sri lanka travel safe

Security Alert May 17, 2024

Worldwide caution, update may 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Share this page:

Sri Lanka Travel Advisory

Travel advisory september 5, 2023, sri lanka - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued after periodic review with updates to protest information. 

Exercise increased caution in Sri Lanka due to civil unrest , and terrorism.

Country Summary: Protests over the economic and political situation in Sri Lanka could erupt at any time. In some instances, police have used water cannons and tear gas to disperse protesters. U.S. citizens are reminded to avoid all gatherings, even peaceful ones, that could turn violent with little or no warning.

Terrorist attacks have occurred in Sri Lanka, with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, hospitals, and other public areas.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in remote areas. 

 Read the  country information page . 

 If you decide to travel to Sri Lanka: 

• Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues. 
• Follow the instructions of local authorities. 
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information. 
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds. 
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. 
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter . 
• Review the  Crime and Safety Report  for Sri Lanka. 
• U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. 
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel. 

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, sri lanka map, search for travel advisories, external link.

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

23 things you need to know before going to Sri Lanka

Oct 14, 2023 • 11 min read

Get to grips with Sri Lanka's complex culture with these top tips on health, safety and etiquette © Cavan Images / Getty Images

Floating in tropical waters off the southern tip of India, Sri Lanka is defined by its gentle Buddhist culture, friendly people and laid-back way of life despite its troubled recent history.

A little knowledge goes a long way when it comes to having an easy trip to this Indian Ocean island. For such a small nation, Sri Lanka is hugely diverse. Surf-pounded coastlines rise to forested national parks , temple-studded plains and jungle-covered highlands - with the added perk that nowhere is that far from a  beach .

Most visitors start on the coast and duck inland to tea gardens, ancient cities and national parks, but navigating Sri Lanka 's frenetic public transport system and cultural sensitivities can be confusing for new arrivals. To help you out, here are some of the things you need to know before traveling to Sri Lanka.

1. Apply for a visa in advance

As a first step, check the latest visa requirements for Sri Lanka. Most nationalities need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) in advance of travel, but fortunately, they're not hard to get.

2. Check your travel vaccinations

Sri Lanka is a tropical destination, so check with your doctor to make sure you're up to date with your travel vaccinations. Recommended vaccinations for Sri Lanka include diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B and polio. Long stayers might also consider getting vaccinated against typhoid and rabies (although rare, rabies can be fatal, and it's carried by dogs, cats and monkeys in Sri Lanka).

3. Plan your trip according to the monsoons

Between May and September , the south coast and west coast of Sri Lanka are lashed by the southwest monsoon, which brings plenty of rainfall and choppy seas, while northern and eastern parts of the island are fine and dry. When the northeast monsoon hits Sri Lanka between November and March, the south and west are at their best, and it's the northern and eastern parts of Sri Lanka that see the showers.

In fact, monsoon rainfall in Sri Lanka is quite sporadic – expect short, sharp downpours interspersed with long, hot sunny spells. Traveling to different parts of Sri Lanka during their rainy "off-seasons" has its rewards – visitor numbers fall and hotel rates drop quite significantly.

4. There's no alcohol for sale on full moon days and religious events

Sri Lanka has a huge number of bank holidays, and almost half of these are poya days, marking the arrival of the full moon, an auspicious event in Sri Lankan Buddhism. All poya days are dry days – alcohol is not sold in shops, restaurants or bars (though you can still access your hotel room’s minibar). The ban on alcohol also extends to other religious events such as the Buddhist festival of Vesak in May.

5. Carry cash: the currency is the Sri Lankan rupee

Stock up on rupees on arrival in Sri Lanka, not before, and don't change more than you need. Sri Lankan rupees are hard to exchange outside of Sri Lanka. ATMs are widespread all over the country – stick to Bank of Ceylon ATMs where possible as they don't charge a fee. Card machines are common in larger hotels, restaurants and tourist-oriented shops.

Try to build up a stash of lower denomination notes wherever possible (for example, withdraw LKR5900 rather than LKR6000). You'll need small bills to pay for tuk-tuks and buy things from local shops and markets and for tipping. Carrying some cash in dollars, euros or pounds sterling is also useful – all are widely accepted in tourist areas.

6. Be realistic about how much ground you can cover

It takes a surprising amount of time to travel around Sri Lanka thanks to winding routes and the limited number of roads crossing the interior of the island. Traffic also has to navigate a variety of hazards including badly surfaced roads and roaming wildlife (buffaloes, cows, feral dogs and even elephants). To do the island justice, don’t rush. You’ll need at least a month for a circuit of the island with detours to national parks, ancient cities and tea plantations inland.

Thanks to Sri Lanka’s improving expressway network, road travel from Colombo to southern towns such as Galle ,  Matara and  Tangalla is fairly rapid. With its twisting, congested roads, the  Hill Country is the most time-consuming region to navigate (consider taking trains to explore instead).

7. Pack the right gear for Sri Lanka’s hills and religious sites

Sri Lanka’s mountains reach elevations of over 2,000m (6,560ft) and temperatures are lower in the highlands than on the coast. Pack a light jumper for cooler nights and early morning starts (particularly between December and March). Also bring a sarong – you can use it as a beach blanket or towel, as a shawl or skirt to cover your shoulders or knees when visiting temples, and as a warm layer when traveling on air-conditioned buses or for pre-dawn safari jeep drives.

8. Plan ahead for the hill country trains

Sri Lanka Railways runs the nation's trains, including services on the spectacular Main Line, which slices east from Colombo  through the island’s highest mountains, cloud forests and tea estates. It’s a stunning journey and hugely popular with tourists and locals alike, particularly the section between Kandy and Ella .

Book tickets in air-conditioned first class or fan-cooled second class well ahead to guarantee a seat, either in person at stations or online via booking sights such as 12GoAsia . Tickets are released 10 days prior and sell out quickly.

9. Swimwear is for the beach only

For the most part, Sri Lankans are socially conservative and deeply religious. Swimwear is fine for the beach, but not when wandering about town. Going nude or topless is not permitted on any Sri Lankan beaches.

10. Avoid public affection and disruptive behavior

Public displays of affection are frowned on, as is loud or brash behavior, and losing your temper in public (keep this in mind when haggling – this should never be an angry process).

11. Dress respectfully when visiting temples

When making trips to religious sites, wear clothing that covers the legs and upper arms and shoulders. Remove your shoes and headwear before entering any Buddhist or Hindu temple or mosque, even if the site is a historic ruin. Socks are allowed (and you'll need them on scorching hot sunny days).

Tourists are less common in  Jaffna and the north where a distinct Sri Lankan Tamil Hindu culture predominates. Respect local etiquette when visiting Hindu temples – ask for permission before entering as non-Hindus are barred from entering some shrines. Some temples also require men to remove shirts and enter bare-chested (for example, Jaffna’s vast Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil ).

12. Show respect to Buddha images

Sri Lankan Buddhists take depictions of the Buddha very seriously and these should always be treated with respect. People have been deported from Sri Lanka for displaying "disrespectful" Buddha images, so avoid wearing clothing with Buddha images and if you have tattoos of Buddhist iconography, keep these covered. The same rules apply to statues – posing for selfies with a Buddha statue is a definite no-no, as is turning your back toward a Buddha image.

13. Be considerate when taking photographs

When photographing people, always ask for permission first. Note that if you photograph the famous stilt fishers at Koggala, you may be asked for payment (genuine stilt fishers are a rare breed nowadays). Flash photography isn’t allowed in temples (nor in the vicinity of military sites) and taking photos may be banned entirely at some Hindu sites. If you are photographing temples, be careful not to stand with your back toward a Buddha statue while you are snapping.

14. Use your right hand to eat

Traditionally, Sri Lankans eat with their right hand, using the tips of their fingers to mix rice and curry into little balls, and their thumb to gently push the food into their mouths. You may be encouraged to try this if you are invited into a local home for a meal, but always wash your hands first for hygiene reasons. Avoid eating (or shaking hands) with your left hand as it is used for less sanitary tasks such as personal ablutions.

15. Tipping is customary

Tipping is a way of life in Sri Lanka and many restaurant workers rely on the extra income this practice brings. Most larger hotels and restaurants add a 10% tip as standard; use this as a guide for how much to tip in places that don’t. 

16. Give wildlife space

In 2017, a British journalist died after being snatched by a crocodile at a lagoon near  Arugam Bay . Such attacks are rare, but they happen so be vigilant in rivers and lagoons. Dangerous sharks are not a problem in Sri Lanka, but poisonous snakes are found in waterlogged areas on land such as paddy fields. 

Keep a keen lookout for elephants on roads leading to national parks or when walking or driving in the hills. If you see one, keep your distance and be ready to back away. Never feed a wild elephant – this habituates elephants to associate humans with food and act aggressively.

17. Take standard safety precautions

Sri Lanka is one of the safest countries in Asia when it comes to petty crime. Violence against tourists is very rare, and theft and robberies are uncommon, though they do happen occasionally. As a precaution, wear a money belt and use your hotel safe.

Female travelers should avoid traveling alone at night, particularly on public transport, and take care walking alone on empty beaches. Given Sri Lanka’s conservative culture, long sleeves and dresses are culturally appropriate and will reduce the chance of being harassed.

18. Do not drink the tap water

Sri Lanka's tap water could theoretically be used for brushing your teeth but we don't recommend it, and it's certainly not safe for drinking. Bottled water is plentiful and better hotels provide clean drinking water for guests. If you do buy bottled water, check that the seal is intact and look for the Sri Lanka standards certification mark. Always dispose of empty bottles responsibly – filling your own drinking water bottle from a large bottle is better than buying lots of small plastic bottles.

19. Beware of scams and pickpockets

Scammers are active in  Galle Fort , Kandy and Colombo’s Galle Face Green , looking for tourists to cheat or charm out of money. Never buy gems hawked on the street – they will almost certainly be convincing fakes made from colored glass – and be dubious of any shop trying to sell you gems to "sell at a profit back home." Seek out information from official tourist offices and directly from operators rather than trusting agents, particularly if they seek you out first.   

Keep your money and valuables out of sight when on busy trains and buses, and when exploring crowded areas streets such as Colombo’s Pettah market district . Tuk-tuks have a habit of overcharging tourists – ask drivers to use the meter (and take another tuk-tuk if they refuse), or order a ride via Uber or local app,  PickMe .

20. Protect yourself against mosquitoes

Mosquito bites are one of the biggest health concerns in Sri Lanka. Although malaria has been eliminated, mosquitoes can carry debilitating dengue fever, a painful illness that can have serious side effects. No vaccinations are available for dengue and treatment can only reduce symptoms. Protect yourself by covering up at dawn and dusk, sleeping under a mosquito net and wearing strong repellent containing high levels of DEET ( diethyltoluamide ).

21. Be road-safe in Sri Lanka

Traffic is one of the biggest dangers facing visitors to Sri Lanka. Accidents involving motorcycles and lorries are common, and bus collisions – often involving pedestrians – are also a problem. Common causes of accidents include dangerous overtaking, overloading and pulling in suddenly to pick up passengers on the roadside.

Private bus company drivers tend to drive more recklessly than their government-run, SLTB counterparts. Don’t expect vehicles to stop at pedestrian crossings and keep your wits about you when walking beside any roads (sidewalks are rare in Sri Lanka).

22. Never underestimate the ocean

Sri Lanka's beaches may be idyllic, but there are few lifeguards and strong currents are a danger (particularly during the monsoon seasons). Many beaches shelve steeply and drowning is the second most common cause of death among tourists after road accidents. Seek local advice before swimming in unfamiliar water.

23. Natural disasters are a risk

Sri Lanka was one of the countries worst affected by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, which swept away more than 35,000 people and devastated many coastal areas. Following the disaster, early warning systems have been put in place in major towns and resorts, but not in rural, isolated areas, so be alert to signs of earthquakes and tsunamis.

The most common natural disaster in Sri Lanka is localized flooding during the southwest and northeast monsoons, which can cause landslides in highland areas. Sri Lanka is also vulnerable to tropical cyclones and periods of drought. For up-to-date weather warnings and situation reports, bookmark the country’s Disaster Management Center website .

This article was first published Mar 7, 2022 and updated Oct 14, 2023.

Explore related stories

Feb 14, 2024 • 8 min read

We asked a pair of passionate writers to make the case for two of Asia’s most fabulous destinations.

Nov 9, 2023 • 9 min read

Nov 7, 2023 • 8 min read

Oct 29, 2023 • 6 min read

Oct 15, 2023 • 3 min read

Jun 2, 2023 • 8 min read

May 26, 2022 • 18 min read

Jan 2, 2024 • 11 min read

Nov 4, 2023 • 6 min read

Oct 16, 2023 • 8 min read

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Asia » Travel Safety

Is Sri Lanka SAFE to Visit? (2024 • Insider Tips)

Sri Lanka has recently turned a corner after a severe economic crisis resulted in devastating fuel, food and medicine shortages. With a new captain at the helm, prospects are looking up for Sri Lanka, and tourism has a crucial part in rebuilding the economy…

… Yes , Sri Lanka is safe to travel to .

In fact, they really want and need tourists to help improve the economic situation. And don’t worry, whilst many parts of the country are still facing long lines, tourism has been given certain privileges in order to make sure your visit runs super smoothly.

Unfortunately, whilst Sri Lanka is practically begging you to visit, there are still pockets of knowledge you should have in order to ensure a safe visit. It’s important to know these for several reasons.

For example: Landmines are still being cleared in the North.

This guide will serve as a light unpack of the political situation in Sri Lanka and will provide in-depth coverage of the situation for everyone – from families to solo female travellers – in this jewel of a country. So is Sri Lanka safe ?

Let’s dive in!

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, as things change quickly. The question of “Is Sri Lanka Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on who you ask.

The information in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practice common sense, you will probably have a wonderful and safe trip to Sri Lanka.

If you see any outdated information, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. Otherwise, stay safe friends!

Updated December 2023

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

Is Sri Lanka Safe to Visit Right Now?

Safest places in sri lanka, 18 top safety tips for traveling to sri lanka, is sri lanka safe to travel alone, is sri lanka safe for solo female travelers, where to start your travels in sri lanka, is sri lanka safe to travel for families, getting around sri lanka safely, crime in sri lanka, what to pack for your sri lanka trip, getting insured before visiting sri lanka, faqs on staying safe in sri lanka, final thoughts on the safety of sri lanka.

According to the High Commission of Sri Lanka in the UK , the country received a total of 719,978 tourist arrivals on 2022. Overall travellers had trouble free visits.

Whether you want to backpack Sri Lanka like a proper vagrant or relax at one of Sri Lanka’s finest, Sri Lanka is safe for travel .

However, given the political environment is currently fluctuating at blistering speeds, it’s a smart move to monitor local media , and listen to local authorities when determining the true situ “on the ground”.

A quick google of reliable travel authorities can unveil a lot of relevant information, but I personally am of the view they consistently make things out to be worse than they are (you should still listen though).

It is worth doubling down on your research into this unbelievable country, not only to unveil hidden or even well-known Sri Lankan gems but to make sure you have not missed a crucial piece of information. Like keeping personal identification on you at all times (your passport).

Having survived the Sri Lankan civil war in 2009, the easter bombings in 2019, and now the 2022 protests and economic crisis, tourism has been through a fair amount in Sri Lanka. The U.S. travel advisory currently rates it as a level 2 country , which is lower than it has been for a while.

Visitors may notice an increased military presence in the north of the island nation. War damage was more extreme here, and they are still actively clearing landmines (although the chances you walk into a minefield are negligible).

A further hazard to watch for is the monsoon rains (there are two monsoon seasons)as they do sometimes cause flooding in areas of the country, and localised landslides can cause temporary road closures. It’s a good idea to check the weather before visiting.

On a final note, visiting Sri Lanka as a tourist is a very safe affair. It has what could be called ‘The South Asia Effect’, though to a much lesser degree than in India. You’re very unlikely to be physically harmed or assaulted, but people will try and scrape a little bit of extra cash out of you if the opportunity arises (and often, you can’t blame ’em).

If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka and you’re looking for an area that’s super safe, you’ll find some places are better than others. I’ve listed the best (and safest) down below. Lots of Sri Lanka is super safe, especially in smaller towns and villages. Like any country, things tend to be messier when more people are around.

• Nuwara Eliya : This is the capital of the tea trade in Sri Lanka and is nestled in cloudy mountain tops. It’s a small town, famously connected by the Kandy train service, but it’s also quaint and charming. The way of life here is pretty relaxed and the climate is more temperate. The mountains are usually more meditative and tranquil than other parts of Sri Lanka. This is a great place to look for a little spiritual lightening or a Sri Lankan yoga retreat .
• Galle : This colonial town on the West coast of Sri Lanka, just south of Colombo, is full of unique history and culture. If you’re looking for a little Sri Lankan surf and mind-boggling beaches, you’ll find plenty around the city of Galle. There are also some interesting museums, which means it’s a good place to go to as a family.
• Sigiriya : The town of Sigiriya has access to one of Sri Lanka’s top national parks , and is a well-known tourist area. Home also to the famous Sigiriya rock (which is crazy), there are a ton of great things to do. Be aware that Sri Lankan safari driving is not the most safety conscious, which can be frightening at times, especially near elephants.

Places to Avoid in Sri Lanka

It’s always hard to suggest places to avoid, as part of travelling is seeing a country for its real self. However, there are parts of the North East that you should avoid entirely, and you should take extra care in crowded areas due to scams and pickpockets.

• Jaffna, Kankesanthurai harbour and Palaly airport : Each of these is a high-security zone. You’ll want to miss these and just take things easy. Not worth it.
• Stations, markets, and packed tourist spots : You’ll want to watch out for your valuables in these areas, and keep a sharp eye out for anyone looking to score quick cash. Money vanishes in a blink of an eye, and you can be suckered by fake items, bills, and prices if you are not aware.

Most violent crime in Sri Lanka happens in the northern and eastern provinces of Sri Lanka. This area has fallen behind a bit in terms of development, and there are still scars from the civil war that can mean tensions run a little higher.

However, the North is home to some of the most beautiful places in Sri Lan ka , so avoiding the whole district can mean you miss some great stuff!

Keeping Your Money Safe in Sri Lanka

One of the most common things to happen to you whilst travelling is losing your money. And let’s face it: the most annoying way for this to actually occur is when it’s stolen from you.

Petty crime is pretty much a problem all over the world.

The best solution? Get a money belt.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Verdant tea plantations, spectacular train rides through cloud-soaked hills, searching for relics of Buddha, or carving waves on some beautiful beaches – there are plenty of reasons to head to Sri Lanka for your travels.

Travelling safely in Sri Lanka is as much about not doing anything too stupid (still gotta have some fun) as it is about simply being aware – both of yourself and your surroundings as well as the cultural nuances of the island. Most of this is basic knowledge for safe travels.

If it’s your first time in Sri Lanka , DEFINITELY read through these, as they could seriously be the difference between a fat fine and having a no-trouble visit.

• Keep away from demonstrations or political gatherings – You know how these things can turn anywhere in the world.
• Don’t use any shoddy-looking ATMs in Sri Lanka – There are plenty of nice ones inside booths with air-con and accompanying jingles.
• Look after your valuables at your accommodation – Thefts can happen even within the accommodation premises. Keep your goods locked up! Most hostels in Sri Lanka offer a locker, so make sure to use it.
• Always keep an emergency stash of cash – Never keep all your cards/ currency in one place. And hide it all from thieves with a hidden money belt .
• Same-sex relations are kind of illegal – Yeah, semi-illegal (sort of). Tourists are generally given a free pass, however, just don’t be flaunting it too much; keep it low-key.
• Don’t go sunbathing topless or nude – There are places you’ll get away with it but it’s mega-disrespectful  and not worth the extra attention.
• Don’t stray off paths when hiking – Generally, it’s a bad idea, but it’s dependent on your area. The weather can turn quickly in Sri Lanka’s hill country and the Knuckles Mountain Range   is not to be trifled with.
• Be warned that drugs are illegal – That doesn’t mean they aren’t a known secret or common, however.
• Take a good medical kit with you – you never know when you might need it!
• Be culturally sensitive – Having your good bits hanging out, being a drunken knob in public, or just generally rude – it’s not cool. Sri Lankans are reserved people; just because no one says that your offending them, doesn’t mean you aren’t.
• Watch out for the ganja – On that note, the most commonly bought ganja (referred to as KG) is  heavily messed with (chemicals and the like) and will be unkind to your body in the medium to long term.
• Cover up Buddhist tattoos and leave t-shirts with Buddhist iconography at home – This one avoidable offence by tourists that you aren’t given a get-out-of-jail-free card on. No selfies with your back to Buddha either and covering up, knees and shoulders, in particular, at religious sites is expected.
• Stray dogs are the norm – Generally, Southern Asia rules apply, however: all bark, no bite. Some just need a little love.
• Avoid being bitten by mosquitoes – Dengue fever is legitimately a concern.
• Take care when swimming in Sri Lanka – Riptides and the swell can get big; people have drowned.
• Don’t walk around looking rich – Looking like a target is just silly. Having a security money belt is perfect for concealing cash on you.
• Be aware of the weather – Rains can cause flooding which may mess with your itinerary in Sri Lanka.
• Watch out for nature! – Full disclosure: there are wild elephants, crocodiles, and other fantastic beasts. Don’t do anything monumentally stupid for the photo-op.
• Don’t ride the elephants  – If an elephant has chains on its feet and a hawker asks for money to ride it, it’s an absolute disgrace and not a respectable tourist move. Be a responsible tourist and do not support elephant abuse in the tourism industry . Do not be part of the problem.
• Learn some lingo – A lot of people speak in English, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t make an effort with a few Sinhalese phrases. Hari hari, owoo lak nehe (ok ok, no problem) always goes over well.

Solo travel is the best. You get to do you, there’s no one to stop you doing you, and chances are you’ll have some pretty dope adventures too! Sri Lanka is no different.

With so much to see and do in Sri Lanka from its tropical beaches and glorious mountains to its friendly people and mouth-watering kottu, it’s an awesome place to travel alone. Solo travel is common in Sri Lanka and a perfect warm-up for the rest of South Asia.

Here are some excellent travel tips for travelling alone in Sri Lanka to help you out Also, don’t forget to call your mum! She worries, ya know?

• Travel on public transport. It’s cheap and on the right rides, you’ll be meeting plenty of other solo backpackers. Psst – the Kandy to Ella train – is super famous, super beautiful, and always has some travellers on it.
• Find yourself a good hostel in Sri Lanka. There are  heaps and generally, you’ll find a good crowd too.
• Ask a local about their insider knowledge. No one is better than a local for tips on what areas are sweet to check out, what areas might be better avoided, and what’s good to do and see (and eat). Always ask ask ask!
• Wearing clothes that make you look touristy is sill y. Flash, top-brand backpacking gear just makes it obvious and a lack of outfit in a temple is a straight-up no-no.
• Be discreet with flashy things like your phone. As a solo traveller, you’re more likely to be going around with your eyes on your phone, looking at maps and recommendations of things to do; this means you’ll be more vulnerable and also just prone to missing out on the cool things happening around you.
• Be prepared to get hounded a bit more by touts and tuk-tuk drivers. Travelling alone in Sri Lanka and hauling your bag just makes it a given. Stay patient, stick some travel headphones in, and learn how to politely say no in the local lingo. (‘ Nehe, machan’  works – ‘No, friend’.)
• Don’t get so messy you don’t know what’s up. There is no shortage of parties in Sri Lanka but keep your wits about you.
• Keep track of your money, cards, passport, and everything . Organisation and smart placement is the key to hiding your money (i.e. don’t keep everything in one place).
• Know your emergency numbers. It’s 118/119 for police and emergency , 110 for the ambulance or firies , and 011-2421052 for the tourist police . Save ’em!
• Keep people up to date with what you’re getting up to.
• Know your limits ! If you’re hiking, swimming, surfing, or exploring, don’t push yourself. Traveller burn-out is real and a real pain in the ass so be good to yourself.

Because of the economic crisis, both medical and emergency services are undersupplied at the moment. It’s worth purchasing comprehensive travel insurance , because it’s likely only private hospitals will be able to treat things that go badly wrong. Don’t expose yourself to large health risks at the moment!

Sri Lanka may not have a perfect reputation in the world for solo and female travellers to the country, but that doesn’t mean that this beautiful country shouldn’t be on your bucket list. There’s nothing here that means you should miss out on if you’re thinking about it.

Sri Lanka is a stunning gem of an island nation. Women who travel alone shouldn’t avoid it; in fact, one quick Google will show you that there are so many women who have successfully travelled solo around the country.

• The more you cover-up, the better. While there are liberal attitudes in the capital Colombo, and plenty more areas on Sri Lanka’s tourist beaches accustomed to Western swimwear, ultimately it is still a very conservative country. The more skin you show, the more you can expect uncomfortable stares.
• On the touristy areas of the South Coast and also particularly in Arugam Bay, swim in what you’re comfortable with . However, still apply discretion, especially outside these areas or even walking in town. For example, and interestingly, Arugam Bay is a heavily Muslim area, so even in these places, you can expect an air of some judgement from some people.
• Get used to people asking, “Are you married?” It will happen a lot if you’re travelling by yourself around Sri Lanka as a female. How you want to answer is your call but it’s a common question.
• If you’re travelling with a man, sometimes locals will default to him for executive decisions. Yes, it sucks but you can’t rewrite the culture.
• Be careful on packed buses and trains as it is a prime location for groping (though not necessarily common).
• Don’t travel around by yourself at night on public transport and don’t try and walk around late at night by yourself. Similarly, don’t give too much trust to the tuk-tuk drivers.
• Going on a tour is definitely a good idea to see Sri Lanka without having to worry about anything. You can visit Sri Lanka safely and see some amazing stuff too! Do your research though: there have been reports of attacks by tour guides .
• Don’t leave your drinks unattended ; age-old wisdom.
• Always say “no” when you feel uncomfortable. No ambiguity – just straight to the point. If you’re feeling unsafe, find another traveller, a local lady, or just start screaming at the top of your lungs.
• Join other travel groups online for female travellers or team up with other travellers (girls or otherwise) that you meet on the road.
• Prepare your sanitary products and contraception before you travel to Sri Lanka; they’re around but sometimes way harder to find than they should be.

Of course, there are going to be things about travelling to Sri Lanka as a female that jar you and potentially scare you. It’s South Asia Lite – expect some uncomfortable stares, strange moments, and even completely inappropriate propositions.

There is the potential for worse harassment but staying safe in Sri Lanka as a female is extremely viable provided you stay smart and perceptive.

Nuwara Eliya

Perhaps best area to stay in Sri Lanka for tourists. Located in the heart of the tea plantations, Nuwara Eliya has a temperate climate and is surrounded by colonial buildings and plantations, so you’re never far from the action.

Sri Lanka offers up a pretty hefty portion of adventure and excitement for families. Sri Lanka is not only safe to travel for families but it’s a wonderful destination with a lot for the kids to enjoy.

Before you travel, you should make sure that everyone is up to date with their vaccines and that everybody knows to stay covered up against mosquitoes .

Wild animals are very wild (and sometimes disease-ridden ), and Sri Lankans are generally a little too relaxed about small kids and dangerous animals, so please don’t let your kid make friends with a monkey, dog, crocodile or whatever else. It’s a bad move.

Otherwise, watch your kid’s stomach, which might have trouble with the spice, and make sure they aren’t being unsafe on public transport.

Sri Lanka is an awesome place to travel with kids, as there is a lot going on visually, and a ton of activities to get involved in!

Local buses are a cheap, convenient option, but are far from western standards. Intercity buses can be more westernized and come with all the frills. There will usually be a central bus station in every town/ city, and it will be easy to find too. Buses are fun, cheap, and slightly more dangerous than their western counterparts. Crashes have occurred .

The other option, of course, is the train. And that’s a damn good option!

Trains are super fun in Sri Lanka, with some truly majestic rides. Price-wise they’re comparable to buses but a long-distance ride on unreserved seating can often actually come in cheaper. The reserved classes (first-class in particular) will run you a lot more, however.

The public transport in Sri Lanka runs on its own time – it’s called Sri Lankan time. There is a schedule, and they’ll do their best to keep it, but when travelling in Sri Lanka, be prepared to breathe and let go of your schedule. It’s not how the island works.

Taxis are a more expensive but very viable option too.

Crime is a feature of every country, and Sri Lanka is no exception. There is a shady side to the country, especially in terms of bribery and corruption, but as a tourist, this shouldn’t be a problem. Crime stats have not been available since 2019, but at that time Sri Lankan homicide rates were in line with Andorra, Belgium and Liechtenstein.

The British travel advisory states that are still heightened levels of terror alertness, and that petty theft, pickpocketing and scams are common. Credit card fraud and fake bill scams are also something to stay aware of in country.

Try and stay on top of travel advice and look at local media if you want super accurate descriptions of the crime situation in Sri Lanka. The Australian government also issues great travel advice.

Everyone’s packing list is going to look a little different, but here are a few things I would never want to travel to Sri Lanka without…

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

Yesim stands as a premier eSIM service provider, catering specifically to the mobile internet needs of travellers.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

If you’re worried about visiting Sri Lanka then it’s a good idea to invest in travel insurance as this will protect you from a lot of things.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Here are some quick answers to common questions about safety in Sri Lanka.

Is Sri Lanka safe for tourists?

As long as you use your common sense, Sri Lanka can be very safe for tourists. Use your street smarts and stay aware of your surroundings and you’ll have a trouble-free visit. The atmosphere is a lot to take in at first, with a lot of big changes from western society. Don’t be afraid to take a day just to get used to everything.

Is Sri Lanka safe for families?

Yes, Sri Lanka is safe for families. Due to the economic crisis, there may be a little more trouble than usual finding petrol and medicine, but the country is reopening and is there to be travelled! Take care to get appropriate vaccines (especially dengue fever), and make sure you cover up against mosquitos.

Is Sri Lanka safe at night?

We wouldn’t recommend walking around at night in Sri Lanka. If possible, opt for a taxi to get around or stick with a group of friends. Definitely avoid walking around alone after dark. Shady characters are more likely to be around, so keep an eye out!

Is Sri Lanka safe for solo female travellers?

Solo female travellers definitely have a harder time when it comes to safety in Sri Lanka. However, with enough research and precautions, a visit can be completely trouble-free. Just keep in mind that you will have to be more aware of who is talking to you, what they want, and whether it is smart to listen or not. Don’t be afraid to say no, or contact emergency services if something’s up.

Is it safe to live in Sri Lanka?

Yes, it is currently safe to live in Sri Lanka. However, following the economic crisis, there are shortages of things that could be crucial. It’s worth following up with a bunch of research. Life in Sri Lanka is going to be very different from where you come from, and you will have to adjust to the humidity, culture, and language.

What is Healthcare like in Sri Lanka?

In general, healthcare in Sri Lanka is ok. Most people are within three miles of some sort of healthcare facility, but the services aren’t always up to scratch. Medical services are much better at private facilities, especially in and around large cities, although overseas medical costs can be massive so make sure you have insurance!

There is no real reason to not go to Sri Lanka right now. In fact, there’s every reason – it’s gorgeous!

There will be a few things to worry about, but that’s only natural for any developing country. People are very unlikely to hurt you; generally, they’re just trying to make a few extra rupees if possible. And that isn’t everyone, regardless.

Backpacking in Sri Lanka is chill compared to the rest of South Asia. It still pays to be clean, but Sri Lanka is cleaner as a whole. Female tourists still need to stay smart and safe in Sri Lanka, but it’s nothing in comparison to India. If anything, it’s a spectacular warm-up to travel in developing countries and right now, Sri Lanka is safe to travel to.

The island is a little slice of paradise filled with good people, good food, and sights to leave you in wonder. Sri Lanka is a safe country (however, with the caveats of developing countries) and is definitely worth visiting.

Looking for more info on traveling to Sri Lanka?

• Swing by one of these fabulous festivals
• Don’t forget to add an epic national park to your itinerary
• Plan the rest of your trip with our fantastic ba c kpacking Sri Lanka travel guide!
• Get inspired by these EPIC bucket list adventures !
• Take a look at my expert travel safety tips learned from 15+ years on the road

Disclaimer : Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. Do your own research. Enjoy your travels!

Suzanne Borders

Share or save this post

Ziggy, Thank you very much for your response. Yes, actually this is the thing that I am most concerned about that I cover my head and how Sri Lankan people would see it as I have read about muslim-Buddhist conflict in Sri Lanka and since I am travelling after 2 years due to Covid so I don’t want it to be a bad experience. And honestly, I have become more skeptical after reading this review on TripAdvisor https://www.tripadvisor.com.sg/ShowTopic-g293961-i8983-k13788528-2_Weeks_In_Sri_Lanka_What_a_Horrible_Host-Sri_Lanka.html . In my opinion, the reviewer got this kind of treatment due to his religion and nationality, of course I cannot say it for sure but this is what logically seems the right explanation.

Hi, You blog is super helpful for me being a solo female traveler, thank you for sharing all the details and information. I have a question, i would be really grateful if you reply.

I cover my head and shoulders with scarf/veil/stoller in a typical Arab woman style, would that be a problem in Sri lanka?

Well, no and yes. You don’t NEED to cover your head to be respectful. It’s primarily a Buddhist society so knees, shoulders, etc are all that’s necessary for modesty’s sake. But if you wear a head covering and you’re more asking if people will respect you doing that, you should be fine. But in my experience, I found the strongest bigotry/rhetoric in Sri Lanka to be targeted against Islamic people (but specifically Muslim Sri Lankans by non-muslim Sri Lankans). It’s not everywhere all the time, however, after all the conflicts and the bombings a few years back, that seems to be where most distaste lies. Overall, you’ll be fine but keep it in mind.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

Search Smartraveller

Latest update

Exercise a high degree of caution in Sri Lanka due to the threat of public demonstrations and security risks. 

Sri Lanka (PDF 204.19 KB)

Asia (PDF 2.21 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

In Colombo, you can also call (+94 11) 269 1111.

Call 118 or 119 or go to your local police station.

Tourist police

Call (+94 11) 242 1052 or (+94 11) 238 2209.

Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution in Sri Lanka.

• Sri Lanka is due to hold its presidential elections in 2024. Public demonstrations can occur throughout Sri Lanka and may become violent. Avoid areas impacted by demonstrations. Demonstrations can lead to disruptions to traffic and public transport. Follow the advice of local authorities and monitor the media for updates. 
• Public emergencies can be declared, and curfews imposed at short notice. Carry relevant travel and identification documents with you at all times. 
• There is an ongoing risk of terrorist attack in Sri Lanka. Terrorists may target areas popular with foreigners and/or visited by tourists.
• Always carry travel and identification documents. Allow additional time to clear security checks, especially at airports.
• There are marked and unmarked minefields and unexploded weapons in the Northern Province and parts of the Eastern Province. Stay on the main roads. Pay close attention to landmine warning signs.
• Crime, including sexual assault, harassment and robbery, can occur. If you're travelling alone, arrange travel through a reputable company.
• Scams and fraud are common, including credit card fraud, overcharging and fake goods. Be alert to fake goods, especially jewellery and gems. Check your bank statements often.
• Flooding and landslides occur during the monsoon season, from December to March in the northeast and May to October in the southwest. Be prepared to change your travel plans.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Medical services in Colombo are below Australian standards. Outside Colombo, they're extremely limited. If you're seriously ill or injured, you'll need medical evacuation. Ensure your travel insurance covers this. Import delays may impact access to some medicines. 
• There are shortages of some medicines in Sri Lanka. Mental health services are limited and below Australian standards.
• Dengue fever is a risk in Sri Lanka, with increased cases during the monsoon season. Use mosquito repellent. If you have a fever, seek medical help.
• Other insect-borne diseases include chikungunya, Japanese encephalitis and filariasis. Use mosquito and insect repellent. Get vaccinated for Japanese encephalitis before you travel.
• Foodborne, waterborne and other infectious diseases include typhoid, hepatitis, and leptospirosis. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Rabies is present in dogs, monkeys and bats. Avoid contact with animals.

Full travel advice:  Health

Public Emergencies can be declared, and curfews imposed at short notice.

• Carry relevant travel and photo identification documents with you at all times. If you don't, officials may detain you. It's illegal to cover your face in a way that prevents identification. Follow the advice of local authorities.
• The legal drinking age is 21. It is illegal to drink alcohol or smoke in public.
• Be careful when taking photos. You must not photograph or video inside High-Security Zones (HSZs). These include military sites, some government buildings and official residences. HSZs aren't always marked.
• Respect the local culture. It's illegal to mistreat Buddhist images. This includes posing for photos with Buddha statues or wearing tattoos, clothing or jewellery associated with Buddhism. Get local advice before photographing places of worship.
• Sri Lanka has conservative dress and behaviour standards. Take care not to offend. 

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• You'll need an  eVisa  to enter Sri Lanka. 
• Sri Lanka has introduced  Digital Arrival & Departure Cards , which can be completed three days prior to travel. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest high commission, embassy or consulate of Sri Lanka for the latest details.
• Airlines may require proof of certain vaccinations to travel. Check requirements with individual airlines prior to travel.
• Curfews may be implemented and travel restrictions imposed at short notice.
• The local currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Exchange Australian dollars at the airport or commercial banks in major centres. Most major towns and cities have ATMs, but not all accept international cards. Hotels and major shops accept credit cards.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular help, contact the Australian High Commission in Colombo .
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the High Commission's social media accounts.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Terrorism can occur anywhere at any time. There is an ongoing risk of terrorist attack in Sri Lanka. Be alert to possible threats. Take official warnings seriously. Terrorists may target areas popular with foreigners and/or visited by tourists.

To reduce your risk of being involved in a terrorist attack:

• avoid crowded areas
• always be alert
• follow the advice of local authorities
• monitor the media and other sources

A terrorist attack on 21 April 2019 targeted prominent hotels and churches in the cities of Colombo, Negombo and Batticaloa. Over 250 people were killed, and more than 450 injured.

When you're travelling:

• carry travel and identification documents for any checkpoints
• allow additional time to clear security formalities
• be prepared to undergo increased security checks at  Bandaranaike International Airport

More information:

Civil unrest and political tension

Sri Lanka is due to hold its presidential elections in 2024. Public demonstrations can occur throughout Sri Lanka and may become violent. Tear gas and water cannons may be used.

Demonstrations can lead to disruptions to traffic and public transport. Follow the advice of local authorities and monitor the media for updates. 

Public emergencies can be declared, and curfews imposed at short notice. Carry relevant travel and photo identification documents with you at all times.

To stay safe during periods of unrest:

• avoid all protests and large public gatherings
• monitor the news for planned or possible unrest
• obey curfews and seek local advice on safety and security
• follow the instructions of security personnel

If you're detained, ask to contact the Australian High Commission (see ' Local contacts ')

Security forces are visible, particularly in the Northern and Eastern provinces.

Military and police have wide-ranging powers and may:

• establish checkpoints or road closures without warning
• impose curfews
• detain people without charge for long periods
• search people, vehicles, homes or commercial premises

Authorities may apply travel restrictions for foreigners without notice.

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Marked and unmarked minefields and unexploded weapons remain in some areas. Most are in the Northern and Eastern Provinces. Most of the Eastern Province has been cleared but some isolated areas remain uncleared.

There are marked and unmarked minefields and unexploded weapons in the Northern Province and parts of the Eastern Province. Stay on main roads. Pay close attention to landmine warning signs.

Pickpocketing, bag snatching, and other petty crime are risks. Be careful of theft in crowds and these locations:

• sporting events
• public transport
• hotels and guesthouses

Avoid unlit areas and places away from crowds, including city streets, village lanes and beaches.

Crimes can include:

• verbal harassment
• physical advances
• drink-spiking

To protect yourself:

• keep your belongings close, especially in crowded areas
• don't accept food, drinks, gum or cigarettes from strangers
• don't leave your drinks unattended
• if you aren't sure if a drink is safe, leave it
• stay with people you trust at parties and in bars, nightclubs and taxis

Sexual Assault

Women may experience:

• unwanted attention
• sexual harassment 
• assault 
• sexual assault

It's rare for people who commit these crimes to be successfully prosecuted by the law. 

Take care in:

• areas popular with foreigners
• public buses
• 3-wheeled vehicles (tuk-tuks)

More information: 

• Advice for women travellers 

Scams and fraud

Scams  and fraud are a problem, such as:

• credit card fraud, including skimming
• traders overcharging foreigners for goods or services
• traders selling travellers fake goods, especially jewellery and gems

Ask your credit card provider how to prevent credit card fraud.

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Kidnapping can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk.  

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers. 

• Kidnapping  

Tours and adventure activities

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes adventure activities, such as water sports.

If you plan to do an  adventure activity :

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• check operators' credentials
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Swimming safety

Swimming conditions at some beaches are unsafe, and there can be strong rips.

Lifesaving services are rare and not to the same standard as Australia.

Take appropriate precautions.

Saltwater crocodiles are present in some locations in Sri Lanka, and fatal attacks have occurred. Ask for local advice, and don't swim in rivers or lagoons.

Climate and natural disasters

Sri Lanka experiences  severe weather , including flooding and landslides. 

Tsunamis can occur. There is minimal tsunami evacuation route signage, and many tsunami warning towers are not operational. 

If there is a tsunami:

• know the emergency plan at your accommodation
• follow instructions and advice from local authorities
• follow evacuation orders

The monsoon season is from:

• December to March in the north-east
• May to October in the south-west

Flooding and landslides are frequent.

If a  natural disaster  occurs:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location or carry it on you at all times (in a waterproof bag)
• keep in touch with friends and family
• consult with your tour operator about disruptions to your travel plans
• Sri Lankan Disaster Management Centre
• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

Travel insurance

Ensure you have comprehensive  travel insurance . 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. Mental health services in Sri Lanka are limited. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)
• Managing your mental health

Medications

Import delays may impact your ability to access some medicines.

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Sri Lanka. Take enough legal medicine for your trip. Consider bringing an extra supply in case your trip is unexpectedly extended.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases.

Dengue fever is a risk in Sri Lanka. Outbreaks of  dengue  occur in all regions of Sri Lanka.

The risk of insect-borne illnesses increases during the wetter months. This is December to March in the northeast and May to October in the southwest.

If you have a fever, seek medical attention.

Refer to the  Ministry of Health's Epidemiology Unit  for the latest information on dengue cases in Sri Lanka.

Outbreaks of other insect-borne diseases often occur, including:

• chikungunya
• Japanese encephalitis

To protect yourself from disease:

• use mosquito and insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• get vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis

Other health risks

Foodborne, waterborne and other infectious diseases sometimes occur, including:

• leptospirosis
• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid uncooked and undercooked food, such as salads

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Rabies is found in animals in Sri Lanka. Rabies is fatal without immediate treatment. Avoid dogs, monkeys and bats. Seek medical help straight away if an animal bites or scratches you. 

• Infectious diseases

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Medical services and care in Colombo are below Australian standards. Outside of Colombo, facilities are extremely limited, especially for mental health and emergency services.

Mental health services are limited and below Australian standards.

Private hospitals will ask you to pay a deposit or prove you have insurance coverage before treating you. Public general hospitals are free for Sri Lankan nationals. Foreigners will need to pay for any treatments received at public general hospitals. Facilities are limited for scuba-diving injuries. Sri Lanka's only operational decompression chamber is at the Sri Lanka Navy Base in Trincomalee. If you become seriously ill or injured, you'll need to be evacuated to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

Legal proceedings in Sri Lanka are often lengthy. You may not be permitted to depart the country while legal proceedings are ongoing, and this may also apply when you are the victim of a crime. 

In certain cases, Sri Lankan law permits:

• arrest without warrant
• extended detention without charge or trial
• reversal of the onus of proof

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for carrying or using illegal drugs are severe and include the death penalty.

• Carrying or using drugs

Authorities may apply the death penalty for murder or rape.

The legal drinking age is 21 years.

Always carry official photo ID. If you don't, authorities may detain you.

In Sri Lanka it's illegal to:

• cover your face in a way that prevents your identification
• smoke in most public places
• drink alcohol in most public places
• engage in same-sex sexual acts

You must not take photos, record video or operate a drone in High-Security Zones (HSZ), including:

• military establishments
• some government buildings
• official residences

Some HSZs may not be signposted.

It's illegal to mistreat Buddhist images, including:

• having your back to Buddha
• posing for a photograph next to a statue of Buddha
• wearing tattoos, jewellery or clothing associated with Buddhism

You must have legal authorisation to export certain items, such as antiquities. Contact the  Sri Lankan Department of Archaeology  for details.

• Sri Lankan Customs (Sri Lankan)
• Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law

Dual citizenship

Sri Lanka recognises dual nationality.

• Dual nationals

Local customs

Standards of dress and behaviour are conservative in Sri Lanka. Respect religious traditions and objects. Take care not to offend.

Respect local restrictions and observances around religious holidays.

Full moon (Poya) days are celebrated once a month. Authorities ban the sale and purchase of alcohol and fresh meat on these days.

Seek local advice before you take photos of places of worship and nearby areas. You may cause offence.

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Entry and exit conditions can change. Sri Lanka has introduced  Digital Arrival & Departure Cards , which can be completed three days prior to travel. 

You need a  Sri Lankan eVisa  to enter Sri Lanka.

Tourists can't obtain visas on arrival. You'll need to apply online and get a valid visa before arriving in Sri Lanka. Ensure you select the correct visa category for your situation, and depending on your eVisa category, you may be charged a processing fee. If you engage in activities that breach your visa conditions, authorities could detain or deport you.

Contact the  High Commission of Sri Lanka  for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Pay close attention to the date your visa expires. You could receive a large fine if you overstay your visa.

Yellow fever and Cholera

If you're travelling from a country with yellow fever or cholera you need to present evidence that you've received the relevant immunisations.

You need a yellow fever vaccination certificate even if you've only transited through an affected country. This rule applies for the 9 days before you enter Sri Lanka. Babies under one year old are exempt.

Border authorities and airlines may request evidence of immunisations. All travellers should carry proof of vaccination status in English.

Find out about returning to Australia  after exposure to yellow fever .

• Sri Lanka Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Countries with a risk of yellow fever (PDF 152KB)

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with 'X’ gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

• LGBTQIA+ travellers 

The local currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR).

You can change Australian dollars for LKR at:

• the airport
• commercial banks in major centres

Most major towns and cities have ATMs. Some ATMs don't accept international cards.

You can withdraw cash from Visa and MasterCard cards at most major banks.

Hotels and major shops will accept credit cards.

Before you travel, ask your bank if your cards will work in Sri Lanka.

Check your statements, as credit card fraud and card-skimming occur.

Local travel

High security zones.

You must get approval from the Ministry of Defence to:

• meet military officials
• visit military establishments
• enter High Security Zones

Limit travel in High Security Zones and near military and government installations.

Be ready to present your approval documents at roadblocks and checkpoints.

Driving permit

To drive in Sri Lanka, you need either:

• a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) endorsed by the Automobile Association of Sri Lanka (AA)
• a temporary Sri Lankan driver’s licence from the  Department of Motor Traffic

To apply for a local licence, you must pay the fee and provide:

• your Australian driver’s licence
• a copy of your passport
• a copy of your Sri Lankan visa
• passport photos

If you drive without an IDP or Sri Lankan driver's licence, you may not be covered by your travel or vehicle insurance.

Road travel

Demonstrations in Sri Lanka can lead to disruptions to traffic and public transport.

Driving in Sri Lanka is hazardous. Road accident injuries and deaths are common. 

Driving standards are poor. Vehicles aren't well maintained.

If you plan to drive in Sri Lanka:

• learn local traffic laws and practices
• drive carefully and legally
• don't drink and drive
• Road safety

Motorcycles

Ask your travel insurer if your policy covers you when riding a motorbike.

Always wear a helmet.

If you have a local SIM card, ridesharing apps are available in major cities. However, vehicle standards vary.

Public transport

Demonstrations in Sri Lanka can lead to disruptions to public transport.

Safety standards on buses and trains may be lower than in Australia.

There are a high number of road deaths and injuries, especially on intercity buses. There have also been fatal accidents on Sri Lankan railways in recent years.

Take care of your belongings because theft occurs. See  Safety

• Transport and getting around safely

Piracy  occurs in the coastal areas of Sri Lanka. Get piracy reports from the  International Maritime Bureau .

• Travelling by boat

Commercial passenger flights are operating with regular connections to Australia. Flight schedules may change at short notice. 

Allow additional time to clear security formalities and be ready to present travel documents at checkpoints.

Curfews and other security measures could affect domestic travel, including flights.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Sri Lanka's air safety  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Call (+94 11) 242 1052 or (+94 11) 242 1451 .

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular assistance, contact the Australian High Commission in Colombo.

Australian High Commission, Colombo

21, Srimath R. G. Senanayake Mawatha (formerly Gregory's Road) Colombo 7, Sri Lanka Phone: (+94 11) 246 3200 Fax: (+94 11) 268 6453 Email:  [email protected] Website:  srilanka.embassy.gov.au X: Australia in Sri Lanka Facebook:  Australia in Sri Lanka

Check the High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Sri Lanka?

Sign up to get the latest travel advice updates..

Be the first to know official government advice when travelling.

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

Register to vote Register by 18 June to vote in the General Election on 4 July.

• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Safety and security

Terrorism  .

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times. 

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad . 

Terrorism in Sri Lanka 

Terrorists are likely to try and carry out attacks in Sri Lanka. 

Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners such as hotels, tourist sites and places of worship. Avoid crowded public places, large gatherings and demonstrations, and follow the advice of local authorities. 

On Easter Sunday in April 2019, more than 250 people, including 8 British nationals, were killed in terrorist attacks against 3 churches and 3 hotels in Sri Lanka: in Colombo, Negombo and in Batticaloa. 

Political and economic situation 

Protests and demonstrations can happen anywhere across the island at short notice, and can become violent.  Security authorities may use water cannons and tear gas to control protesters.

Large-scale protests in 2022 resulted in violence and loss of life. Movement around the island was difficult due to restrictions such as curfews and roadblocks.  

Avoid demonstrations, political protests or large gatherings. Monitor local media and sign up to  get email notifications when this advice is updated .

Protecting yourself and your belongings 

There’s been an increase in incidents of low-level opportunistic crime. Store your belongings as safely as possible to avoid thefts from hotels and guesthouses and minimise the number of personal items you carry with you.  

On the street, criminals may ride past on mopeds or motorbikes and try to snatch your bag. Take care of your passport and money by keeping them in a body-belt. Carry bags on the side of you that is furthest from the road and do not place bags in the front basket of bicycles. 

Violent crimes against foreigners are rare. Gun crime is not uncommon, but usually it is due to a dispute between different criminal groups. 

Using bank cards safely 

Credit card fraud is common. Do not let your card out of your sight during transactions. Only use ATMs attached to banks or major hotels.  

Drink spiking 

Be alert to the possible use of ‘date rape’ and other drugs including GHB.

Buy your own drinks and always keep them in sight to avoid them being spiked. Alcohol and drugs can reduce your vigilance, making you less in control.  Drinks served in bars in Sri Lanka are often stronger than those in the UK.

Sexual assault 

Women continue to report incidents of verbal and physical harassment by men, ranging from sexually suggestive or lewd comments to physical advances and sexual assaults. 

Incidents can happen anywhere, but the majority of reported cases take place in crowded areas including: 

• bus and railway stations, or on buses 
• sporting events 
• tourist sites 

Take care when travelling alone or in small groups, and consider carrying a personal alarm. 

Laws and cultural differences  

Personal id .

You must carry an official form of identification at all times. Your passport is an acceptable form of identification.

Alcohol laws and bans 

You could be fined if you ignore instructions not to drink alcohol in certain public areas. 

Alcohol is not usually available on religious holidays. Drinking in public on these days could be culturally insensitive. Check locally for dates of religious holidays of when this would apply. 

Smoking and e-cigarette bans 

You could be fined if you ignore signs not to smoke in certain public areas. 

Detention and prison sentences 

There are severe penalties for drug offences, terrorism and all other serious crimes. You could be held without charge indefinitely. If convicted, you may face a lengthy jail sentence. 

If you’re arrested under Sri Lanka’s Prevention of Terrorism Act, you could be detained without charge awaiting a trial date.  

Using cameras, binoculars and drones in secure areas

Do not fly drones near, use binoculars to look at, or take photographs of: 

• military bases 
• government buildings 
• vehicles used by VIPs  

Check how to register and operate drones with Sri Lanka’s Civil Aviation Authority . 

LGBT+ travellers 

Same-sex relations are illegal, but the FCDO is not aware of any prosecutions. 

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers . 

Laws on clothing 

Nude or topless sunbathing is not allowed. 

If you enter a Buddhist temple: 

• cover your legs and shoulders 
• take off shoes and hats 

Disrespecting Buddhist images and artefacts, or making offensive remarks about religion, is a serious offence and can lead to arrest. If you have visible tattoos of Buddha, you can been refused entry to Sri Lanka or face deportation. Do not pose for photographs standing in front of a statue of Buddha. 

Some Sri Lankan animals can be dangerous. If in doubt, follow advice from authorised guides or local authorities. Wild elephants and crocodiles will attack humans on occasion. Though not common in populated areas, venomous insects and snakes are found in many parts of the country. Feral dogs are common and sometimes carry rabies. 

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism  

Swimming safety .

Many beaches in Sri Lanka have dangerous surf or rip tides at certain times of the year. Seek advice from your hotel or tour operator before going in the sea. 

Transport risks  

Road travel  .

You need a 1949 International Driving Permit and a Sri Lankan recognition permit to drive a hire vehicle. 

You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.  

When you arrive in Sri Lanka, take your UK driving licence and your IDP along with 2 passport photos to the office of the Automobile Association of Ceylon at 40 Sir Mohomad Macan Markar Mawatha, Colombo 00300, to verify your documents and get a recognition permit. Your hire car company may be able to help with this. 

Tourists can hire cars, tuk tuks and motorbikes in Sri Lanka.  If you hire a vehicle, make sure you:

• have a valid driving licence
• have appropriate insurance
• check that the vehicle is roadworthy before you start your journey
• ensure that the company you rent the vehicle from is registered with the Sri Lanka Tourist Board and has a ‘Safe & Secure’ certificate

Road safety 

Some roads, particularly in more remote areas, may be in poor condition. Driving is erratic and there are frequent road accidents, particularly at night. Remain alert for pedestrians and animals on busy roads. Riding a motorbike can be particularly dangerous.

If you have a collision, stay at the site of the accident with your vehicle as long as it is safe to do so. If it is not safe or if you feel threatened, report to the local police station. 

There are still security checkpoints on main roads in parts of the country. Follow the instructions of the police or army officers on duty. Security forces have opened fire on vehicles that have not stopped when asked. Roads around government and military sites in Colombo are often closed for security reasons, such as access for VIP convoys. 

Public buses are often driven fast, rarely give way and are often poorly maintained leading to serious bus accidents in recent years. Tourist buses are usually driven more professionally and safely, but standards can vary.

You can book taxis using local and international taxi apps. There is less availability outside tourist areas. Motorised rickshaws (tuk-tuks) are available for hire in towns and villages. Agree a price before you set off or look for one with a working meter.

There are occasional reports of harassment, particularly of women travellers at night. Change to a different tuk-tuk or taxi if you have any concerns about the driver or their standard of driving. 

Rail travel 

When travelling by train, make sure you stay within the train carriage while the train is moving. There have been fatal accidents when visitors have hung out of open doorways or windows of trains. Take care of your personal possessions at all times. There have been incidents of theft and pickpocketing. 

Sea travel 

You need prior permission to enter Sri Lankan waters and the security zones in coastal areas. 

The threat of piracy and armed robbery in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean remains significant. The combined threat assessment of the international Naval Counter Piracy Forces is that all sailing yachts under their own passage should stay out of the designated High Risk Area or face the risk of being hijacked and held hostage for ransom.

See more advice on piracy and armed robbery at sea . 

Extreme weather and natural disasters 

Monsoon rains can cause flooding in many places in Sri Lanka. Floods can cause widespread displacement of people, injuries and occasional deaths. Heavy rains and landslips can also lead to road closures and affect local transport links. 

Monitor Sri Lanka’s Disaster Management Centre and the Sri Lankan Department of Meteorology for updates and follow local advice. 

Tropical cyclones 

There is a risk of tropical cyclones. Monitor Sri Lanka’s Disaster Management Centre and the World Meteorological Organisation for updates. 

Related content

Is this page useful.

• Yes this page is useful
• No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. Please fill in this survey (opens in a new tab) .

You are using an outdated browser. Upgrade your browser today or install Google Chrome Frame to better experience this site.

Sri Lanka Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Sri Lanka. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Updated   Global Measles May 28, 2024 Many international destinations are reporting increased numbers of cases of measles. Destination List: Afghanistan, Angola, Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Malaysia, Mauritania, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Qatar, Republic of South Sudan, Republic of the Congo, Romania, Russia, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Togo, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Yemen, Zambia
• Dengue in Asia and the Pacific Islands May 16, 2024 Dengue is a risk in many parts of Asia and the Pacific Islands. Some countries are reporting increased numbers of cases of the disease. Travelers to Asia and the Pacific Islands can protect themselves by preventing mosquito bites. Destination List: Cambodia, Fiji, Indonesia, Laos, Samoa, Singapore, Sri Lanka

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Sri Lanka.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Sri Lanka. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Sri Lanka.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Japanese Encephalitis

Recommended for travelers who

• Are moving to an area with Japanese encephalitis to live
• Spend long periods of time, such as a month or more, in areas with Japanese encephalitis
• Frequently travel to areas with Japanese encephalitis

Consider vaccination for travelers

• Spending less than a month in areas with Japanese encephalitis but will be doing activities that increase risk of infection, such as visiting rural areas, hiking or camping, or staying in places without air conditioning, screens, or bed nets
• Going to areas with Japanese encephalitis who are uncertain of their activities or how long they will be there

Not recommended for travelers planning short-term travel to urban areas or travel to areas with no clear Japanese encephalitis season. 

Japanese encephalitis - CDC Yellow Book

Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine for US Children

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Dogs infected with rabies are commonly found in Sri Lanka.

Rabies is also present in some terrestrial wildlife species.

If rabies exposures occur while in Sri Lanka, rabies vaccines are typically not readily available.

Rabies pre-exposure vaccination considerations include whether travelers 1) will be performing occupational or recreational activities that increase risk for exposure to potentially rabid animals and 2) might have difficulty getting prompt access to safe post-exposure prophylaxis.

Please consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether you should receive pre-exposure vaccination before travel.

For more information, see country rabies status assessments .

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

• Mosquito bite
• Avoid Bug Bites

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Sri Lanka, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Sri Lanka. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Sri Lanka include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Sri Lanka. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Sri Lanka’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Sri Lanka. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Sri Lanka may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Sri Lanka, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Traffic flows on the left side of the road in Sri Lanka.

• Always pay close attention to the flow of traffic, especially when crossing the street.
• LOOK RIGHT for approaching traffic.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Sri Lanka for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

Other Destinations

If you need help finding travel information:

Message & data rates may apply. CDC Privacy Policy

File Formats Help:

• Adobe PDF file
• Microsoft PowerPoint file
• Microsoft Word file
• Microsoft Excel file
• Audio/Video file
• Apple Quicktime file
• RealPlayer file
• Zip Archive file

Exit Notification / Disclaimer Policy

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cannot attest to the accuracy of a non-federal website.
• Linking to a non-federal website does not constitute an endorsement by CDC or any of its employees of the sponsors or the information and products presented on the website.
• You will be subject to the destination website's privacy policy when you follow the link.
• CDC is not responsible for Section 508 compliance (accessibility) on other federal or private website.

• Skip to main content
• Skip to "About this site"

Language selection

Search travel.gc.ca.

Help us to improve our website. Take our survey !

COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Sri Lanka travel advice

Latest updates: Editorial change

Last updated: June 4, 2024 08:03 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, sri lanka - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Sri Lanka due to demonstrations, the threat of terrorist attacks and crime.

Back to top

Current economic situation

Sri Lanka is experiencing economic difficulties which may result in limited availability of resources, including basic necessities like medicines, fuel and specific food items. Power outages, though infrequent, may occur.

The economic situation may also impact public services, including healthcare.

If you are in Sri Lanka:

• keep supplies of food, water and fuel in case of lengthy disruptions
• make sure to have sufficient supply of any required medicines on hand as availability may be limited
• avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Demonstrations occur frequently in Colombo, and occasionally elsewhere in the country. Security forces may use tear gas and water cannons during violent protests. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

More about mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Security forces

The Sri Lankan military continues to maintain a strong presence in the country’s North and East, including the Jaffna Peninsula. Military and police checkpoints can be established and road closures can occur suddenly.

Security forces have wide-ranging powers, including the authority to:

• impose curfews
• detain without charge for extended periods
• search individuals, vehicles, residences and commercial premises

Individuals of Sri Lankan heritage, including those who don’t have Sri Lankan citizenship, have been detained on occasion by police or security forces. 

• Always carry formal photographic identification with you
• Keep an eye out for signage warning of military or demining zones
• Keep to well-traveled roads
• Avoid venturing in forested areas or abandoned properties
• Monitor local news for latest updates
• If you’re detained, ask the authorities to contact the High Commission of Canada

There is a threat of terrorism. Past attacks have resulted in fatalities.

Further attacks can’t be ruled out. Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Violent crime occurs, including harassment and assault aimed at Western foreigners.

Petty crime such as purse snatching and pickpocketing is common, especially on public transportation. Theft has occurred in hotels and guesthouses.

Credit card fraud is common. Pay very close attention to your credit card when it is being handled. To minimize risks, you should opt to pay in cash whenever possible.

Ensure that your personal belongings, including passports and other travel documents, are secure at all times.

Inter-communal tensions

Inter-communal and religious tensions exist throughout the country and have led to violence. Further violent incidents could occur.

Spiked food and drinks

Foreigners have been targeted in incidents of drink spiking, often combined with sexual assault or theft. Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Women’s safety

Women are often the target for unwanted attention. They should exercise caution when travelling alone.

Advice for women travellers

Swimming conditions may be unsafe. Follow the advice and warnings of local authorities.

Water safety abroad

Tourist facilities

Tourist facilities are widely available but quality varies, especially inland. You should arrange travel to remote areas through a reputable travel agency.

Road safety

Road conditions are usually poor outside major cities.

Road accidents, often causing death and injuries, are common due to poorly maintained vehicles, erratic driving practices and pedestrians and roaming animals on the road.

Roads may be closed on short notice.

Public transportation

Travel by bus is generally unsafe due to aggressive drivers and the risk of theft.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Sri Lankan authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Sri Lanka.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: required  Business visa: required  Student visa: required  Work visa: required

For stays of up to 30 days, you can apply online for a tourist visa. You can obtain all other visas at a Sri Lankan government office in Canada or abroad.

Visas may be extended at Sri Lanka’s Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo.

You cannot convert a visa status once in Sri Lanka. Non-compliance with visa restrictions may result in deportation.

You will also need to fill out an online arrival card. You can complete the online form three days before arriving in Sri Lanka.

• Apply for the Electronic Travel Authority - Sri Lankan Department of Immigration and Emigration
• Arrival Card form - Sri Lankan Department of Immigration and Emigration

Special permissions

Journalists and media crews need permission to travel to some northern districts.

Entry into Sri Lankan waters, at any point, requires prior permission.

Other requirements

An onward or return ticket and proof of sufficient funds to sustain you while you are in the country are required to visit Sri Lanka.

• Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Dengue: Advice for travellers - 6 May, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country   where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the brain.  It is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk is very low for most travellers. Travellers at relatively higher risk may want to consider vaccination for JE prior to travelling.

Travellers are at higher risk if they will be:

• travelling long term (e.g. more than 30 days)
• making multiple trips to endemic areas
• staying for extended periods in rural areas
• visiting an area suffering a JE outbreak
• engaging in activities involving high contact with mosquitos (e.g., entomologists)

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Travellers going to countries in South Asia should speak to a health care professional about getting vaccinated.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

Medical services and facilities do not meet the standards you might normally expect in Canada. 

Medical facilities in certain areas outside of Colombo are limited, particularly in the north. In the event of a major accident or illness, medical evacuation is often necessary. Medical transport is very expensive.

Medical facilities may require confirmation of insurance coverage, guarantee of payment or an up-front deposit before admitting patients.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict.

Alcohol consumption in public places is prohibited.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Smoking is prohibited in many indoor public places, workplaces and on public transport. Use designated smoking areas.

Exporting antiques without a proper licence is illegal.

Photography

Photographing and videotaping government and military installations, as well as in any designated high-security zone, is prohibited.

Dress and behaviour

Dress conservatively, behave discreetly and respect religious and social traditions and artefacts to avoid offending local sensitivities. Posing for a photograph next to a statue of Buddha is a serious offence, punishable by a fine or an arrest. Tattoos, jewellery and clothing associated with Buddhism are considered offensive and may lead to fines, arrest or deportation.

Identification

Carry official identification at all times.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Sri Lanka.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Traffic drives on the left.

Checkpoints may be set up. Carry personal identification at all times and comply with government and security force instructions.

You should carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Sri Lanka.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Sri Lanka, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Sri Lanka.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Sri Lanka, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Sri Lankan court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Sri Lanka to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

The currency is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR).

Credit cards are widely accepted in major urban and tourist centres. You may encounter difficulties in making Visa and MasterCard cash withdrawals. There are ATMs in major cities, but some do not accept international cards.

Monsoon and rainstorms

The rainy (or monsoon) season extends from December to March in the northeast and June to October in the southwest.

Severe rainstorms can cause flooding and landslides, which can lead to deaths, injuries and large population displacements.

• Stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
• Large-scale emergencies abroad
• Weather forecasts - Sri Lankan Department of Meteorology
• Disaster warnings and weather reports – Sri Lankan Disaster Management Center

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Sri Lanka is located in an active seismic zone and may be prone to earthquakes and tsunamis.

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 119 / 118
• tourist police: 94 (11) 242 1052
• medical assistance: 110
• firefighters: 94 (11) 242 2222

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada to Sri Lanka in Colombo and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

• English (EN)
• Español (ES)
• Português (BR)

Is Sri Lanka Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

• Sri Lanka : Safety by City

Sri Lanka, formerly known as Ceylon, is an island located in Southern Asia.

It’s actually an island country in the Indian Ocean, south of India.

Sri Lanka is home to numerous cultures and languages.

The majority of the population is from the Sinhalese ethnicity, and much of the territory of Sri Lanka is inhabited by the Sinhalese people, while a large minority of Tamils, who have also played a significant role in the island’s history, are mostly located on the north of the island.

Christians in both groups are recent converts who have kept the traditional culture, though there are all kinds of religions here: Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, etc.

Sri Lanka offers such a colorful specter of friendly people, cultural heritage, gorgeous beaches, huge cities with loud streets packed with people, markets, children, streetcars, and millions of treats characteristic to this part of the Asian continent, that it makes this country a perfect place to start exploring this region of Asia.

• Warnings & Dangers in Sri Lanka

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

Sri Lanka is generally a safe country to visit. It is a country where you are unlikely to encounter violence, but you should be careful when it comes to petty crime because its rate is high. However, it is still filled with tourists, and if you venture to this country you are likely to have a smooth trip with no incidents.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

As mentioned, some taxis do not have meters so make sure you negotiate the price before entering the vehicle. It is relatively safe to take tuk-tuks at night, just be careful that you don't get ripped off.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

There is a great risk of pickpockets. In this country, you definitely shouldn't let your guard down. Avoid carrying your belongings with you, and if you do, never carry anything in your pocket or a purse.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

The greatest natural threat in Sri Lanka is flooding, tsunamis and sea level rises. These often generate disasters. The biggest tragedy caused by a tsunami in the past decade was in 2004 when the tsunami killed more than 5000 people.

MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

Mugging is relatively rare in Sri Lanka, but it does happen. There have been reports of criminals using knives to cut off tourists' bags. Avoid poorly lit and deserted areas and be wary of people sending you free drinks.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

Sri Lankan military conflicts between Tamils and Sinhalese ended in 2009, and since then, there has been peace in this country. Still, you should remain vigilant and avoid military areas and High-Security Zones.

SCAMS RISK: HIGH

There is a number of scams performed in Sri Lanka, mostly distractions executed in order to separate you from your belongings or take advantage of you in another way. Many taxis do not have meters so be sure to negotiate the price of the ride before entering the vehicle, and do not use your credit card unless it's at established buildings and businesses.There is the common scam when taxi drivers suggest making a short stop to a so-called Spice Garden where they offer you fake Ayurveda medicines and cosmetics.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Sri Lanka is, generally speaking, safe for women travelers. Try avoiding dark alleys, walking alone along with dark, poorly lit or deserted areas, or finding yourself late at night in areas filled with bars or clubs as you might receive some unwanted attention. Apart from that, use your common sense and apply all basic precaution measures.

• So... How Safe Is Sri Lanka Really?

Sri Lanka is a safe country to visit! Your biggest problems here are probably going to be scammers and pickpockets, and even pickpockets aren’t that much of a problem.

You should be wary of scammers because everyone will try to trick you into buying something from them.

If you are a first time visitor to Sri Lanka, never say it, though they ask you, and ignore all interactions and unsolicited advice from strangers.

Some of them may offer you help, ask you if you remember them or tell you they work at your guesthouse or hotel.

This is just a way for them to start a conversation with you and trick you into buying something from them.

Then there are transportation scams, like in most countries in this region: tuk-tuk scams are common in Colombo urban area and other larger cities, so be sure to tell the driver where you want to go and always agree on the price beforehand (the price for the whole ride) and check if the driver understood it.

This goes for all other types of transportation, such as taxis.

As for crime, there is some street crime and petty theft, but taking care of your belongings and being vigilant at all times should minimize the risks of something going wrong.

Violent crime is usually not any more serious for tourists in Sri Lanka than anywhere else, though there has been an increase in violent crimes towards tourists in the last couple of years, it is still very rare, though vigilance is recommended.

• How Does Sri Lanka Compare?
• Useful Information

Visas for entering Sri Lanka are given upon arrival and most nationals do need one in order to enter Sri Lanka. This visa is initially limited to 30 days validity from the date of arrival although it may be extended for up to six months. If you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need a visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.

Sri Lanka rupee is the official currency of Sri Lanka. ATMs are available in most cities and larger towns and credit cards are accepted in most establishments such as restaurants and hotels.

Sri Lanka has a tropical climate characterized by very distinctive dry and wet seasons. The best time to visit the west and south coasts and the central region, where Kandy and Colombo are, is from December to March, while the best time to visit the east coast is from April/May to September.

Bandaranaike International Airport usually referred to as the Katunayake Airport and Colombo International Airport is the main international airport serving Sri Lanka. It is located about 20 miles north of Colombo.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to Sri Lanka, since it covers not only the costs of medical problems but also theft and loss of valuables.

Sri Lanka Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

Sri Lanka - Safety by City

Explore sri lanka.

• Top 7 Beaches in Sri Lanka
• Safety in Sri Lanka: 8 Things You Need to Know Before Going There
• Where to Next?

15 Reviews on Sri Lanka

The British government state that Sri Lanka has a high risk of terrorist attacks.. please review this

Zero Terrorists

💯 no risk here now.

Is it safe?

So no major risks at the moment? A lot of countries are issuing a warning to re-schedule travel plans and to avoid travel to Sri Lanka… We are hoping to come in June 2022

lol! Britain has highest risk of terrorist attacks than Sri Lanka

Love Sri Lanka, beautiful country, no risks

Inaccurate infor.

Above statement is false. Buddhism is the main religion with more than 70% of the population. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sri_Lanka 70.2% Buddhism 12.6% Hinduism 9.7% Islam 7.4% Christianity 0.1% Other/None

What about people who do not have a religion? Do you have the accurate data. One can not rely the data coming out of the country as there are no accurate statics coming out of the statistics department. A good example is during the Covid 19 time the number of deaths reported was very low. This was purposefully done in many occasions in order to show that SL was safe to some tourists. The action failed as many foreign visitors contacted their own country health departments to verify before travel.

covid is a flu…you are more at risk of death having taken the vaccine.

Sri Lanka HOLY SH_T

WE ALL LOVE THIS NATION CALLED Sri Lanka!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Sri Lanka IS ONE OF THE SAFEST COUNTRIES IN South Asia!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I think this really depends on where you go and what you do. Some aspects of Sri Lanka are VERY unsafe and there are places where you can get robbed, hurt, or even killed if you are not careful. I won’t say this place is 100% unsafe but you can’t claim it is 100% safe either.

Safe place to travel

Yes, any country for that matter is unsafe today, for example USA, Canada, UK where there is gun violence, and compared to these countries Sri Lanka is much safer. There are killings on personal grounds but tourists are unharmed. There was terrorism more than a decade ago but last 13 years had been peaceful. Sri Lanka has party politics and corruption in that realm, but, that’s nothing much to be concerned by nature and peace loving tourists. But, yes, you can be Scammed by some if shown vulnerable. So please act confident and comfortable and as someone mentioned do not fall in to unsolicited support or opinions. Have a safe trip and Sri Lanka is one of the places!!!

i give 9/10

as you saw in article please be aware about scammers otherwise it’s safe to travel, they are very respectfull and friendly people, no terrorists,

Sri Lanka is a most beautiful country , i ever visit. Good peoples, Good weather. Amazing historical places to visit. Amazing 😍 With love SL 🌹

BEATUFIUL COUNTRY TO VISIT

Super country! Sinhalese are the top nation in the world!

Share Your Experience Cancel reply

Your Review

Title of your review

Article Contents

• Overall Risk
• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
• Mugging Risk
• Terrorism Risk
• Women Travelers Risk
• Weather Averages (Temperatures)
• User Reviews
• Share Your Experience

Popular Destinations

Safety Index

Recent reviews & comments.

• Kate J on Kankakee
• Henry West on New Rochelle
• Dan Erick on New Rochelle
• James Reed on Sioux Falls
• Eduard Corpuz on Sioux Falls

Popular US States

• Pennsylvania

• Visit Oyster on Facebook!
• Visit Oyster on Pinterest!
• Visit Oyster on Instagram!
• Visit Oyster on Twitter!
• Subscribe to stay up to date!

Yes, send me expert tips and deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

• Subtract one room 1 Rooms Add one room
• Subtract one adult 2 Adults Add one adult
• Travel Tips

14 Things You Should Know Before Traveling to Sri Lanka

See recent posts by Katherine Alex Beaven

Sri Lanka is a beautiful, exotic destination full of culture, nature, wildlife, and smiling faces. For a country with such a violent (and recently so, at that) history, the island is actually home to some of the friendliest people out there. Located between India and southeast Asia, Sri Lanka is neither quite like India nor Asia, leaving it in somewhat of a curious middle ground as far as geography, features, culture, landscape, and customs. You might already assume that some places here don't serve beef (12 percent of the island's population is Hindu), but in our list of 14 things you should know before travel to Sri Lanka, we've included 13 other facts about the destination that you probably don't know. Read on so you do.

1. Sri Lanka is largely safe to travel.

Photo by Liz Allocca

Is Sri Lanka safe to travel? While there are certainly some precautions travelers should take when visiting Sri Lanka, the country as a whole is largely safe. For some historical context, between 1983 and 2009, Sri Lanka was riddled with a brutal civil war, causing most tourists to stay away. However, since the war’s end, Sri Lanka has been steadily rebuilding its tourism, and more and more visitors enter this gorgeous country each year. Unfortunately, the country’s government has had to declare a state of emergency a couple of times since then. In early 2018, one was imposed due to violence between the island’s Sinhalese and Muslim communities centered around the city of Kandy . Later that year, Sri Lanka suffered from political unrest and instability, accompanied by protests.

Tragically, churches and hotels were bombed by Islamist extremists on Easter Sunday in 2019, leading to the death of 258 people. The hotels bombed included the Shangri-La Hotel, Cinnamon Grand Hotel ,  The Kingsbury , and the Tropical Inn in the capital of Colombo . The deadliest attack occurred at a church in Negombo , near the main Bandaranaike International Airport. The U.S. government has given Sri Lanka a Level 2 Travel Advisory, which says tourists should exercise increased caution. Other countries with a Level 2 advisory include France, Mexico, and the United Kingdom.

Additionally, as with any destination, take the necessary measures to ensure safety. Exercise the same amount of caution you would when traveling in any unfamiliar area — and definitely look both ways when you cross the busy roads.

2. Be respectful of the political past.

The war may be over, but it only ended a few years ago, and we recommend being aware of the past and thus respectful of the situation. While it’s totally acceptable to ask locals questions about their lives, families, et cetera, we’d advise against bringing up or getting involved in any type of political conversation. It’s still a delicate subject and, unless you’re a scholar on Sri Lankan politics and policy, it’s best to stick to the simple stuff.

3. Sri Lanka tourism is still developing.

Sri Lanka’s tourist boom is happening right now , which means that outside of the bustling capital city of Colombo , some areas may not seem exactly tourist-ready. The roads are narrow and often unpaved, save the main road in town, there’s not much English spoken outside of the tourism realm (e.g., it may be difficult to communicate with back street vendors or even some tuk-tuk drivers), there’s not too much to do outside of the hotels in these areas, and it’s not as convenient to just pick up something if you’ve forgotten it — think toiletries, medicine, or a quick snack. However, for some true explorers and adventurers, this is part of the draw — there’s always something rewarding about experiencing a place before it blows up and globalizes.

Check Out: One of the Prettiest Beach Hotels in Sri Lanka

4. It can be expensive.

You’re probably wondering, “Is Sri Lanka expensive?” Unlike other well-connected places in southern Asia like Vietnam or Thailand that are quite cheap (like backpacker cheap), Sri Lanka can make for an expensive visit depending on what you do. A lot of goods on the island are imported, which particularly hikes up the price of imported liquors and certain foods. However, the more expensive restaurants tend to be at high-end resorts, so stick to Sri Lankan foods such as delectable curries and local Lion lager for a very budget-friendly meal. Similarly, skip staying at some of the upscale hotels that charge upwards of $300/night for a more quaint property (we love the Kandy Samadhi Centre Hotel ). Also, you’re going to need cash to pay for most things, so be sure to have plenty on hand.

(Remember from our 20 Most Important Travel Tips , always use the ATM machine — not currency exchanges — to grab the local currency.)

5. Sri Lanka rental cars require a special driver’s license.

Another hurdle of traveling to Sri Lanka (that’s actually kind of a life-saver) is that some foreign drivers need a special license to rent a car here. Unlike almost everywhere else in the world, you can’t just hop into a car for a self-guided holiday. You’ll need a valid license from your home country in addition to  a valid International Driving Permit. Make sure the IDP has Sri Lanka listed as one of the valid countries. Just a note: This isn’t Anytown, USA; the rules of the road in Sri Lanka are strict and the traffic can be hectic, so even if you have an IDP, you may want to think twice about getting behind the wheel.

6. Most Sri Lanka tours are done with a private driver.

Because of the stressful driving conditions and need for an IDP, most tourists find it easiest to hire a driver for getting around Sri Lanka. It’s not as white glove as it sounds, though. Hired drivers are part of tour agencies and function as your personal tour guides, too. Taking one of these tours is a fantastic way to see the country; reputable companies will tailor-make your trip, offer alternatives to well-trodden itineraries, and give you the lowdown about where you are at any given time. It’s not uncommon for the drivers and guests to become great friends during the tours. The only downside is that most of them are booked for private groups so if you are trying to socialize, you may be out of luck. On the plus side, Sri Lankan tour guides typically speak English well and are happy to chat about themselves and their country.

7. Trains are better travel experiences than buses.

If opting for public transportation, Sri Lanka trains are much more pleasant experiences than buses. For one, trains are inexpensive and often a scenic way to see the landscape. Seats can be reserved weeks in advance and are fairly comfortable. Buses on the other hand, are certainly dirt cheap, but the drivers often drive dangerously. Additionally, buses usually fill up and are packed with people sitting and standing. Tuk-tuks are the popular choice for shorter distances, but try to secure a metered one or be sure to agree on a price before getting in — drivers are known to scam people by upcharging.

8. Drinking and driving is not as strictly regulated.

Also in regards to the clogged and crazy streets of Sri Lanka, keep your eyes peeled because your tuk-tuk driver might definitely be tuk-tuk-ing under the influence. We can’t tell you the number of times we hailed a tuk-tuk from the side of the road only to have them pull up with glassy, bloodshot eyes, and a bottle of liquor or wine riding shotgun. We would politely decline service and keep waving them down until we found one that at least looked sober. There’s also a popular combination of plants that some locals chew that can result in a high. This being said, not every driver is riding high, but choose carefully and don’t be afraid to turn down a ride if you feel unsure about the driver’s sobriety.

9. The locals are some of the friendliest people in the world.

Loving to laugh definitely fits this bunch as they are also often seen smiling. We’ve found that the locals in Sri Lanka are some of the friendliest people on the planet, always willing to go an extra mile to help out. Most Sri Lankans genuinely want you to have a great time, if for nothing else than the hopes you will bring more tourism to their country by word of mouth. If you find that someone goes out of his or her way for you, make sure you say thank you — and a cash tip never hurts either. They locals are very appreciative.

10. Local food is delicious and cheap.

Man, do we love us some Sri Lankan specialities; egg hoppers, fresh crab curry, and coconut sambal — don’t even get us started. There is no shortage of Sri Lankan food in Sri Lanka, but if you are on the prowl for more “exotic” dishes here (i.e. your American staples like burgers and pasta), you may have trouble finding a plate that lives up to your western standards. Again, ingredients for many of these dishes are expensive, hard to come by, and — because of the far lengths they must travel to reach the island — usually highly processed versions of what we find at home. We suggest embracing the local culture especially when it comes to food, as it’ll save your wallet and likely leave you more satisfied.

Also be sure to sample the local tea, as tea production is a huge industry for the country, as are spices such as cinnamon. The most well-known tea brand is Dilmah, and it can often be found for free in hotels. Travelers looking for a more personal tea experience should consider touring a tea plantation and staying at an adjacent hotel, such as the Madulkelle Tea and Eco Lodge . The upscale lodge has a stunning hillside location and guests can even pick tea on-site.

Pricing for Madulkelle Tea and Eco Lodge

11. Tap water is not safe to drink.

Sri Lankan tap water is not safe to drink, so travelers should be sure to only have bottled water of the country’s reverse osmosis water, though make sure to check the expiration date. Also note that, depending on how sensitive your tummy is, you may or may not want to settle for a salad since the greens could have been rinsed in tap water. Additionally, use bottled water to brush teeth, and be wary of food from questionable food stalls. Note that the CDC recommends getting the Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccinations before visiting Sri Lanka to protect from contaminated food and water.

12. Visas for Sri Lanka are needed for most countries.

Visas are required to enter Sri Lanka for citizens of all countries except those from the Maldives, Seychelles, and Singapore. Tourists need a passport that’s valid for six months from the expected date of departure from Sri Lanka, as well as an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) or a visa. The easiest way to secure a visa is through an online application process that requires a fee, then print out the visa and take it to Sri Lanka to be stamped by immigration officers. Travelers can alternatively wait to purchase the visa on arrival, though this can add unwanted time to the entry process. In an effort to boost tourism from the Easter attacks, the visa fee has been waived for travelers from 48 countries until February 2020, including those from the United States, U.K., and Australia.

13. You have great chances of seeing wildlife.

When you think of Sri Lanka, your mind may not immediately go to wildlife or safaris — but it should. Sri Lanka’s varied landscapes make it a perfect spot to spot some of the world’s biggest and most fascinating animals we usually only connect to Africa. In fact, Sri Lanka’s Yala National Park in the south has the highest concentration of leopards in Asia, while Minneriya National Park, located near Dambulla, is where a yearly gathering of elephants, aptly known as “The Gathering”, takes place. During this, you can peep hundreds of elephants — including adorable babies and Tuskers — hanging out by the park’s main lake. Tourists flock to the southern tip of Mirissa seasonally as well, hoping to spot dolphins and whales. You’ll also find different species of monkeys and colorful birds hanging around in the towns.

14. Sri Lanka has monsoon seasons.

Sri Lanka can be considered a year-round destination, but it’s best to be aware of the two monsoon seasons, which effect different areas of the island. The northern and eastern areas of Sri Lanka have wind and rain between October and January, while the southern and western regions receive monsoon weather between May and September. Still, weather is ultimately unpredictable and during our visit to the western cities of Colombo or Negombo in July, we experienced little rain. December through March is considered the peak tourist season, so cheaper hotel rates are often found outside these dates.

Some of Our Favorite Sri Lankan Hotels:

The blue water, wadduwa.

The Blue Water/Oyster

The Blue Water is a contemporary, 140-room hotel that offers competitive prices on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka. Designed by renowned local architect Geoffrey Bawa, the upscale Blue Water feels bigger than it actually is, with airy communal areas that reflect his trademark style of tropical modernism. Guests tend to spend daytime hours relaxing in sun loungers scattered around the outdoor lawn in front of the pool.

Pricing for The Blue Water

Cinnamon Bey Beruwala, Moragalla

The 200-room, upscale Cinnamon Bey Beruwala resort sits on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, combining austere modernist architecture with artful Turkish design to create an understated atmosphere right on the Indian Ocean. Rooms are elegant and simple, with striking wood lattice work, contemporary furniture, and ocean-facing terraces. A gorgeous infinity pool and sleek spa add to the relaxation factor.

Pricing for Cinnamon Bey Beruwala

Our Must-Bring Item for Sri Lanka: Birkenstock Sandals

Birkenstock Arizona – Birko-Flor™

Whether you’re exploring the Sri Lankan wilderness or walking the local towns and cities, these Birkenstock sandals will keep you comfortable throughout your entire adventure.

Headed to a Different Destination? We Know Things You Don’t About Them, Too:

• 17 Things You Don’t Know About Rome
• 5 Things You Absolutely Need to Know Before Traveling to Indonesia
• 11 Things You Don’t Know About Vienna
• 7 Things You Need to Know Before Going to Thailand

All products are independently selected by our writers and editors. If you buy something through our links, Oyster may earn an affiliate commission.

Top Stories

Top 11 Las Vegas Hotels on the Strip for Every Type of Traveler

By Christina Vercelletto

12 Best LGBTQ-Friendly All-Inclusive Resorts Around the World

By Lauren Dana

Which Bahamas Island Is Right for You?

By Kyle Valenta

The 16 Coolest Themed Hotel Rooms in the U.S.

By Gwen Pratesi

The 10 Best Caribbean Islands for Couples and the Most Romantic Hotel on Each

By Krystin Arneson

UK Edition Change

• UK Politics
• News Videos
• Paris 2024 Olympics
• Rugby Union
• Sport Videos
• John Rentoul
• Mary Dejevsky
• Andrew Grice
• Sean O’Grady
• Photography
• Theatre & Dance
• Culture Videos
• Fitness & Wellbeing
• Food & Drink
• Health & Families
• Royal Family
• Electric Vehicles
• Car Insurance Deals
• Lifestyle Videos
• UK Hotel Reviews
• News & Advice
• Simon Calder
• Australia & New Zealand
• South America
• C. America & Caribbean
• Middle East
• Politics Explained
• News Analysis
• Today’s Edition
• Home & Garden
• Broadband deals
• Fashion & Beauty
• Travel & Outdoors
• Sports & Fitness
• Sustainable Living
• Climate Videos
• Solar Panels
• Behind The Headlines
• On The Ground
• Decomplicated
• You Ask The Questions
• Binge Watch
• Travel Smart
• Watch on your TV
• Crosswords & Puzzles
• Most Commented
• Newsletters
• Ask Me Anything
• Virtual Events
• Betting Sites
• Online Casinos
• Wine Offers

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged in Please refresh your browser to be logged in

The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission.  

Sri Lanka travel advice: How has guidance changed and is it safe for holidaymakers amid protests?

Foreign office changed its advice for the country in late august, article bookmarked.

Find your bookmarks in your Independent Premium section, under my profile

Sign up to Simon Calder’s free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts

Get simon calder’s travel email, thanks for signing up to the simon calder’s travel email.

Following months of violent protests and a change of leader in Sri Lanka, the country’s economic crisis persists .

But this week the UK’s Foreign Office removed its “essential travel only” warning for the Indian Ocean island, in an update to the FCDO’s website on Friday 26 August.

The FCDO had previously changed its advice to “essential travel only” on 22 July, advising Britons against leisure travel to the economically-hit destination.

FCO advice had earlier been tightened in May 2022, amid the worst of the protests; with the change in advice causing some cancelled holidays and the invalidation of travellers’ insurance policies.

Sri Lanka has seen large-scale demonstrations since March, with locals clashing with police, as well as the removal of its former president, Mahinda Rajapaksa, earlier this year.

Altercations between protesters and authorities have led to some locals being injured or killed; meanwhile the country is seeing a shortage of essentials such as medicines, fuel and food.

The country’s present state of emergency is set to end on 27 August, with no announcement of an extension so far.

So what are the latest rules and are holidaymakers safe to travel there? Here’s everything we know so far.

What is happening in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka has been gripped by protests for five months in response to critical shortages of fuel, cooking gas and medicine, alongside rolling power cuts. Locals have been queuing for hours to buy essentials.

A state of emergency was initially declared on 6 May; on 10 May, protesters set fire to homes and businesses belonging to ruling party lawmakers and politicians . Eight people died in the unrest and more than 200 were injured, according to local police.

The violent clashes led to the resignation of the prime minister, Mahinda Rajapaksa, on 9 May. Along with his brother, the president, Mr Rajapaksa has been blamed by many for plunging the country into its worst economic crisis in decades.

Sri Lanka’s new president Ranil Wickremesinghe, then prime minister, said in July that the island nation’s debt-laden economy had “collapsed” as it runs out of money to pay for food and fuel.

At least 75 people were injured in mid-July during protests in Colombo, after authorities used tear gas and protesters sustained injuries trying to access the prime minister’s office.

Mr Wickremesinghe renewed the country’s state of emergency when he took power on 21 July, saying it was “in the interest of public security”.

A state of emergency allows troops to arrest and detain suspects, and the president to make regulations overriding existing laws to deal with any unrest.

In early August, one Scottish national, Kayleigh Fraser, told reporters her passport had been seized by authorities after she campaigned for local activists on the island . The Foreign Office is understood to be assisting Ms Fraser in getting her document back. In mid-August, Sri Lanka’s Supreme Court denied her application to extend her visa and stay in the country.

Are holidays being cancelled?

British package holiday company Tui began cancelling its holidays to Sri Lanka back in May, and at the end of July cancelled all departures up to and including 22 August. A Tui spokesperson told The Independent that all holidaymakers who had previously travelled with the company have now returned home; adding that its cancellations stand up until 11 September at present. Watch its Travel Alerts section online for the latest updates.

A spokesperson for tour operator Kuoni said: “Following the change to advice from FCDO allowing travel to resume, we will be delighted in offering passengers the opportunity once again to travel under this advice from 1 October.”

Meanwhile some local hotels and specialists say it’s a good time to come to the coasts and more remote parts of the island, with much of the country quiet with few tourists, and most instances of unrest concentrated in specific towns and cities.

Hiran Cooray, chairman of family-run, Sri-Lanka based group Jetwing Hotels , says: “We’ve been waiting anxiously till travel restrictions were removed and we are thankful. Sri Lanka has never been so ready to welcome British travellers.

“All hotels, attractions, transport options both private and public are operating normally. In many ways this is indeed the best time to visit Sri Lanka.”

Sam Clarke, the founder of Sri Lanka specialist Experience Travel Group, said: “We’re so pleased that the FCDO has lifted their advisory against travel to Sri Lanka today. While ETG travellers have visited Sri Lanka safely throughout the crisis, removing this remaining obstacle to travel will give the Sri Lankan economy a much-needed boost and give hope and purpose to the lives of so many Sri Lankans who depend on the tourist sector.

“We’re so pleased for our friends and colleagues in Sri Lanka and for all of our customers looking forward to trips over the coming months.”

What does the Foreign Office say?

On 26 August, the FCDO changed its travel advice for Sri Lanka, removing a warning to avoid “all but essential travel” to the island.

The advice still warns: “Sri Lanka is experiencing a severe economic crisis which has led to shortages of basic necessities including medicines, cooking gas, fuel and food. The major shortage of fuel (diesel and petrol) is affecting transport, businesses, and emergency services. Hospitals and other medical services such as ambulances may be affected by shortages. There are daily power cuts due to electricity rationing. It is more important than ever to get appropriate travel insurance and check it provides sufficient cover.

“A State of Emergency, currently in place, is due to expire on 27 August 2022. Protests about the economic situation, have led to violence against peaceful protesters in recent months, resulting in injuries and loss of life. Tear gas and water cannons have been used to disperse protesters. Protests, demonstrations, roadblocks and violent unrest could occur at short notice. Curfews and emergency regulations may also be imposed.”

The change to FCO advice means holiday insurance policies will stay valid and some travel companies may start to reinstate bookings to the country.

Are holidaymakers subject to curfew?

No. The last curfew was imposed on the island’s western province from 13-15 July. However, the FCDO has warned that “curfews and emergency regulations may be imposed” at short notice.

When a government-imposed curfew is in place, holidaymakers can still leave the country at any time. The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority has confirmed that international travellers can show their passports and airline tickets to travel to and from the airport during a curfew.

Can I cancel my holiday to Sri Lanka?

Most travel companies offering holidays to Sri Lanka have implemented some flexibility for customers, offering alternative dates or destinations to those concerned about the situation in the country.

What should Britons do if they are currently in the country?

Britons currently travelling in Sri Lanka should not be affected by the change in advice, but should remain vigilant about avoiding local protests and gatherings.

The Foreign Office advises: “If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission .”

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article

Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.

New to The Independent?

Or if you would prefer:

Want an ad-free experience?

Hi {{indy.fullName}}

• My Independent Premium
• Account details
• Help centre

Is Sri Lanka Safe? A No-Nonsense Guide to Safety in Sri Lanka

I’ve just returned from a wonderful 10 days in Sri Lanka, and several things stood out to me while I was there – the food, the landscape, and the fact that so many people reached out to me asking ‘ Is Sri Lanka safe to travel to? ‘ I was baffled. I knew that there had been a terrorist attack a few years ago (2019), but aside from that, I hadn’t heard anything about Sri Lanka being unsafe. However, after doing some research, and finding that various government travel advisories are warning of medicine shortages, violent protests, and power outages in Sri Lanka, people’s hesitation to visit suddenly made a lot more sense. In this article, I’m going to explore whether Sri Lanka is really a dangerous place to visit, and what it is like to travel to Sri Lanka in 2023.

Table of Contents

Sri Lanka at a glance

Set in the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is a small island in South Asia, close to India. It is majority Buddhist, with 70% of the population identifying as Buddhists, and is famous for its UNESCO World Heritage Sites (8 in total), sandy coastline, lush tea estates, and wildlife. Whether you want to relax on the beach, embark on a safari, or trek through the jungle, Sri Lanka has something for you. Like most island nations, the pace of life in Sri Lanka is slow, the people are smiley and relaxed, and everything runs on island time (Sri Lankans are some of the most laid back people I’ve ever come across). It has a tropical climate, an abundance of luxury hotels at a fraction of the price you’d pay in the West, and a rich cuisine that is a joy to discover. But is Sri Lanka safe to travel to right now? Let’s take a look at the specifics and examine whether Sri Lanka is safe to travel to.

Sri Lanka’s economic crisis

Sri Lanka has recently been struggling with its worst financial crisis since its independence from Britain in 1948. Throughout 2022, Sri Lanka experienced shortages of imported goods such as fuel, food, and even some medicines. Long power outages were also frequent, and as a result, there were big protests in the capital of Colombo in the summer of 2022. Government travel advisories from the US, Australia, and the UK warn of the potential for violent political protests in Sri Lanka, but is this threat real, and are there still import shortages?

Sri Lanka in 2023 is a very different country to the Sri Lanka of 2022. Thanks to a heavy monsoon season, the hydro-power supplies have been replenished, making power outages a thing of the past, and availability of food at hotels, restaurants, and grocery stores is pretty much back to normal (with the exception of expensive foreign imports such as cheese and wine). There has also been an uptick in homegrown, locally-sourced produce as a result of the importation crisis, which actually makes Sri Lanka a more sustainable travel destination! Fuel has been rationed to help deal with the hours-long queues at gas stations, and the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) also announced a fuel assistance programme for tourist service providers, meaning that as a tourist, you will likely not be affected by Sri Lanka’s fuel shortages in the slightest.

Even better news for Sri Lanka is that in March of 2023, Sri Lanka secured a $3 billion bailout from the International Monetary Fund, and at the end of June, the World Bank approved a $700 million budget and welfare support for Sri Lanka, meaning that there is really no need for tourists to be worried about the economic crisis in Sri Lanka (plus, our tourist dollars really help!).

Petty crime in Sri Lanka

As with any destination, there is a danger of being pickpocketed, especially in crowded places. On a personal level, I never felt as though I was in any danger of this, and it should be noted that although pickpocketing is one of the most common crimes that will affect tourists, muggings and violent crimes against foreigners are very uncommon in Sri Lanka. Like you would anywhere, remain vigilant and don’t flash your cash around. I say this all the time, but common sense goes a long way in Sri Lanka, and everywhere else (see my safety tips for Asia for more!).

Terrorism in Sri Lanka

An Islamist terrorist attack targeted hotels and churches in Colombo, Negombo, and Batticaloa on 21st April 2019. Over 250 people were killed in this tragic attack, and more than 450 injured. While horrific, it is important to bear in mind that this was an isolated incident and does not represent daily life in Sri Lanka – there have been way more terror attacks in Europe over the last decade (including in my hometown of Manchester ), and you don’t see me encouraging people not to travel in Europe. While there is always a risk of a terror attack happening, this is more of a world issue than a Sri Lanka issue.

Is Sri Lanka safe for female travellers?

Is Sri Lanka safe for women? More to the point, is Sri Lanka safe for solo female travellers? I believe that many women are hesitant to travel to Sri Lanka because of the reputation that India has when it comes to sexual harassment. I have no facts to back this up, but given that so many people get the two countries conflated, it seems like a reasonable assumption IMO. Let me be very clear – although Sri Lanka is close in proximity to India, it is a completely different country. Just like Canada and the US, India and Sri Lanka are not the same.

Now that that’s out of the way, I’ll say that I have known plenty of women who have travelled to India, and across the board, they report feeling uncomfortable with the stares and overall conduct of the men there. I visited Sri Lanka with 5 women and not one of us ever felt uncomfortable on account of our gender. We didn’t experience any staring or lewd comments. On the contrary, the men seemed to be very uninterested, usually not even glancing up as we walked by! Of course, we were in a group, so solo female travellers might attract more stares, but it will be more out of curiosity than malintent. There have unfortunately been some incidents of drink spiking in touristy areas and beach resorts in the South of the island. Just like you would anywhere, don’t accept drinks from strangers, never leave your drink unattended, and always watch your drinks being poured.

Health risks in Sri Lanka

Insect-borne diseases.

Dengue fever is present in Sri Lanka, especially in the monsoon season. Other insect-borne diseases like chikungunya, Japanese encephalitis, malaria, and filariasis are also found in Sri Lanka, and you should make sure to arm yourself with mosquito and insect repellent to keep safe in Sri Lanka. The risk of all these diseases is very low, but mosquito-repellant is your best defense against contracting anything nasty.

Tap water in Sri Lanka is not safe to drink and can contain nasties like typhoid, hepatitis, and leptospirosis. Be sure to only drink bottled or filtered water while in Sri Lanka, and unless you’re in a fancy hotel or upscale restaurant, I’d stay away from ice as well. Remember that if you get an upset stomach in Sri Lanka, it’s much more likely to be from the salad washed in tap water than in cooked meats or vegetables.

Dangerous animals in Sri Lanka

Although rare, you should be aware of the threat of rabies in Sri Lanka, which can be transmitted by stray dogs and cats, monkeys, and bats. Sri Lanka dangerous animals also include poisonous snakes and wild elephants, but the risk from them is really very low. Here’s what you (maybe) need to know: Poisonous snakes are not likely to be found around hotels or tourist spots, but if you go trekking through jungles or paddy fields (specifically Sinharaja Rain Forest and Knuckles Mountain Range), you may be more at risk of an encounter, so be sure to hire a naturalist if you are set on trekking in those areas. Remember that snakes don’t like humans and don’t like to be around them, and they will never intentionally get in your path. When I lived in Cambodia , we were always told to stamp on the ground as we walked, so any snakes would feel the vibrations and slither off in plenty of time!

Chances are, the only snakes you’ll see in Sri Lanka are long black rat snakes, which are totally harmless (unless you’re a rat). Wild elephants are also a potential hazard in Sri Lanka. When we were driving down a rural road early in the morning, we encountered a wild elephant who was acting territorial about his patch of road. Our guide knew exactly what to do, but it was certainly a dicey situation. If you encounter a wild elephant on the road, always retreat. Don’t be stupid and try to get closer for the sake of a photograph.

Swimming in Sri Lanka

The beaches in Sri Lanka are stunning, and it’s very tempting to get in the water and swim. If you want to swim at the beach in Sri Lanka, be aware that there can be very strong surf and rip tides at certain times of year, and a small number of foreigners drown in Sri Lanka every year. Always ask the locals if it’s safe before getting your feet wet!

Is Sri Lanka safe for Black travellers?

Sri Lanka is very safe for Black travellers, but you may find that you are seen as a ‘novelty’ and asked questions that we would deem inappropriate in the West. If you are a Black woman, you may also get people trying to touch your hair without asking. I travelled to Sri Lanka with my friend Illy from Illyana London , and she felt frustrated and uncomfortable when people kept pointing out the fact that she was Black (as if she didn’t know), and asking for pictures with her.

There is no hostility or ill-intent on the part of Sri Lankans – unlike many other countries, Sri Lanka doesn’t really have a multicultural society, and so ethnic differences are something that some Sri Lankans find interesting and curious.   Regardless, of intent though, this is something that can get tiresome, and while it won’t bother some people, it will bother others, and both reactions are valid. As a white person, I hesitate to speak further on this issue, so I’m going to quote my friend Roobens, who has published a book about Black travel: Grown up adults become big kids and keep staring at you. It’s not racism, just curiosity. They’re not used to seeing black people (or white people, etc…). On TV, on the internet, in the magazines, yeah, but with their own eyes, in the street!? The ‘rarer’ you are, the more people will stare at you. In Central Asia, a lively restaurant got more silent than a cathedral in a few seconds when I got in. Every single person was staring at me! – You can read the full article here . I’m used to all those little things now: people staring at me in the street, locals asking for pictures, comparisons with black celebrities (“Hey! You look like Paul Pogba!” yeah…), stereotypes (“Hey wassup bro? How you doin homie?“) – You can read the full article here . Roobens’ point about being a rarity is something I can even relate to – I lost count of the number of times people asked to take photos with me in Vietnam on account of my light skin and blonde hair!

Is Sri Lanka safe for LGBT+ travellers?

When I visited Sri Lanka, a couple of my LGBT friends told me that they would never go because homosexuality is illegal in Sri Lanka. This shocked me, so as soon as I got home, I did my research, and fortunately, this isn’t quite as it seems. It is true that homosexuality is still criminalised under the 1883 Penal Code. However, this law comes from British Colonial times, and colonial law does not permit the Supreme Court in Sri Lanka to repeal laws.

The Supreme Court in Sri Lanka may not have the power to remove laws outright, but it has ruled that this law against homosexual activity is ‘unenforceable,’ and stated in 2017 that it would be inappropriate to impose custodial sentences on people accused of engaging in homosexual sex. Not only that, but in August 2022, there was a bill submitted to Parliament aiming to repeal the colonial-era law, and it is likely that it will be passed, with the President of Sri Lanka, Ranil Wickremesinghe, saying ‘ we are for it .’ Sri Lanka has also held Pride celebrations since 2004, so although yes, technically homosexuality is illegal in Sri Lanka, this is an antiquated law that is on the way to being abolished, and it is has been officially ruled ‘unenforceable.’ One piece of advice I would give to same-sex and hetero couples visiting Sri Lanka is to be discreet – Sri Lanka is a very conservative country that frowns on all kinds of PDA, regardless of gender.

Sri Lanka safety tips

I hope that by now, you feel reassured that Sri Lanka is a very safe country to visit! Fear-mongering by the media is the main reason why people are scared to visit Sri Lanka rather than any real threat, and the biggest danger posed in Sri Lanka comes from mosquitos (which are everywhere!). Here are some general Sri Lanka safety tips that you can follow:

• Avoid areas where public demonstrations are taking place, as protests always have the potential to become violent.
• Flooding and landslides are common in Sri Lanka during the monsoon season. In the northeast, this runs from December to March, while in the southwest, it stretches from May to October. It’s crucial to stay prepared and flexible if you’re travelling to Sri Lanka during monsoon season.
• Get travel insurance before you travel so that you’re covered if anything bad happens, from theft to vehicle accidents. I recommend SafetyWing .
• Carry mosquito repellant. I always use Avon Skin So Soft . Mosquito repellant bracelets are also a good idea.
• Speak to your healthcare provider about any vaccines you may need before you travel to Sri Lanka. Here is a list of vaccines and boosters you may want to consider.
• Stray dogs in Sri Lanka are very friendly but exercise caution when petting them.
• Don’t engage in public displays of affection.
• The legal drinking age in Sri Lanka is 21.
• Respecting local customs and religious practices is crucial, especially when it comes to Buddhism. This includes actions such as posing for photos with Buddha statues or having tattoos, clothing, or jewellery representing Buddha. You should be sure to dress modestly when at temples, which involves covering your shoulders and knees.
• Always seek local advice before going swimming to be sure that the currents are not too strong.
• If you take the famous Kandy-Ella train and want to get one of those shots hanging out of the door, be careful! This is a real train that is going fast, and if you fall, you die.

Why now is the time to book your Sri Lanka vacation

Sri Lanka is how I imagine Bali to have been before mass tourism descended on it, and if the tourism board’s promotion efforts are successful, Sri Lanka won’t be ‘off the beaten path’ for long. I believe that now is the best time to visit Sri Lanka, and in 20 years, when it’s overrun with tourists, you can tell everybody that you visited at a time when Sri Lanka was still authentically Sri Lanka. Here are some more reasons why you should visit Sri Lanka right NOW:

• 1 in 8 Sri Lankan families depend on tourism to survive.
• Your money will stretch much further at the moment due to the fall of the Sri Lankan rupee.
• Sri Lanka tourism hasn’t recovered from the pandemic, and so you can enjoy all of the beaches and touristic sites undisturbed. Even Yala National Park is operating way under capacity at the moment.
• Most hotels in Sri Lanka have kept their prices at pre-pandemic levels, while the rest of the world has increased prices by 20-30%. Many hotel groups, such as Jetwing , kept on all of their staff throughout the pandemic. This not only provided support to staff at a much-needed time, but also ensured that they were able to maintain their high standards. I stayed at several Jetwing properties during my time in Sri Lanka and definitely recommend them!
• Sri Lanka has the best big-game safaris outside of Africa, and they’re also super affordable. If you want to see some incredible animals in the wild, Sri Lanka is for you.
• People in Sri Lanka are some of the friendliest and most hospitable I’ve come across in all my years of travel.
• Wellness and luxury travel is growing in Sri Lanka, with many hotels offering spa and Ayurvedic treatments at low costs.
• Sri Lanka is a very sustainable destination, so if you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint, you’ll be right at home here.

Is Sri Lanka safe? | Final Thoughts

So, how safe is Sri Lanka? I hope I’ve managed to show that Sri Lanka is not only safe, it’s one of the safest places to visit in Asia . Having travelled extensively through Asia, I also consider Sri Lanka a great introduction to this part of the world if you’ve never been before. Sri Lanka is less chaotic and intimidating than India, equally as beautiful as Thailand and Vietnam, and it offers all the spiritual and health benefits of Bali, but without the crowds. What’s more, tourists are only just beginning to return to Sri Lanka, meaning that now is the time to enjoy the best hotel deals, have the beaches all to yourself, and bring those much-needed tourist dollars to this island nation. That’s about it for today, but as always, if you have any questions then don’t hesitate to reach out in the comments section below! Until next time, XOXO

If you liked this article and would like to support my work, please click the button above to donate a couple of bucks and buy me a coffee. The ad revenue that I receive on this website is minimal, so support from my readers enables me to keep creating content that you (hopefully!) love to read.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Sri Lanka Travel Guide

Published: December 6, 2023

Sri Lanka was a wonderful surprise. I didn’t know what to expect going into my trip, but I ended up loving every bit of it.

It is a divided country, with the south dominated by Buddhist Sinhalese and the north by Hindu Tamils. After the British left in 1948, the Sinhalese controlled the government and enacted a series of laws that limited Tamil participation in society. Eventually, Tamil protests escalated and a 26-year civil war ensued, only ending in 2009.

Though it has been some time since then, Sri Lanka is still very much recovering — but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t visit. In fact, my time there was especially memorable due to my experiences meeting and getting to know the incredibly friendly locals. No matter where I went, Sri Lankans welcomed me with kindness and open arms.

Traveling around Sri Lanka is relatively easy and very budget-friendly. English is widely spoken, so once you get used to the chaos, it isn’t too difficult to get around.

With that in mind, here’s my Sri Lanka travel guide so that you can save money, have fun, and make the most of your visit to this beautiful country!

A note on prices and currencies : Costs for attractions in this guide are in USD, while costs for restaurants and accommodations are in LKR. This is to most accurately represent the currency in which you will see prices. Foreign visitors are charged a different price from locals at most attractions, quoted in USD. Registered tourist establishments are required to accept only foreign currency from nonresidents, as part of a governmental scheme to build up the country’s reserves of stronger currencies.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around

How to Stay Safe

• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Sri Lanka

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Sri Lanka

1. Tour a tea estate

When the British colonized the island in the early 19th century, they quickly realized that the central highlands had the perfect climate and topography for growing tea. One of the largest, lasting impacts of colonialism is that a significant portion of the country is still covered in tea plantations or estates.

The town of Hatton is known as the tea capital of Sri Lanka, as it’s the central point of a few regions where the plant is still plucked by hand (and one of the few places in the world where this still occurs). Going on a plantation or factory tour is a great way to learn about this integral part of the country’s economy and culture. Tours are often free, though if there is a fee, it’s only around 250 LKR. Tours usually include a tea tasting at the end.

2. See the wildlife at Yala National Park

This is Sri Lanka’s second-largest and most popular national park. It’s well known for its abundant wildlife, especially the elephants and leopards that make their home here. In fact, it’s the best place in the world to try to spot leopards, as it has the highest density of them! The area is culturally significant as well, with two important Buddhist pilgrim sites, Sithulpahuwa and Magul Vihara, located within the park. Hundreds of thousands of pilgrims visit these sites each year. While a guide isn’t required to enter the park, joining a safari led by an experienced local guide is the best way to experience Yala, as you’ll be able to ask questions as they point out animals to you. Safaris are quite affordable too, starting at just 8,600 LKR.

3. Hike Sigiriya Rock

Also known as Lion’s Rock, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the country’s most famous tourist attraction. In the fifth century, Sri Lankan ruler King Kashyapa decided to build his fortress on this massive column of granite rock. While it was abandoned shortly after his death, its remote location meant that the palace remained untouched over the centuries, and today it remains a fascinating example of ancient urban planning.

You can hike to the top for stunning views over the lush landscapes below; it takes an hour to walk up, as it’s single file all the way. As it’s one of the most popular things to do in Sri Lanka, you won’t have this place to yourself. Get there when it opens at 6:30am to avoid huge lines. If you are there after 10am, the crowds are so overwhelming, it’s not worth visiting. Admission is $30 USD ( guided day trips from Kandy that also include visits to the cave temples of Dambulla are $70 USD).

Pro tip: if you’re on a budget, climb Pidurangala Rock instead. It’s much cheaper (500 LKR), plus you’ll actually get views of Sigiriya Rock itself! (Just note that the trail does involve some scrambling at times, while the trail to the top of Sigiriya is steep but easier, with metal steps and staircases.)

4. Take the train

The British built the Sri Lankan railway system in 1864 to transport tea and coffee from plantations to Colombo, where these goods were then shipped out internationally. The train lines are still in use and provide a scenic way to explore the country. There are three main lines, but the ride from Kandy to Ella is widely considered one of the most beautiful in the world. It lasts seven hours and takes you through lush mountains, tropical forests, and endless tea plantations; the picturesque 20th-century Nine Arches Bridge is on this route as well.

If you’d like to take this journey, it’s best to book with a travel agency in advance as seats sell out quickly. Just adjust your expectations regarding timeliness and speed. Don’t be in a hurry when riding the rails in Sri Lanka!

5. Visit Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura was the very first capital of Sri Lanka and remained so for around 1,300 years. Today, many of the old ruins still survive and have been restored to their former glory. This archaeological complex and UNESCO site contains many of Buddhism’s holiest places, including Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, the fig tree where it is believed that the Buddha himself obtained enlightenment. It’s also home to Jetavanaramaya Dagaba, which at 122 meters (400 feet) is the world’s tallest stupa. Most people either rent a bicycle or hire a tuk-tuk to take them around the complex. Admission to the five main temples is $25 USD, though there are many smaller temples and sites that are either free or just a couple of dollars.

Other Things to See and Do

1. visit kandy.

The country’s second-largest city was also the last capital of Sri Lanka’s monarchy, the Kingdom of Kandy, which arose in the late 16th century and resisted both Dutch and Portuguese rule before finally succumbing to British colonization in the early 19th century. Kandy is known for its well-preserved historic colonial center (now a UNESCO site), as well as the Buddhist shrine the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (supposedly an actual tooth of the Buddha). Many visitors come here because it’s the starting point for the scenic train to Ella, but make sure to spend a few days exploring the bustling streets, enjoying Kandy Lake, and wandering through the Royal Botanic Gardens of Peradeniya, the nation’s biggest and most impressive botanical garden.

2. Explore Ella

If you take Sri Lanka’s most scenic train ride, you’ll end up in the town of Ella, which, though small, is a popular destination. Even if you don’t take the train to get here, the iconic Nine Arches railway bridge is one of the biggest attractions in the entire country. You can get to the lookout by hiking through the forest, and then waiting for a train to go by if you want that iconic “Sri Lankan postcard” shot. Other things to see and do here include traversing the surrounding rainforests to see stunning waterfalls, hiking Little Adam’s Peak or Ella Rock, and visiting the endless tea plantations.

3. Travel up north

After decades of war, the north has a legacy of destruction that has yet to go away. For that reason, most travelers focus on the southern half of Sri Lanka, with its plentiful hiking and charming beach towns. But seeing the north gave me a more nuanced perspective on a portion of the country without hordes of other tourists. In fact, in my time there, I saw only four Westerners.

As the area is mainly Hindu, you’ll find lots of beautiful temples here, including the impressive Nallur Kandaswamy in Jaffna. The north also offers beautiful yet uncrowded beaches, a plethora of tranquil islands to explore, and delicious food with a strong southern Indian influence.

4. See the temples

Sri Lanka has an astonishing number of impressive temples. Everywhere you go, there’s a beautiful temple! Some of the most famous include Temple of the Tooth (in Kandy), Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam and Gangaramaya (both in Colombo), Dambulla Cave Temple (in Dambulla), and Nallur Kandaswamy Temple (in Jaffna).

When visiting, be sure to dress appropriately, as these are active places of worship. Also, bring flip-flops to temples, since you’ll have to take your socks and shoes off before going inside. Entrance fees range from free to around $10 USD.

5. Take a cooking class

While I didn’t know much about the country’s food before arriving, I quickly became hooked on the delicious curries of Sri Lankan cuisine. Colombo Cooking Class offers three-hour sessions in which you make 10 dishes, including curries, coconut sambol, and papadam. The class takes place in the owner’s home, and it really feels like you’re learning to cook with a friend! The cost is around 20,000 LKR.

6. Hit the beaches

Since it’s a huge island, Sri Lanka’s coastline spans over 1,340 kilometers (830 miles), meaning there are countless beaches to enjoy. There are white-sand shores to stroll on, coral reefs perfect for snorkeling, picturesque sunsets to admire, and breaks great for surfing. No matter what you’re into, there’s a beach for you in Sri Lanka.

Arugam Bay and Mirissa Beach are some of the most well known, mainly as world-famous surfing destinations, but they both have nice beach towns to visit even if you don’t surf.

7. Day trip to Galle

Founded in the late 16th century by the Portuguese and later conquered by the Dutch in the mid-17th century, Galle (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is a beautifully preserved old fort town that’s worth a visit. A visit here is best spent just wandering around, admiring the Dutch colonial buildings, walking the perimeter of the old fort, shopping at the artisanal craft stores (or taking a workshop to learn how to make jewelry in the traditional style ), touring the National Maritime Museum, and eating fresh seafood.

But as that’s about the extent of what there is to do, I recommend visiting Galle as a day trip from Colombo rather than staying overnight. It’s super easy, as you can take the train directly, which takes about two hours.

8. Climb Adam’s Peak

Adam’s Peak is Sri Lanka’s most sacred mountain and an important pilgrimage destination. Hindus and Buddhists believe the mountain is the footstep of Shiva and the Buddha, respectively, while Muslims and Christians revere it as the first place Adam stepped on earth after his ousting from the Garden of Eden.

But even if you aren’t religious, trekking to the top of Adam’s Peak is a rewarding experience for both the challenge of the ascent and the magnificent views. It is a steep climb, with over 5,000 steps to get to the top, though there are many teahouses to stop at along the way. Most hikers start their climb from the village of Dalhousie around 2am in order to reach the top by sunrise. Depending on your fitness level, the entire journey takes around 5-7 hours.

9. Go whale watching

While countries like Iceland get all the press for whale watching, Sri Lanka is actually one of the best places to view these awe-inspiring creatures. Many species — including the blue whale, the largest animal on earth — migrate annually around the southern tip of the island, swimming closer to shore here than anywhere else in the world.

Mirissa Beach is the best place to depart from, and there are many operators offering tours. Be sure to go with a company that adheres to responsible international whale watching standards, which include stipulations like not getting too close, not feeding the whales, etc. I recommend Raja and the Whales, where an adult ticket is around 20,000 LKR.

10. Explore Colombo

As the country’s capital and location of its major international airport, you’ll undoubtedly be flying in and out of Colombo. This busy city is a bit of everything, with modern cafés and bistros right next to traditional Buddhist and Hindu temples. It’s worth spending a couple days here, getting your bearings and enjoying the cultural offerings.

Sri Lanka Travel Costs

Sri Lanka is cheap to visit. Even when you splurge, it’s not that expensive, especially if you stick to delicious local cuisine, travel on trains and buses, and don’t go crazy with your accommodation.

Accommodation – There is a lot of cheap accommodation throughout the country (and a growing number of hostels), though they’re really basic, with just a fan, mosquito net, and shower. At 2,000-4,000 LKR per dorm bed, you can’t go wrong though. Private rooms in hostels start around 6,500 LKR.

Guesthouses are more plentiful and affordable, with private rooms that have an en-suite bathroom starting at 5,000 LKR per night. Two-star budget hotels start around 8,000 LKR. In both cases, you’ll usually get free breakfast and Wi-Fi too.

You can find some unique Airbnbs in Sri Lanka, though they tend to be pricey. Prices range from 7,000 LKR per night for tree houses and cabins to 25,000 LKR and up for villas and larger properties. Most of the midrange options on Airbnb are hotels and guesthouses.

Food – Incredibly flavorful and packed with fragrant spices, Sri Lankan food is influenced by the culture and cuisines of foreign traders from all over the world. Middle Eastern, Indian, Portuguese, and Dutch flavors are particularly common due to trading routes and the country’s colonial history.

Cinnamon and black pepper are the two most important spices, though cardamom, pandan leaf, and lemongrass feature heavily too. Sri Lankan cuisine can be quite spicy, and dozens of types of peppers are grown and used on the island.

And, as an island nation, it should come as no surprise that fresh seafood plays a major role in many Sri Lankan dishes. Maldives fish (cured tuna produced in the Maldives) is a staple flavoring element. Coconut and rice are also two ubiquitous ingredients that you’ll find on the table at every meal and part of many street snacks.

Popular dishes include various curries (including fish, crab, or lentil), biryani (meat, fish, or vegetables cooked with rice and seasoned), pittu (cylinders of rice flour mixed with grated coconut), kiribath (rice cooked in coconut milk), roti (flatbread made from wheat flour), wattalapam (rich pudding made with coconut milk, jaggery, cashews, eggs, and spices), kottu (roti, meat curry, scrambled egg, onions, and chilies, chopped together with a cleaver on a hot griddle), appam (a thin pancake made with fermented rice batter and coconut milk), lamprais (rice cooked in stock, accompanied by meatballs, and baked in a banana leaf), breudher (a Dutch holiday biscuit), and bolo fiado (Portuguese-style layer cake).

Besides being delicious, food is also really cheap here. At a casual traditional restaurant, starters and snacks like roti or dosa are 240-550 LKR, while biryani costs 450-900 (depending on the meat chosen), and a typical curry dish costs 550-950 LKR. A fast-food combo meal is 750 LKR.

At restaurants with table service or for a more “Western” meal, a pizza is 2,500-3,500 LKR, a pasta dish is 1,500-2,200, and a burger is around 1,100-1,500 LKR. At an upscale restaurant, fish or crab curry is 3,500-4,000 LKR, while a chicken or vegetable curry is 1,000-1,500 LKR.

A bottle of water is 100-150 LKR, a cappuccino is 600 LKR, and a beer is around 500-600 LKR, though don’t expect too many chances to drink alcohol. Outside the coastal touristy beach towns and the capital of Colombo, there isn’t much nightlife or opportunity to drink. While you can always crack a beer at your guesthouse, Sri Lanka isn’t home to a big drinking/nightlife culture.

Some of my favorite restaurants were Balaji Dosai and the Slightly Chilled Bar in Kandy; Ahinsa in Sigiriya; and Upali’s and the Ministry of Crab in Colombo. The last one is an expensive seafood restaurant, but the food is delicious! Sri Lankan crab is famous worldwide — and gigantic. It’s not cheap, but sometimes you just have to treat yourself.

Backpacking Sri Lanka: Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of 9,700 LKR per day, you can stay in a hostel, eat cheap meals like street food (with limited drinking), use public transportation to get around, and do free activities like walking tours, hiking, and hanging out at beaches.

On a midrange budget of 18,000 LKR per day, you can stay in a guesthouse or private room in a hostel or Airbnb, eat out for most meals, drink more, take taxis to get around, and do more paid activities like museum visits or whale watching.

On an upscale budget of 35,000 LKR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel or private Airbnb, eat out pretty much anywhere you want, drink at the bar, rent a tuk-tuk or car to get around, and do as many guided tours and activities as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in LKR.

Sri Lanka Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Sri Lanka is very affordable, but there are still plenty of ways to help keep your costs low. Here are my top money-saving tips for traveling in Sri lanka:

• Get your visa in advance – You’ll need to get a visa for entry into the country. You can do this either online starting three days before you arrive, or upon arrival. It’s slightly cheaper if you do it ahead of time, plus you’ll skip the lines at the airport.
• Eat the local food – Outside of the major cities of Colombo and Kandy, you won’t find many non-Sri Lankan or non-Indian food options. What you do find is overpriced, subpar Western food that’s more often than not a chain. Skip it and stick to the local cuisine.
• Bring a water bottle – You shouldn’t really drink the water in Sri Lanka. And since the weather here is really hot, you’ll need to buy a lot of bottled water to stay hydrated (you’ll probably spend 300 LKR per day on plastic bottles of water). Instead, bring a reusable water bottle with a filter instead to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as its bottles have built-in filters to ensure that your water is always clean and safe.
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing is a great way to save money on accommodation while also getting some insight from residents. You might have better luck in the larger cities, but be sure to request early, as they also see the most requests.
• Visit in off or shoulder seasons – Visit during monsoon season or shoulder season to save money. Even though you will experience some rain, it doesn’t rain 24/7, and you’ll still be able to get out and explore.

Where to Stay in Sri Lanka

Guesthouses are the most common and affordable option in Sri Lanka, though there is a growing number of hostels here too. Here are my recommended places to stay around the country:

• C1 Colombo Fort (Colombo)
• Palitha Home Stay (Sigiriya)
• Jaye’s Home Stay (Kandy)
• Backpacker Galle Hostel (Galle)

How to Get Around Sri Lanka

Bus – This is the cheapest and most widely used way to get around the country, though it can be a very crowded and at times harrowing experience. There are two types of buses: red Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) buses that are run by the state, and blue, pink, or green buses that are run by private companies. Private buses tend to be more crowded, as there are more seats, and drivers try to cram on as many passengers as possible.

Since you’ll most likely be flying in and/or out of Colombo, the blue Colombo Express Bus is the cheapest and easiest way to get from the airport to the city center. It’s just 110 LKR (the same price as the regular bus), leaves every 30 minutes (5:30am–8:30pm), and takes about an hour. In town, it stops at (and leaves from) the Central Bus Stand, Pettah Fort, and Colombo Fort Station. Alternatively, a taxi is about 2,700 LKR.

Tuk-tuk – All throughout Sri Lanka, you can hire drivers cheaply. Any tuk-tuk driver will let you hire them for the day, for around 10,000 LKR. Moreover, they are pretty honest — except in Colombo, where they may try to scam and overcharge you. Elsewhere in the country, you’ll get a fair deal, so there’s no need to try to bargain hard.

Ridesharing – Uber is available only in Colombo and is often more expensive than taxis, especially during rush hours. PickMe is a local taxi-hailing app that you can also use to hire tuk-tuks.

Train – Train travel, while slower, is the most scenic and culturally immersive way to get around Sri Lanka (plus, the island is so small that taking an expensive short flight doesn’t make sense). Sri Lanka Railways runs all trains, and you can find schedules and make reservations on its website.

There are a variety of classes from which to choose: first, second, third, and reserved or unreserved (third class doesn’t have reserved seating and doesn’t sell out). Seat reservations can only be made up to 30 days prior to departure.

Some typical train routes and their approximate prices include the following:

• Colombo to Jaffna (7–8 hours): 2,250 LKR
• Jaffna to Anuradhapura (2.5–3.5 hours): 1,600 LKR
• Kandy to Nuwara Eliya (3.5–4 hours): 2,500 LKR
• Colombo to Galle (2 hours): 1,600 LKR

For more details on train travel in Sri Lanka, I recommend The Man in Seat 61 . It’s the best resource for train travel information.

Flying – As Sri Lanka is a relatively small island, flying domestically doesn’t make much sense. There is only one airline that even offers domestic routes (Cinnamon Air) and those are expensive, starting at 77,000 LKR for a 30-minute flight. Skip the flights.

When to Go to Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is effected by two different monsoon seasons, so if you want the best weather during your trip, you’ll want to keep that in mind.

If you want to visit the beaches in the south and west, go December through March. April to September is best for visiting the north and east.

The good news is that temperatures stay fairly consistent throughout the year. Coastal regions generally have average temperatures of 25-30°C (77-86°F) while in the highlands you can expect an average of 17-19°C (63-66°F).

While there is a lot of rain during monsoon season, it doesn’t rain 24/7 so you can still enjoy the country. But no matter when you visit, make sure to bring a rain coat just in case.

Sri Lanka is a safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re a solo traveler. Violent attacks against tourists are rare. Petty theft is the most common type of crime, especially around popular tourist landmarks. Always keep your valuables out of reach on public transportation, in crowds, and at the beach, just to be safe. A little vigilance goes a long way here since most thefts are crimes of opportunity.

The main scam to watch out for is paying the “tourist tax” (elevated prices for travelers). If you’re worried about others, read this blog post about major travel scams to avoid .

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe, though verbal (and at times physical) harassment unfortunately occurs more often here than in other countries. It’s a good idea to dress conservatively and avoid walking around alone at night.

Other issues that you may encounter involve civil unrest and the current economic crisis. Stay aware of any demonstrations that may be occurring (usually in Colombo). While they are generally peaceful, like anywhere, there is the potential for these protests becoming violent. Steer clear to avoid getting caught in the middle.

Also be aware that shortages of supplies are common, and fuel is currently being rationed. If you need medications, bring a full supply with you.

Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 119.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. It protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancelations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong unexpectedly. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Sri Lanka Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Sri Lanka Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Sri Lanka travel and continue planning your trip:

The Ultimate Guide to Sri Lanka: Costs, Itineraries, and Favorites

Sri Lankans: Making a Stranger Feel Like Family

How to Plan a Trip to a Place You Know Nothing About

Get your  free travel starter kit.

Enter your email and get planning cheatsheets including a step by step checklist, packing list, tips cheat sheet, and more so you can plan like a pro!

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Is It Safe to Travel to Sri Lanka Right Now? All Your Questions Answered About Sri Lanka Travel Safety (2024)

Planning a trip to Sri Lanka in 2024? Read this first!

It almost pains me that this article is necessary these days, but I am constantly being asked “is Sri Lanka safe?” and “you’re bringing your baby to Sri Lanka? Really ?”

It is my hope that with time this guide on Sri Lanka travel safety becomes obsolete, but I am fully cognizant of the reasons for any hesitations in planning a trip to Sri Lanka in 2024.

After all, we were plagued by the same concerns when we saw the international news headlines about 12-hour long power cuts, police road blocks and a lack of medication and food in Sri Lanka in mid-2022. Coupled with the protests in Colombo over the spiraling economic crisis, we eventually decided to postpone our summer trip to Sri Lanka in 2022.

Fast forward a few months later to October 2022 , the conversation about Sri Lanka travel safety took a huge turn and is already significantly different . We have since traveled back to our beautiful island home on the south coast in October 2022; January, April, June and October of 2023; and we are spending all of February 2024 here as well! I’m very happy to share some first-hand experiences to help you decide whether visiting Sri Lanka is safe and a good idea for you.

Trust me when I say that the situation in Sri Lanka, although fluid and far from being resolved, is much improved. As a tourist, visiting Sri Lanka now is likely to pose certain travel inconveniences but your personal safety is unlikely to be in jeopardy as a result of the political situation if you are simply planning an island getaway in some of Sri Lanka’s best tourist destinations .

First of all, let me preface this guide with this statement: we all have a very different comfort level when it comes to travel safety, and slightly different definitions of whether a destination is safe to visit or not.

If you are asking yourself, “is it safe to travel to Sri Lanka now?” you will need to understand that what I may deem an acceptable level of risk may not be an acceptable risk to you. With that in mind, let’s dive straight into the main topic!

Sri Lanka is a safe travel destination …

But there are a few things you should know regarding safety and security before traveling to Sri Lanka. Let’s get started with a little bit of background:

Sri Lanka has made international news headlines a few times since the end of the 20-year long civil war in 2009: a 10-day state of emergency was declared in March 2018 due to violent unrest between the Buddhist and Muslim communities in Kandy; political unrest and protests took place in late 2018; and several hotels and churches in major cities in Sri Lanka were attacked on Easter Sunday in 2019.

Most recently in early 2022, the people of Sri Lanka took to the streets to protest the spiraling economic crisis that halted the import of medication, fuel, gas and food, and caused massive inflation as well as increased cost of living. The currency was also devalued almost overnight.

The majority of the protests were peaceful – however there were instances of clashes with the authorities and snap curfews were implemented throughout April to August. Since then, there has been an upheaval in the government and cabinet, with the former Prime Minister being placed as the new President of the interim government (elections are not for another 2 years). This government worked with the IMF to receive an approved bailout in March 2023.

What is the situation in Sri Lanka?

I will do my best to keep this article updated, but in short planning a trip to Sri Lanka now may require more thought and due diligence. That being said, everyone is working hard to make sure the country is ready to welcome tourists once again. Here is what you need to know for anyone contemplating a Sri Lanka trip:

💉 If you are unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated you will no longer need to quarantine on arrival in Sri Lanka, and as of December 7th 2022 no pre-arrival PCR or RAT tests are required for inbound passengers. The health declaration is no longer required, and the insurance is no longer mandatory but can be purchased on arrival. In other words – all pandemic-related restrictions for entering Sri Lanka have been removed.

💻 As of April 17th 2024 there is a new Sri Lanka e-visa website . The old ETA website is no longer functioning. The cost for a standard 30-day, single entry tourist visa is US$50, and there are a number of new visa categories available including a double entry, 6-month validity visa which costs US$75 (US$100+ once fees and service charges are applied). You must ensure that you do not overstay your visa as the penalties are hefty.

💵 Due to the currency devaluation you will notice that prices for goods and services have gone up – however, the dollar-amounts remain approximately the same. As a tourist, you can exchange foreign currency at the airport upon landing (keep the receipt) so that you have some cash in hand. Tips are always deeply appreciated by those in the service industry, but most places will add a service charge and VAT on top of your bill. With that said, now is really not the time to haggle over a few dollars, if you are not happy with a quoted price simply move onto the next hotel, tuk tuk, transport company or service provider.

🥥 Local supermarkets are full of fresh produce – albeit more expensive now. Roadside market stalls also have lots of fresh fruit and vegetables on offer. Imported products are rare, and if you find them they are also more expensive than before. Restaurants in the  south coast of Sri Lanka  have reopened for the peak season and many events are being scheduled. Check their opening times as they may vary throughout the week.

💡 The government announced in February 2023 that there would no longer be any scheduled “demand management” power cuts . That being said, it is not uncommon for power grids to be overtaxed, for monkeys and cows to knock down power lines or for there to be regular maintenance – even prior to the economic crisis power cuts were a part of daily life in Sri Lanka.

Though there were still 1-2 hour long power cuts in south Sri Lanka as recently as June, as of October 2023 the regular scheduled power cuts are a thing of the past (but unscheduled local or island-wide outages may still occur). I would still recommend that you are mentally prepared to experience the occasional interrupted power supply during your Sri Lanka holiday. Scheduled power cuts may be re-imposed in the future – no one can say for certain if and when they will come back into play!

⛽️ There are minimal fuel lines, and as of late 2023 the QR code system put in place for fuel rationing is no longer in operation – this means that you can purchase fuel from petrol stations as before.

That being said, the recommended and most efficient mode of transport in Sri Lanka is still private car transfer; alternatively, tuk tuks, buses and trains are still running. Read more about what to know before visiting Sri Lanka here .

💊 The economic crisis led to a shortage in medicine, and we brought along lots of over-the-counter medication just in case, but have had no issues purchasing standard meds like adult and infant Panadol from local pharmacies. Visitors who have certain medical supply needs should plan accordingly as it may not be possible to purchase required medication in Sri Lanka.

🏥 Hospitals are open and we have not had long waits at private hospitals to see a general practitioner. In general, due to the long drive times and unpredictable road traffic in Sri Lanka (especially in more remote areas) you will need to consider your proximity to the nearest hospital – Asiri, Durdans and Nawaloka operate private hospitals around the country and are reliable options in the event of a medical emergency.

🚫 Most countries have lifted travel advisories against traveling to Sri Lanka. However, it is prudent to check directly with your country’s foreign office on their advice, and ensure that your travel insurance is valid. The political tensions have eased, but public demonstrations may continue to take place sporadically in major cities (though there have not been any large-scale demonstrations in the past couple of months). Tourists are advised against taking part in or attending these protests.

The regulations change quickly, and snap lockdowns, curfews, interprovincial travel restrictions and last-minute closure of tourist sites may be implemented without warning.

Tourists numbers are still somewhat sluggish but slowly picked up again towards the end of 2023 and early 2024. Major tourism destinations like Sigiriya , Yala National Park , Kandy and the beaches in south Sri Lanka are open.

Surfers are riding peeling waves in the warm Indian Ocean and culture vultures are exploring ancient ruins around the country.

Personally, our trips to Sri Lanka have been only slightly different to trips in the past as we are facing new challenges around traveling with an infant. Apart from the usual struggles involving nap times, feeding and opportunities to socialize with other children, we have experienced inconveniences with power cuts at our village house (we do not have a generator) and very occasionally having to visit multiple petrol stations to fill up the car.

We were warmly welcomed back by our neighbors in our local village and have thoroughly enjoyed our afternoons under the palm trees at Hiriketiya beach , plenty of catch ups over coffee and cocktails with friends, and cuddles with our cat.

It makes me remember why every trip to Sri Lanka used to fill me with excitement and joy.

So, s hould you travel to Sri Lanka?

Though tourist numbers have dwindled compared to previous years, the south coast of Sri Lanka is still hopeful for a successful peak season from late November/early December 2023 before the season swings back over to the island’s east coast in summer 2024.

It’s important to remember that over 2 million people are still dependent on the tourism industry. As a small tourism business owner in Sri Lanka, it has been an uphill battle – first the devastating bombings, then the pandemic hit.

Is tourism the solution? No, it isn’t going to fix things overnight, this hole will take decades to crawl out of. However, it is a short-term lifeline to many small businesses and their employees around the island, many of whom have been out of work for the better part of a year.

So, is it safe to visit Sri Lanka now? Ultimately, the decision to travel to and around Sri Lanka is yours, and may require a change in mindset and expectations.  The best thing you can do as a tourist is to be understanding and patient of the situation in Sri Lanka – many people rely heavily on tourism dollars and will welcome you with open arms.

It may not be the right destination for every type of traveler at this very moment. If you have a rigid set of expectations and do not cope well with unpredictability, or are used to tourism destinations with more established infrastructure, you may want to think long and hard about whether you will be able to adapt and be flexible during your Sri Lanka travels.

I also encourage you to check with your country’s foreign office on the latest travel advisory status, contact your travel insurance provider to enquire about coverage, and stay informed by keeping a close eye on the news – the BBC, Reuters and Associated Press tend to be reliable and timely news sources.

Sri Lankan people are famous for their hospitality, and violent crimes towards tourists are virtually unheard of.  Just as you would for any other country that you travel to, exercise a reasonable amount of caution and be aware of your surroundings. It may also be prudent to avoid large, crowded gatherings and places of worship during major religious holidays such as the Sinhalese New Year or Tamil New Year (mid-April), Vesak Day to celebrate Buddha’s birthday (first full moon in May), Easter or Christmas.

It also makes sense not to flash money around and leave expensive jewelry and electronics in your hotel room or at home. You should keep a close eye on your personal belongings when you head out as petty theft is a common issue in popular tourist areas. Sri Lanka’s tourist police are very responsive and any incidents should be reported to them promptly – dial 1912 to get in touch with them, or 119 to reach emergency services.

I hope this helps you when deciding whether it is safe to travel to Sri Lanka and if a trip to the pearl of the Indian Ocean is on the cards.

You may also find these guides helpful:

• Start your Sri Lanka travel planning here with a list of some of the  top destinations in Sri Lanka
• And get inspired with this  classic 2 weeks in Sri Lanka itinerary
• Looking for more tips on what NOT to do in Sri Lanka?   Click here for 15 things to avoid doing in Sri Lanka!
• There are always unique things to look out for when you are traveling solo as a woman. Here are some of my top tips for solo female travel in   Sri Lanka
• Explore the full collection of Sri Lanka travel guides here

Pin this for later!

This article contains affiliate links. If you choose to book your stay using these links, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you . Thank you for supporting my website by using these links.

Share this article!

Enjoyed reading this article? Subscribe to the mailing list!

* Unsubscribe at any time. Your e-mail address will only ever be used to send the occasional Yoga, Wine & Travel newsletter.

Similar Posts

10 Day Thailand Itinerary for First Time Visitors (Beyond the Beaches)

Food, culture, temples, beaches, islands, boutique hotels, rooftop bars and more: experience the highlights in 10 days in Thailand! Thailand is a must-visit stop for anyone planning a visit to Southeast Asia, and a personal favorite destination of mine. The Kingdom of Thailand has something to offer every type of traveler, from rich culture and…

Highlights of Sri Lanka: An Express 7 Day Sri Lanka Itinerary for First Time Visitors

Only have 1 week in Sri Lanka? Read on for my express 1 week Sri Lanka itinerary to help you make the most of your time! It’s no secret that I love Sri Lanka. The palm-fringed island has become my second home over the past 8 years, and I now spend nearly half of the…

40 Greece Travel Photos to Stoke Your Wanderlust

Ancient ruins, the birthplace of the Olympic Games, monasteries suspended in mid-air and picturesque islands. Greece has it all. My friends make fun of me for constantly re-reading my Penguin Book of Classic Greek Mythology, but since a young age, I have been captivated by tales of the Greek gods and heroes. It feels like…

Visiting Tad Sae Waterfall in Luang Prabang in Laos

The multi-tiered Tad Sae waterfall, or Tat Sae waterfall, is a stunning nature attraction just outside of the Old Town in Luang Prabang. Read on for everything you need to know to plan your Tad Sae day trip! Often overshadowed by the famous Kuang Si Falls in Laos, Tad Sae Waterfall is a lesser-visited cascading…

Visit the Marble Mountains in Vietnam: Da Nang’s Five Limestone Karsts

The Marble Mountains, or Ngu Hanh Son in Vietnamese, is a group of five limestone mountains just south of Da Nang in coastal Central Vietnam, about 30 minutes by car from Hoi An. Each named after the five elements, Kim (metal), Thuy (water), Moc (wood), Hoa (fire) and Tho (earth), the Marble Mountains (sometimes also…

A Practical Guide to Visiting Petra in Jordan (And What to See Beyond the Treasury)

The ancient site of Petra is one of the 7 New Wonders of the World – read on for everything you need to know to plan a perfect visit to Petra! The ruins of Petra is Jordan’s most-visited tourist attraction and also one of the best preserved archaeological sites in the world. Though it’s not…

17 Comments

Hi Flo, Thank you for this article, found it really helpful! My partner and I are considering visiting Sri Lanka with our 4 month only baby in May/June – so would probably head to the north east coast. I wondered if you knew of any further guides/resources that might help us in planning a trip – that’s both suitable for the time of year and having a baby with us. Many thanks in advance, Elle

Hi Elle, thanks for taking the time to read this! May/June might still be a little early for the east coast peak season – it tends to really pick up towards June-August. It could however be nice and quiet if you’re just looking for a chilled out beach holiday – Arugam Bay, Passikudah and Trincomalee would be my recommendations. Unless you are a keen kitesurfer I would probably recommend skipping Kalpitiya on the northwest coast. https://www.yogawinetravel.com/surfing-in-arugam-bay-sri-lanka/

With a 4 month old you might want to consider taking the “standard” tourist route, especially if it is your first time to Sri Lanka. This is so that you can cut down on long travel times to the far north and east coast, and also have proximity to international hospitals and clinics for worst case scenarios – the most renowned ones tend to be in Galle/Colombo/Matara/Kandy. You can also take advantage of “low season” south Sri Lanka hotel rates during this time.

Whichever route you end up choosing, I highly recommend booking hotels/guesthouses that have generators as there may still be the occasional “load shedding” or power cut. Power cuts during nap time are no fun!

You might find these helpful: https://www.yogawinetravel.com/see-sri-lanka-a-two-week-itinerary-for-the-pearl-of-the-indian-ocean/ and https://www.yogawinetravel.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-sri-lankas-south-coast/

Have a great trip!

This was lovely to read… thank you for sharing. We spent 7 weeks in Sri Lanka in February/March 2020 and loved every minute of it. There are no friendlier people on the planet. We were not worried about safety heading there in January 2024 – just access to the things you’ve mentioned …food, medicine, transportation. One thing you haven’t talked about is alcohol … we like to have a glass or two of wine at the end of the day. Do you know if this is still available?

thank you so much!

Hi Lisa, thank you for taking the time to read this! Yes, alcohol is still readily available – the only exception is that places are not allowed to serve alcohol on Poya (full moon) holidays for religious reasons. Hope this helps!

thank you !

im going in sept 2023 ill let you know how it was but i must say i am very much looking forward to going.

Wishing you safe travels, Vickie!

Hi I was just wondering if you know whether there is Rabies treatment available if you are bitten by a Dog? I had heard that there was a shortage of post exposure vaccine. I will be there in 6 weeks time.

Hi Kaye, apparently Sri Lanka received a shipment donated by China in late 2022 and another from India in mid-2022 as well, however I cannot advise for certain that all hospitals across the island have it in stock right now or that they will still have it in stock in 6 weeks time. You will need to head to a state-run hospital in order to receive the anti-rabies vaccine. The safest thing to do is to avoid touching stray dogs, as you would still need a tetanus shot if you are bitten/nipped and have not had a booster in the past 3-5 years.

Thank you for the article! I am traveling with my granddaughter (17) and have never ventured to this part of the world. I have a greater comfort level and am excited to visit Sri Lanka.

Hi Susan, thanks so much for taking the time to read this and happy to hear it provided some insight into traveling to Sri Lanka. Wishing you both very safe and happy travels!

Thanks we’ve booked and we’re off on Saturday. Can’t wait!

Have a wonderful trip, Nicola!

Thank you so much for this article, we are planning to take our 2 kids to Sri Lanka later in the year and I now feel more confident to do it! We have travelled a lot with our kids, so like you say – our risk benchmark is higher than most, but equally you have to be sensible! without kids I wouldnt have even googled it! so thanks again, a really fair summary of the situation – cant wait to go!

Hi Kirsty, thanks so much for taking the time to read this article! I’m happy that this helped to give a realistic overview of the situation here, and I hope you have a wonderful trip with the kids!

Thank you this is very useful. Having lived in Phuket, Thailand during the pandemic I know the value of returning tourism, and I am keen to visit Sri Lanka next year. I will let you know how we get on!

Hi Jenny, so lovely to hear that you found this article helpful! Hope you do make it over to Sri Lanka someday soon.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

© 2024 Yoga, Wine & Travel. Disclaimer and Website Policies.

Exclusive Member of Mediavine Travel

Solo Travel in Sri Lanka: Everything You Should Know (2024)

Are you considering to travel solo in Sri Lanka? Then this guide is for you! I travelled all over this island by myself for 2,5 months and will share everything you need to know in this comprehensive guide.

With its beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, amazing wildlife and rich history, Sri Lanka is worth visiting . This is one of the top travel destinations in South Asia!

This country offers a lot of variety and there are plenty of places to explore here, from the colonial Nine Arch Bridge to Lipton’s Seat , one of the most beautiful tea plantations in the world.

You might ask yourself some questions if you’re planning on travelling in Sri Lanka by yourself, though, and that’s exactly where this guide comes in handy. It will answer your questions about safety, the cost of travel, how to get around, the best solo travel destinations and more.

So, let’s dive right into it! Here’s everything you need to know if you’re planning a solo trip to Sri Lanka.

Solo Travel in Sri Lanka: Everything You Should Know

Is Sri Lanka safe for solo female travellers?

One of the main concerns you may have is whether Sri Lanka is safe for solo female travellers, and the answer is yes, Sri Lanka is generally safe . Except for one (very unpleasant) occasion, there hasn’t been a moment I didn’t feel safe during the 2,5 months I backpacked around this island by myself.

However, no destination is 100% safe and sexual harassment occurs in Sri Lanka . This happened to me too at a hotel in Sirigiya. Turns out I was very lucky nothing really bad happened because, according to the locals, that hotel owner has raped plenty of women in the past.

Although I pressed charges against him and other women have done the same, the police didn’t take any action because he bribed them. Unfortunately, corruption is a big problem in many Asian countries and Sri Lanka is no different.

I’m not saying this to scare you and would like to encourage you to travel to Sri Lanka by yourself. However, there are things you should be aware of. It’s important to stay vigilant, trust your gut and stand up for yourself if necessary.

Apart from this incident, I always felt safe in Sri Lanka, even though I was travelling there at the height of the severe economic crisis of 2022 . The locals were super friendly and I met plenty of other solo (female) travellers.

❗ If you go to Sigiriya, DO NOT STAY AT  Wali Kukula Nest  and keep an eye on where this hotel is located because it changes names all the time due to the terrible reviews.

Cost of solo travel in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is one of the cheapest countries in Asia and it’s pretty affordable to travel here by yourself. You will find a couple of examples of what you can expect to pay below.

All in all, Sri Lanka is cheaper than India and many other Asian countries I have visited.

How to get around in Sri Lanka

It’s pretty easy to get around Sri Lanka. You will find the best methods of transport below:

• Train: Sri Lanka is home to some of the most beautiful train journeys in the world (the train from Kandy to Ella is particularly famous). The train network in Sri Lanka is pretty extensive and taking the train is a great way to get from one city to another.
• Bus: If the train is not an option or if you’re travelling to more remote areas, taking the local bus is another economical way to get around Sri Lanka.
• Tuk-tuk: Taking the tuk-tuk is the easiest method of transport for shorter distances. You will find these nearly everywhere in Sri Lanka.
• Scooter: If you feel comfortable riding a scooter in Sri Lanka, this can easily be done. You will find plenty of scooter rental shops all over the island.
• Private car: Although a private car is more expensive, this is a fast and flexible way to get around Sri Lanka.

Best time to visit Sri Lanka

There are two rainy seasons in Sri Lanka. November and December are the wettest months in the Northeast and April to June are the wettest months in the Southeast.

So, the best (read: dryest) time to visit Sri Lanka depends on the region:

• Southwest Sri Lanka: November to April
• Northeast Sri Lanka: February to September

It’s good to know that the temperatures stay more or less the same all year round. The average temperature is 27 to 28°C (80°F to 82°F) in Sri Lanka. It will be a bit colder in and around Ella and Nuwara Eliya, though.

Top solo travel destinations in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is one of these countries where I met plenty of other solo travellers . In fact, I met more solo travellers here than in any other country I’ve visited so far! So, you don’t need to worry about meeting other travellers in Sri Lanka.

You will find the best places to travel in Sri Lanka for solo travellers below. These are the places where most solo travellers hang out.

Although the capital of Sri Lanka is often skipped during a trip to the country, I think Colombo is worth visiting for a day. I wouldn’t go out of my way to visit this city, but as Colombo is close to the airport, you will probably be in the neighbourhood anyway.

Colombo is home to plenty of temples, colonial buildings and bustling markets. Some of the places that you cannot miss here are the Gangaramaya Temple , the  Seema Malakaya Temple , the Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque and Pettah Market .

If you like visiting museums, the Colombo   National Museum and the Dutch Museum , which is set in a colonial building, are great places to head as well.

All in all, Colombo might not be the most exciting destination in Sri Lanka, but it is worth spending some time here after landing or before heading back to the airport.

2. Galle Fort

Galle Fort is one of Sri Lanka’s most picturesque destinations. This colonial town was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century but was later conquered by the Dutch and the British.

You will find plenty of colonial buildings here, and Galle is also famous for its charming boutiques and interesting museums.

Some of the best places to visit in Galle are the Galle Lighthouse, the ramparts, the All Saints Church and the Old Gate. There are many more, however. Galle is a place I really loved visiting.

3. Sigiriya

Sigiriya is part of the Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka and it’s one of the highlights during a trip to this country. This little town is home to the famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress , which dates back to the 5th century. It was built by King Kasyapa and used as his royal residence.

There are plenty of other interesting places to visit in and around Sigiriya as well, though. The Dambulla Cave Temples, the Avukana Buddha Statue and Anuradhapura, the first capital of Sri Lanka, are just a few examples.

As Sigiriya is a stop nearly every traveller will make when they’re visiting Sri Lanka, you will find plenty of other solo travellers here.

Ella is one of my favourite places in Sri Lanka. It’s located in the middle of lush green hills and tea plantations, in the south-central part of the island, and it’s a dream for nature lovers.

This town is home to the famous Nine Arch Bridge and some of the best hikes in Sri Lanka . It’s also famous for the Kandy to Ella train ride , which is considered to be one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world.

As Ella is a popular stop during a trip to Sri Lanka, this is another place where you will find plenty of other solo travellers.

Kandy, the capital of Sri Lanka’s Central Province, is famous for being home to the famous Temple of the Sacred Tooth , which is one of the most important Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka. It’s believed that this temple houses the tooth of the Buddha himself, and an interesting ceremony is held here three times a day.

Apart from the Temple of the Tooth, there are also beautiful botanical gardens in Kandy and the Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue is worth checking out as well.

All in all, Kandy is worth visiting and adding to your itinerary.

If you have the time and are up for an adventure, I would recommend visiting Ambuluwawa Tower too when you’re in Kandy. This tower is a 25-km (15.5 mi) ride from Galle and it’s one of Sri Lanka’s most unique landmarks.

Mirissa is another destination that should not miss from any itinerary for Sri Lanka .

Not only will you find some of the island’s most beautiful beaches here, but Mirissa is also home to Coconut Tree Hill , one of the most photogenic places in Sri Lanka.

Apart from that, Parrot Rock and Secret Beach are worth checking out as well, and Mirissa is one of the best places to go whale watching in Sri Lanka.

Although I’m not much of a beach person, I liked Mirissa. This is a great place to relax and as this is one of the most famous beaches on the island, you will meet a lot of solo travellers here.

7. Unawatuna

Unawatuna is another beautiful beach destination, just 5 km (3 mi) from Galle (#2 on this list). Apart from Unawatuna Beach , the nearby Jungle Beach and Wijaya Beach are worth visiting too.

There are plenty of restaurants and bars here as well, and Unawatuna is famous for its vibrant nightlife scene. So, if this is something you’re interested in, Unawatuna is the place for you.

8. Arugam Bay

Arugam Bay is located on the east coast of Sri Lanka . This place is famous for its lively surfing scene between May and September.

This is one of Sri Lanka’s top surfing destinations and it’s one of these must-visit places if you enjoy this sport.

It’s good to know that if you’re not into surfing, there are plenty of other things to do in Arugam Bay as well. Some of the things you cannot miss here are the Muhudu Maha Viharaya and Elephant Rock . On top of that, there are some nice things to do in the surroundings too. Going on a safari and visiting Buddhist monasteries, for example.

9. Trincomalee

Also located on Sri Lanka’s east coast, Trincomalee is another amazing beach destination in the country. Some of the most popular things to do here are snorkelling , scuba diving , whale watching and simply relaxing at the beach .

The east coast of Sri Lanka is quieter and less touristy than the west coast, which is a good reason to visit it if you’re asking me.

10. Yala or Udawalawe National Park

One of these bucket list experiences in Sri Lanka is to go on a wildlife safari! You will have a chance to spot plenty of animals in this country.

Yala National Park , Sri Lanka’s most popular national park, is famous for being one of the places where you might spot a leopard, although you have to be very lucky to do so. Some of the other animals that live here are elephants, water buffalos, sloth bears, deer, peacocks, crocodiles and many species of birds.

If you would like to spot elephants, Udawalawe National Park is the place to go. Although it’s true that there’s no guarantee to spot anything as wildlife is unpredictable, you have a very high chance to spot these animals here.

I did a safari in Yala National Park and spotted many animals, but no leopard in sight, though.

Tip: If you would like to see swimming elephants and would rather visit a less crowded park, Gal Oya National Park is the place for you! This was one of my favourite places to visit in Sri Lanka. I went on a boat safari there and it’s one of my favourite travel experiences so far.

Tips for travelling in Sri Lanka solo

Finally, if you’re convinced and decide to travel to Sri Lanka solo (which I highly recommend doing), make sure to check out the following tips:

• Stay in hostels if you want to meet other solo travellers easily. Although you will find more solo travellers in hostels, I didn’t stay in hostels myself and still met plenty of people travelling alone.
• Always use your common sense , if something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.
• Act confident and as if you know where you’re going, even if you don’t.
• Dress modestly and always carry a scarf with you to cover your shoulders when visiting temples.

Solo travel in Sri Lanka: Final thoughts

And that was it! All in all, I had a great time travelling around Sri Lanka by myself. I met plenty of other solo travellers in this country and, apart from the incident mentioned earlier in this post, I never felt unsafe.

Sri Lanka is a destination nature and culture lovers will love. This island is full of amazing beaches, historical landmarks and beautiful temples.

I hope that you have found exactly what you were looking for in this post and that it inspires you to travel to Sri Lanka by yourself!

Do you have more questions or is something missing from this guide? Let me know in the comments below!

Read more about Sri Lanka:

• The Ultimate 10-Day Sri Lanka Itinerary
• 15 Famous Landmarks in Sri Lanka
• Ultimate Sri Lanka Bucket List: 29 Epic Experiences
• 16 Best Things to Do in Galle Fort
• 15 Best Things to Do In Ella
• 16 Epic Things to Do in Sigiriya
• 14 Best Things to Do in Mirissa
• 8 Places to Visit on the East Coast of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka travel planning guide

🛫 Find the cheapest flights to Sri Lanka on  Skyscann e r . 🏨 Find the best accommodation via  Booking  or  Hostelworld . 🛺 Download the  Pick Me app  to order a rickshaw or a taxi. 💰 Get travel insurance via  VisitorsCoverage , one of the best-reviewed travel insurance companies. 📋 Don’t forget to  check if you need a visa  to visit Sri Lanka.

Pin it for later: Did you find this post helpful? Save it on Pinterest and follow me on Instagram and Facebook for more travel tips and inspiration.

Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has travelled to over 40 countries, many of them solo. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

You may also like

Kandy to ella train: 9 important things you..., is delhi safe a solo female traveller’s perspective..., ambuluwawa tower, sri lanka: ultimate guide (2024), solo female travel in ghana, togo & benin, colombo to ella by train: everything you should..., 8 places to visit on the east coast..., lipton’s seat in sri lanka: a complete guide..., gal oya national park boat safari: a complete..., 16 best things to do in galle fort,..., nine arch bridge, ella: 8 things you should..., leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.