Climate and clothing: Summer clothing is suitable year round in Sri Lanka. Sweaters may be needed in the country's central highlands. Wash-and-wear clothing is best as there is little drycleaning outside Colombo. Toiletries, cosmetics, and photographic supplies are available locally, though expensive.

Visas and customs: U.S. citizens do not need visas to enter Sri Lanka for up to 30 days. Consult a physician for recommended inoculations, such as cholera and gamma globulin. Foreign currency, including travelers' checks, must be declared upon entry. Visitors should keep currency exchange receipts. On departure, they will be asked to show evidence of authorized exchange.

Health: Public health facilities in Sri Lanka are poor. The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of private physicians who may be consulted in emergency cases. Medical supplies are scarce, so bring any special drugs required. Malaria is endemic outside Colombo. Outside the capital, take a malaria suppressant. Tapwater is often not potable. Avoid drinking unboiled water. Unpeeled, raw fruits and vegetables or undercooked meats also should be avoided.

Telecommunications: All hotels have telephones. Domestic telephone source is fair. Long-distance service is good and may be booked through an operator in advance. International direct-dialing is available from most major hotels. Telegraph, cable, and FAX service is good and available 24 hours a day in Colombo. International airmail service to the United States takes about 2 weeks. Sri Lanka is l0-l/2 hours ahead of eastern standard time.

Transportation: Colombo is served by several international airlines; none are U.S.

All parts of the island may be reached by rail or by bus, however, most foreign visitors hire a vehicle for travel outside Colombo. Rates are reasonable. Cheap taxi service, some metered, is readily available in Colombo. Traffic moves on the left.

Tourist attractions: Sri Lanka has many sights, both archaelogical and scenic, well worth visiting. The island has been called the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean." Contact travel agencies for detailed information. Major hotels are moderately priced. Inexpensive but adequate hotels also are available throughout the island. Sightseeing tours can b easily arranged.

Travel advisory: Violence in the north and east as well as parts of the south make it important for all U.S. visitors to contact the Department of State before departure and the U.S. Embassy on arrival.

Holidays: Many holidays are religious observances based on the lunar calendar; dates vary from year to year. All full moon days-"poya" days-also are public holidays.

*Date varies.

Source: U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Public Affairs, December 1989.