When searching for our next winter escape, we had a clear checklist in mind: a comfortable time difference for working European hours, consistent surf, enough infrastructure to support remote work, wild nature, and a laid-back vibe without overwhelming crowds of tourists. Sri Lanka ticked every box and offered so much more during our stay in Ahangama in 2024.

If you’re considering visiting this amazing island and working remotely from there, and you are looking for tips for digital nomads in Sri Lanka, this comprehensive guide has everything you need to know. From navigating safety, visa requirements, and the political situation to understanding costs, finding accommodation, and dealing with power cuts, internet connectivity, and coworking spaces – we’ve covered it all. Get ready to plan your next remote work adventure as a digital nomad in Sri Lanka.

1. Visa for digital nomads in Sri Lanka

Digital nomads planning to stay in Sri Lanka typically apply for a tourist visa, which is initially granted for 30 days. It’s recommended to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online before arrival for a hassle-free process but a visa on arrival is also available. Keep in mind that visa regulations can change, so always check the latest updates on the official Sri Lankan immigration website.

Extension

If you want to stay in Sri Lanka for more than 30 days you can apply for an extension. The short-term visit visa may be extended up to a maximum of 270 days from the date of arrival in three consecutive instances: 30 days on entry, 60 days for the first extension, and 90 days for the second and third instances. Usually, applications for an extension should be submitted to the visa section of the Department of Immigration & Emigration (Head office) by visiting the department. However, for an extension of up to 6 months, you can apply online on the e-Visa extension website. If you are unable to use any of the above options, you can use the help of an authorized visa agency.

☀️ My experience: We got our visa online and extended it online as well for the whole 3 months of our stay – completely hassle-free.

2. Currency and prices

The Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) is the official currency. As of December 2024, 1 Euro equals approximately 350-400 LKR, though rates fluctuate.

In recent years, the prices in Sri Lanka rose significantly. Back in 2016, food was often costing half of today’s rates, and tuk-tuk fares were far more negotiable. Before the pandemic Sri Lanka was a heaven for backpackers travelling on a low budget, often compared to Southeast Asia in terms of affordability. While it still remains affordable for visitors, it has become more expensive than destinations like Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos.

ATMs

Accessing cash in Sri Lanka is straightforward, with ATMs readily available in cities and popular tourist areas. Most machines accept international debit and credit cards, including Visa and Mastercard. That said, withdrawing money often comes with fees: local banks charge 300–500 LKR (€0.85–€1.40), and your home bank might add foreign transaction fees. To save on costs, it’s a good idea to withdraw larger amounts when possible, but note that most ATMs limit withdrawals to 40,000–60,000 LKR per transaction.

If an ATM doesn’t work, don’t stress—just try another bank. Some machines handle foreign cards better than others. From our experience, Commercial Bank, Sampath Bank, and People’s Bank were reliable with our German DKB card, which worked at every ATM we tried. On the other hand, our Revolut card didn’t work at People’s Bank, so having a backup card is always a smart move.

Daily costs for digital nomads in Sri Lanka

• Accommodation: €10–€40 per night for mid-range guesthouses or co-living spaces.

• Food: A meal at a local restaurant costs around €2–€5. Western-style cafes charge €7–€15 for meals like burgers, pasta, or salads.

• Transport: Public transport is extremely affordable (€0.50–€2). Tuk-tuks typically charge around 50–100 LKR (€0.14–€0.28) per kilometre.

• Co-working spaces: Prices vary by location, with examples including Outpost in Weligama (€180/month) and Nets in Ahangama (€150/month).

3. Internet connection

Sri Lanka has decent internet infrastructure, particularly in urban areas and popular digital nomad or touristic hubs – so it’s definitely possible to work remotely from Sri Lanka. Here are a few important things:

Internet speed

With an average speed of 20–50 Mbps, the internet in Sri Lanka is usually sufficient for remote work and video calls. We are both freelancers with demanding full-time schedules including many video calls and download and upload of files and we had no issues with the internet in our villa in Ahangama. However, when looking for accommodation always ask for a speed test. This way you can make sure you will have access to good internet.

When choosing accommodation it’s also important to ask if the house has a fiber optic connection. If not, ask the owners if they could provide it. Mostly they are willing to if you plan to stay for a few months. Keep in mind, that even if an accommodation has fiber optic the internet might still be slow due to a low-speed package. We had this situation and simply asked the owner to buy a higher package for us.

Mobile data

Mobile data is affordable and widely available in Sri Lanka, with providers like Dialog and Mobitel offering 4G coverage across much of the island. Monthly data packages range from €5–€20 and typically include 10–40 GB of data, depending on the provider and package.

We used Dialog because our friends recommended it to us saying that it has a much better coverage in the south than Mobitel. We bought one card each for our mobile phones + one for the router in case we need the internet to work. They have two stands at the exit of the airport so you can buy a SIM card right after landing. In Feb 2024 we paid 2450 LKR (€6.50–€7.00) for 50 GB.

4. Power cuts in Sri Lanka

When preparing for our digital nomad trip to Sri Lanka, our biggest worry was the power cuts. Many of our friends told us that it was still a real problem on the island. These outages, often caused by fuel shortages, rising energy demand, and the country’s reliance on outdated infrastructure, could occur a few times a week or only once every two weeks – the frequency varies greatly depending on the location. They can last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours. While major cities and tourist hotspots (including restaurants, hotels, and coworkings) often have backup generators or solar panels, smaller towns or rural areas may not have such solutions.

Power cuts in the Ahangama area

When we first arrived in Ahangama, power cuts were still a part of daily life. On our first Sunday, we experienced an 8-hour outage (from 9:00 to 17:00), which was a bit of a shock. Thankfully, that was the only full-day power cut we faced. Afterwards, the power cuts were much shorter, lasting only 15–30 minutes and happening just 3–4 times over our entire three-month stay.

In March 2024, we noticed significant construction work on the electricity supply system in the area. New electricity lines have since been installed, which may help. It’s definitely a step in the right direction, although it’s important to keep in mind that power cuts in Sri Lanka are also caused by issues beyond infrastructure.

Tips on how to prepare for power cuts

Since power cuts can happen during the week, during working hours and they can last up to several hours you need to make sure that you have an alternative solution to be able to continue working. Here are a few tips which will save you a lot of headaches:

• Coworking space with AC and solar panels: it’s a good idea to find a coworking close to your accommodation that has solar panels (an alternative energy source) and an AC (you will need one since the one at your home won’t be working). This could be your go-to place in case of power cuts. We chose Nets during our stay in Ahangama. You can read more about our experience with coworking spaces in Ahangama here.

• Power bank: It’s a good idea to invest in a big power bank, one that can charge your laptop. We bought this power bank which has a very big capacity as we wanted to make sure both our laptops can be charged at the same time. It worked great and now it travels with us everywhere we go.

• Wi-fi router: Take a wi-fi router with you on your digital nomad trip to Sri Lanka. You can buy a local SIM card and use it as an alternative internet source. We took with us our Netgear router to make sure we have internet at all times. It worked great for the two of us during power cuts.

• Power cut app: There is an app in Sri Lanka that shows when the power cuts will happen. From our experience, it was reliable only 50% of the time – better than nothing. 😉 You can access it under this link. If you want to use it, the owner of your accommodation will need to share his account number with you.

• Portable light: if you want to stay at home during power cuts and plan to have calls in the evening remember to take a portable light with you. The sunset in Sri Lanka is at 18:00 which is the middle of the working day in Europe.

5. Destinations for digital nomads in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka offers several destinations that are particularly appealing to digital nomads due to the availability of coworking spaces and a vibrant community of people from around the globe. Most of the places visited by remote workers are in the south of the island and offer access to good surf spots. What differentiates them is the size, level of infrastructure, and how touristy they are – which means everyone can find a spot serving their needs.

Weligama

Weligama is also located in the south in a big bay with a wide and long beach. Compared to Ahangam it can be described rather as a town which means it has a bit more to offer in terms of shops and services. Its holiday infrastructure, including a Marriott hotel, attracts many tourists. However, it’s also a popular spot among digital nomads looking for a more vibrant vibe. You can surf along the whole bay, and there is a coworking space called Outpost.

☀️ My opinion: for me, Weligama is too touristy, with many people coming here for vacation. It has a less authentic vibe than other smaller villages like Ahangama or Midigama. Also, the big beach in Weligama is not very clean with a lot of trash coming from the town and the fishing boats as well as stray dogs living on it. There is also an ugly river flowing into it. Of course, the bay is huge so you won’t feel any of this at first sight but seeing this doesn’t make you feel comfortable with the water quality. Despite its size, the bay can also get very crowded with hundreds of beginners bumping into one another.

Ahangama

Ahangama is located in the south of the island around 20 min. drive from Weligama. It has become very popular in recent years and is growing rapidly, adapting more and more to the needs of digital nomads with its fancy cafes, boutiques, and yoga studios. The area offers many surf spots along the coast and it already has two proper co-working spaces (FocuseHub and Nets). It’s smaller than Weligama and not so focused on parties so it’s a good fit for people looking for a calmer environment. It is also less touristy than Weligama since there is a limited amount of sandy beaches and no mainstream holiday infrastructure (only smaller boutique hotels) which gives it a more authentic vibe.

☀️ My opinion: We decided to stay in Ahangama because we were looking for a less mainstream place that would be more focused on digital nomads than tourists. And since the infrastructure of Ahanagma increased significantly in the last year it offered enough coworking spaces, restaurants, shops, etc. to comfortably live there. The only downside of Ahangama for us was the fact that the main road is super busy and it’s located right next to all the surf spots and the main restaurants and shops. In the beginning, every drive on it feels like a life-threatening experience but with time you get used to this. Because of that, it’s also not really possible to go anywhere for a walk since there are no sidewalks.

Midigama

Midigama is located between Weligama and Ahangama, Midigama is a small and peaceful village partially hidden in the jungle and partially stretching along the coast. It’s smaller than Ahangama and it’s the perfect place for digital nomads seeking a slower pace. Known for its excellent surf spots like Lazy Left and Right or Rams, it’s also popular amongst surfers. While it lacks dedicated coworking spaces, its proximity to Weligama and Ahangama ensures easy access to more developed facilities. With budget guesthouses, beachside villas, and local cafes offering decent Wi-Fi, Midigama offers a simple, authentic coastal experience for remotely working surfers.

Hiriketiya

Hiriketiya is a very cute village with a small bay with a sandy beach where you can surf. For me, it felt more like a destination for holidays or shorter stays but it’s also popular amongst digital nomads looking for a very chill beach vibe. It offers some nice restaurants, coffee places, and shops as well as one coworking (Clics – Coliving & Coworking). Hiriketiya is definitely worth a short visit even if you choose a different place for your stay in Sri Lanka. We spent there a few days and we really enjoyed it. Check out this article to see attractions we can recommend.

Arugam Bay

Arugam Bay: Located on the east coast for a change, Arugam Bay is popular from April to October (opposite to the south coast) because of the weather and the surf conditions. Once a small and chilled town, it has turned into a party location filled with backpackers and surfers. It offers at least one coworking space: Nomads Coworking Space. We never visited Arugam Bay, but we heard from many people that it has a different vibe than the Buddhist south, partly due to its stronger Muslim influence.

6. Coworking spaces in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is still quite a new destination on the digital nomad map so the coworking infrastructure is still in a development phase. As of 2025, the island offers only a few proper coworking spaces in the south (e.g. Weligama, Ahangama) and east (Arugam Bay), as well as in Colombo. There are also some cafes and restaurants which offer coworking rooms or tables.

However, the infrastructure is still significantly weaker than in other digital nomad destinations like Bali or Chiang Mai. While Bali offers a wider variety of coworking spaces with luxurious amenities and community-building events, Sri Lanka provides a more laid-back and wilder vibe, ideal for those who want a quieter setting. This will most probably change in the next few years as Sri Lanka becomes more and more popular amongst digital nomads.

• Facilities: proper coworking spaces usually offer basic office furniture, reliable internet, and a professional atmosphere. Some, like Outpost in Weligama or Nets in Ahangama, even provide community events and networking opportunities.

• Solar Panels: Given the frequent power cuts, many coworking spaces have backup generators or solar panels to ensure uninterrupted work.

• Costs: Prices for coworking spaces vary, with monthly packages typically ranging from €120 to €200 depending on the location and amenities.
  

☀️ If you are planning to live in Ahangama check out this article about coworking spaces in this area. During our stay in Sri Lanka, I visited many of them and collected some useful information for digital nomads.

7. Time zone in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka operates on Indian Standard Time (IST), which is CET+4:30 or GMT+5:30 during winter time in Europe and CET+3:30 or GMT+4:30 in the summer time. If you are a digital nomad working European business hours in the CET time zone, this means there is a time difference of +4.5 hours in winter time and +3.5 hours in the summertime (Sri Lanka has no time change). This is a very easy-to-manage time difference since it doesn’t require you to start working very early (like in Mexico or Brazil) or very late (like in Indonesia) and is a big advantage of doing to Sri Lanka as a digital nomad. You can check the exact time difference each month here: https://www.worldtimebuddy.com/

Advantages

The time zone can work well if your workday overlaps with European business hours in the afternoon or evening, giving you mornings to surf or explore. If you usually start working at 9:00 CET in Europe, this means you will start working at 13:30 Sri Lankan time (during winter time) or 12:30 (during summer time).

Challenges

You might need to work late in the evening to match the European end of business. If you usually work until 17:00 in Europe this means you will work until 21:30 in Sri Lanka (during wintertime in Europe) or 20:30 (during summertime in Europe) – which isn’t bad if you consider lower temperatures in the evenings. If possible it’s a good idea to discuss flexible work hours with your employer or clients to ensure a balanced routine. For example, you could agree on starting 1h earlier in exchange for finishing one hour earlier (CET: 8:00-16:00 = Sri Lanka 12:30-20:30 during winter time).

8. Surfing in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a paradise for surfers of all levels. With consistent waves year-round and a variety of surf spots for beginners and advanced surfers, the island has become a global surf destination. The waves in Sri Lanka are much more gentle and forgiving than in the Atlantic (e.g. Portugal) which makes them great for beginners and intermediate surfers as well. Advanced surfers will find some heavier, steeper and faster waves in Sri Lanka as well but it’s not what the island is famous for. 😉

The surf scene is divided into two coasts: the southwest and the southeast coast each working in different months of the year. The surf seasons match with the dry season which means that:

• the south-west (incl. Weligama, Midigama, Ahangama, Hiriketiya, etc.) works well from November to April
• the south-east (Arugam Bay) works well from April to October.

Weligama

Perfect for beginners with its long sandy beach. It’s a beach break so depending on the swell it can be very chilled and gentle but it can also get big and punchy with bigger swells. However, there are different spots along the bay so even with a big swell you can always find one that’s less exposed. The crowd factor can be very high in the main season due to the number of tourists. Once when we visited it was so crowded that I can easily say it was the most crowded spot I ever saw. Surf schools and board rentals are widely available with most being located right at the beach.

Midigama

Midigama is home to some of the best reef breaks on Sri Lanka’s south coast. Whether you’re catching your first green waves or chasing barrels, this spot has something for everyone. Advanced surfers can test their skills at Rams or Coconuts, while mellow longboard-friendly waves like Lazy Right and Lazy Left are perfect for a more relaxed session. Even when living in Ahangama, we were driving to Midigama for surfing on a regular basis, as some of our favourite waves were located there. It’s a true surfer’s paradise, but don’t expect to have it all to yourself – crowds can get surprisingly heavy during the dry season as this area becomes more and more popular. Still, the vibe is welcoming, and the waves make it well worth it!

Ahangama

Similar to Midigama, Ahangama is also a dream destination for surfers looking to ride consistent waves in a laid-back environment. It has something for everyone: advanced surfers can tackle the punchy beach breaks at The Rock, intermediates can sharpen their skills at Sticks or The Cove, and advanced beginners might catch their first green waves at Marshmellow. Theoretically, Ahangam should offer fewer crowds compared to other South Coast locations but I’m not sure if this is still the case as the area has become very popular in the last years.

Hiriketiya

Known as one of Sri Lanka’s most picturesque surf spots, Hiriketiya Bay offers a mix of mellow waves for beginners on the inside and faster reef breaks for intermediates and advanced surfers further out. The waves here are consistent in the dry season making it an ideal spot if you want to combine surfing with a relaxed tropical vibe. The crowd factor can be high during peak season though as the bay (and the beach) are rather small.

Arugam Bay

The main point break offers long, smooth rides that are perfect for intermediates and advanced surfers looking to refine their skills. Beginners aren’t left out either, with smaller, gentler breaks like Baby Point and nearby spots such as Whiskey Point and Peanut Farm, which cater to all skill levels. The surf season runs from April to October, with consistent swells and warm water making it a great summer surf destination. While the vibe is generally relaxed, the increasing popularity means it can get crowded, especially during peak season.

More about surfing in Sri Lanka

• Localism: Sri Lanka’s surf culture is mostly welcoming and relaxed. There is not a lot of localism in the water in comparison to European surf sports in Portugal or the Canary Islands. However, you can encounter some uncomfortable situations at times, especially at intermedia and advanced spots. Remember to always show respect and be friendly – smiling and talking to the locals can help a lot!

• Renting a board: While board rentals are widely available in Sri Lanka consider taking your own board (or two) if you are an intermediate or advanced surfer since the quality of boards available in Sri Lanka is rather low. Mostly they are very used, have bumps and cracks, etc.

• Sun protection: since the sun in Sri Lanka is super intense make sure to take a rush guard and a surf hut with you (especially if you want to surf around noon). I bought a long-sleeved one-piece swimsuit with 50 SPF protection and a hut and was super happy with both, wearing them every day when going surfing in Ahangama. Also, don’t forget to take some zinc and wax with you. It might be hard or very expensive to buy them in Sri Lanka.

• Shoes: In Sri Lanka, you’ll find a variety of surf spots, from sandy beaches to sharp reef breaks, so whether you need surf shoes depends on the location. My feet are quite sensitive, so I wore shoes all the time—especially after hearing a story from a friend about stepping on several toxic sea urchins and being unable to surf for days. Fabian, on the other hand, never wears shoes (which seems to be what most advanced surfers prefer).

• Tides: The tide difference in Sri Lanka isn’t significant, which means you can usually surf at any time of the day. This means you don’t need to chase the surf and plan your whole life according to the tides – which was a very nice change in comparison to our life in Portugal.

9. Best times to visit Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s tropical climate guarantees warm air and water temperatures. With its unique geography and coastlines exposed to different directions, you can visit the island all year round chasing the sun and escaping the rain. And when the south gets too hot you can always enjoy the cooler climate in the hill country.

Dry season

The dry season is considered the best for most travellers. During this time, you can expect warm temperatures, plenty of sunshine, and minimal rain – perfect for outdoor adventures and working in scenic co-working spaces. Just don’t forget your sunscreen, as the tropical sun can be intense!

• December to March: the weather is best on the west and south coasts as well as in the hill country.

• May to September: the weather is best on the east coast.

• Shoulder season (e.g. November and April on the south coast): months right before and right after the dry season are also a time to consider if you don’t like crowds and don’t mind a bit of rain. We stayed in Ahangama for the whole of April and enjoyed this time the most due to more swell and fewer crowds.

Temperatures

Average temperatures range from 26–32°C (78–90°F) in coastal areas. However, be prepared for a reel-feel temperature of 38-40°C due to the humidity. This is what we experienced during our stay in Ahangama from February to April 2024. As you can imagine, working without AC was not an option and outside activities needed to be limited during noon.

In contrast, hill country areas like Nuwara Eliya or Ella offer cooler temperatures, often ranging between 15–20°C (59–68°F), providing a refreshing escape from the heat. When we visited, we were surprised at how cold it was there – locals in Nuwara Eliya were even wearing winter clothes! Make sure to pack some warm (long-sleeve) layers if you plan to explore this region.

10. How to find accommodation for digital nomads in Sri Lanka

Finding accommodation in Sri Lanka as a digital nomad for 2-3 months can be a challenging task, especially if you are looking for a high-end, European-style place. It seems that the real estate market in Sri Lanka hasn’t had the time to adapt to the needs of digital nomads yet. Because of that you mostly need to choose between modern but very pricy villas owned by expats or much cheaper and simpler places owned by the locals. What’s missing are the options in between. We were struggling to find reasonably priced accommodation for quite some time and finally decided on a villa owned by a Sri Lankan family.

Here are some tips to help you find an accommodation in Sri Lanka:

Co-living spaces

Many digital nomads opt for co-living spaces, especially in popular hubs like Weligama, Ahangama, and Hiriketiya. These spaces often include Wi-Fi, community activities, and sometimes even co-working areas. However, they can be quite pricy. We saw a room at Colive in Ahangama which after a discount was offered to us for 1600 EUR per month without even having AC. Nets Coworks & Colive has similar prices but at least they do have an AC.

Short-term rentals

Websites like Airbnb or Booking.com are great for finding short-term rentals for the beginning of your stay. You can look for listings that offer discounts for monthly stays. We booked our villa via Airbnb to be sure we had a place to stay when we arrived. Later on, we rented the villa directly from the owner skipping the Airbnb fees.

Facebook groups

Joining local Facebook groups for digital nomads in Sri Lanka can connect you with landlords or other travellers who know available properties. Many people post on these groups when they have a place to rent. You can also post to inform others what you are looking for and I’m sure you will get a lot of messages back. Check out the groups listed below in the  “Social Media Groups for Digital Nomads” paragraph.

Local guesthouses

Many guesthouses are open to negotiating rates for longer stays. Visiting in person and discussing your requirements often results in the best deals.

Word of mouth

Once you’re in Sri Lanka, ask locals or other digital nomads for recommendations. Many long-term visitors find great accommodations through personal connections.

11. Social media groups for digital nomads in Sri Lanka

When going to Sri Lanka as a digital nomad, seeking to connect, finding resources, or discovering accommodation will be much easier when using specific social media groups. Here are a few from Facebook and WhatsApp that you should consider joining. These groups can help you navigate the logistics of living in Sri Lanka while providing opportunities to get to know new people.

• FacSri Lanka Group for Foreigners, Expats and Digital Nomads
• Sri Lanka Surf Community
• South Sri Lanka foreigners community
• Expats in Sri Lanka
• Digital nomads Sri Lanka

12. How to travel in Sri Lanka

Getting around Sri Lanka is an adventure in itself due to various challenges such as overcrowded public transport, unpredictable schedules, and chaotic traffic conditions. While these can make travel adventurous and exciting, they may require patience and flexibility, especially for first-time visitors. Here are some of the most common travel options:

Scooters

Preferred option by digital nomads and surfers in Sri Lanka. It’s a great choice if you want to stay longer in one place and have the flexibility to easily reach different surf spots. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Daily rentals range from 1,000 to 2,000 LKR (€2.85–€5.70).
• Remember that driving in Sri Lanka can be chaotic so it’s not a good idea to rent a scooter in Sri Lanka if you have never driven a scooter before.

• International driving licence: if you want to drive a scooter in Sri Lanka you’ll need an International Driving Permit. The exact regulations around this topic in Sir Lanka are not entirely clear to me. We got a standard international driving licence purchased online from IDA office – which is a document with translations of your driving licence into different languages. This was enough when renting a scooter and moving around the Ahangama area. However, some websites mention that a much more complex process of getting a permit from the Automobile Association of Ceylon is needed.

• Driving licence category: category B driver licences from some European countries do not allow you to drive a motorcycle exceeding 49 cc at all or outside of your country of residence. When renting a scooter in Sri Lanka nobody will ask you about this. However, it might be an uncomfortable surprise later on during a police check. Moreover, in case of an accident, your insurance might not cover if you were driving a scooter without an appropriate driving licence. This is why I decided to rent a 49cc scooter and not a 125cc.

• Surf racks: surf racks attached to a scooter are a popular way to drive with a surfboard. It feels a bit strage at first but you can get used to the different balance. However, be careful on more windy days (especially if you travel with a longer board) or when a bus is overtaking you at a significant speed – the gusts might make you lose balance. In terms of regulations, apparently, it’s officially not allowed to have a surf rack on your scooter in Sri Lanka due to security reasons but in the touristy parts of the island it’s tolerated – or at least it should be. Still, police might stop you and tell you that surf racks are not allowed and use this as a way to get some money from you.

• Police: We were stopped by the police multiple times in the Ahangama area and had to give them a “small governmental fee”. At first it was a very stressful experience as we didn’t know what to expect – some police men were very intimidating and even threatening us with court. If you want to be better prepared and know more about police checkups in the Ahangama/Weligama/Midigama area see this article.

Tuk-tuks

A fun and affordable option for short distances. Tuk-tuks charge around 50–100 LKR (€0.14–€0.28) per kilometre, though prices may vary in tourist areas. Always make sure to agree on the price in advance to avoid unpleasant situations. You can go with a tuk-tuk even with a longboard – in surf regions, the drivers have a way to transport the boards on the roof of their tuk-tuks.

With driving licence cat. B from Europe you can also rent a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka and use it as your daily means of transport instead of a scooter (you need an International Driving Permit though – more info here).

Public Transport

Buses and trains are the cheapest way to travel around the island. However, they can be extremely crowded and not always punctual. So it’s a great option for travellers on a budget with a flexible schedule but if you have a limited amount of time or would rather travel in comfortable conditions I wouldn recommend a train/bus ride rather as an attraction than a means of transport. The buses tend also to drive very fast without respecting any traffic rules.

Private Drivers (taxi)

For longer journeys or more comfortable travel, hiring a private driver or taxi is a convenient option. Prices vary depending on the distance and negotiation skills. To give you an example, we hired a taxi from Hiriketiya to Ella (which is 150 km) and paid 24,000 LKR (€68–€70).

Apps

Apps like PickMe and Uber are available in some places (especially cities) and can be great for hassle-free, metered rides. We tried PickMe in the Weligama area and it worked well, except for one time when the driver wanted more money than the rate from the app at the end of the ride.

13. Safety in Sri Lanka

Is it safe for digital nomads in Sri Lanka?

While Sri Lanka is pretty chill, there are a few things to keep in mind to stay safe:

• Avoid isolated areas at night, especially beaches. Without crowds or adequate lighting, these areas can be hotspots for thieves or harassment. Additionally, stray dogs might be living there. It’s always safer to stick to well-populated spots after dark. We were going for some nighttime walks only if the beach had a bit of light or we knew it well.

• Be cautious of thieves in crowded areas, such as markets and buses. Pickpockets might target distracted travellers, and unattended bags can disappear quickly.

• Political demonstrations occur occasionally in Colombo and other cities. Monitor updates from sources like Groundviews or local Facebook groups for real-time information.

• Traffic: The traffic on Sri Lankan roads is intense and can be very dangerous. Roads are often narrow and shared by cars, buses, tuk-tuks, motorcycles, bicycles, and pedestrians, creating chaotic conditions. Drivers frequently overtake without warning, some drive very fast (especially bus drivers) and traffic rules are not always followed. In rural areas, animals like cows or dogs can unexpectedly cross the road, adding to the unpredictability. If you plan to rent a scooter, make sure you are confident when driving it, always wear a helmet, and remain highly alert at all times (especially when a bus is trying to overtake you).

Wildlife

Sri Lanka is home to an amazing and diverse wildlife. However, you should be mindful of the following when going there:

• Elephants: Elephants can sometimes cross roads, particularly at night, so exercise caution when driving in rural areas or near national parks. See this interesting reel from National Geographic about an elephant who learned how to block a road to get food.

• Crocodiles: Found in rivers and lagoons, particularly in the southern and eastern parts of the country. In Arugam Bay and the Weligama area, they have also been spotted in the ocean, even at some of the main surf spots located close to river mouths.

• Snakes: Sri Lanka has several venomous species, including cobras and vipers. Encounters are more common during hikes or in rural areas but it happened to our friends that a snake was living under their house in Ahangama.

• Monkeys: You can find them in most forested areas and even urban centres. They can be aggressive if they feel threatened or if food is involved. Avoid feeding them to prevent unwanted attention as they may be carrying rabies.

14. Travelling as a woman

Sri Lanka is considered safe for solo female travellers, especially in comparison to India. When we arrived in Sri Lanka after spending two weeks in India, I was relieved because the environment, including the behaviour of men, felt much more relaxed and safe. However, it’s not as safe as destinations like Thailand or Bali. Western women may still experience unwanted attention and uncomfortable situations, as the local community is not fully accustomed to seeing female travellers.

For example, many Western women sunbathe in bikinis on the beach, but Sri Lankan women would never do so- they always cover most of their bodies, both to protect the skin from the sun and because of cultural norms. For some Sri Lankan men, seeing a woman in a bikini might be unusual and could provoke unwanted behaviours. This underscores the importance of being mindful of cultural differences and respecting local attitudes while travelling.

This is why it’s advisable to use common sense rules when travelling as a woman: make sure to dress modestly, avoid secluded areas (e.g. remote beaches), and use reputable transport options, like PickMe, Uber or other apps. 

Unpleasant situations

To give you a better idea of the situation, here are some incidents I have experienced myself:

• Crowded buses: Crowded buses are a great occasion for men to get very close to you and start rubbing their genitals against your body. This happened to me while travelling on an overcrowded minibus. At first, I didn’t realize that it was “this” part of the man’s body due to the crowd, but when I did, I pushed him away, and he stopped. Unfortunately, this isn’t an isolated incident – I heard similar stories from other women travelling in Sri Lanka.

• Remote beaches: It’s not advisable to go to remote beaches alone or sunbathe in corners of the beach. Sir Lankan man might use this occasion to masturbate while watching you from nearby bushes. This happened to me even though I was with a friend. In worse scenarios which I heard from other women, they might even approach you and offer unwanted massages, or even grab or kiss you without consent.

How to react?

If such situations occur, some locals advise to do the following (if the situation feels safe enough):

• Shout and make the incident public: Drawing attention exposes the offender and may deter further actions.

• Take photos: Documenting the incident and sharing the images with your Sri Lankan host or on social media can help ensure the offender is held accountable within the community. In smaller towns where many people are relatives or know each other, such actions can prevent repeat offences.

15. Health

Vaccinations

• Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date.
• Additional vaccines recommended for Sri Lanka are described in detail here but it’s always best to consult this with your doctor. We went to a tropical disease hospital which had a travel department for vaccinations to make sure we were taken care of by the most experienced doctors in this field. Since we were planning to stay in Sri Lanka for a longer amount of time, we decided to take the Japanese Encephalitis vaccine additionally to the routine vaccinations.

Illnesses

• Be aware of mosquito-borne illnesses, such as Dengue Fever or Japanese Encephalitis (very rare) which can occur during the rainy seasons. To minimise the risk use insect repellent and sleep under mosquito nets at all times.

• Stray dogs are common, and while many are harmless, avoid petting them since they might be carrying rabies. Seek immediate medical attention if bitten or scratched.

Food and water

• Like everywhere in exotic countries it’s advisable to be cautious about consuming street food from vendors with questionable hygiene. Always prioritize freshly prepared meals. This is usually super easy in Sri Lanka as they mostly prepare food only when you order it. We were eating at many local restaurants and street food stands as well as the houses of our Sri Lanka friends and never had any issues during the three months we stayed there. Sri Lankan food is delicious so I’m sure you will enjoy it!
  
• Avoid drinking tap water and stick to bottled water instead. To use less plastic we asked our neighbours to provide us with big water bottles every week. They can deliver them to your house and you need only to buy an electric pump to pot on top of them. The bottles are then refilled with fresh (filtered?) water. You can also ask your host or at a local shop if they can help providing them.
• Be cautious with ice in drinks unless you are sure of its source – you can always ask if the ice cubes are made from filtered water.
• Other rules you might want to follow: ensure seafood and meat are thoroughly cooked, stick to fruits that can be peeled and avoid consuming raw salads to avoid contact with tap water.

Health Insurance

• It’s essential to have a comprehensive travel health insurance that covers accidents, illnesses, and emergency evacuations. Make sure you chose a reliable provider as this might be crucial when needing help. I’m using World Nomads during my travels.

• Sri Lanka has both public and private hospitals. Private hospitals, particularly in Colombo and other major cities, offer higher-quality care with shorter wait times, often comparable to international standards. Public hospitals are free but can be crowded and may lack resources in rural areas.

16. More about Sri Lanka

A brief history

Sri Lanka has a history stretching back thousands of years, marked by its strategic location on ancient trade routes. Known as Ceylon during British colonial rule, the country gained independence in 1948. However, the post-independence era was filled with ethnic tensions between the Sinhalese majority and Tamil minority.

The Tamil Tigers (LTTE) led a violent rebellion demanding an independent Tamil state in the north and east, using discrimination and lack of autonomy as the main arguments. The civil war, which lasted from 1983 to 2009, resulted in significant loss of life and economic disruption. Although the conflict ended over a decade ago, its legacy continues to influence Sri Lanka’s political and social framework. If you want to know more about this conflict I recommend reading Samanth Subramanian’s book called “This Divided Island”. You will also get some interesting insights from this YouTube video.

Current economic and political situation

Sri Lanka’s economy is recovering from one of its worst crises, marked by high inflation and fuel shortages in 2022. This crisis was caused by a sudden government decision to ban artificial fertilizers, which caused a significant drop in agricultural productivity and worsened food shortages. Additionally, unsustainable debt levels and a collapse in tourism during the COVID-19 pandemic drastically reduced one of the country’s main sources of income. International aid and reforms have stabilized the situation, but the cost of living remains high for locals compared to previous years. Between 2020 and 2023, prices for basic goods and services have risen by 50% or more. For example:

• Fuel: A litre of petrol cost around 150 LKR in 2016 and remained stable for years, but reached over 500 LKR at its peak in 2022 before settling at approximately 350–400 LKR (€0.88–€1.00) in 2024.

• Rice: Previously priced at 120 LKR per kilogram in 2016, now costs around 300 LKR.

I visited Sri Lanka in 2016 as a backpacker. Back then Sri Lanka had a growing tourism sector, with a sense of post-civil war optimism driving development. However, recent economic challenges have left visible marks, such as occasional power cuts and protests. While these disruptions are rare in tourist hotspots, they reflect the broader struggles faced by the local population. To get a better understanding of the crisis and its causes you can watch this Youtube video.

Religion

• Religions: Buddhism plays a significant role in daily life, with around 70% of the population identifying as Buddhists. Hinduism is practised by about 12.6%, Islam by 9.7%, and Christianity by 7.6%. These traditions coexist and often blend in unique ways, shaping the country’s rich cultural landscape. It’s quite common for individuals in Sri Lanka to embrace elements of multiple religions simultaneously. For instance, a Sri Lankan friend of ours visits a Buddhist monastery due to her Buddhist roots but worships the Hindu god Ganesha the most. She also celebrates Christmas and Easter with her Christian husband and attends church on Sundays. This syncretic approach to religion is culturally normal in Sri Lanka, though for us it was shocking at first (in a positive way) since in Europe religious identities tend to be more strictly defined.

• Role of Astrology: Astrology plays a significant role in Sri Lankan life, influencing everything from weddings to business decisions and even election dates.

• Pilgrimage Sites: Pilgrimages to places like Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada) and the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy are essential to Sri Lanka’s spirituality. Joining or observing such traditions can be a profound experience but requires sensitivity and respect.

• Poya Days: These are monthly full-moon holidays of religious significance for Buddhists. Alcohol sales are often banned on these days, and many businesses may close or operate limited hours.

Culture

Sri Lankan culture is deeply rooted in family, tradition, and hospitality. Here are some aspects that might be intriguing for digital nomads in Sri Lanka:

• Mix of cultures: Sri Lankan culture is a fascinating mix of Sinhalese, Tamil, and colonial influences that create a unique and vibrant way of life.

• Family Values: Family plays a central role in Sri Lankan culture. Decisions often involve family members and it’s preferred to do business with family. Respecting elders is also deeply rooted. This dynamic might differ significantly from more individualistic Western cultures.

• Festivals: Sri Lanka is known for its vibrant festivals such as Vesak (Buddhist festival of lights), Sinhala and Tamil New Year, and Deepavali (Hindu festival of lights). If you plan to stay in Sri Lanka during one of them, it’s a great experience to participate. We had the honour to celebrate the Sinhala New Year with our host family and it was an unforgettable experience.

• Cuisine: Sri Lankan food includes dishes like rice and curry, hoppers, and kottu roti. Be prepared for spicy food and try to embrace local eating habits, such as eating with your hands. Keep in mind that in restaurants catering to locals getting non-spicy food might be hard.

• Tea Culture: Sri Lanka is famous for its Ceylon tea, introduced by the British during colonial rule, and tea-drinking is a significant part of daily life for all Sri Lankans.

• Social Hierarchy: While caste and social status are less pronounced in modern times, these factors may still subtly influence social interactions.

Etiquette tips for digital nomads in Sri Lanka

• Dress modestly: (avoid shorts or sleeveless tops) when visiting temples or rural areas. In coastal areas, bikinis should only be worn on the beach – not in town while shopping or while driving a scooter.

• Remove shoes and hats before entering temples and local houses.

• Avoid touching others’ heads, as it is considered disrespectful.

• It’s better if you use your right hand for eating and handling items, as the left is associated with hygiene.

• Sri Lankans may stand closer during conversations compared to Europeans.

• Confrontations: Sri Lankans are usually warm and hospitable. They avoid direct confrontations due to cultural norms emphasizing harmony and respect which originate from the Buddhist tradition. However, when a confrontation does occur, it can escalate quickly, as emotions may rise and situations can become heated. It’s best to remain calm and patient to maintain a peaceful resolution.

Language in Sri Lanka

Sinhala and Tamil are the official languages. However, as a digital nomad you won’t have any issues with talking to the locals in Sri Lanka because English is widely spoken on the island. It’s a legacy of British colonial rule. English is particularly used in urban areas, tourist hubs, and among educated locals or even older people who lived during the British times. This is a big advantage of Sri Lanka as it’s very easy to communicate with the majority of the population – which helps to get into more conversations with the locals.

• Sinhala: Predominantly spoken in the south, west, and central parts of the country.
• Tamil: Widely spoken in the north and east, as well as by the Tamil minority in urban areas.

Below you’ll find a few basic phrases. Picking up and using these in your day-to-day interactions can create wonderful connections with the local community. Trust me, it’s worth to see the smile of the lady selling you coconuts after your surf session when you greet her with “Ayubowan” instead of “Hello”.

• Hello: Ayubowan (Sinhala) / Vanakkam (Tamil)

• Thank you: Isthuthi (Sinhala) / Nandri (Tamil)

• Yes: Ow (Sinhala) / Aamaam (Tamil)

• No: Naa (Sinhala) / Illai (Tamil)

• How much?: Meeka keeyada? (Sinhala) / Idhu evvalavu? (Tamil)

Conclusion

For us staying in Sri Lanka for three months was an unforgettable experience. We were looking for a less touristy destination (than Bali or Mexico, for example) which could offer great surf spots and wild nature, while at the same time enough infrastructure to comfortably work remotely. And while we experienced some power cuts when staying in Ahangama and the high temperatures were making us crazy sometimes, Sir Lanka checked all the boxes. We would definitely recommend it as a destination for digital nomads, especially now that it still has the wild, laid-back vibe.

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