Frequently asked questions about Colombo:
- When is the best time to visit the Cultural Triangle?
The ancient sites can be visited throughout the year. The month of August and over the Christmas and New Year period is often busy. Each month the full moon or Poya is a holiday, and sites with a religious significance such as Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and Kandy are crowded with locals and pilgrims. The Sinhala New Year (12-16 April) and the Vesak Full Moon in May are also busy with local pilgrims.
- What kind of weather can I expect in the Cultural Triangle?
The Cultural Triangle can be visited at any time of the year. The area is hot but generally dry between January and October. Kandy can get rain during the south-west monsoon (late May to September) and the northeast monsoon (November and December).
- Do I need to wear any specific clothing to enter temples and monuments?
You need to dress modestly and respectfully, with your shoulders and legs covered. Hats and shoes should be removed in some places, but always dress as relaxed as possible with comfortable footwear.
- What to remember when travelling around the Cultural Triangle?
It can be bright and warm so wear sun-block, a hat whenever permitted, and keep hydrated.
- What languages are spoken in the Cultural Triangle?
English, Sinhala, and some Tamil is spoken. A few local guides speak German and French.
- What is the currency used in the Cultural Triangle?
The Sri Lankan Rupee and US Dollars, Euros, and Sterling are accepted in most of the hotels.
- What kind of food can I expect in the Cultural Triangle?
Many of the big hotels offer buffets and à la carte menus with a mix of Western and Sri Lankan cuisine. Smaller restaurants serve predominantly Sri Lankan cuisine.
- Is Wi-Fi freely available in the Cultural Triangle?
Most hotels and many restaurants offer complimentary Wi-Fi.
- Are banks and ATM’s freely accessible in the Cultural Triangle?
The major towns of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Dambulla, Matale, and Kandy, all have ATMs.