Travel Insurance for Sri Lanka

Know more About Travel Insurance

Sri Lanka continues to be a top short-haul international destination for Indian travellers, thanks to its proximity, cultural familiarity, scenic coastline, wildlife reserves, relaxed visa norms and affordable travel costs. Whether you are planning a leisure holiday, honeymoon, student exchange, or a business visit, having Travel Insurance for Sri Lanka from India is an essential part of your travel planning.

Travel Insurance Sri Lanka safeguards you against unexpected medical emergencies, trip disruptions, baggage loss, and other unforeseen expenses that could otherwise disrupt your journey and strain your finances. With Niva Bupa’s comprehensive coverage options, travellers can enjoy Sri Lanka with confidence and peace of mind.

Why Do You Need Travel Insurance in Sri Lanka?

Medical treatment abroad can be expensive, even in countries that are otherwise affordable for travel. A sudden illness, accidental injury, or hospitalisation in Sri Lanka may lead to high out-of-pocket expenses. Travel Insurance in Sri Lanka ensures you are financially protected against such situations.

Beyond health-related risks, travel disruptions such as delayed flights, trip cancellations, or loss of essential documents can significantly affect your travel experience. Sri Lanka Travel Insurance helps manage these uncertainties by offering reimbursement and assistance services that keep your trip on track.

For students, senior citizens, honeymooners, and families travelling together, opting for the best travel insurance for Sri Lanka ensures tailored protection suited to individual needs.

Explore the Key Benefits Offered By Best Travel Health Insurance Sri Lanka

Niva Bupa offers travellers a simple, convenient, and affordable way to secure their journey with travel health insurance in Sri Lanka. The policy is designed keeping international travel risks in mind and delivers comprehensive protection.

Travellers can avail of up to $500,000 in coverage under Travel Insurance Sri Lanka, providing strong financial support during medical emergencies abroad. With 24/7 global assistance, help is always just a call away, regardless of the time zone or location.

The policy covers expenses arising from medical emergencies, personal accidents, COVID-19 treatment, medical evacuation, repatriation, and even pre-existing disease-related emergencies, subject to policy terms. 

Non-medical risks such as loss of checked baggage, loss of passport or visa, missed connecting flights, trip delays, cancellations, interruptions, and personal liability are also covered, making it one of the best travel insurance options for Sri Lanka available online.

Student travellers who opt for student travel insurance for Sri Lanka receive additional benefits, including comprehensive coverage for pre-existing conditions, study interruption protection, sponsor protection, maternity benefits, and dental treatment.

What is Covered Under the Travel Insurance in Sri Lanka?

Niva Bupa’s online travel insurance Sri Lanka covers a wide range of medical and non-medical risks to ensure holistic protection.

Medical coverage includes hospitalisation expenses, emergency outpatient treatment, medical evacuation to the nearest suitable medical facility, emergency trip extension, personal accident cover, and repatriation of mortal remains.

Non-medical coverage includes reimbursement for delayed or lost checked baggage, expenses due to missed connecting flights, loss of a passport, emergency dental treatment, and costs arising from trip delay, cancellation, or interruption.

Students can opt for enhanced coverage that includes sponsor protection, study interruption, and extended pre-existing disease coverage, offering additional peace of mind during long-term stays.

Here are some of the key coverages offered by Niva Bupa to secure travellers from both medical and non-medical risks:

Delay or loss of checked-in baggage: 

This coverage offers partial or complete reimbursement for significant delay or loss. 

Missed connecting flight:

This coverage reimburses you for the extra accommodation and travel costs to reach the next destination if you miss a pre-booked connecting flight due to the original flight running late. 

Loss of passport: 

This coverage reimburses you for the cost of applying for a new passport if the original is lost.

Dental treatment:

This coverage reimburses a pain-relieving dental treatment availed under anesthesia. 

Trip delay, cancellation, interruption: 

These three separate coverages offer reimbursement for part of the travel and accommodation costs if your travel is delayed, canceled, or interrupted due to certain conditions mentioned in the policy document. 

Medical emergency (hospitalisation): 

This coverage offers reimbursement for the cost of medical treatment.

Emergency outpatient treatment: 

This coverage reimburses any emergency treatment under OPD. 

Medical evacuation: 

This coverage reimburses the transfer cost from one hospital to another if the primary hospital does not offer appropriate care. 

Emergency trip extension: 

If the trip is extended due to certain exceptional circumstances, this coverage offers an extension of the policy up to 7 days. 

Personal accident: 

This coverage pays a portion up to the sum insured for accidental death or disability.

Repatriation of mortal remains: 

This coverage reimburses you for the cost of transporting the mortal remains of the traveler or the cost of cremation in the city/country of death. 

In addition to this, travellers can also find additional coverage if they opt for student travel insurance, which offers several student-specific coverages, such as sponsor protection, study interruption, and complete pre-existing disease coverage, in addition to what is mentioned above.

What Is Not Covered Under Travel Insurance in Sri Lanka?

While Travel Insurance for Sri Lanka offers extensive protection, certain exclusions apply. Expenses related to war, rebellion, nuclear risks, and specific terrorist activities are not covered. Injuries or losses arising from unlawful acts, substance abuse, or self-inflicted harm are excluded.

Cosmetic procedures, maternity expenses, non-prescription treatments, and medical tourism are not covered unless specifically mentioned in the policy. Adventure sports are excluded unless opted for as an add-on. Travelling against medical advice, or to destinations under travel restrictions for Indians, also falls outside coverage.

It is advisable to review the policy wording carefully to understand exclusions before purchasing Travel Insurance Sri Lanka Online. Here is a summary of the exclusions listed by Niva Bupa for convenience:

• Treatment for any injury or illness resulting from nuclear or radiological emissions, war or rebellion, and specific acts of terrorism

• Active participation in military exercises, war games, or engagement with the enemy

• Any loss or injury due to committing or attempting to breach the law with criminal intent

• Expenses for cosmetic or plastic surgery or any treatment to change appearance, including obesity or weight control programs. Unless in certain circumstances as listed in the policy document

• Maternity expenses

• Non-prescription or unproven drugs or treatments

• The provision of fitting hearing aids, spectacles, or contact lenses, including optometric therapy, any treatment, and associated expenses for alopecia, baldness, wigs, or toupees, and medical supplies, including elastic stockings, diabetic test strips, and similar products

• If the insured person is travelling against the advice of a doctor, or is receiving, or is on a waiting list for, specified medical treatment

• Death, injury, medical condition, or disability resulting from suicide or attempted suicide, self-inflicted wound or illness, consumption of alcohol or drugs, or depression

• Countries with travel restrictions for Indians

• Medical tourism

• Damages from adventure sports are not covered unless part of the coverage

Expenses related to any admission specifically for diagnostics and evaluation purposes that are not related or incidental to the current diagnosis and treatment. 

Who Should Buy Niva Bupa Travel Health Insurance For Sri Lanka?

Niva Bupa’s travel insurance for Sri Lanka from India is suitable for leisure travellers, honeymooners, students, business professionals, senior citizens, and families. Whether you are travelling for a short holiday or a long-term academic programme, the policy can be customised based on travel duration and coverage needs.

What are the Sri Lanka travel insurance requirements?

Here are the requirements for buying travel insurance from Niva Bupa:

• Adults should be between 18 and 70 years old.

• Dependent children can be from 1 day old to the age of 25.

• Travellers must possess and furnish mandatory documents like copies of passports, visas, income proof, and other relevant papers.

How To Buy Travel Health Insurance For Sri Lanka Online?        

Buying insurance should be simple and frictionless, and with Niva Bupa, travel insurance can be purchased within minutes with no pre-policy check-up and get the policy delivered to your Email ID instantly. Here are the steps you can follow to buy the right policy for your needs within minutes from Niva Bupa:

1. Enter your mobile number to start the process.

2. Add Trip Details: Select either ‘Single-Trip’ or ‘Student Travel Insurance’ and choose your destination(s), including Sri Lanka.

3. Select Travel Dates: Ensure accuracy, accounting for time zone differences for international travel.

4. Enter Traveller Ages: Enjoy a 10% discount when insuring two or more travellers.

5. Choose Coverage Amount: From $50K to $500K.

6. Select your policy type: Lite, Basic, Comprehensive, Honeymooners, or Sports and Adventure.

7. View Summary: Review plan details, sum insured, travel dates, trip duration, destination, and number of travellers.

8. Provide KYC Details: Review policy terms and give consent for Niva Bupa to download your KYC.

9. Add Personal & Medical Details for all travellers.

10. Make the Payment: Your policy copy will be emailed instantly.

Once the payment is complete, the Sri Lanka travel insurance policy will be emailed to you.

When Is the Best Time to Buy Online Travel Health Insurance in Sri Lanka from India?

It is recommended to purchase online travel insurance Sri Lanka immediately after booking your flights. As travel insurance is only valid from the date of purchase/policy start date, early purchase ensures coverage against trip cancellations and other pre-departure risks, while also offering uninterrupted protection throughout your journey. 

Factors Affecting the Premium Of  Sri Lanka Travel Insurance

The premium depends on factors such as traveller age, trip duration, destination, sum insured, policy type, and any add-on cover selected. Students and families travelling together may benefit from discounted premiums. Here is a list of some of the key factors which influence travel insurance for Sri Lanka: 

• Traveller's age 

• Travel destination 

• Trip duration

• The comprehensiveness of the plan opted for 

• Type of travel, such as single trip, student, domestic, or international.

• Number of travellers

• The insurer offering the policy

By considering the above factors and distinguishing between necessary and good-to-have options, you can obtain more affordable coverage for your Sri Lanka travel insurance.

What You Need to Know About Filing a Claim for Travel Insurance Sri Lanka?

Travellers who need to file a travel insurance claim can do so easily with Niva Bupa. There are several ways to request a claim settlement from Niva Bupa. Use the following methods for a quick, hassle-free claim process.

1. To file a Sri Lanka travel insurance claim, you first need to contact your insurer, Niva Bupa. 

2. You may also contact the global third-party administrator if you are travelling overseas.

3. You can raise a travel insurance claim online, by mail, or in person. You can do so both while overseas and when you return to India.

4. You must submit a duly filled claim form along with the required documents based on the type of claim, for example, loss of baggage, trip cancellation, medical emergency, or death.

Additionally, there are two types of claims in a medical emergency:

Cashless claim

Niva Bupa is partnered with Europ Assistance, a global third-party administrator, to provide cashless claims to hospitals and healthcare centres worldwide.

• The customer initiates the claim to Europ Assistance via a toll-free number or email. 

• TPA- Europ Assistance will contact the customer and provide the required details for Sri Lanka travel insurance.

• Europ Assistance will then initiate the GOP (Guarantee of payment) process with the hospital where the customer will receive treatment.

• Europ Assistance will request the documents from the hospital or the customer and, after assessing the claim, send them to Niva Bupa for approval/rejection/query/, or investigation.

• Our medical team will approve the claim by email.

• The GOP will be released to the hospital as per the amount claimed.

• The hospital will contact the Europ Assistance team if any additional amount is required.

• At discharge, documents will be sent to Europ Assistance for approval.

• After discharge, the hospital will send the documents to Europe Assistance for settlement with the hospital.

Reimbursement Claim 

Mandatory Documents Required for Reimbursement Claims

1. Claim form
2. KYC
3. Cancelled cheque of the proposer
4. Discharge summary 
5. Final bill along with break-up
6. Payment receipt
7. All investigation reports 

Sri Lanka Visa Details and Entry Information

Indian travellers can apply for Sri Lanka’s Electronic Travel Authorisation online. Having Sri Lanka Travel Insurance helps ensure smooth visa processing and travel readiness. Indian travellers can apply for a Sri Lanka visa through a simple, streamlined process. Understanding the steps in advance helps avoid last-minute stress and travel delays.

Key points to know about the Sri Lanka visa process include:

• Indian citizens must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation before travelling to Sri Lanka for tourism, business, or transit.

• The ETA application is completed online and usually approved within a few working days.

• Travellers must ensure their passport is valid for at least six months from the date of arrival in Sri Lanka.

• Proof of onward or return travel and sufficient funds may be requested at immigration.

• Having Travel Insurance for Sri Lanka from India strengthens travel preparedness and is often recommended during international travel, especially for medical emergencies and trip disruptions.

Applying early and keeping digital and printed copies of your visa approval ensures a smooth entry process.

Entry and Immigration Process in Sri Lanka

• On arrival at international airports such as Colombo, travellers must present their passport and ETA approval.

• Immigration officers may request proof of accommodation, return tickets, and travel insurance documents.

• Travellers should strictly adhere to the permitted duration and purpose of stay mentioned in the ETA.

• Overstaying or violating visa conditions can result in penalties or future travel restrictions.

Keeping all documents organised and easily accessible helps ensure a hassle-free immigration experience.

Local Currency of Sri Lanka

• The official currency of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR).

• At the current exchange rate, 1 Sri Lankan Rupee is approximately equal to ₹0.29.

• In simple terms, 100 LKR is roughly equal to ₹29 INR.

Exchange rates may vary slightly depending on the bank, forex counter, or international card. It is recommended to check live rates closer to your travel date and use authorised exchange services.

Navigating the Sri Lanka Visa Application Process with Ease

For Indian travellers, Sri Lanka has introduced relaxed visa norms for tourism.

• Tourist ETA for Indian passport holders is currently issued free of charge for short-term tourist visits, when applied online before travel.

• Certain visa categories, such as business ETAs or extended stays, may incur a fee, generally ranging from USD 20 to USD 35, depending on the visa type.

• Based on the latest average exchange rate, 1 USD is approximately equal to ₹89.50.

• This means a USD 20 visa fee would be roughly ₹1,790, while a USD 35 visa fee would be around ₹3,133.

Visa fees and rules are subject to change, so travellers should always verify the latest details before applying.

What are the Travel Documents Required While Travelling From India to Sri Lanka?

Carrying the correct documents is essential for a hassle-free international journey. Indian travellers should ensure the following documents are readily available.

Mandatory travel documents include:

• A valid Indian passport with at least six months' validity from the date of arrival

• Approved Sri Lanka Electronic Travel Authorisation

• Confirmed return or onward flight tickets

• Proof of accommodation, such as hotel bookings or an invitation letter

• Travel insurance Sri Lanka policy document, either digital or printed

• Sufficient funds proof, such as bank statements or international cards, if requested

It is advisable to carry photocopies and digital backups of all essential documents to avoid inconvenience in case of loss or theft. 

What are some popular Sri Lanka Tourist Places?

Sri Lanka offers a diverse mix of cultural landmarks, scenic landscapes, wildlife, and beaches, making it ideal for all types of travellers.

Some of the most popular tourist destinations include:

• Sigiriya Rock Fortress, known for its ancient architecture and panoramic views

• Kandy, home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and a rich cultural heritage

• Galle Dutch Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with colonial charm and coastal views

• Ella, famous for tea plantations, hill views, and relaxed mountain vibes

• Bentota and Mirissa beaches are ideal for water sports, relaxation, and whale watching

• Yala National Park, popular for wildlife safaris and leopard sightings

Having Sri Lanka Travel Insurance is particularly helpful when visiting multiple locations across the country, especially remote or adventure-focused regions.

Best Time To Visit Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has a tropical climate, and the best time to visit depends on the region you plan to explore.

Seasonal insights for planning your trip:

• December to March is ideal for visiting the west and south coasts, including Colombo, Galle, and Bentota.

• April to September is best for exploring the east coast, including Trincomalee and Arugam Bay.

• Hill regions like Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, and Ella can be visited year-round, though temperatures are cooler.

• Avoid peak monsoon periods to enjoy uninterrupted sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Booking online travel insurance in Sri Lanka in advance ensures coverage regardless of seasonal weather disruptions.

Best Things To Do in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a diverse destination, perfect for travellers seeking nature, adventure, cultural insights, or a relaxing getaway.

Some of the best things to do in Sri Lanka include:

• Explore tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya and Ella and learn about the journey of Ceylon tea from leaf to cup.

• Go on a wildlife safari in Yala or Udawalawe National Park to spot elephants, leopards, deer, and exotic birds.

• Experience whale and dolphin watching in coastal towns like Mirissa and Trincomalee during the right season.

• Visit ancient temples and cultural sites in Kandy, Anuradhapura, and Polonnaruwa to understand Sri Lanka’s heritage.

• Enjoy scenic train journeys through the hill country, especially the route between Kandy and Ella.

• Relax on beaches such as Bentota, Unawatuna, and Mirissa, which are ideal for swimming and unwinding.

• Try water sports like snorkelling, surfing, and jet skiing along the southern and eastern coasts.

• Walk across iconic landmarks, such as the Nine Arches Bridge in Ella, for panoramic views and photography.

Whether you are seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Sri Lanka offers experiences that suit every travel style. Planning activities in advance and having Travel Insurance Sri Lanka ensures you are protected while making the most of your journey.

List of International Airports in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has five main international airports that handle overseas travellers.

International airports include:

• Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo, is the primary international gateway for most travellers

• Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport, Hambantota, is used for limited international and charter flights

• Ratmalana International Airport is an international, training and military airport located in Ratmalana.

• Jaffna International Airport is an international and military airport located in Palaly.

• Batticaloa International Airport is an international airport situated in Puthunagar.

Most travellers from India arrive at the Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo, which offers better connectivity and transport options. 

List of Well-known Indian Restaurants in Sri Lanka

Indian travellers often look for familiar flavours while abroad, and Sri Lanka offers several reputed Indian restaurants, especially in Colombo and major tourist hubs.

Some well-known Indian restaurants include:

• Chutneys: Popular for authentic South Indian vegetarian meals and traditional breakfast options

• Navratna: Known for premium North Indian cuisine and fine dining

• Shanmugas: A favourite among Indian travellers for vegetarian South Indian dishes

• Indian Summer: Offers a mix of North Indian curries and tandoori items

• Saraswathi Lodge: A budget-friendly option serving simple and authentic Indian vegetarian food

These restaurants are helpful for travellers with dietary preferences and families travelling with children or elderly members. 

Local Law and Etiquette in Sri Lanka

Understanding local laws and cultural etiquette helps travellers avoid unintentional issues and ensures respectful interactions.

Important laws and etiquette to follow include:

• Respect religious places and dress modestly when visiting temples and shrines.

• Remove footwear before entering religious sites.

• Avoid public displays of affection, as they are generally discouraged.

• Do not photograph military installations, government buildings, or personnel.

• Always show respect to images or statues of Buddha, including avoiding selfies with your back facing them.

• Carry identification and cooperate politely if questioned by authorities.

• Smoking and alcohol consumption may be restricted in public places.

Being culturally sensitive enhances your travel experience and helps maintain a positive impression as a visitor. 

Money-saving tips in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is considered a budget-friendly destination, but smart planning can help you reduce expenses further. Helpful money-saving tips include:

• Use local transport options such as buses and trains for short distances.

• Book accommodations and local tours in advance to avoid peak pricing.

• Eat at local restaurants and cafes rather than tourist-only establishments.

• Exchange currency at authorised exchange counters for better rates.

• Carry a mix of cash and international cards for flexibility.

• Choose travel insurance Sri Lanka online to compare plans and get competitive premiums

Having Travel Insurance for Sri Lanka from India also helps save money by preventing unexpected medical or travel-related expenses. 

Sri Lanka Travel Essentials: What to Pack for Your Sri Lanka Trip?

Packing smart ensures comfort and preparedness throughout your journey.

Essential items to pack include:

• Lightweight and breathable clothing suitable for tropical weather

• Modest clothing for visiting religious and cultural sites

• Comfortable walking shoes or sandals

• Rainwear, especially during monsoon seasons

• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection

• Basic medicines and a personal first-aid kit

• Copies of passport, visa, and travel insurance Sri Lanka policy

• Universal travel adapter and power bank

• Reusable water bottle and personal hygiene essentials

Proper packing helps minimise inconvenience and supports a smoother travel experience.

What are Some Fascinating Facts About Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka is a small island nation, yet it offers an extraordinary mix of history, biodiversity, culture, and geography that often surprises first-time visitors.

Some fascinating facts about Sri Lanka include:

• Sri Lanka is home to eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including ancient cities, sacred temples, and colonial landmarks.

• The country has one of the highest biodiversity densities in Asia, with rainforests, wetlands, beaches, and hill regions within a few hours' drive.

• Sri Lanka produces some of the world’s finest tea, and Ceylon tea remains a globally recognised export.

• It is one of the few countries where you can see elephants, leopards, whales, and blue whales within the same trip.

• Sri Lanka was known as Ceylon until 1972, and its strategic location made it a key trading hub in ancient maritime routes.

• Despite its compact size, Sri Lanka experiences varied climates across regions, making travel planning important.

• Ayurveda and traditional healing practices are deeply rooted in Sri Lankan culture and wellness tourism.

• The country has strong cultural similarities with India while retaining its distinct language, cuisine, and traditions.

Understanding these unique aspects helps travellers appreciate why Sri Lanka is considered a culturally rich and diverse destination.

Read More : A Guide to Sri Lanka's Domestic and International Airports 

Safety & Useful Tips for Sri Lanka Visit

Sri Lanka is generally considered safe for tourists, but taking basic precautions helps ensure a smooth, secure travel experience. Helpful safety tips for travellers:

• Keep your passport and valuables secure, preferably in hotel lockers

• Carry a copy of your passport and visa for identification

• Avoid isolated areas, especially after dark

• Follow local laws and customs and avoid confrontations

• Drink bottled or purified water to prevent health issues

• Stay alert in crowded places to avoid pickpocketing

• Keep emergency contact numbers and your travel insurance Sri Lanka policy details easily accessible

With proper planning, valid documents, and comprehensive travel health insurance Sri Lanka, travellers can explore the country confidently and enjoy a worry-free journey.

Frequently Asked Questions