Resort

Derived from the Sanskrit word for ‘peace’, aman, and the Sinhalese word for the town of Galle, Amangalla is located on Sri Lanka’s south coast.

Destination

Amangalla is within reach of Colombo Airport (BIA); local flights land at Koggala Airport (KCT) and there is a heliport nearby.

Amangalla Sri Lanka staff in white saris and parasols

Weather

The finest weather runs from November through March. The rainy season is traditionally from April to July, though the sun is rarely out of sight for long. August and September are drier months, with rain returning in November. The calm December waters are most suitable for diving and snorkelling.

Cow drawn cart Amangalla Sri Lanka

What to pack

Light clothing is appropriate with a light sweater or jacket in the evenings. Sports shoes are suitable for light touring, and hiking boots are recommended for treks. Legs, shoulders and upper arms need to be covered when visiting places of worship.

Language & Currency

Sri Lanka has two national languages, Sinhala and Tamil, and English is widely spoken. The national currency is the rupee. Traveller’s cheques are easy to cash and some banks in larger towns have ATMs.

Don’t Forget

Sri Lanka is on India Standard Time (IST), five-and-a-half hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). Electricity is 230-240 volts/ 50 cycles; converters and plug adaptors are available.

Health

Medical services are available round the clock in Galle. Reasonable precautions should be taken against mosquito-borne diseases, hepatitis-A, cholera and typhoid. Drinking boiled or bottled water is often an adequate precaution against water-borne illnesses.

Visas

All visitors (except those from Singapore or the Maldives) will require a visa for entry into Sri Lanka. Visas can be obtained online, from the Sri Lanka Overseas missions or from a preferred travel agent or operator.

Notes

Amangalla is open all year round except 8 to 29 June 2015. During Poya holidays, alcohol cannot be consumed in public areas.