visa Archives - GlenMyu

Free Sri Lankan Tourist Visa

Accommodation, Ella, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Natural Swimming Pool, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, visa / By Mikeez

Free Sri Lankan Tourist Visa

Hot off the press on the 25th of July it was announced that 40 countries are now eligible for a free tourist visa to Sri Lanka.

As the country chasing 3m tourists for the calendar year 2025.
This will help complete with other free tourist visa countries such as Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and Vietnam.

Hopefully, more travellers will discover this incredible and amazing island.

What countries are included for the Free Visa?

We first saw the announce meant in the Daily Mirror online.

Please click on the following articles to read what was released.

Here is the full list of 40 countries now eligible for visa-free entry:

Check this list to see whether you are eligible for a free tourist visa.

1. United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

2. Federal Republic of Germany

3. Kingdom of the Netherlands

4. Commonwealth of Australia

5. Kingdom of Spain

6. Republic of Poland

7. Kingdom of Belgium

8. Republic of Kazakhstan

9. Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

10. United Arab Emirates

11. Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal

12. People’s Republic of China

13. Republic of India

14. Russian Federation

15. Republic of Indonesia

16. Kingdom of Thailand

17. Federation of Malaya

18. Japan

19. Republic of France

20. United States of America

21. Canada

22. Czech Republic (Czechia)

23. Republic of Italy

24. Swiss Confederation (Switzerland)

25. Republic of Austria

26. State of Israel

27. Republic of Belarus

28. Islamic Republic of Iran

29. Kingdom of Sweden

30. Republic of Finland

31. Kingdom of Denmark

32. Republic of Korea

33. State of Qatar

34. Sultanate of Oman

35. Kingdom of Bahrain

36. New Zealand

37. State of Kuwait

38. Kingdom of Norway

39. Republic of Türkiye

40. Pakistan

Only Apply at the Government Website

Please do not use intermediaries to buy your visa.

Logon to this link to the Official Sri Lankan Government Website to purchase your visa.

It’s easy and they tend to respond quite quickly.

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.

Free Sri Lankan Tourist Visa Read More »

What should I pack for Sri Lanka?

Birdwatching, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, The Pekoe Trail, Travel, visa, Waterfalls / By Mikeez

What should I pack for my holiday?

What should I pack for my holiday in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka is an incredible destination with a lot of different experiences and environments.

It has natural beauty, rich culture, and tropical weather!

What you need to bring will depend on what type of holiday you plan on the island.

Here’s a suggested packing list so that you can make the most of your trip:

Clothing

Light, breathable clothes:

We would recommend cotton or linen to stay cool in the tropical heat.

A scarf or shawl:

Used for covering shoulders when visiting sacred sites such as temples.

These are also handy for the cooler evenings in Nuwara Eliya and the Hill Country.

Evening wear:

Some restaurants, five star hotels or events may have dress codes. If you are staying at more luxurious hotels, bring along some master clothes so you feel comfortable in the environment.

Comfortable walking shoes:

There are lots of great hikes and walking in Sri Lanka. You will need good walking shoes for hiking in Horton Plains, Knuckles Mountains and some of the other National Parks. Good walking shoes are essential for the stages of the Pekoe Trail.

Rain gear:

In the tropics, it can rain without much notice.
Packing a lightweight rain jacket or an umbrella will keep you dry during the occasional tropical showers.

Swimwear:

One of the main reasons travellers visit Sri Lanka is for the beach.

Whether you are swimming in the sea, the hotel pool, surfing or snorkelling you will need to pack your swimwear.

Essentials

Insect repellent:

The mosquitoes really like me!

Please buy the right strength repellant before you travel to deal with the mosquitoes that are on the prowl in the early mornings and evenings.

Travel-size toiletries:

Most hotels provide soap and shampoo, however you may wish to use a brand that you are familiar with.

It’s worth packing some basics like shampoo, toothpaste, etc, just in case.

Sunscreen and sunglasses:

You are in the tropics!

The sun is hot and strong!

Protect your body and eyes from the strong sun.

Medicine:

Please bring your personal medication with you. You may find it difficult getting the brands that you are familiar with on the island.

It may also be worth packing a basic first aid kit, if you have room.

Snacks:

If you are hiking or travelling a long distance bring some snacks with you.

You will be able to buy food and refreshments at cafes, restaurants and in supermarkets.

However, some of the food may be spicy and you may want to bring your own less challenging snacks with you.

Extras

A Camera or smartphone:

There will be so many opportunities to capture the amazing views and sights a camera or smartphone are important items to bring with you!

A Reusable water bottle:

You are in the tropics! It’s important to stay hydrated. Although you can buy plastic bottles with fresh water it’s better for the environment if you bring your own and do something for the environment in Sri Lanka.

Travel adapters:

Sri Lanka uses Type D, Type M, and Type G plugs.

Guidebook or travel apps:

It’s worth doing some research before your trip so we would recommend that you buy a guide book or get a map.

You will be surprised on how long it takes to travel around the island compared to your home country, so be prepared!

A map or guidebook will help you navigate and learn more about local attractions.

Before you travel - don't forget

You will need a visa to enter Sri Lanka.

The online system is your first port of call. It’s quite effective and you should get a response quite quickly.

Vacccinations

Check with your health service provider on what vaccinations that they recommend to get before travelling.

Make sure that you do this early as some vaccinations, such as anti rabies need a series of shot. Other vaccinations need time to get into your system so that they are effective for when you travel.

Money and passport

I know it’s obvious, but these are some of the most essential items that you will need.

Sri Lanka is a country that still uses cash and there are lots of places where you can’t pay with plastic. If they do take cards there is usually an additional card transaction fee.

There are lots of ATM’s around the country and you will have the opportunity to take some cash out for every day expenses.

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.

What should I pack for Sri Lanka? Read More »

Is it safe to visit Sri Lanka now?

Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, Little Adam's Peak, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Is it safe to visit Sri Lanka now?

Is it safe to travel to Sri Lanka now?

Many people ask is it safe to visit Sri Lanka? I am writing this article in September 2024, just before the Presidential election.

We believe that Sri Lanka is safe to visit, and actually has been over the years despite the negative press in the media.

So many tourists in 2024 and more projected in 2025

Sri Lanka’s tourist numbers have been increasing. Targeting 3 million tourists in 2025 is a large rise from the 2.3 million planned for 2024.

The Sri Lanka Tourist development Board publish monthly and weekly tourist arrivals.

So, you can see for yourself that lots of travellers are visiting Sri Lanka. They don’t appear to have concerns about safety, and providing that they are sensible, they shouldn’t have any concerns.

The best place for female solo travel - maybe!

Sri Lanka was recognised as “The best places for solo female travel in 2024” by Timeout.com”.

Clearly, the Island was delighted with this survey.

However as always there are always stories that could be highlighted that would make you a little bit more cautious.

Our general rule is that 95% of people are good and have genuine intentions.
However, in every country there are the 5% that have no morals and you have to be careful of.

I have seen too many TikTok, Instagram and Facebook videos showing the negative side of travelling on the Island.
One negative video is too many, so I want to assure you that most Sri Lankans want you to have the best experience on their paradise island.

We have many good stories where Sri Lankans have gone the extra mile or genuinely provided hospitality that have awed the tourists visiting the island.

It is safe to visit, just be cautious in Tourist Hot Spots

Where there are lots of tourists, petty criminals see opportunities to make a fast buck. Just be on your guard in the larger towns and cities and at the poster boy tourists sites.

We have a great Tuk Tuk driver that we recommend to our guests, but you will come across some who will try to make quick money.

Getting a Meter Taxi, using Uber or Pick Me are some methods you can use to stop being ripped off.

Is it safe to visit Sri Lanka - in the scheme of things.....

We hate guests paying over the odds for all things in Sri Lanka.

Therefore we have gathered a number of contacts where we are confident that they will offer a fair price for a trip of excursion.

However, in reality, paying a little bit extra is not going to make a big difference to you as a traveller, apart from the feeling that you have been a little bit duped.

I recommend that you look on this philosophically and, in the scheme of things, it is not worth getting upset about.

Just don’t let these trivial things spoil your holiday, it’s not worth it.

I’m not a Buddhist, however I’m sure there is a way of looking at these scenarios and going forgiveness or perhaps looking at it as a charitable donation.

I assure you that, over the years living on the island, I have decided to let things go rather than let them give rise to unwarranted levels of anger.

Over the last eight years, I have not felt unsafe.

Having lived on the island for the last eight years, I’ve experienced events that you would have thought that I would have made me feel unsafe.

The horrific Easter bombings on the 21st April 2019.

Living in the island during the global pandemic when there were a limited number of vaccines available.

The Aragalaya protests during 2022 against the Government which saw the President flee the country and people having a swim in the presidential pool.

Despite all these scary events, I never felt unsafe.

Perhaps, residing out of the main conurbations and in the Sri Lankan Hill country meant that we were away from the main action.

The tourists that did visit during these times were looked after and provided Sri Lanka’s renowned hospitality.

Presidential Elections and then what?

Sri Lankas’ Presidential Elections are taking place on the 21st September 2024.

I think that once the elections are over and the people have accepted the result, Sri Lanka will be as safe as ever to visit as ever.

The peak tourist season is between December and April,. We expect that monthly arrival records will be achieved and tourist will love their time exploring the island.

We expect to be there or thereabouts on tourist number targets

As previously mentioned, we expect tourist numbers in Sri Lanka to increase substantially.

From just under 1.6 million to December 2023 the plan is 2.3 million to December 2024. As at mid- September 2024 the country had welcomed almost 1.3 million visitors.

In December, the main peak season starts. In December 2023 the country was visited by 210,000 tourists, so if the country does not achieve its’ target, it will come close.

Keep up to date with your countries Foreign Office Advice

As situations can change quickly we would recommend that you check your countries Governments’ advice on Foreign Travel to Sri Lanka.

We have inserted the link for the UK Government Travel Advice.

Is it safe to visit Sri Lanka? - Don't worry, be happy

Of curse, we can’t provide a guarantee that Sri Lanka is safe, as individuals will always have different experiences and views of their visit.

However, in our experience, Sri Lanka is generally a safe place to visit.

So, book those flights and experience this amazing island!

We would be happy to see you at GlenMyu Estate if you are visiting the Sri Lankan hill country.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

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,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Is it safe to visit Sri Lanka now? Read More »

Free Visa Access to Sri Lanka

Accommodation, Holiday, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel, visa / By Mikeez

Sri Lanka Visa - free visa access to 31 countries!

We were delighted to read in the press that Sri Lanka will allow free visa access to 31 countries from the 1st October 2024.

Is my country on the list?

Here is a list of countries in alphabetical order that on on the list for free visa access to Sri Lanka.

Australia, Austria,
Bahrain, Belarus, Belgium
Canada, China, Czech Republic,
Denmark,
France,
Germany,
India, Indonesia, Iran, Israel, Italy,
Japan
Kazakhstan
Malaysia
Nepal, Netherlands, New Zealand
Oman
Poland
Qatar
Russia
Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland
Thailand
United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and United States

3 million tourists in 2025?

Sri Lanka is aiming to welcome 3 million tourists in 2024. The access free visa to enter Sri Lanka for the 31 countries will help the country towards this target.

GlenMyu Estate is looking forward to meeting new guests in 2024

GlenMyu Estate has only been open since 2022 and already we have several returning guests.

We only have three bedrooms on the five acre estate and therefore we can foresee limited capacity in 2024 due to the expected increase in visitors to the country.

GlenMyu Estate is great for those travellers that want to escape from the busy tourist town of Ella and avoid the crowds. Our guests regularly do day trips to Ella to see the sights and return to the peace and quiet of the estate. There are also many more places to explore and experience within a short drive of the estate.

We recommend that guests stay at least three nights as there is so much to see when you visit the Sri Lankan hill country.

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.

Free Visa Access to Sri Lanka Read More »

Good News for Tourists to Sri lanka

Holiday, Sri Lanka, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel, visa / By Mikeez

Good News for Tourists to Sri Lanka.

The Minimum Room Rate will end by the 31st May 2024.

Perhaps they will also rethink visa fees!

The change to the minimum room rate is good news for tourists to Sri Lanka and especially to the hotels based in Colombo.

Some hotel operators were happy with the MRR, however many thought that it would deter business coming. They believe that they have lost some MICE business as there are more economic places to hold business meetings and conferences.

You can read more in the Daily Mirror article by clicking on the link.

More good news for tourists rising Sri Lanka

Recently there has been some controversy about the visa process being outsourced to a company called VFS Global.

There have been many newspaper articles highlighting the issues about the increase in cost to tourists.

The good news is that the single entry visa will be reviewed and hopefully this will make it cheaper for travellers to visit Sri Lanka.

Proposed development of a tourist hub in Galle, Sri Lanka

The government wants to advance plans to develop the port of Galle into a tourist spot.

A new passenger terminal is planned and this will enable more tourist vessels to embark and visit the historic Dutch port.

Doing away with tourist visas altogether?

“Travelling should be simple as getting off the plane and getting out,” Fernando told reporters in Colombo yesterday.

Sri Lanka already gives free visas to 67 countries around the globe. Tourism Minister Harin Fernando opined that Sri Lanka should consider doing away with visa altogether for tourists

Visit Sri Lanka and stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country.

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,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Good News for Tourists to Sri lanka Read More »