Sri Lanka Digital Nomads & Remote Working Guide

Last Updated on June 30, 2023

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Our Thoughts and Experience of Sri Lanka

With its beautiful beaches, cultural attractions, and vibrant cities, Sri Lanka offers a unique experience if you are looking for a truly unique and different experience as a remote worker.

This is a fascinating country and is our favorite country as digital nomads because it has everything, including great food, affordability, amazing people, and everything from great beaches to stunning wildlife.

Remote Working in Sri Lanka

The country is quite easy to get around because it is relatively small and you can quite easily hire a tuk-tuk driver to get you from A to B.

You can choose to work from a beachside location or you might want to explore and spend some time in the capital Colombo.

The low cost of living also makes it affordable to rent a sizeable place to stay in with an extra room to work from, if you wish to work from your accommodation.

On days or weekends off, there are plenty of activities to do such as hiking and exploring national parks, visiting ancient ruins, or enjoying traditional local cuisine.

Sri Lanka’s climate is tropical which means that digital nomads can enjoy warm temperatures throughout the year.

Furthermore, there are also low levels of air pollution which makes for a healthier lifestyle compared to cities like Beijing or New Delhi.

Pros and Cons of Sri Lanka for Digital Nomads

Just like every country, there are pros and cons and these are the main things that we found during our Sri Lankan experience:

Pros

1. Cost of Living

The biggest pro of Sri Lanka as a digital nomad destination is that its cost of living is significantly lower than other countries in the region.

Prices here match those of other popular digital nomad locations such as Bali, Vietnam, and Thailand.

2. Accommodation

You can find a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury apartments that won’t break the bank.

You can live like a king on a small relatively small budget here.

3. Great Food

Sri Lanka is home to some of the world’s most delicious and affordable food, with plenty of vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes to choose from.

You will be particularly spoilt if you love fresh seafood as we do!

4. Natural Beauty and Stunning Scenery

Sri Lanka is home to a variety of stunning natural attractions such as beaches and national parks.

You can literally do a half-day safari and be on a beach sunbathing on the same day.

Or you might want to experience staying and working in the rainforest.

5. The Weather

Great all-year-round weather (provided you like the heat) with temperatures in the high 20s (celsius) and many hours of sunshine most days.

Cons

1. The Language

Like in many countries, the language barrier can be an issue, with English not widely spoken outside of tourist hotspots.

I would not let this put you off though as the people are extremely friendly.

2. Rural Areas for Internet

Whilst the Internet tends to be good in Colombo and other main touristic areas, you may experience some issues in more rural areas.

3. Public Transport (Outside of Major Cities)

The same goes for public transport – bus and train services are efficient but can be less reliable or accessible outside of major cities.

It is though actually very affordable to be able to hire a tuk-tuk and driver for one or a few days and you can travel around Sri Lanka really quite affordably.

Best Coliving in Sri Lanka

There are some excellent coliving options for digital nomads in Sri Lanka and they are worth considering given the added benefit of being able to socialize and meet other remote workers.

Coliving is a great way to network and to avoid the loneliness that one can experience when working for long periods of time abroad.

These are the best coliving locations we either stayed in or someone we knew stayed in:

1. Clics Coliving

This place doubles as a hostel/coliving and coworking hub and is a place where we met many other digital nomads and travelers.

You can stay very affordably in your own double room (less than 200 Dollars for a week) or choose a shared room (for less than 100 dollars for a week).

They have high-speed and reliable Internet and plenty going on socially here.

>> Read more about Clics Coliving.

2. Outpost Welligam Bay

Outpost has a few coliving spaces with three in Bali and one in Sri Lanka.

The actual setup is very good at Outpost Wellingam Bay and if you are looking for a coliving space in Sri Lanka, you will have a good time here and meet many other digital nomads.

The only issue I have with Outpost (and many newer coliving spaces these days) is that bookings are non-refundable.

Given the amazing options for accommodation in Sri Lanka, i.e. you can stay in a luxury apartment, hotel, or villa for next to nothing, I wonder if risking a nonrefundable booking makes sense here?

You can book your own accommodation and then use their coworking space for networking and meeting others and to find out about social events.

You can use Outpost Wellingam Bay just for coworking (without using their coliving space) and that is what we did.

>> Read more on Outpost Wellingam Bay

Coworking Spaces We Like in Sri Lanka

1. HomeTree Coworking, Colombo

If you plan to spend any time in the capital Colombo, HomeTree Coworking is a very good place to network, meet others and get things done.

You can use HomeTree just for one day or alternatively get a week, 10 days, or month pass.

With three floors, you also have access to the gardens and the staff are extremely helpful and friendly.

If you need to organize online meetings, find a quiet workspace, or meet other remote workers, this is a great option.

>> HomeTree Coworking Facebook

2. BNKR Beachfront Coworking

Located in Kandakuliya in the northwestern part of the country, what I love about this place is that they have facilities that include:

a gym area
their own cafe
Accommodation if you need it too

>> Read more on BNKR Coworking in Sri Lanka.

Best Locations in Sri Lanka as a Digital Nomad

Travelling to Sri Lanka as a digital nomad

Sri Lanka has become an increasingly popular destination for digital nomads with its wide range of accommodation options and open-air spaces.

Whether you’re looking for a luxurious beachside villa or a budget-friendly hostel, Sri Lanka offers something for all tastes and needs.

1. Kandy

Kandy is one of our favorite cities in Sri Lanka and you’ll probably also love it as much as we did, if you visit as a digital nomad.

Expect to see a number of temples, tea plantations, and tropical jungles.

The city also boasts some excellent hostels and hotels at good prices, allowing you as a digital nomad to have a comfortable stay on a budget.

2. Colombo

Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital city, is a modern metropolis with plenty of options for digital nomads.

With its vibrant nightlife and strong expat community, Colombo is a decent option.

Accommodation in Colombo ranges from luxurious beach hotels to budget-friendly apartments.

3. Galle

The coastal city of Galle is another popular destination for digital nomads in Sri Lanka.

With its stunning beaches, historic buildings, and delicious cuisine, Galle is a great city.

4. Nuwara Eliya

If you are looking for a true Sri Lankan experience, Nuwara Eliya is a great option.

Situated in the highlands of central Sri Lanka, Nuwara Eliya is well known for its cool climate, making it an ideal spot if you prefer somewhere to escape the heat.

5. Arugam Bay

One more wonderful location that we visited and recommend is Arugam Bay.

This small coastal town is becoming increasingly popular with digital nomads thanks to its stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and cheap accommodation options.

How to Get Around Sri Lanka as a Visitor

When traveling to Sri Lanka as a tourist, the best way to get around is by public transportation.

Public transport in Sri Lanka is relatively inexpensive and covers most major cities.

Buses, trains, tuk-tuks, and taxis are all options for getting from one destination to another.

Personally, I recommend hiring a tuk-tuk driver for a day or few days and they will take you wherever you need on the island and it is NOT expensive (as it’s quite a small island).

Buses

For longer distances, several bus companies operate express buses, which are a fast and cost-effective way to travel.

Bus stations are located in most cities and towns, but booking tickets can be difficult due to language barriers.

Trains

Taking a train is another option for getting around Sri Lanka.

Trains run all over the country, with some routes taking you through picturesque landscapes.

Tuk-Tuks

Tuk-tuks are a popular and convenient way of getting around in Sri Lanka.

Many cities have tuk-tuk stands where you can hire a driver to take you to your destination.

It is important to negotiate the price before departing, as fares can vary depending on the distance traveled.

Taxis

Taxi services are also available in most cities and towns.

Taxis offer more privacy and comfort than public transportation but can be expensive for longer trips.

Be sure to confirm the fare before getting in the taxi and ask for a receipt after paying.

The Food, Cuisine, and Restaurants in Sri Lanka

The country’s tropical climate has also impacted the ingredients used in many Sri Lankan dishes, giving them a distinct flavor.

A typical Sri Lankan meal will include rice, curries (vegetables, fish, or meat), sambol (a spicy condiment made from chilies and other spices) as well as cooked vegetables.

In addition to its traditional fare, Sri Lanka has several excellent restaurants offering international cuisines such as Chinese, Indian, and Italian.

There are also plenty of bakeries selling delicious sweets like coconut cakes and jaggery pastries.

Food is readily available throughout the country, with stalls serving local delicacies at most street corners.

The capital city Colombo has a vibrant nightlife and is home to some of the best restaurants in Sri Lanka.

Popular eateries include:

Casa Colombo – specializing in Mediterranean cuisine
The Ministry of Crab – offering seafood dishes
Upali’s by Nawaloka for authentic Sri Lankan food

If you are looking for something more low-key, there are plenty of beachside cafes and small family-run restaurants that offer delicious food at an affordable price.

No matter where you go in Sri Lanka, you can expect to be greeted with a smile and enjoy some delicious food.

Whether it’s traditional cuisine or international dishes, the variety of flavors available makes it an exciting country for food lovers.

Cost of Living in Sri Lanka for Visitors

Renting accommodation in Sri Lanka can be done on a budget, with hostels costing less than 10 USD per night and private apartments available from as little as 275 USD per month.

Food costs are also quite affordable, with local dishes such as kottu or hoppers costing between 3 and 5 USD each.

If you’re looking for more Western food options, you can understandably expect to pay slightly more for items like an American breakfast.

Transportation is also very affordable in Sri Lanka, with train fares ranging from 2-3 USD and bus fares starting at around 0.50 USD per journey. Uber rides are also available in many areas, with prices starting at just 4 USD.

Entertainment costs tend to vary depending on your activities of choice, but overall they can be quite affordable. For example, a day trip to visit the Sigiriya rock fortress or the beach would cost between 15-20 USD.

Overall, the cost of living for digital nomads in Sri Lanka is quite attractive compared to other countries in the region.

With its low accommodation and food costs as well as easy access to entertainment activities and transport, Sri Lanka offers digital nomads a great location for budget-friendly travel.

10 Things You Must Do in Sri Lanka

Your visit to Sri Lanka as a remote worker, I suspect, will also be combined with experiencing this fascinating country. So here are 10 things we recommend doing and seeing based on our own trip.

1. Experience the Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Built over 1500 years ago, this ancient rock fortress is one of Sri Lanka’s most remarkable landmarks and a perfect example of the country’s beautiful architecture.

Located in the central Matale district, the fortress is surrounded by gorgeous gardens, ponds, alleys, and stairways, and is known for its stunning carvings, murals, and frescoes.

2. Explore the Lush Tea Plantations of Nuwara Eliya

If there is one thing that Sri Lanka is famous for it’s its Ceylon tea.

To see and learn how Ceylon Tea is produced, the best place to visit is Nuwara Eliya.

Situated in the central part of the country, this hill station is a peaceful oasis with rolling hills, misty mountains, and colorful fields.

Take a walk through one of the many tea plantations to admire the stunning scenery, or sip on some delicious tea at one of the traditional tea factories.

3. Visit Gal Vihara

This is an ancient temple complex carved out of solid rock.

This site features four impressive Buddha statues that are believed to have been created during the 12th century and are considered masterpieces of Sri Lankan art and architecture.

The main statue stands nearly 50 feet tall and is surrounded by other intricately-carved images depicting various scenes from Buddhist mythology.

4. Take a Trip to the Yala National Park

Take a safari tour through the park’s sprawling grasslands and jungles or stroll along one of its many nature trails and admire the beautiful scenery.

You can also try your hand at some bird watching in one of Sri Lanka’s most popular parks!

5. Spend a Day on Mirissa Beach

This laid-back beach town boasts pristine white sand and turquoise waters, making it the perfect place to relax and soak up some sun.

There are also plenty of restaurants and bars along the beachfront to enjoy a delicious meal or a refreshing cocktail.

6. Visit Wilpattu National Park

Wilpattu National Park is one of Sri Lanka’s most important wildlife sanctuaries.

This vast park is home to over 25 different species of mammals, including elephants, leopards, deer, and wild boar.

You can also spot plenty of birds, reptiles, and amphibians here.

On your wildlife safari tour, you may even be lucky enough to spot some of the rarest animals in Sri Lanka, such as sloth bears and mugger crocodiles.

7. Experience the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

This unique sanctuary is home to over 65 rescued elephants, making it the largest elephant orphanage in the world.

Here you can observe these majestic animals as they roam free and enjoy their daily baths, or even feed them some bananas and other treats.

Be sure to stay until dusk to witness the amazing scene of all the elephants heading to the nearby river for their nightly bath.

8. Take a Boat Trip Along Madu Ganga River

This is a boat tour combined with the chance to explore many islands and temples.

As you cruise upriver, you’ll be able to spot plenty of birds, fish, and other aquatic life as well as a few sacred temples that offer stunning views of this lush landscape.

9. Take Part in a Sri Lankan Cooking Class

This is a great way to experience Sri Lankan culture and is an opportunity to learn how to make some of the country’s most beloved dishes.

From hoppers and curries to sambols and stews, there’s something for everyone here.

Plus, you may even get the chance to visit a local market where you can pick up all of the fresh ingredients needed for your curry-making adventure.

10. Visit the Historic City of Sigiriya

Marvel at its incredible ancient ruins. Perched atop a 200-meter-high rock fortress, these spectacular ruins are one of Sri Lanka’s top attractions.

Be sure to wander through the ancient palace gardens and explore the stunning frescoes that adorn the walls of this iconic site.

11. Take a Hike up Adam’s Peak

This is an impressive mountain located in central Sri Lanka.

As you make your way up this towering peak, you’ll pass by some beautiful waterfalls and dense forests before reaching the summit where you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Monsoon Season

Sri Lanka experiences two monsoon seasons each year.

The first of these, the Yala Monsoon, occurs from May to September and it means heavy rainfall in the southwestern part of the country.

This is followed by the Maha Monsoon season from October to January, which affects much of the island nation with moderate rain.

During both monsoon seasons, temperatures are relatively cool, making for pleasant weather.

The wet season in Sri Lanka often brings strong winds and thunderstorms, with occasional flooding occurring in low-lying areas.

Despite these risks, the monsoons also bring welcomed relief from the humidity of the dry season and allow essential crops to flourish.

The rainy season is also an exciting time for local wildlife as it provides ample water sources for animals such as elephants, wild boar, and deer to quench their thirst.

Birdwatchers will have plenty to see during this time of year too, as many migratory species flock to the island nation’s wetlands and reservoirs.

The people of Sri Lanka have adapted to the monsoon season over centuries, developing practices and rituals to cope with the heavy rains that plague their country each year.

Ancient temples are built with sloped roofs which allow for easy runoff and minimize water damage, while building sites use large stones called ‘keetang’ which create raised foundations on which structures can be constructed without being affected by flooding.

Social Media Connections

Sri Lanka Useful Resources

I have been traveling for many years and have come to use a lot of travel sites and resources for booking my trips. They represent the companies that I often use and have served me well and they are the first ones I use when booking new trips.

Booking.com – they tend to provide very competitive prices and the reviews are easy to view, and they normally have something available wherever in the world I am going to. They also now provide airport transfers, local attractions, and flights.
Safety Wing Travel Insurance – Safety Wing has become one of the leaders in travel insurance, especially for remote workers and digital nomads as they provide cover that includes for long-term stays.
Get Your Guide – is the site on which I normally book tours (I love to visit the local sports stadia, aquarium, royal palace, and some cultural attractions). With get Your Guide they have excellent customer support and have a wide range of tours.