Australians and Sri Lankans already share a lot: a love of cricket, surf and the outdoors, and a large Sri Lankan community in Melbourne and Sydney. Sri Lanka is also one of the easiest long-haul trips from Australia, with nonstop flights from Melbourne and a free visa. Here is what Aussie travellers need to know.
Getting there
SriLankan Airlines flies nonstop from Melbourne to Colombo, about 10 to 11 hours, with daily flights and extra services on some days. From Sydney, Brisbane and Perth, most travellers connect via Singapore or Kuala Lumpur, or via Melbourne. Check current schedules, as routes change.
- ETA: Australian passport holders currently get a free ETA. Apply online at eta.gov.lk before you fly. It gives 30 days with double entry.
- Time difference: Sri Lanka is UTC+5:30, so 4.5 hours behind Melbourne and Sydney during Australian standard time.
- Plugs: Sri Lanka uses type D and G sockets at 230V. Australian plugs need an adapter.
- Driving: traffic drives on the left, like home, but most visitors hire a car with a driver.
- Money: one US dollar is roughly LKR 300. Cards work in cities, but carry cash for small towns.
Surf: two coasts, two seasons
Sri Lanka's monsoons give you surf for most of the year if you pick the right coast.
- South and west coast, about November to April: Weligama is perfect for learning, Hiriketiya's horseshoe bay suits all levels, and Midigama and Mirissa have reef breaks for experienced surfers.
- East coast, about May to September: Arugam Bay's point breaks are famous worldwide and at their best in the middle of the year.
Water is warm all year, so a rash vest is all you need. Reef breaks can be shallow, so booties help.
Cricket
Galle International Stadium, between the ocean and the old fort walls, is a pilgrimage for Australian cricket fans. Shane Warne took his 500th Test wicket here in 2004. If Australia is touring, watching a Test at Galle is unforgettable. Locals happily watch from the fort ramparts, and Sri Lankan crowds bring brass bands and plenty of noise.
Wildlife
- Leopards: Yala National Park has one of the highest leopard densities in the world. Go on an early-morning jeep safari.
- Elephants: Udawalawe has herds all year, and Minneriya hosts big gatherings around July to September.
- Whales: blue whales pass Mirissa from about November to April.
- Park fees: national park entry is about US$25 plus 18% tax for foreign adults. Parks open from 6am to 6pm and there are no night drives.
Don't skip the culture
Sigiriya Rock Fortress, the cave temples of Dambulla, the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy and the train through the tea country are all highlights. Note that as of October 2026 there is no through train between Kandy and Ella while the Kandy to Nanu Oya section is repaired. Travel to Nanu Oya by road and take the train on to Ella.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there direct flights from Australia to Sri Lanka?
Yes. SriLankan Airlines flies nonstop from Melbourne to Colombo. From other Australian cities you usually connect through Melbourne or an Asian hub.
Do Australians need a visa for Sri Lanka?
Australians need an ETA, which is currently free. Apply online at eta.gov.lk before travel.
When is the best time to surf in Sri Lanka?
The south and west coasts are best from about November to April. Arugam Bay on the east coast is best from about May to September.
What plug adapter do I need for Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka uses type D and G sockets at 230V. Australian type I plugs need an adapter, but Australian voltage is the same.
