Given its beautiful beaches, unique wildlife, and lush vegetation, it’s no wonder that Sri Lanka is beloved by tourists. But what if you want to take a trip to the United Kingdom from Sri Lanka? Whether to study, go for vacation, or visit relatives, here’s what you need to know to make your journey as straightforward as possible.
What Papers do I need to go to the UK from Sri Lanka?
The first step to take when you want to travel from Sri Lanka to the UK is to make sure you have the necessary paperwork. Besides a passport, the main document you need to travel is a visa. In general, visitors from Sri Lanka who want to stay in the UK for more than six months require an entry clearance visa in order to enter the UK.
UK Visa Categories for Sri Lankan Visitors
There are several categories of visas available from the Embassy of the United Kingdom in Sri Lanka for visitors of various lengths of stay. These include:
– A Standard Visitor Visa, which allows the holder to stay in the UK up to six months.
– A Marriage Visitor Visa, which allows the holder to stay up to six months.
– A Family Visa, which allows the holder to stay for up to six months.
– A Business Visitor Visa, which allows the holder to remain in the UK for up to six months.
– An Ancestry Visa, which allows the holder to stay in the UK for up to five years.
– A Tier 5 Temporary Worker visa, which allows the holder to stay in the UK for up to two years.
Which airline companies fly to UK from Sri Lanka?
Sri Lankans who wish to fly to the UK can do so directly from Colombo International Airport (CMB) or through stopovers at other airports in the region. Airlines offering direct flights from Colombo to London include SriLankan Airlines, Emirates Airlines, Qatar Airways, British Airways, and Cathay Pacific. Airlines offering flights from Colombo to other cities in the UK include Etihad Airways, Oman Air, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, and Air India.
How to book flights?
When booking flights to the UK from Sri Lanka, it is important to research and compare prices across several airlines. Compare international flight prices on travel sites like Skyscanner or Expedia to get the best deal. It is also important to book as far in advance as possible to ensure the best price and availability.
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Do I need Travel Insurance?
In addition to having the necessary visa and paperwork sorted, it is also important to have valid travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you if your luggage is lost, stolen, or damaged, as well as if you need to cancel your trip. Travel insurance is usually easily available online.
What is the currency used in the UK?
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the Pound Sterling, commonly referred to as the pound. When travelling from Sri Lanka to the UK, ensure that you have enough pounds to cover your expenses. One Pound Sterling is equivalent to 198.90 Sri Lankan Rupees (as of 5 October 2020). Other popular currencies such as US Dollars, Euros, and the Japanese Yen are also accepted in some places.
How to get around the UK?
The UK has an efficient and reliable public transport system that allows visitors to travel quickly and easily around the country. Visitors can use a variety of transport services such as trains, buses, and taxis, depending on their needs. The main national train operator is National Rail, while major urban centers have their own dedicated train and bus networks. For more flexibility, visitors can hire a car or use ride-hailing services such as Uber or Lyft.
What are the best places to visit in the UK?
The UK is home to some of the most iconic cities and towns in Europe, including London, Edinburgh, and Oxford. From fascinating museums to beautiful castles and stunning natural scenery, there’s no shortage of places to visit in the UK. Other popular tourist destinations include the Peak District, Lake District, the Cotswolds, and Cornwall.
What are the best things to do in the UK?
1. Take a trip to a world-class museum
The UK is home to some of the world’s most renowned museums, including the British Museum, Science Museum, and Tate Modern. Visitors can learn about history, art, science and more, and explore the range of interactive exhibits.
2. Go shopping
The UK is famous for its shopping, from large department stores to small independent boutiques and stalls. Oxford Street in London is especially popular with visitors, along with other main shopping areas such as Harrods and Selfridges.
3. Enjoy the nightlife
The UK is home to a vibrant nightlife, with cities such as London, Manchester, and Liverpool boasting some of the most exciting bars, clubs, and pubs in Europe. From traditional pubs to trendy lounges, there’s something for everyone.
4. Explore the countryside
The UK is also home to some of the most stunning natural scenery. From lakes and mountains to rolling hills and moorland, visitors can explore the countryside and take in the beauty of the British Isles.
FAQ’s
Q1. How can I get a visa to visit UK from Sri Lanka?
A1. Visitors from Sri Lanka who want to stay in the UK for more than six months require an entry clearance visa in order to enter the UK. You can apply for a visa at the nearest British Embassy, High Commission, or Consulate.
Q2. Are there direct flights from Sri Lanka to UK?
A2. Yes, there are direcr flights from Colombo to London and other cities in UK available with airlines such as SriLankan Airlines, Emirates Airlines, Qatar Airways, British Airways, and Cathay Pacific.
Q3. What currency is used in the UK?
A3. The currency used in the UK is the Pound Sterling, or ‘pound’. Popular currencies such as US Dollars, Euros, and the Japanese Yen are also accepted in some places.
Conclusion
Travelling from Sri Lanka to the UK requires careful planning, as there are a few documents and items you’ll need. Don’t forget to apply for a visa, book your tickets in advance, and organise travel insurance. Once you’ve organised all your paperwork, you can begin your adventure and explore the many wonders of the UK!
