Sri Lanka Launches Visa-Free Travel for 35 Countries from October 1

As an avid traveler with over 7 years of experience exploring Sri Lanka, I was thrilled to hear the news that starting October 1st, citizens from 35 countries will be able to visit this incredible island nation visa-free. Read below about “Sri Lanka Launches Visa-Free Travel for 35 Countries from October 1”.

Known as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” Sri Lanka has so much natural and cultural beauty to offer visitors. From serene Buddhist temples to lush green tea plantations, spectacular beaches, flavorful cuisine, wildlife-rich national parks, and more – it’s a destination that has something for everyone. However, up until now, the visa application process has been tedious for some nationalities, deterring potential tourists.

Why I’m So Excited About This News

As someone who has been traveling to Sri Lanka since 2015, I’ve experienced the visa process first-hand. While not overly complicated, it did add an extra layer when planning trips for myself, friends, and family members over the years.

The great news is that starting October 1st, 2022, passport holders from 35 countries will be able to enter Sri Lanka without first having to apply online for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). This includes popular source markets India, China, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and more.

Not having to deal with visas ahead of time will make travel planning much smoother. As an avid backpacker, I love the ability to spontaneously change my itinerary. Now I – and other travelers from these 35 countries – can do so without worrying about paperwork or authorization.

This will make travel more accessible, save people time and money, and likely attract more tourism. As someone invested in the country and its people, this excites me greatly. More tourism means more jobs and economic prosperity for local communities.

My Favorite Places & Experiences in Sri Lanka

From bustling Colombo to the tranquil tea plantations of Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka has left an imprint on my heart over the past 7+ years. With visa-free travel about to open opportunities for so many more people to experience this incredible country, I wanted to highlight some of my personal favorite places and experiences:

Kandy

Nestled amongst lush highlands, the city of Kandy has a magic to it. Walking along the scenic lake as the sun goes down while street food sizzles nearby is an experience everyone should have. Don’t miss visiting the Temple of the Tooth or watching a performance of traditional Kandyan dance.

Yala National Park

One of my most memorable wildlife encounters was spotting leopards in Yala National Park. Seeing these majestic big cats roaming free in their natural habitat was breathtaking. The park is also home to sloth bears, elephants, crocodiles and more. A must-visit for animal lovers!

Ella

With its spectacular views, hiking trails, tea plantations and laid-back vibe, the small town of Ella stole my heart. I’ll never forget watching the sun rise over Little Adam’s Peak as a light mist rolled over the lush green hills. It was magical. Don’t leave without trying the delicious local fruit!

Mirissa

Mirissa boasts one of Asia’s most beautiful beaches, if not the world. I’ve watched more dreamy sunsets here than I can count. It also offers an incredible whale and dolphin watching experience. Seeing a blue whale emerge from the ocean is something I’ll remember forever.

Anuradhapura

As an ancient capital loaded with sacred ruins and monuments, Anuradhapura showcases Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. Walking amongst the UNESCO World Heritage sites dating back over 2000 years filled me with awe. Don’t miss the iconic Bodhi tree – one of the oldest planted trees in the world.

Weligama

For spectacular ocean scenery, Weligama is my favorite. I’ll never tire of watching expert fishermen balance on their stilts out in the sparkling blue waters. The nearby Taprobane Island (where Arthur C. Clarke wrote 2001: A Space Odyssey) offers superb snorkeling amidst colorful coral reefs too.

What This Means for Sri Lanka’s Future

The COVID-19 pandemic hit Sri Lanka’s tourism industry hard over the past few years. With more countries now lifting restrictions on travel, this visa-free allowance is perfect timing.

I predict it will give Sri Lanka’s tourism economy the much-needed boost it requires to thrive once again. This will create ample job opportunities and have a positive flow-on effect for local businesses and communities.

As someone who cares deeply for this country and its people, knowing tourism will rebound makes me very happy. Sri Lankans are without doubt some of the friendliest, most hospitable people I’ve met in my years of travel. I hope you like reading “Sri Lanka Launches Visa-Free Travel for 35 Countries from October 1”.

I can’t wait to return to my favorite island destination and experience it alongside even more first-time visitors in the coming years!