Sri Lanka reopens for tourists
Under strict Corona measures, entry is possible again.
13 April 2021
Now that the pandemic has gripped the entire world for the second year in a row, the vaccination rate and sophisticated corona measures in some countries are resulting in Openings. Sri Lanka also allows tourists who have not yet received Covid vaccination to travel to the country. However, under the strictest regulations, which we have summarized here for you.
Plus: the most beautiful experiences and hotels of the island nation in South Asia.
Opening for tourists
Sri Lanka is one of the few countries that managed to completely shut itself off from the outside world during the pandemic. Now, however, it is supposedly time to let tourists back into the country. However, in order not to risk another Corona wave, holidaymakers are only allowed to enter the country under very strict measures - but only those who have not yet been vaccinated. One important point is that tourists should have as little contact as possible with the local population. To this end, hotels have decided in advance whether they will only receive holidaymakers from abroad or only locals for a certain period of time. Those accommodations that are there for tourists are on a so-called "Safe and Secure" list, for which 130 hotels have been certified under a strict selection procedure.
To get a visa for Sri Lanka, a confirmed booking should be made in one of the "Safe and Secure Level 1" certified hotels. In this hotel, travelers who have not yet been vaccinated must stay at least the first 14 days of their stay. In addition, a negative PCR test in English no more than 96 hours old must be presented. Those who want to visit certain sights and tourist hotspots can only do so to a limited extent and must book the activities in advance through a travel agency or at the hotel. The travel magazine also writes that Globetrender. This can ensure that holidaymakers do not come into contact with the locals.
Entry for vaccinated persons
The situation is somewhat different for people who have already been vaccinated against Covid. Tourists must take a PCR test upon arrival and spend 24 hours, pending the results, in a government-mandated hotel. If the test is negative, holidaymakers must first spend seven days in certified accommodation, but can take part in pre-booked tours in the meantime. After that, they can take another PCR test; if this is also negative, they can move around the country completely freely and also have contact with local people.
"Safe and Secure Hotels"
The selection process to be certified as a Safe and Secure Level 1 hotel is extremely rigorous, yet there are 130 exclusive accommodations on the list. Among them is the Aarunya Nature Resort & Spa.
Aarunya Nature Resort & Spa
100 Malgamandeniya Road, Alawatugoda 20140, Sri Lanka
Tel: +94 663 127 040
aarunyaresort.com
The exclusive resort in Kandy is a real oasis of well-being where guests can relax body and mind. Amidst the jungle, the hotel stretches at a unique altitude and offers a dreamlike view of the impressive natural landscape of Sri Lanka. The infinity pool and luxurious chalets make for an unforgettable holiday.
The complete list of all participating hotels can be found at here..
The 5 most beautiful experiences in Sri Lanka
The island state in the middle of the Indian Ocean is often referred to as the "shining island". No wonder, because Sri Lanka inspires with a diverse landscape, which is interspersed with impressive temples, a lush jungle, tea plantations and dream beaches. Since the country has an average temperature of 30 degrees Celsius, it is also considered an absolute dream destination.
These are five places you should visit when traveling to Sri Lanka.
The port city of Galle
The ancient port city of Galle is especially popular with bathing holidaymakers. Because it is not far from dream beaches like Mirissa and Kogalla Beach. The place is known for the "Fort Galle", which is located in the middle of the old town. And also the up to 400 years old houses and idyllic cafes are worth a visit.
The Lion Rock "Sigirya"
The imposing granite rock, which bears the name "Sigiriya" or Lion Rock, stretches about 200 meters in height. At the highest point is a large plain where visitors can marvel at the ruins of a former rock fortress of King Anuradhapura. The rock is already a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya
Sri Lanka is one of the largest tea exporters in the world - accordingly, you should not miss a visit to tea plantations. These are particularly beautiful in the area in and around Nuwara Eliya. Many holidaymakers enjoy the fantastic views during a train ride through the region. And tea factories also invite visitors to get an idea of Sri Lanka's cultural heritage.
The Yala National Park
A real highlight in Sri Lanka is the Yala National Park. On about 1250 km2 live there numerous leopards, elephants, monkeys, crocodiles and other impressive animal species. If you are lucky, you will also catch a glimpse of the countless exotic birds that live in the park. But also the spectacular landscape, which is characterized by rock formations, lakes, marshes and a coastline, makes for an unforgettable experience.
The cave temple of Dambulla
Besides tea plantations and a lush jungle, Sri Lanka is also home to numerous temples. The largest of these is located in the town of Dambulla, where the impressive cave temple can also be found. This is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The five different caves are located in a 150 meter high granite rock. If you dare to climb up, you will be rewarded with a fantastic view and the sight of numerous Buddha statues.
Picture Credits: Aarunya Nature Resort & Spa, Johan Sjöli, Hendrik Cornelissen / Unsplash, Sander Don / Unsplash, Roadtrip with Raj / Unsplash, Lapping / Pixabay, Lanur / Pixabay, Pen Ash / Pixabay, Poswiecie / Pixabay, Sabine Schulte / Pixabay, Mohamed Arafath / Pixabay
