Remote work in Sri Lanka: time difference, SIM card and coworking by the sea
- The time difference from Czechia is 4 h 30 min in winter and 3 h 30 min in summer.
- A Dialog SIM with 20 GB costs from 1,400 rupees (about 92 CZK, roughly EUR 3.70), and with 50 GB 2,450 rupees (about 162 CZK, roughly EUR 6.50).
- Wi-Fi is common in accommodation; have the speed tested before you book.
- According to its website, the Sea You House camp has a coworking space on site.
I tried working from Sri Lanka and it works. Surf in the morning, work in the afternoon, beach in the evening. Here is what to sort out beforehand.
What is the time difference?
Sri Lanka is on UTC+5:30. Compared with Czechia it is 4 hours 30 minutes ahead in winter and 3 hours 30 minutes ahead in summer.
- A call at 9:00 Czech time is 13:30 there (in winter).
- Surf early in the morning, before the calls from Czechia start.
- Late calls after 18:00 Czech time are not until after 22:30 there, so arrange them earlier.
What about internet and SIM cards?
Wi-Fi is common in accommodation, cafés and coworking spaces. I didn't find reliable speed figures, so ask for a speed test before booking and keep mobile data as a backup.
What it costs
- 01 Dialog, 20 GB From 1,400 rupees (about EUR 3.70).
- 02 Dialog, 50 GB for 30 days 2,450 rupees (about EUR 6.50).
- 03 SIM card 150 rupees (about EUR 0.40), free when you buy a package at the airport.
- 04 SLT-Mobitel According to Ookla it is the fastest network, more useful in the mountains.
You have to have the SIM card registered with your passport. If you don't want to deal with a SIM, there are also eSIMs, for example from Airalo. They usually come without a local phone number and SMS, and calls go through WhatsApp.
Where to work?
The camp Sea You House has a coworking space on site. I worked from a hammock on the roof and from a coworking space, where I had a video call.
The whole trip is in the main article about Sri Lanka.
Lukáš Dobrovolný
Over 17 years on the road, but still with one foot in Czechia. I write about road trips, mountain hikes, cycling trips, Amazing Places and my favourite food.