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Is it safe to travel to Sri Lanka? Everything you need to know

Sri lanka is open for tourism and it’s generally safe to visit. the uk foreign office has also updated its travel advice. here’s what you need to know.

W hether it’s surfing breaks off the beaten path, wildlife holidays in the dense jungle or a fly-and-flop in a luxurious resort, Sri Lanka has it all. But in recent years, many tourists have avoided the country. First it was the terror attacks on Easter Sunday 2019, then Covid. And in 2022, the dire economic situation following the pandemic led to protests throughout the country, some of which have turned violent and resulted in the loss of lives. Things have calmed down significantly since and the UK Foreign Office has updated its travel advice in April 2024 to reflect that.

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Is it safe to travel to Sri Lanka right now?

It’s generally safe to travel to Sri Lanka , but events in its recent history are worth bearing in mind.

For much of 2022, there were frequent, often violent, protests in Sri Lanka following the country’s severe economic crisis. Residents faced shortages of essentials such as fuel, medicine and food. The fuel shortage led to daily power cuts and services such as trains and buses being suspended. Emergency services were also affected. In July 2022, the country’s then-prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, now president, declared Sri Lanka bankrupt.

Things have calmed down since the start of 2023 and the country is on its way to recovery, with tourism playing a vital part in that. However, Sri Lanka’s economic woes continue. Separately, an election is due towards the end of 2024, which has sparked further protests, most recently in January and February 2024.

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The Foreign Office said: “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.” Travellers are advised to avoid demonstrations, political protests or large gatherings and to monitor local media.

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What is the Foreign Office travel advice?

The UK Foreign Office now considers Sri Lanka as safe to travel to. There are no travel warnings for any parts of the country.

However, it warns that terrorists are likely to try and carry out attacks in Sri Lanka. The last terror attack was on Easter Sunday 2019, when over 250 people died as a result of bombings in three cities in the country, with churches and hotels targeted.

Its economic situation means that there has been an increase in opportunistic crime. Examples include thefts from hotels and guesthouses and bag-snatching in the streets. You should therefore take care of your valuables and stay vigilant. Violent crime is generally low.

More generally, the Foreign Office warns travellers to be alert to the possible use of date rape and other drugs, including GHB. Buy your own drinks and always keep an eye on them to avoid them being spiked.

Credit card fraud is common in the country. Don’t let your card out of sight during transactions and only use ATMs attached to banks or major hotels.

You should also carry your passport with you at all times.

What are Sri Lanka’s entry requirements?

UK passport holders will need a tourist visa to enter Sri Lanka for a holiday. The fee for these starts from US$50, and you can apply for one online (eta.gov.lk/slvisa) before you travel. It’s also possible to obtain a visa on arrival, but this costs US$60 and you may experience additional delay depending on how many people apply on arrival.

You have two options when it comes to the tourist visa. The 30-day version gives you double entry into the country so you can combine your holiday in Sri Lanka with a visit to another country. There’s also a 180-day visa, which only allows single entry into Sri Lanka. You do not need a visa if you’re transiting through Sri Lanka with less than 24 hours airside.

Three days before you travel to Sri Lanka, you should fill in your embarkation form online (eservices.immigration.gov.lk). This is free and may save you time on arrival.

In terms of passport validity, you’ll need at least six months left on your passport on the day you arrive in Sri Lanka.

Is Sri Lanka safe for female travellers?

Female travellers may find it uncomfortable to travel alone in Sri Lanka. While the country is largely safe, especially if you’re travelling as part of a group, women have reported incidents of verbal and physical harassment by men. These have ranged from sexually suggestive comments to sexual assaults, according to the Foreign Office.

Most incidents happen in crowded places such as marketplaces, railway stations, buses and sporting events. However, they can happen anywhere, including in tourist areas. The Foreign Office advises taking care when travelling alone or in small groups and consider carrying a safety alarm. You may also find it more comfortable to dress more modestly.

Is Sri Lanka safe for LGBT travellers?

Same-sex relations are illegal in Sri Lanka, so you should avoid any public displays of affection. However, an LGBT community does exist in the country, and it is also illegal to discriminate against someone based on their sexual orientation.

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Is it safe to travel to Sri Lanka? Latest UK travel advice amid crisis and Covid entry requirements explained

The british government has issued advice against travel to sri lanka, following continued unrest.

Sri Lanka is in the grip of political unrest that has injured 200 and killed at least seven, including an MP whose house was attacked by protestors.

The prime minister, Mahinda Rajapaksa, has resigned. He is now in hiding at an undisclosed location after special ops soldiers conducted a dramatic overnight raid to rescue him from protestors who stormed his official residence in Colombo in the early hours of 9 May.

Clashes between pro and anti-government protestors in the streets of the capital and around the country have occurred against the backdrop of an unprecedented economic crisis .

As a consequence, the Foreign Office now advises against all non-essential travel to the island.

This invalidates many travel insurance policies if the holder decides to travel against Government advice.

What is happening in Sri Lanka?

Protests have been ongoing since 31 March and a state of emergency was declared on 6 May. An island-wide curfew is now in place.

The country is in the grip of the worst economic crisis in almost 75 years which has led to a shortage of basic supplies including fuel and medicine.

The protests and economic crisis are another setback for Sri Lanka after a bloody civil war that ended in 2009 and the Easter terrorist bombings in 2019.

Where are the protests happening?

The worst violence has occurred in the capital Colombo, much of it focused around the Galle Face area.

Other protests and episodes of violence have flared up around the country.

What has the Foreign and Commonwealth Office advised regarding travel to Sri Lanka?

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) updated its advice for Sri Lanka on 13 May with reference to the ongoing violence and advises against all non-essential travel to the island.

This follows several incidents on 9 May involving violence against peaceful protesters, including in the Galle Face area in Colombo, where authorities used tear gas and water cannons. Incidents also took place near Beira Lake in Colombo, Kandy, and elsewhere.

Are tour operators cancelling holidays to Sri Lanka?

With FCDO advice now cautioning against travel to Sri Lanka, holidays from the UK are likely to be cancelled. Contact your tour operator to discuss your options. Packages cancelled by an operator should be refunded within 14 days.

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

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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 .”

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UK revises its travel advisory for Sri Lanka

You are here.

On 10 June 2022, the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) released its updated travel advisory which has now removed the earlier restriction on ‘all but essential travel’ to Sri Lanka.

This follows the uplifting of state of emergency in the country by the Sri Lankan government. Some military presence, however, remains on the street, and it is believed that curfews can be imposed even now at a short notice. There are still ongoing protests in the Galle Road, Galle Face and Fort areas of Colombo.

As per the advisory, the FCDO advises travellers to be vigilant, avoid any demonstrations or large gatherings, and follow the advice of the local authorities. It further says “economic situation in Sri Lanka is challenging with shortages of basic necessities including medicines, cooking gas, fuel and food because of a shortage of hard currency to pay for imports. There may be long queues at shops and supermarkets, fuel stations, and pharmacies. There may be difficulties or delays obtaining taxis and other public transport. There are ongoing daily power cuts due to electricity rationing.”

Covid-19 is still prevailing, and travellers will need to consider it before travelling to Sri Lanka. Commercial airlines are operating to and from the country but there is a high risk of changes to flights and airport operations at short notice due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

On arrival, visa facilities are available for full British passport holder, but FCDO advises to apply for Electronic Travel Authorisation to prevent delays on arrival.

Fully vaccinated travellers are not required to take a pre-departure COVID-19 test before arrival. COVID-19 travel insurance is mandatory for all visitors. UK’s printed version of proof of COVID-19 recovery and vaccination record and proof of COVID-19 vaccination issued in the Crown Dependencies will only be recognised as proof of vaccination. Digital proof is not accepted by the Sri Lankan government.

Unvaccinated travellers aged 12 and above entering Sri Lanka, will need to show proof of either a negative PCR test (taken no more than 72 hours before embarkation), or a negative Rapid Antigen Test report (taken within 48 hours before embarkation). Self-swab tests are not recognised by the government.

Unvaccinated children aged 11 years and under of fully vaccinated parents who are tourists or foreign nationals are allowed to travel with fully vaccinated parents. Children between the age of 12-18 who have obtained at least a single dose of a recognised vaccine (at least 2 weeks before travel) will be considered ‘fully vaccinated’.

If you have any questions, please contact  Sandeepa Sahay

https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/news-and-advice/sri-lanka-safe-travel-update-latest-b2098400.html

http://www.adaderana.lk/news/82997/uk-relaxes-travel-advisory-on-sri-lanka-

https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/sri-lanka

https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/sri-lanka/entry-requirements

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10 th May 2020

22 nd March 2020

• All airplanes and ships banned for Sri Lanka

All passenger flight & ship arrivals into Sri Lanka stopped till Coronavirus threat is brought under control. All departure flights from Sri Lanka will continue to operate as usual.

18 th March 2020

• Sri Lanka halts arrivals at Katunayake Airport

Sri Lanka suspends all passenger arrivals from all countries at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake starting from 0400 hours 19 March 2020. Arrival of passengers will accordingly be halted until 2359 hours March 25; however, cargo, departures and transit are to be continued. Previously, the Jaffna International Airport (JIA) was shut down for two weeks.

• Visa extended for foreigners currently in country

Emails: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected].

Any inquiries on the matter can be made through 0771588724 and the public is advised to refrain from visiting the Department of Immigration and Emigration premises during the above period.

17 th March 2020

• Passengers from Qatar, Bahrain & Canada barred from landing in Sri Lanka

The Civil Aviation Authority has announced that passengers from Qatar, Bahrain and Canada will not be permitted to land in Sri Lanka starting from midnight today (17). The travel ban will be in place for two weeks. This restriction will not apply to passengers transiting Qatar, Canada or Bahrain, if they are not nationals of the three countries.

16 th March 2020

• Closure of National Museums

The 11 national museums under the Department of Museums will be closed indefinitely.

• Sri Lanka Limits Provision of Consular Services in More Overseas Missions

The Ministry of Foreign Relations has initiated action to regulate consular services in the United Kingdom (London), Belgium (Brussels) and Norway (Oslo). Accordingly, from 16th March 2020, consular services offered by Sri Lanka Missions in these countries will be limited to the issuance of emergency travel documents, issuance of certification and related documents connected to death, and any other emergency services considered necessary.

15 th March 2020

Government introduces a hotline 117 from 8 pm today for public to seek or provide information on Covid-19

• Sri Lanka Navy Geared to Handle COVID-19 at Ports

The Sri Lanka Navy conducted a drill at the harbor yesterday (14th March) to rehearse Standard Operational Procedure that could be adopted in the event of transferring a suspected COVID-19 patient from a ship to hospital ashore and quarantining a particular area on the land.

• Sri Lanka Limits Provision of Consular Services in Overseas Missions

The Ministry of Foreign Relations has decided to limit the provision of consular services in 11 Sri Lanka Missions overseas commencing 16th March until further notice. These Missions have arranged to restrict services related only to the issuance of temporary/emergency travel documents, issuance and certification of documents relevant to deaths of Sri Lankans and any other emergency consular service deemed necessary, on a case by case basis. This will be done based on prior appointments obtained from the Missions.

• Ban on Public Gatherings

The Police Media Division stated that hosting any event, including gatherings that involve large crowds of people will be prohibited for two weeks with effect from 15th March 2020.

14 th March 2020

• Screening of Films Halted

All movie theatres under the purview of the National Film Corporation have been requested by the Cultural Affairs Ministry to suspend screening of movies until further notice. The decision was made taking into consideration the prevailing health concerns due to the threat of COVID-19 in the country. . . .

13 th March 2020

• Temporary Suspension of Visa for the following 12 countries

A temporary suspension of Visas will be in effect for Qatar, Bahrain, France, Spain, Germany, Denmark, Netherlands, Sweden and Austria for a period of two weeks from 23:59 hrs (local time in Sri Lanka) on 15th March and it will come to an end at 24:00 hrs (local time in Sri Lanka) on 29th March 2020. This is in addition to Iran, Republic of Korea and Italy.

• Sri Lankan Passengers from Europe, excluding the UK, to be Quarantined

Sri Lanka’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has announced that all travel beginning from France, Germany, Spain, Switzerland, Denmark, Netherlands, Sweden and Austria will be banned for two weeks from 15 – 29 March 2020. All airlines flying to Sri Lanka are strongly instructed not to board any passenger, either originating from the aforementioned countries or who has been to these countries within the last 14 days.

• Travel Ban on Eight Additional Countries for Two Weeks
• Two Week Travel Ban on all Passengers Arriving from South Korea, Italy and Iran

The Government of Sri Lanka has imposed a two week travel ban on passengers from South Korea, Italy and Iran, starting 14th March 2020. Accordingly, the Government has advised all airlines to refrain from boarding passengers either originating from South Korea, Italy and Iran, or having been in any of the three countries within the last 14 days.

• Self-declaration Forms for All Travellers

Passengers of all international flights entering into Sri Lanka from any port are required to provide personal particulars, address and contact number in Sri Lanka, and travel history to health officials and immigration officials.

• Hotline for COVID-19 Information

The Department of Government Information has shared two hotline numbers for the general public to obtain information on COVID-19. The numbers are +94 710107107 or +94 (0) 113071073.

12 th March 2020

• On-arrival Visa Suspended

Sri Lanka has indefinitely suspended the issuance of on-arrival visas for all visitors. Visa applications need to be made prior to arrival, through the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) website here.

• Closure of Schools

The Ministry of Education has declared that all schools on the island will be closed from 13th March to 20th April 2020.

Important Links

• Daily Update - Epidemiology Unit
• Testing locations - Epidemiology Unit
• WHO global situation report
• WHO global dashboard
• Sri Lanka Tourism Alliance

Updates and Press Releases

Arrangements are in place for international tourists to get to their home countries 26 th March 2020

Updates from Sri Lanka Tourism on the novel Coronavirus 18 th March 2020

Updates from Sri Lanka Tourism on the novel Coronavirus 13 th March 2020

Updates from Sri Lanka Tourism on the novel Coronavirus 05 th March 2020

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 March 2022 and updated October 2023

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Update April 12, 2024

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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. 

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Foreign Minister conveys Sri Lanka’s concerns over UK Travel Advisory

The Minister of Foreign Affairs Prof. G.L. Peiris has pointed to inaccuracies contained in the UK Travel Advisory on Sri Lanka in its successive revisions, resulting in the projection of a negative image of the country.  He has conveyed the above to the UK authorities at a high level on Tuesday 15 March 2022.

In this regard, the Foreign Minister has observed that the reference in the Travel Advisory to the likelihood of terrorist attacks in Sri Lanka and their indiscriminate nature, is contrary to the ground reality, when the country remains vibrant, secure and peaceful, welcoming visitors from all over the world.

The Minister cautioned that such inaccuracies in the Travel Advisory could exacerbate the prevailing economic vulnerabilities at a time when the country’s tourism industry has just begun to revive itself consequent to the global pandemic and when the country is most in need of foreign remittances to reinvigorate its economy.

At the same time, the Minister welcomed the increase in tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka in the first two months of this year, with the UK being the third largest source of tourist traffic to the country.

The Foreign Minister also called upon the UK authorities to positively revise the UK Travel Advisory on Sri Lanka to better reflect the practical realities in the country.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

16 March, 2022

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Home » News & Media » UK updates travel advisory for Sri Lanka

UK updates travel advisory for Sri Lanka

Due to Sri Lanka’s current economic advancement, the United Kingdom has revised its Travel Advisory for Sri Lanka effective April 5, 2024. This update encompasses various aspects including access to emergency medical services, entry security requirements, road safety, overall security situation, and health facility accessibility.

The revised advisory no longer includes previous concerns regarding shortages of food, fuel, and medicine. Additionally, the previously mentioned risks related to limitations in health services, such as the lack of medical equipment, have been omitted.

The Sri Lankan High Commission in London has consistently advocated to British authorities for the removal of negative information from previous advisories. This effort aims to ensure tourists have a clear understanding of Sri Lanka’s current progress.

Between January 1 and March 27, a total of 53,928 tourists from the United Kingdom visited Sri Lanka, establishing the United Kingdom as the third largest source of tourist arrivals. This updated advisory is expected to further boost Sri Lanka’s tourism sector.

The Presidential Media Division is fully responsible for socializing the views, actions, decisions and statements of His Excellency the President through the media. Electronic, print and new media will contribute to this through a credible and engaging approach.

The media department works as a source of information on the subject of the President’s vision and mission by maintaining good coordination with public and private media organizations and journalists.

National policies, plans and measures are explained to the people through the use of high quality media. Identify the fallacies and reveal the truth.

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UK travel advisory for Sri Lanka under review – Lord Ahmad

COLOMBO (News 1st) - Amidst growing pressure to amend its travel advice to Sri Lanka which was deemed "overly harsh", the United Kingdom has defended its decision and said it would continue to keep the island nation's travel advise under close review. Minister of State at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon told Parliament that the safety of British citizens is paramount when formulating travel advisories for all countries, including Sri Lanka. Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon said: "The safety of British people is the main factor when determining our travel advice for all countries, including Sri Lanka." He was responding to the question, whether the UK government has any plans to update the travel advice to Sri Lanka to reflect the security situation in that country. The travel advisory for Sri Lanka is currently based on a comprehensive analysis of potential risks to British nationals. Lord Ahmad said that the Sri Lanka travel advice remains under close review.

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