India Travel Guide: Visas, Practicalities, and Hidden Gems

India is one of the closest and most accessible international destinations for Sri Lankan travellers, yet many first-timers are unsure about visa requirements and practicalities. The good news: visa approval from Sri Lanka is typically straightforward. Apply online via the e-Visa portal (for tourist and business travel) or through the Indian High Commission in Colombo, depending on your duration and purpose. Most tourist e-Visas are processed within a few days.

Visa and entry basics

• Tourist e-Visa is valid for 60 days (double-entry) and covers most leisure travel—apply online ahead of time.
• Multiple-entry visas are available if you plan several trips within a year.
• Arrival by air or select land borders is permitted with an e-Visa; check which ports are valid for your visa type.

Land travel from Sri Lanka requires a ferry service or flight; there's no direct land border crossing. Once in India, domestic travel is affordable and straightforward. Accommodation, food, and transport are budget-friendly, and the cultural richness—from Kerala's backwaters to Rajasthan's deserts—offers something for every traveller.