Staying connected on holiday in Sri Lanka
Staying connected in Sri Lanka has become much easier over the years that I have been travelling to the island.
Mobile coverage is generally quite good around the island.
Here are some practical options for you:
Tourist SIM Cards
Tourist SIM cards can be purchased from providers like Dialog or Mobitel at the airport or in major cities. These are the most popular choices for tourists due to their wide coverage and affordable data packages.
There are kiosks operated by the main providers in the terminal before you exit the airport. I have found that the sales clerks have been very helpful. They are happy to put the Tourist SIM card into your phone so you are ready to go.Â
A typical tourist SIM card costs around 1,400 LKR and includes generous data allowances. These packages  are perfect for navigation, social media, and staying in touch.
eSIMs
If your phone supports eSIM technology, you can pre-order an eSIM online before your trip.Â
EeSIMS are a convenient option as it eliminates the need for a physical SIM card. You can also top up online if you find that you need more data and connectivity.Â
Wi-Fi Hotspots
Like in other countries, many hotels, cafes, and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi.
But, the speed and reliability can vary, especially in rural areas.
Data packages for commercial businesses are high compared to Europe and therefore sometimes the data runs out or the business only offers a slower MBPS to save costs.
Sri Lanka is not set up for you to sit in a cafe all day using the businesses data to work or surf the net. The costs are just too high for the businesses unlike Starbucks or another coffee franchise.
Roaming
This is probably the most expensive option. However, if you want to limit your connectivity, perhaps the cost will allow you to focus on your holiday and forget about back home.
It is recommended that you check with your home mobile provider for international roaming packages.
This option is convenient but is likely to be more expensive than local options.
Coverage
What is coverage like in Sri Lanka?
Coverage is generally good in cities and along the coast, but it can be spotty in remote areas like the Hill Country or National Parks.Â
WiFi at GlenMyu Estate
Keeping people connected is important to us at GlenMyu Estate.
Whether it’s keeping in contact with your family so that they know you are safe or with the office we have Wifi delivered by SLT Fibre.
We find that the speed is adequate for our guests requirements.
Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country
GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.
Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country
See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.
We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.
The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more.