Sri Lanka Visa RequirementsFor India passport holders
Indian citizens can apply for a Sri Lanka Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online before travel. The ETA costs $50 and allows a stay of up to 30 days for tourism. Sri Lanka is one of the most natural choices for Indian travelers given the geographic proximity, cultural and historical ties, and frequent direct flights from multiple Indian cities.
India passport holders must apply for an electronic visa (eVisa) online before traveling to Sri Lanka.
Apply for the Sri Lanka ETA through the official portal (eta.gov.lk) before travel. The fee is $50 (payable by card). Processing is usually within 24 hours but apply at least 3 days in advance. Carry a printout of the ETA approval along with your passport. Note that the ETA is extendable to 6 months at the Department of Immigration in Colombo.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
India to Sri Lanka: What You Need to Know
Sri Lanka and India share deep cultural, religious, and historical bonds going back millennia. The island is home to numerous sites sacred to Buddhism and Hinduism. Sri Lanka has been recovering strongly after the 2022 economic crisis and is actively welcoming Indian tourists. Top destinations include Colombo, Kandy (Temple of the Tooth), Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Ella, and the golden beaches of the South Coast.
Practical Tips
Multiple airlines including Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, SriLankan Airlines, and Air Asia offer direct flights from Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kochi, and other cities. Chennai to Colombo is under 2 hours. The Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) has been stabilizing after the 2022 crisis. Entry via sea is possible at Colombo Port and Talaimannar (ferry to/from Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu; check current ferry service status). Colombo's tuk-tuks and Uber-equivalent PickMe app are convenient for city travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Indian citizens need a visa for Sri Lanka?
Yes, but it is straightforward: Indian passport holders must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online before arrival at eta.gov.lk. The ETA costs $50 and allows a 30-day stay for tourism. Processing is typically within 24 hours. Print the ETA approval and carry it with your passport.
Are there direct flights from India to Sri Lanka?
Yes. Sri Lanka is exceptionally well-connected from India. Direct flights are available from Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kochi, Trichy, and other cities. Airlines include SriLankan Airlines, Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Air Asia. Chennai to Colombo takes under 2 hours. Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport is the main entry point.
What are the best places to visit in Sri Lanka for Indian tourists?
Top destinations include Sigiriya Rock Fortress (UNESCO, ancient sky palace), Kandy (Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Perahera festival), Ella (scenic hill country, Nine Arch Bridge), Galle Fort (UNESCO Dutch colonial fortification on the south coast), Yala National Park (leopards, elephants), Anuradhapura ancient ruins (UNESCO), and Mirissa beach for whale watching (November to April).
Is there a ferry service between India and Sri Lanka?
A passenger ferry between Nagapattinam (Tamil Nadu) and Kankesanthurai (Jaffna, Sri Lanka) has been discussed and piloted. Check current operational status as the service has been intermittent. The traditional Rameswaram to Talaimannar route is also periodically proposed. Confirm via the Shipping Corporation of India or Sri Lanka Ports Authority for current schedules.