Find Cheap Flights to Sri Lanka and Save on Your Trip

Croatian citizens must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before flying to Sri Lanka. This is usually done online, and the process is quick. ETA is mandatory for short tourist visits. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of entry. Although buying Sri Lanka plane tickets online is easy, don't forget the visa formalities. Always check the latest conditions on official websites before traveling. It is also recommended to have a copy of your return ticket, especially if you are looking for cheap Sri Lanka plane tickets for a flexible return. Be prepared to show proof of sufficient financial means for your stay. Regarding health, check recommended vaccinations, especially if you plan to visit rural areas. Keep in mind that medicines are readily available in Sri Lanka, but it is better to bring basic first aid from Croatia.

Getting around Sri Lanka is an adventure. Trains are a popular choice, especially scenic routes like the one between Kandy and Ella. Although slow, they offer incredible views and are extremely cheap. Buses cover almost the entire island and are the most economical way to travel, but they can be crowded. For shorter distances, tuk-tuks are essential. Always agree on the price before getting in or use ride-hailing apps in larger cities like Colombo to avoid scams. If you have bought plane tickets to Sri Lanka and plan to visit Galle or Kandy, consider hiring a driver for longer routes. This is a more comfortable option, and the cost can be shared. Driving a car is not recommended for tourists due to chaotic traffic. Compared to Croatia, traffic rules are more flexible here. For travel between cities, check the Sri Lanka flight search engine for domestic flights if you want to save time, but the train is often part of the experience.

Sri Lanka is a country with a deep Buddhist and Hindu culture. Respect is key. When visiting temples, be sure to remove your shoes and cover your shoulders and knees. Do not turn your back on Buddha statues when taking photos – this is considered disrespectful. Public displays of affection are rare and should be avoided. Embrace the slower pace of life; patience is a virtue. When eating, use your right hand, even if you are not used to eating without cutlery. Tipping is common but not mandatory. Always ask before photographing locals. Unlike Croatia, where tourism is focused on the coast, here the emphasis is on cultural heritage and nature. Learn a few basic words in Sinhala or Tamil – locals will appreciate it. When looking for cheap Colombo plane tickets, keep in mind that culture shock is less if you are prepared for these differences. Bringing small gifts, such as pencils for children, is also a nice gesture.

Sri Lankan cuisine is rich and spicy. Curry and rice are the staple, but also try 'hoppere' (bowl-shaped pancakes), 'kottu' (shredded bread with vegetables and meat), and fresh seafood on the coast. Food is significantly cheaper than in Croatia. Drink only bottled water. Street food is delicious, but be careful with hygiene; choose places with a high turnover of customers. Don't miss fresh fruit, especially king coconut. If you bought a plane ticket to Galle, you will find excellent seafood restaurants there. For an authentic experience, eat at local restaurants called 'rice and curry houses'. Most dishes are spicy, so if you don't like spicy food, emphasize 'not spicy' or 'less chili'. Compared to Mediterranean cuisine, Sri Lankan food is more intense and uses coconut milk as a base. Also try local tea, which is world-famous. Find cheap flights to Kandy and explore the tea plantations and enjoy traditional tea ceremonies. Avoid ice in drinks outside of major hotels.