Sri Lanka Visa Guide for Indian Travellers
From the lush tea gardens of Nuwara Eliya to the sacred temples of the Ramayana Trail, Sri Lanka is the perfect neighborly getaway. For Indian citizens, the entry process is primarily digital via the ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization). Skyway Tours & Travels assists you with the application to ensure your island getaway starts without a hitch.
🎉 Visa Fee Waiver Scheme
Good News: Sri Lanka frequently implements Visa Fee Waiver Schemes for Indian tourists to boost tourism. While government policies can change, you may be eligible for a Free Tourist Visa!
Please contact us to check the current status of the waiver for your travel dates.
Visa Types for Indian Nationals
1. Tourist ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization)
The standard entry permit for holidays and sightseeing.
- Application: Online via the official portal.
- Validity: Typically allows a stay of up to 30 Days.
- Entries: Usually issued as a Double Entry visa (enter twice within 30 days).
- Fees: Subject to current government policy (often waived for Indians).
2. Visa on Arrival (VoA)
While available at Bandaranaike International Airport (Colombo), we strongly recommend getting the ETA before flying to avoid long queues and potential surcharge fees at the counter.
3. Business ETA
For attending meetings, conferences, or workshops. This requires specific business documentation and is generally not covered under the tourist fee waiver schemes.
Essential Documents Required
Whether applying online or on arrival, you need:
- Passport: Valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival.
- Return Ticket: Confirmed return or onward flight booking.
- Accommodation: Proof of hotel booking or host address.
- Funds: Sufficient currency to cover expenses during your stay.
🏝️ Pearl of the Indian Ocean: Top Things to Do
Sri Lanka packs history, wildlife, and beaches into one island. Here are the must-visits:
Sigiriya (Lion Rock)
Climb this ancient rock fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site. See the famous frescoes and the giant lion paws guarding the staircase to the sky palace.
Ella & The Blue Train
Take the world-famous scenic train ride from Kandy to Ella through misty tea plantations. Visit the iconic Nine Arch Bridge.
Kandy & Temple of the Tooth
Explore the cultural capital. Visit the sacred temple housing Lord Buddha's tooth relic and enjoy a traditional Kandyan dance performance.
Nuwara Eliya (Little England)
Escape the heat in this colonial hill station. Visit the Ashok Vatika and Sita Amman Temple, key sites in the Ramayana.
Yala National Park
Go on a jeep safari to spot the elusive Sri Lankan Leopard. Yala has one of the highest leopard densities in the world, along with elephants and crocs.
Bentota & Mirissa
Relax on golden beaches. In Mirissa, you can go Whale Watching to see giant Blue Whales (best season: Nov-April).
✅ Why Choose Skyway Tours?
We make your island getaway effortless.
- Fee Waiver Check: We always check the latest government notices to ensure you don't pay visa fees if a waiver is active for Indians.
- Ramayana Tours: We specialize in itineraries covering the Ramayana Trail (Chilaw, Trincomalee, Nuwara Eliya, Kataragama).
- ETA Processing: We handle the online data entry to prevent common errors that lead to ETA delays.
Common Questions
Is the Ramayana Trail covered in standard tours?
Most standard tours cover Kandy and Nuwara Eliya (Ashok Vatika). For a full Ramayana pilgrimage, ask us for a customized itinerary covering all sacred sites.
Can I extend my visa?
Yes, the 30-day tourist ETA can usually be extended for up to 6 months by visiting the Immigration Department in Colombo (fees apply for extension).
Do I need Yellow Fever vaccination?
No, not if you are travelling directly from India. It is only required if arriving from a Yellow Fever endemic country in Africa or South America.
Check your Free Visa Eligibility today!
Email: visa@skywaytourandtravel.com
Call/WhatsApp: 9496 369 777