking views. Expect to see: Endless tea plantations stretching across the hills Waterfalls cascading through the forest Cloud-kissed peaks Smiling locals waving from rural stations 🛤️ #KandyToElla Hotels in Ella Booking the Journey Trains fill up fast —...