Sri Lanka's new visa-free policy for India; culture and religion are magnet for Indian tourists

Now that India and travellers from six other countries – China, Russia, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia and Thailand, can travel to Sri Lanka without any visa, we are here to explore why Sri Lanka is one of the most sought-after countries for not only Indians, but also for travellers from the aforementioned countries.

Before we delve deeper into that, it’s important to know what’s happening at present. Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Tourism has announced that travellers from seven countries, India included, can now have a visa-free entry to Sri Lanka.



This initiative, which is also a pilot project, will be on till March 31, 2024. Before this, Indians were required to submit an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) document upon arrival. This ETA was valid for 30 days and cost INR 2080 approximately.



Now that Indians can travel to Sri Lanka without any visa, let’s explore the things that Indians find so irresistible about Sri Lanka.

Also read: Sri Lanka offers visa-free travel for Indians
India and Sri Lanka share historical and cultural tiesThe history between India and Sri Lanka can be traced back to the epic Ramayana. Sri Lanka is believed to be the place where the demon god Ravana took Sita after abducting her. There are several sites in Sri Lanka, where people believe Ravana held Sita captive. And then, there is also the supposed Ravana’s palace in Sigiriya. These historical sites draw a large number of tourists from India who are on their own journey to understand the mythology more deeply.



Buddhism and Hinduism connect

Both Sri Lanka and India have deep religious roots, especially when it comes to Buddhism and Hinduism. Did you know that Princess Sangamitta, the daughter of Emperor Ashoka, brought a branch of the original Bodhi Tree from Bodh Gaya and planted it in a place in Sri Lanka where today stands the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree.


Indian as well as international tourists from all over the world, especially those who follow Buddhism, visit the Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka. Some of the most prominent sites include Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, the ancient city of Anuradhapura, the picturesque Dambulla Cave Temples, Sri Maha Bodhi tree and many more.


Sri Lanka also boasts a vibrant Hindu culture. The island nation is home to several notable Hindu temples, such as the Koneswaram Temple in Trincomalee and the Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil in Jaffna. If you are interested in understanding the Sri Lankan Hindu traditions, these temples are the best places to do so.


Sri Lankan arts, crafts and tea tourism

Sri Lanka is also the land of many talented artists and craftsmen. And the fact that it is quite similar to the Indian art and crafts scene, it’s easy to find affinity for these creative items. From beautiful handwoven textiles to pottery, and wood carvings, there is no dearth of creativity here. For collectors of souvenirs, Sri Lanka is a haven.

Also read: Places in Sri Lanka that feel like they’ve traces of Ravana

Another familiar side we get to see is the tea tourism in Sri Lanka. Places like Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Uda Pussellawa, Uva, Sabaragamuwa and Dimbula will remind you of the sweeping tea gardens of Darjeeling, Ooty and Munnar.


Of course, there’s a lot that India and Sri Lanka share and it’s always easy to trace them back to one root. The shared history, architectural marvels, and the connection between Buddhism and Hinduism definitely provides a sense of familiarity and comfort to visitors from India.

1. When is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?
   The best time is from November to April for the west and south coasts, and from May to September for the east coast, offering great weather.
2. Do Indians need a visa to visit Sri Lanka?
   No, Indians can travel to Sri Lanka visa-free.
3. What are some popular tourist attractions in Sri Lanka?
   Sri Lanka is known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites like Sigiriya, and natural wonders such as Yala National Park for wildlife safaris.