travel sri lanka solo

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.

🇱🇰 The Travel Resources I use for Sri Lanka By purchasing through the following links, you can support me at no additional cost. 💜 🏨   Booking  &  Hostelworld : To find the best hotels, hostels and guesthouses 🚃  12GoAsia  &  Bookaway : To book trains and buses in advance 🛺  Pick me : The best ride-hailing app for Sri Lanka 🛫  Skyscanner : To find the cheapest flights 🏕  GetYourGuide  &  Viator : To book great tours and activities 💰 Heymondo : One of the best-reviewed travel insurance companies (get 5% off with this link !) 📋 Don’t forget to  check if you need a visa to visit Sri Lanka .

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

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 been travelling solo for years. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

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Girl about the Globe

Making solo travel easier.

Solo Travel in Sri Lanka

Types of Girl about the Globe (GatG) – Cultural GatG, Surfing GatG, Wildlife GatG

If you are planning to  solo travel in Asia , Sri Lanka is a fascinating country to visit especially for those who love culture and wildlife. Below is our guide on solo female travel Sri Lanka including where to stay in Sri Lanka, which tour company to use and how to get around Sri Lanka. Find out how to get from the airports our recommended itinerary in Sri Lanka, and the best places to visit in Sri Lanka. 

All companies included have been recommended by solo female travellers and come with our Solo Female Friendly endorsement. Just choose the relevant section or read the full article to plan your Sri Lanka holidays. 

N.b. For every booking made through this Sri Lanka travel guide, I donate money to projects helping vulnerable girls about the globe. Thank you for helping to make a difference to their lives. 

Places to Visit in Sri Lanka

Sri lanka tours, best places to stay in sri lanka, getting around sri lanka, sri lanka itinerary, travel guide for sri lanka.

• Best Time to go to Sri Lanka

Travel Insurance For Sri Lanka

From sri lanka airports.

• Travelling Onwards

How To Be a Conscious Traveller in Sri Lanka

• Map of Sri Lanka

Planning a Trip to Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka temple

Is Sri Lanka safe for solo female travellers? Sri Lanka culture is predominately Buddhist, meaning that the country is very welcoming and safe for women travelling alone. When you female solo travel Sri Lanka, some areas may remind you of parts of India so make sure you dress appropriately and conservatively. Locals are friendly and respectful and expect to be paid the odd compliment.

There is a shortage of hostels here and with the country mainly attracting couples there are not many solo travellers except on the beaches in the Southwest of the country, so you need to be comfortable with your own company.

Sri Lanka is mainly a Buddhist country so dress modestly and respect the culture. Solo travel to Sri Lanka and you may feel as though you are in India. It is a wonderful country to explore independently but if you are unsure what to see in Sri Lanka, you may feel more comfortable in a group tour for your Sri Lanka holidays.

* Before you travel, check what paperwork or visas are required for Sri Lanka .  

The best place in the world for banana fritters or coconut pancakes drenched in honey, lush vivid green vistas and the brightly colorful whirling and often fire twirling dancers in Kandy. Three thousand odd years of history and eight UNESCO World Heritage sites for you to explore, plus beautiful beaches and wide brown smiles.

Sri Lanka, or as it was once known, Ceylon, is a land that will dazzle and seduce you, in spite of its recent political turmoil.

Sri Lanka has two capitals. Colombo is the executive and judicial capital. There aren’t any places to visit in Colombo or famous landmarks in the capital but it does have colonial buildings within the fort area and plenty of history. If you do spend a few days here, things to do in Colombo include seeing the beautiful white building of the National Museum and the peaceful park that surrounds it.

Inside are the golden throne and crown from the former royal family, as well as typical outfits, art and carvings. And spend some time at Galle Face Green, a park in Colombo’s heart that stretches along the coast. One way to see the city is on a tuk tuk city tour , taking in the sights on traditional colourful transport (you can do it in the evening too!)

Negombo Beach

Negombo , a beach north of Colombo, the Commercial city of Sri Lanka, is a hoi poloi of its past aggressors, the Portuguese, the Dutch and the British. All have left a legacy of some sort in and around this bustling port, such as the Dutch Canals and the remarkable colonial architecture reflected in its buildings.

When you're traveling to Sri Lanka alone, the early morning fish market is a must for those that want to witness the true life of a local in this town. It is harsh and brutal, and the blood bath of the ocean's bounty is all in a day's work. Or, merely walk along the beach until you come to the fishing boats where fresh glistening fish will be drying in the sun.

• Sigiriya Rock

Near Dambulla , make the effort and climb the time worn smooth steps of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress , one of the main places of interest in Sri Lanka, and the most famous places in Sri Lanka. Quietly slip past enormous hornet nests, used for protection against enemies, to reach the apex of the oldest remaining palace created in the 5th Century, as you ascend into a mythical world of legends, and enjoy an amazing view.

Let the world lie before you as it always has, from a unique vantage point, once you reach the top. Follow the tourist route of ancient wonders and step back through time to witness what the ancient artisans created in Polonnaruwa Mediaeval Capital City and Anuradhapura, one of the top 3 cities of the Sri Lanka destinations to visit. 

Opposite Sigiriya Rock is the mighty Pidurangala Rock, a volcanic rock in the lowlands that you can hike up to get one of the best viewing spots of Sigiriya Rock.

Ayurvedic Village

At Matale , visit an Ayurvedic Village to burn a hole in your credit card buying up big on miraculous potions based on botanical and herbal natural products. If you venture to Isiwaya Ayurvedic Village, for a very small donation you can experience a head and shoulder massage like you have never had before, much to the amusement of anyone who may happen to be around you at the time.

Or, for those that don't wax any unwanted hair, try their hair removal cream and be utterly astounded at the results. It actually works!

Nine Arch Bridge in Ella

Ella is a remote destination where you’ll find others on their Sri Lanka backpacking adventures. It’s a place for hiking with lots of natural free things to do in Sri Lanka for those who love nature. Discover Ravana Cave, one of the unique things to do in Sri Lanka for adventure due to its hundreds of steep steps and folklore tradition.

See Ravana Falls (but it’s not recommended to swim there), or the Ellawalla Waterfall or marvel at Diyaluma Falls where you can swim in the infinity pools that the water falls created. Other things to do in Ella include seeing the Nine Arch Bridge and riding the train to Ella from Kandy, a 10-hour train ride through palm jungle and tea plantations.

If you're unsure how to reach these places yourself, you can take a day trip from Ella to see the Nine Arches Bridge, Rawana Waterfall, Ella Rock, Little Adam's Peak, and the Demodara Loop. 

From Ella you can take the train to Kandy , a Sri Lanka must see. When you visit the country you should definitely pay a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy , Sri Lanka, one of the beautiful places in Sri Lanka and places to visit in Kandy, which sits amidst the green sea of tea plantations of the Central Province.

Its' heritage listed buildings reflect in the Kandy Lake, in the heart of this town, where locals gather in the evenings to eat from food carts scattered around. Other things to do in Kandy are to head to the Red Cross Society Hall to watch a performance of the Rangahala Cultural Dance (Kandyan). * Check rates for train tickets from Ella to Kandy

Knuckles Mountains

Hike “ The Knuckles “, preferably with a local guide, as it would be easy to lose oneself in this wonderland of patchwork tea plantations and national park, seamlessly merging into a peaceful hilly land of brightly painted lizards, butterflies and soaring birds.

Watch in awe as you come upon the typical weather worn tea picker with a bag slung around the head as their hands dart out to pick the ripe leaves from the bushes.

Marvel at the ingenuity of the “track sweepers” who meticulously brush the hard earth packed tracks with tree branches shaped into the resemblance of a household broom. Listen to the children's laughter as you trek past one of the many hillside tea pickers' villages or schools. Trudge into a remote hillside town where tractors are the family vehicle.

Rusty old buses gasp their last breath as they struggle to negotiate the twists and turns, loaded up to the brim with not only people, but laden with worn old wooden boxes and livestock as well. Then indulge in an al fresco lunch of local treats at a waterfall hidden from the world and swim in your underwear, if you dare, in the midday searing heat.

Ella (photo @ Madushani Samarappulige‎)

Lounge and watch the world go by, especially the locals, at one of the many restaurants or cafes in Galle . Shop in one of the many boutiques, incredible handicraft or art shops, or just get lost in the alleys and laneways of street graffiti come art. If you love jewellery, you can make your own custom piece with a gemstone in a traditional jewellery making workshop in Galle . 

Galle with its ancient fort and wall, beach alcove and a locals fish market that large black crows haunt, is a colorful caricature of what one expects to see in Sri Lanka. Places to visit in Galle include the Galle Fort, one of the tourist attractions in Sri Lanka that should be on your list.

One of the moving pieces of Sri Lanka tourism is on the coastal road north of Galle. The Tsunami Memorial commemorates the hundreds of people washed away on a commuter train during the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami.

Hikkaduwa Beach

For adventurous things to do in Sri Lanka, you can surf, snorkel or dive at Hikkaduwa Beach, one of the country’s popular beaches due to its coral reef. It’s easy to meet others here as there are restaurants, bars and clubs, and you may even meet a turtle or two swimming at Turtle Beach. Hikkaduwa Beach is less than 20 kms from Galle. 

If you are an ocean Girl about the Globe, one of the activities to do in Sri Lanka is surf. Surfers flock to Weligama , one of the best places in Sri Lanka on the Indian ocean, where surfers and traditional fishing boats fight for waves to get to shore. It is where there is one surf school after another, and a quaint little town that is close enough to go to Galle for a day by tuk tuk.

Sri Lankan fishermen

Whilst, Unawatuna is a laid-back tourist scene of restaurants, bars, hotels and quaint boutique bed and breakfasts. It is also the bay where four turtles have made their home and can be seen aimlessly floating around their blue playground, especially late in the afternoon.

Mirissa and Tangalla have some of the best Sri Lanka beaches to relax and chill out. From Mirissa you can also take a whale watching tour to see sperm whales, blue whales and dolphins off the southern coast. Arugam Bay is one of the best beaches in Sri Lanka and sits on the east coast as an alternative depending on the season.

Unnawatuna Beach near Galle's Fort

Sri Lanka National Parks

National Parks abound with all their own specialty of creature inhabitants, depending on what would appeal to you as the visitor or the proximity to where you are. If you are unsure where to go in Sri Lanka for elephants, the Gathering, Minneriya National Park is where elephants by the hundreds annually congregate in June to September.

Kaudulla National Park in the north central province is also home to a large number of Sri Lankan elephants that you can see gathering at the Kaudualla reservoir during the dry season. The sacred pilgrimage site of the Dambulla Cave Temple also lies within this province. This cave is the country’s best preserved cave temple with carved Buddha statues and paintings of historical Buddhist events on the cave walls and ceiling.

Horton Plains National Park is the country’s highest plateau and one of the points of interest Sri Lanka for eco-tourism. With areas of cloud forest, Baker’s Falls, and a sheer drop called The World’s End, this protected area with many species of birds is one of the exotic places in Sri Lanka

Yala National Park is the stage for over 200 bird species and 40 reptiles and mammals. It's also the home to leopards, elephants and sloths and you can take a morning or afternoon safari to spot them. 

Become a “tweeter” and bird watch in Bundala National Park or join the throng of tourists at Udawalawe National Park on a National Park safari tour. W h ilst Sinharaja Forest Reserve plays home to some of the rarest bird species.

From world famous religious relics, temples and trekking mountains, to tasting local wonders such as wood apple juice, there are many destinations in Sri Lanka to entice you. Or indulge in the rich curds and whey of the buffalo variety with fresh drizzled honey, sipping dark thick coffee, and seeing the locals bathe in the late afternoon sunlight in any stream or lake available, even if it is beside the road.

There are many things to see in Sri Lanka that will have you spellbound as you count the many little silver dishes that are served with your aromatic curry. 

Tour Companies

You can travel Sri Lanka solo but you may feel more comfortable in a group for either part of your Sri Lanka trip or the whole duration. I've listed below recommended Sri Lanka tours for solo travellers. If you prefer a more unique Sri Lanka tour package, Golden Isle Sri Lanka will personalise your Sri Lanka tour and can also twin it with the Maldives.

G Adventures Sri Lanka

G Adventures is a responsible tour company which mainly caters towards budget travellers. Most tours have an average of 12 people and there is no upper age limit. Once you book your trip you pay extra for any excursions you want to do when you’re there.

Their tours to Sri Lanka start from 7 day Sailing Sri Lanka, to a 14 day Sri Lanka Land & Sea tour. I have personally used G Adventures and recommend   them as a solo female friendly company. * Check rates and availability for G Adventures tours

TruTravels Sri Lanka

For the backpacker solo, TruTravels offers a classic Sri Lanka trip from Negombo to Unawatuna over 10 days. Delve into the culture, go on a safari and climb Sigiriya Rock with a group of like-minded others. Travel through Negombo, Sigiriya, Kandy, Ella, Udawalawe, and Unawatuna, staying in a beachside hotel and glamping. Trips have a maximum of 20 people with most travellers between the ages of 18 and mid 30’s. Prices start from £995 based on a twin share. * Check rates and availability for TruTravels tour

Get Your Guide   – Get Your Guide helps you to find top-rated activities and day tours in Sri Lanka. Choose from a whale watching tour in Mirissa, a safari in Udawalawa National Park or one of the Sri Lanka tours from Colombo including the famous Sigiriya Rock and Dambulla cave temple day trip. There are several to choose from including Sri Lanka short tours and it’s really simple to use. Just check the reviews, price and availability then book online. * Check rates and availability for all Sri Lanka day tours

When you travel Sri Lanka on your own, you can find all different types of accommodation in Sri Lanka from beach huts and tree houses at Arugam Bay to villas at the beach resort of Unawatun a. The country offers BnBs and Sri Lanka hotels from 3 star to the luxurious 5 star. And for those on a budget c onsider one of the hostels of which there are many in Colombo.

Guest houses are a sociable way of staying in family homes. Plus there’s Airbnb Sri Lanka which connects you to unique travel experiences and isn’t just limited to staying in a local’s spare room. 

All of the accommodation below have been recommended by solo female travellers from our Girls about the Globe community and come with a Solo Female Friendly endorsement. Here are our favourite accommodations for those looking for comfort. For all other accommodation, click  this link. *  To book, check prices or availability for all accommodation in Sri Lanka

Kandy – Cafe Aroma Inn – $

This cosy Inn is in the perfect location in Kandy with the Temple of the Tooth just walking distance away. A great value accommodation with a restaurant serving delicious local food.  * C heck rates and availability

Kalutara – Royal Palms Beach Hotel – $$

This is one of the stunning hotels in Sri Lanka with a large swimming pool and an Ayurvedic spa, just steps away from Kalutara Beach. There are helpful staff and even the reception is peaceful.  * Check rates and availability

Koggala – The Fortress Resort & Spa – $$$

The Fortress in Galle is a mixture of modern and colonial architecture and is located along the beach – 5 star in true Sri Lankan style. * C heck rates and availability

If you are looking for cheap accommodation in Sri Lanka and the opportunity to meet others within a hostel environment, I've listed recommended hostels for solo female travellers below. For other accommodations check rates and availability for all Sri Lanka accommodation here

Arugum Bay – The Long Hostel ($)

Close to shops and restaurants, this hostel has a great vibe. There’s air conditioning, and they have mosquito nets for the beds as well as universal plugs so it doesn’t matter if you forget your adaptor. There’s a coffee shop and outside barbecue so you don’t need to go far to eat.

As a Sri Lanka solo female traveller, if you're looking for company, the hostel is good value and close to the beach, and attracts a nice crowd of people including backpackers. Choose from a 4-bed mixed dorm room or a budget or deluxe double room with your own private bathroom. * Check rates and availability: The Long Hostel

Mirissa Beach – Space Garden Hostel ($)

Mirissa Beach is one of the Sri Lanka hostels that will make you feel right at home. It’s clean, has friendly staff, and it is only two minutes from the beach. Plus if you visit during the hot months, there is air conditioning to keep you cool.

The rooftop restaurant is a great place to enjoy some cuisine or one of the delicious breakfasts. They also have a 24 hour reception which is ideal if you are checking in late. Choose from 4 or 8-bed dorm rooms or a 4-bed female only dorm. * Check rates and availability: Space Garden Hostel

Weligama – We Escape ($)

This place is simply gorgeous. If you want to stay in a luxury beach hostel, WeEscape is just perfect. With a chilled out vibe set in an old colonial villa, you can really relax here whether you want to lounge by the pool, surf in the sea or do a yoga class. The restaurant serves great curries too.

Choose from a bed in a 6 or 8-bed female dorm, 8 bed mixed dorm room, or a superior or deluxe room. Tip – if you are going for a private room opt for the deluxe room if you can. * Check rates and availability: We Escape

How to travel around Sri Lanka by car – Driving around Sri Lanka is not for the faint hearted with constant honking and overtaking. It is best to use a recommended travel agency that can arrange a Sri Lanka driver and a private car for you if you want to travel around the country. Hiring a driver in Sri Lanka may seem excessive, but it is by far the easiest way to navigate the sights and to learn about the country.

If however, you are going to one of the areas in Sri Lanka, say the beach at Welligama or Unawatuna or concentrating your visit around the beaches and Galle Fort area, it is easy to hop from one area to another without the use of a driver. If you do need a taxi service in Sri Lanka when you are travelling alone in Sri Lanka, Broom Broom Taxi Sri Lanka is a trusted taxi service.

Public Transportation in Sri Lanka

It is a country of easy access on one hand but on the other, most of the major sites are easier to navigate in a short amount of time with the aid of a personal driver. For travelling around Sri Lanka independently there are local buses that cover all the cities in Sri Lanka. They can get packed and aren’t that comfortable in the heat. Find Sri Lanka bus routes here

Buses are even owned by the government or private buses. Both operate around the country but the government buses also run in the more rural areas. Look for the white buses with coloured stripes for a private bus service in Sri Lanka. Air conditioned buses are more expensive but they are much nicer and only take a seated number of passengers so they don’t get uncrowded.

The authentic Sri Lanka transport are tuk tuks, that will take you on short distances and are a fun way to see Sri Lanka. 

How to get around in Sri Lanka by train – Take a train trip to tour Sri Lanka. Colombo Fort Train Station is the major hub for Sri Lankan Railways. T he Sri Lanka train ride from Kandy to Colombo is spectacular with tickets to the observation car only 320 lkr. The journey takes about 3 hours and from Colombo you can change to Aluthgama for 110 lkr which runs along the coast and is a special ride.

The Kandy to Ella train ride is also one of the most beautiful in the country. The trains can get crowded so if you are touring Sri Lanka this way, opt for a first class ticket which has air conditioning and more comfortable seats than second class. Click here for a railway map of Sri Lanka. 

* For Sri Lanka car hire car we recommend pre-booking your car so you can collect your car when you arrive at the airport.

Sri Lanka is quite a large country so you’ll need at least 2 weeks in Sri Lanka to see the main Sri Lanka attractions (if you are travelling fast on your Sri Lanka route). You could spend 1 week in Sri Lanka solo if you want to experience the beach or combine it with Kandy. Below is an example of a Sri Lanka solo travel itinerary whether you are looking for a Sri Lanka itinerary for a week or 2 weeks in Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka Itinerary 7 Days:

• Colombo – 1 night, Galle – 2 nights, Weligama – 3 nights.
• Kandy – 2 nights, Sigiriya Sri Lanka – 2 nights, Nuwara Eliya – 2 nights.

Sri Lanka Itinerary 2 Weeks:

• Colombo – 1 night, Kandy – 3 nights, Dambulla/Sigiriya – 2 nights – Yala National Park – 2 nights, Mirissa – 3 nights, Galle – 2 nights.
• For a two week itinerary exploring the highlights and UNESCO sites visit: Galle – 3 nights, Rekawa – 2 nights, Tissa – 3 nights, Kandy – 3 nights, Bentota – 2 nights.

Whether you are solo backpacking Sri Lanka alone or planning your solo holidays to Sri Lanka, having a guide book helps you to find the best place in Sri Lanka for you and give you more confidence planning your trip.  

If you need a book for your travels we recommend Rough Guides. Covering where to go and when to go, things not to miss, itineraries, getting around, festivals and events, history, and maps, they are amongst the most comprehensive guides on the market. If you prefer Lonely Planet click here for all Sri Lanka guide books.

If you are planning on travelling to Sri Lanka for the first time, the Rough Guide to Sri Lanka covers topics such as: places to see in Sri Lanka, the best things to do in Sri Lanka, booking your trip, accommodation, getting there, getting around, Sri Lanka food and drink, and travel essentials. They also include facts about Sri Lanka, Sri Lankan Buddhism, art, architecture and wildlife so you can maximise your time and know exactly where to go. They’re your travel Bible for your Sri Lanka vacation. 

* Check prices on Amazon

Best Time To Go To Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka does have monsoons but don’t let this put you off visiting outside of peak seasons as there is an inter-monsoon season between July to September which despite the odd rain shower is a good time to see the country. The best time to visit Sri Lanka is between December to March for the south and also the west coast (or May to September if you are visiting the east).

The chart below shows the weather in Sri Lanka and the annual climate from January to December. 

Sri Lanka is a wonderful country to explore but if you are planning Sri Lanka solo travel, travel insurance is definitely recommended especially if you are planning to hike or take a tuk-tuk ride.

True Traveller and World Nomads are two insurance companies which can cover travel to Sri Lanka. True Traveller is available to UK and European residents, and World Nomads is available to over 100 countries worldwide, including the USA and UK. For digital nomads, Safety Wing is a nomad insurance that covers people from all over the world.

All companies allow you to buy insurance when you are already on the road and offer different plans depending on your needs including additional adventure cover.

* Check insurance cover and prices for True Traveller

N.b. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Sri Lanka has two international airports. Bandaranaike International Airport near Colombo, and Mattala Rajapaksa (HRI) in the south near Hambantota.

From Bandaranaike Airport – From Colombo International Airport there is a bus which runs to the Colombo City centre in 45 minutes (Line 187). The bus costs approx £2 (you may have to pay extra for your luggage), or you can take a taxi for £13. For anywhere else, take a taxi service. A cab to Negombo Beach will take 30 minutes and cost approx 962 LKR. For Bentota, Galle or Kandy the fare is approx 5000 LKR.

From Hambantota Airport – The best way to get into Hambantota is to take a taxi. This costs approximately £18 for a 45 minute journey.

* Check Rome2Rio for transport to and from the airports.

Travel Tip – Feel more confident on your Sri Lanka solo trip with someone waiting for you at the airport or as an airport drop Sri Lanka when you pre-book Hoppa , a reliable service for the safety of travellers.

Travelling onwards (check visas before you travel)

Sri Lanka is an island so when you are travelling Sri Lanka solo, flying onwards is the only option as there are no boats running between here and India.

Where can I go from here?

• India – 1.5 hours
• Indonesia – 4.5 hours
• Thailand – 3.5 hours

When you're traveling in Sri Lanka alone, in addition to the universal ways to be a conscious traveller such as avoiding buying coral, and ensuring that your whale watching excursion is accredited by the Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society, here are our recommendations for being a conscious traveller when you solo travel in Sri Lanka:

Sri Lanka was badly hit in the 2004 Tsunami, so one way to help the community is to stay in local accommodations and eat local to ensure that your local money helps the local communities and villages that are rebuilding their lives.

Sri Lanka is known for its elephants but avoid elephant rides when you visit. Elephants can experience mental and physical suffering and when not giving rides or performing, the elephants at tourist attractions are typically kept chained day and night.

Instead of visiting Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, see one of these amazing Sri Lankan elephants on a safari in the national parks such as Yala National Park or Udawalawe National Park instead. Find out more….  

Avoid any projects encouraging turtle encounters, which can interfere with the nesting and hatching process of the turtles. Too many tourists on the sand can threaten the eggs and stop them developing properly. Find out more… 

Volunteering in Sri Lanka

Habit For Humanity – Become a Global Village Volunteer and help low-income families in Sri Lanka on a homebuilding project. As a short-term volunteer you’ll be supporting paid skilled labour by mixing cement and hauling water, as well as transforming communities and helping to foster a sense of community. 

Facts About Sri Lanka

• Can I drink the water? Drinking tap water isn't advised so buy bottled water or take your own water filter with you.
• Is tipping expected? Wages are low, so tipping is appreciated. Generally 10% for restaurants, and tour guides.
• Fixed price or barter? Fixed prices in shops, but barter your heart out in the markets – please remember that you may be bartering over a few cents/pennies.
• Any ATMs? Yes, especially in the tourist areas, but not in the very small towns.
• Which side of the road do they drive? The left-hand side.
• Good for vegetarians? Yes, especially with their delicious vegetarian curries.
• Any seven wonders of the world? No.
• Is Sri Lanka safe for single female travellers? If you're still wondering is sri lanka safe for female travellers after reading this article; Yes, the people are welcoming and the country is safe.
• How long is a flight to Sri Lanka from the UK? 11 hours.

Sri Lanka Map

If you are ready to plan your solo trip to Sri Lanka here are some useful links to help you to travel to Sri Lanka including airlines which fly there, vaccinations required and local costs; all the links that you need for Sri Lanka solo female travel.

Budget: How much does a Sri Lanka solo trip cost? Allow £35 a day if you are travelling Sri Lanka alone on a budget and staying in cheap accommodations (more if you hire a personal driver to get around). 

Current Time in Sri Lanka (in Colombo)

Capital of Sri Lanka – Colombo

Population of Sri Lanka – 20.3 million

What Language is Spoken in Sri Lanka – Sinhala and Tamil, very little English in some areas.

Sri Lanka Currency – Sri Lankan Rupee

Do I need a Sri Lanka visa? 

Vaccinations Required 

Useful Sinhala Phrases

Useful Info

Airlines To Sri Lanka

The Ideal Time To Visit Sri Lanka – The best month to visit Sri Lanka is in February.

Which Plug Do I Need? 

UNESCO Sites in Sri Lanka

Events and Festivals in Sri Lanka

Living Cost in Sri Lanka

Local Customs & Etiquette

Sri Lanka's Sacred Sites Did you know? “The head waggle” – Sri Lankans say, “yes” by waggling their heads from side to side as if they are saying “no”.

Madulkelle Tea & Eco Lodge – Kandy

Hideaway at Kambuk River

Volunteering

Animal SOS is a dog sanctuary in Ahangama, and a UK registered charity. They rescue street animals who have no hope or veterinary care when they become ill or injured on the roads.

Find other volunteering opportunities on your solo trip Sri Lanka with Go Overseas.   

Mind Body & Soul

Yoga and Ayurveda Ulpotha Retreat

Meditation at Rockhill Hermitage

Issues in the Country

Humanitarian and political situations both past and current are still problems in Sri Lanka, with the northern area largely undeveloped for tourism.

This article was written by Gail Palethorpe. Gail is a self-confessed travel junkie, caffeine addict, freelance writer and photographer.

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• Sri Lanka Solo Traveling: A Detailed Guide For A Spectacular Solo Trip In 2024!

“Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer” is truly one of the best statements that one could ever quote on travel. And when it comes to traveling solo, the experience cannot be described in words. Sri Lanka, often an underrated travel destination, is one of the best countries if you are planning a solo trip. With so much surrealism and tranquility in the environment, Sri Lanka will help you find yourself. With this complete guide on Sri Lanka solo traveling , we will help you plan your solo trip. Sri Lanka is a country which is weaved with everything, that a solo traveler would dream of on his/her solo trip. From scrumptious food to beaches, enthralling nightlife, cultural and historical places, greenery, and pristine landscapes, Sri Lanka has it all.

Sri Lanka Solo Traveling: Best Time To Visit

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Anytime of the year would be great for a solo trip to Sri Lanka. You just need to be determined to pack your backpack and take this journey which will help you meet your goals, a trip which will give you peace and moreover, a trip that will help you meet the inner you. Talking in terms of weather, Sri Lanka can be best experience during the months of December to March if you are planning to visit its western and southern areas while April to September for eastern areas.

5 Places To Visit During Sri Lanka Solo Traveling

In order to fully enjoy the solo traveling experience, solo travelers must look for places that are serene and offbeat, so that they get a lot more from their excursion. Here is a list of some eccentric places to visit on your solo trip to Sri Lanka.

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1.Sigiriya Rock

A Unesco World Heritage Site, Sigiriya Rock is a magnificent place to visit on your solo trip to Sri Lanka . In order to get to the top of the rock, you need to climb a giant staircase of 1200 steps but the effort is worth it. Once you reach the top, magnificent panoramic views of the countryside, hills, and forests welcome you. Make the most of this opportunity to click some nice shots to be captured in your camera forever.

Timings: 7:00 am to 7:00 pm

Must Read: Sri Lanka On Budget: A Friends Trip With A Perfect Blend Of Adventure And Fun

2. Arugam Bay

For all the beach lovers, this is the place to come and unwind yourself amidst the natural beauty. This a perfect beach for all the solo travelers where they can just relax and chill. There is a plethora of activities to try at this beach to infuse some adventure in your mundane life. Fringed with coconut trees, the beach offers delightful views of sunset as well.

Best activities to try: Surfing, Yoga, Swimming, Lagoon Safari, Sunset Views, Tuk-tuk safari

Suggested Read: Sri Lanka Group Tours: An Economical And Fun Way To Travel And Explore

3. Kandalama

Solo travel to Sri Lanka is so much fun when you decide to visit some offbeat places and get to meet a lot of local people and get acquainted by their culture and traditions. Kandalama is one such village where you find tranquility and peaceful surroundings. If you want, you can opt for a hot air balloon ride here to touch the sky.

Famous for: Hot air balloon ride

Suggested Read: When Adventure Met Beauty: Our Honeymoon Trip To Sri Lanka

4. Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya is the most scenic hill station in Sri Lanka which is perfect for scenic train rides. You must keep your cameras ready while taking a rail ride to Nuwara Eliya as you will come across many happening views. If you choose to book for solo travel tours in Sri Lanka , then make sure to add this lush green land of Nuwara Eliya to your itinerary.

Famous for: Scenic train rides, Tea estates, Mesmerizing landscapes

Suggested Read: 15 Things To Do In Ella To Take Your Sri Lanka Trip To The Next Level

5. Adam’s Peak

Adams Peak is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Sri Lanka which shouldn’t be missed out by solo travelers. This place apart from being enchanting also carries a lot of spiritual significance due to the presence of Sri Pada on the mountain top which is said to be the footprints of Lord Buddha. This place offers mesmerizing views of the surrounding landscape which will leave you awestruck. When you decide to solo travel in Sri Lanka , make sure to add this place in your itinerary.

Famous for: Panoramic views and Footprints of Buddha

Suggested Read: Viharamahadevi Park: A Handy Guide To Explore This Nature’s Paradise In Sri Lanka!

3 Places To Stay At During Sri Lanka Solo Traveling

Selecting the right, affordable and safe accommodation can be a hectic task for many of the solo travelers out there. Therefore, we have shortlisted this list of accommodations options for your next solo trip to Sri Lanka

1. Puncha Hostel, Kandy

Staying in hostels rather than hotels is the best option for solo travelers as they get many fellow travelers in such hostels. Puncha Hostel is one such great accommodation site which we would recommend to solo travelers. It is a residential complex, the owners of which are super friendly and offers great food.

TripAdvisor Rating

Suggested Read: Celebrating My Birthday In Style On A Friends Trip To Sri Lanka

2. Space Garden Hostel, Mirissa Beach

The location of this hostel along with great facilities are enough reasons to book a room here on your solo trip to Sri Lanka. Hostels make solo female travel in Sri Lanka so much easy and safe. There are all female dorm rooms as well as 4 to 8 combined dorm rooms available here.

Suggested Read: 9 Best Places to Visit in Matara For An Enriching Sri Lankan Holiday Experience

3. The Long Hostel, Arugam Bay

This is a great accommodation option for solo travelers as it has nice views, is close to the beach and has a number of shops and restaurants, so you do not have to look far as you get everything in close proximity. Deluxe double rooms along with dorm rooms are available here.

Website | TripAdvisor Rating

7 Tips For Sri Lanka Solo Traveling

We have shortlisted 7 tips for solo travelers embarking on a trip to Sri Lanka that they should keep in mind to ensure their trip is hassle-free:

• Try to look for accommodation in hostels which are comparatively and also you will find many fellow solo travelers whom you can connect with.
• Carry all the important documents with you like passport, identity cards to avoid any hassle.
• Abide by the laws of the country and do not indulge in any illegal activity like drugs etc to ensure a successful solo trip.
• Follow the dress code. Avoid wearing short dresses to places that have strict dress codes, especially at the temples.
• Take the local sim card of the place you are traveling to stay connected with your near and dear ones.
• Interact with the local people with respect and avoid any kind of argument during your solo trip.
• Make use of public transport more as it is cheap and safe at the same time.

Further Read: 5 Best Sigiriya Restaurants To Enjoy Authentic Sri Lankan Food

Now that you have got a detailed guide on Sri Lanka solo traveling, hold no further to book a solo trip to Sri Lanka for a getaway that will boost up your life with energy and vision. This solo trip will enlighten you and will let you make some unforgettable memories which you will cherish in your life forever.

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Kirti Agarwal

A lover of romance, tea, and travel. Writing is something that comes from within her, so Kirti decided to convert her passion into a profession. Traveling is something that drives her crazy. She also holds a bit of interest in fashion and photography.

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Asia , Solo Travel , Sri Lanka , Travel Tips

My solo trip to sri lanka (seven days itinerary).

Beautiful country Sri Lanka in Asia offers a lot more to explore from old heritage sites to pristine beaches, lush highlands, and even rich wildlife. I was happy during my seven days tour in Sri Lanka. And I explored mainly the natural beauty of this country in a week. Many things I’ve loved during my seven days solo trip to Sri Lanka. Now I’m here to share my Sri Lanka travel tips and experiences so that you can also explore in a group or even solo. Are you planning a trip to Sri Lanka? If not, my seven days Sri Lanka tour itinerary will make you pack your bag and inspire you to visit Sri Lanka soon.

Sri Lanka is a perfect holiday destination for budget to luxury travelers. And backpackers’ favorite destination as well. Don’t ask what to see in Sri Lanka, the wonder of Asia? There are many top travel destinations in Sri Lanka . In the meantime, you’ll also love many offbeat things to do for the first time during your trip to Sri Lanka.  In fact, there are many other places to visit and see beyond pristine beaches in Sri Lanka.

I took the direct flights to Sri Lanka from Dhaka to Colombo. Flying for the first time with SriLankan Airlines was nice. Sri Lanka offers On Arrival Visa for one month for all SAARC countries in South Asia. Sri Lanka visa on arrival cost is between $25 to $60. And the visa policy of Sri Lanka is fair enough for almost all countries worldwide.

Table of Contents

• 1 Best Time To Visit Sri Lanka
• 2 Is It Safe To Travel Solo in Sri Lanka?
• 3.2 Nallathanniya
• 3.3 Haputale
• 3.4 Tissamaharama
• 3.5 Mirissa
• 3.6 Colombo
• 3.7 Negombo
• 4.1.1 Walking Tour To Sacred Tooth Relic
• 4.2.1 On The Way To Nuwara Eliya
• 4.3 Day 3: Nallathanniya, Haputale
• 4.4.1 Popular Hill Town Ella
• 4.5 Day 5: Hambantota, Mirissa
• 4.6.1 UNESCO World Heritage Site Galle
• 4.7 Day 7: Colombo
• 5 Some Money-Saving Tips

Best Time To Visit Sri Lanka

To avoid monsoon, the best time to visit Sri Lanka from December to March. The central hill stations, south, and west coastal sides are best to explore during these months. But the east part of Sri Lanka is best to visit from the month of April to September. Due to the tropical climate, you might face sudden rain as well even in the dry season. Furthermore, to avoid the trip cost you might also like to visit Sri Lanka during the monsoon.

Is It Safe To Travel Solo in Sri Lanka?

Yes, it is. My seven days solo trip to Sri Lanka was full of fun and adventure. I found Sri Lanka is safe to travel even for solo female travelers. Sri Lankans are friendly and cooperative. And they don’t think twice to smile you first even you’re a complete stranger to them. I loved that. But it is always recommended not to mingle much with any guy when you’re alone. Some might come up very friendly, but you got to understand the motive.

Places To Stay in Sri Lanka

I always give more love to an extremely beautiful nature than city life. And enjoy staying close to nature. So, I selected some best places to stay in Sri Lanka. There are many cheap hotels in Sri Lanka. But mostly I liked to choose the budget but standard accommodations during my seven days tour and took a road trip daily by taxi from the hotel.

I’ve stayed two nights at Sevana City Hotel , one of the standard budget hotels, and located very near to all top attractions in Kandy. It offers you a homely stay with complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi. Sevana City Hotel is best for solo travelers and as well as for family stay.

Some Other Recommended Hotels

• Heaven Seven Hotel
• Kandy City Hostel
• Heritage Kandy City Bungalow

Nallathanniya

One night I stayed at Slightly Chilled Hotel in Nallathanniya. If you have a plan to climb Adam’s Peak, then this hotel can be the best choice for you. It offers complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi. You can enjoy Adam’s Peak view from the hotel restaurant. This hotel is perfect for all budget travelers around.

Where to stay in Haputale ? My one night stay at Olympus Plaza Hotel was simply the best due to the beautiful location of this hotel. The breathtaking landscape view of the scenic Haputale from the hotel balcony is outstanding. It offers a complimentary buffet breakfast, Wi-Fi, and other standard facilities as well. A perfect hotel for mid-range to luxury travelers.

• The Mist Holiday Bungalow
• Amarasinghe Guesthouse
• Lilly Guest Inn
• Belview Guesthouse

Tissamaharama

If you have a plan to visit Yala National Park, then you’ll love your stay at Neem Villas in Tissamaharama. This hotel is perfect for mid-range to luxury travelers. They can arrange a jeep safari tour for you and will provide you a complimentary packed breakfast before an early morning trip to Yala National Park. I stayed one night and loved the quiet atmosphere of this hotel, very close to nature. Neem Villas also offers free Wi-Fi and other standard facilities.

I wanted to go for Whale watching by boat and so chose to stay at Latheena Resort for one night which is very near to Mirissa Fisheries Harbour. This hotel located nearby Mirissa. Just walking distance from Mirissa Beach. You’ll love the beach view and also can enjoy surfing at this beach. Suitable accommodation for budget travelers where breakfast and Wi-Fi are also complimentary. Don’t miss to have the tasty Sri Lankan food from the hotel Fujisan restaurant.

• My Hostels Mirissa
• Paddy Field View Resort
• Royal Villa Mirissa

I loved my one-night standard stay at Ceylon City Hotel to explore all nearby attractions in Colombo. This hotel offers a complimentary buffet breakfast, Wi-Fi, and other standard facilities. A perfect one for mid-range to luxury travelers.

• The Deane Residence
• Sunrise Boutique
• Marino Beach Colombo

I enjoyed a complimentary stay for 15 hours transit from SriLankan Airlines at Ramada Katunayake Hotel in Negombo. The next day I had a connective flight to Dhaka. Hence, as a transit passenger, I got a complimentary buffet dinner, a one-night stay, and a shuttle service from this hotel. Overall, a perfect luxury hotel to enjoy your time in Negombo.

• Marine Tourist Guest House
• Hostel First @ Colombo Airport

Seven Days Sri Lanka Tour Itinerary

My one week Sri Lanka itinerary will take you to explore the center, south, and, west part of Sri Lanka. As a nature lover, I loved the stunning beauty of each hill station in the central part of Sri Lanka. The climate is also perfect to explore the lush highlands where possible to avoid the extreme heat during your summer trip here.

I also loved to taste many varieties of Sri Lankan food and tropical fruits on the road during my seven days in Sri Lanka. The exciting part was the scenic and exciting road trip by taxi from Kandy to Colombo. I also enjoyed a memorable short but scenic train journey from Nanu Oya to Haputale, so far my top favorite destination in Sri Lanka.

I preferred to start my Sri Lanka trip from Kandy, and so directly I left for Kandy by taxi in the evening from Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo. If you don’t get the train ticket on the same day, then you might have to stay one or two nights in Colombo.

Read inside to get the itinerary along with money-saving tips and my complete Sri Lanka tour experiences.  And also don’t forget to read some travel books on Sri Lanka and carry road trip essentials before your trip.

Day 1: Kandy

Peradeniya Botanic Gardens, ArtLanka Batiks Factory, Kandy Lighthouse, Kandy Lake, Temple of the Tooth, Kandy Cultural Centre

The first day I kept for Kandy , UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the cultural city of Sri Lanka. First I visited Peradeniya Botanic Gardens to explore the spectacular plant life of Sri Lanka. There is so much to explore inside the Royal Botanic Gardens. Therefore, it will take you 3 to 4 hours to visit so many attractions on 60 hectares of land.

There are over 4000 spices included in one lake, suspension bridge, and beautiful lawn. Some main attractions are Orchid House, Spice Garden, Palm Avenues, Double Coconut Palms, Flower Garden, Bamboo Collection, Fernery. Palm Avenues was my favorite one. This garden is open the whole year for tourists from morning to afternoon, and the entrance ticket to get before visiting.

Then I loved to visit ArtLanka Batiks Factory to see the design work of Batik on fabric . They have their own Batik Shop as well from where you can buy many stylish outfits. But Sri Lankan Batik is very expensive, but the quality is the superior one. You can skip this activity from your itinerary i f you don’t like it.  

I also visited Isuru Gems & Jewellery Shop where jewelry made from original Sapphire . Sri Lanka is a famous destination for precious Sapphire.

I had my first super tasty lunch with Sri Lankan staple food for less than $1 from the Indian Dosai Restaurant which is located very near to Sevana City Hotel on Peradeniya Road.

Walking Tour To Sacred Tooth Relic

In the afternoon I made a walking tour from the hotel to explore nearby attractions in Kandy. On the way found Kandy lighthouse and then enjoyed the Kandy Lake beauty which is very near to Temple of the Tooth, the main attractions of Kandy. Sacred city Kandy & Temple of the Tooth are related to each other. Kandy became popular among tourists for the Sacred Tooth Relic. You can take a guide with you before exploring this historic place, and the entrance ticket to buy.

In the evening if you want can explore the Sri Lankan cultural dance show at Kandy Cultural Centre located nearby the temple. This show held every evening, and the ticket cost is 1000 LKR.

Overnight I stayed at Sevana City Hotel in Kandy.

Noted: If you want you can visit Sirigiya, the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site located near Dambulla. Here best to explore the popular Lion Rock or Pidurangala Rock . It will take you 30 minutes to reach Sirigiya from Dambulla. From Kandy to Dambulla distance is almost 74 km. You’ve to stay overnight to explore this top attraction in Dambulla. And then from there you can back to Kandy or leave for other places.

Day 2: Nuwara Eliya, Nallathanniya

Storefield Tea Factory, Surathura Spice Garden, Ramboda Water Fall, Adma Agro, Strawberry Farm, Nuwara Eliya Post Office, Gregory Lake, Hakgala Botanical Garden, St. Clair Falls, Devon Falls

My second day‘s itinerary of Sri Lanka was a bit different. I just enjoyed trying many new things for the first time on the way to Nuwara Eliya hill station. You can skip those if you don’t like it. It depends on your choice.

First I did visit natural tea processing factory , Storefield in Gampola. Drinking eight kinds of tea at this oldest factory was interesting. And you can also buy fresh Ceylon Tea from here.

How can you miss to visit a spice garden in Sri Lanka, famous for producing Ayurveda and herbal products? It was nice to know about many herbal plants at Surathura Spice Garden. If you love the service, don’t forget to give some tips to the person who guided you to explain the entire facts about any tea factory and spice garden.

I tasted red banana, king coconut, and avocado, yes, again the first time 🙂 from the roadside fruit vendors. The ripe avocado mixed with the honey taste was yummy.

On The Way To Nuwara Eliya

Ramboda Falls is the picturesque one to explore on the way to Nuwara Eliya. There is one particular spot before this attraction popular as Tea Bush Hotel View. You can stop a bit here to enjoy the beautiful landscape view as well as to photograph.

You might also like to drink fresh strawberry juice from Adma Agro Strawberry Farm in Nuwara Eliya.

Beautiful hill town Nuwara Eliya is known as ‘Little England’ among tourists. A walking tour is interesting to visit one of the oldest churches, post offices, and golf clubs in Sri Lanka. There is one central market, and you’ll find many Tamil restaurants here to have even Indian food.

Some other popular attractions here are Gregory Lake and Hakgala Botanical Garden. To visit this garden, you have to buy an entrance ticket. You’ll get to see many rare collections of roses here. Many Massage and Spa centers are also there in Nuwara Eliya.

Overnight I stayed in Nallathanniya at Slightly Chilled Hotel to explore the next day Adam’s Peak. And so on the way to Nallathanniya also found to visit the viewpoint of St. Clair Falls and Devon Falls.

Day 3: Nallathanniya, Haputale

Adam’s Peak

On the third day, I had a robust adventure to the sacred Mountain Adam’s Peak . The very early morning started to see the breathtaking sunrise from the top of this mountain which is the fifth largest mountain in Sri Lanka. It was the high season to visit Adam’s Peak, and the destination overcrowded with many tourists. It took almost 8 hours and by walking and climbing nearly 5500 steep steps we able to reach the top peak of this mountain. Must take one guide with you to instruct and show you shortcut ways to reach Adam’s Peak.

In the afternoon I left for Haputale by train from Nanu Oya Railway Station. The high view of Adam’s Peak is possible to see from the train to Haputale. You’ll also cross many tea plantations. Such a cool experience it was!

Overnight I stayed at Olympus Plaza Hotel in Haputale.

Day 4: Haputale, Ella, Tissamaharama

Dambatenne Tea Factory, Lipton’s Seat, Ravana Falls, Little Adam’s Peak

The fourth day of my trip to romantic gateway Haputale in Sri Lanka was one of the memorable ones. I wish to back again here for the most beautiful postcard sceneries from 1431 meters above sea level.

Two top attractions in Haputale are Dambatenne Tea Factory and Lipton’s Seat .

Popular Hill Town Ella

Then left for small hill town Ella to explore nearby attractions. You can stay in Ella, a famous town for backpacking and trekking. Many cheap hotels and restaurants are there.

This hill town is also famous for an ayurvedic massage. Foot massage reduced my leg pains for climbing Adam’s Peak. You might also like body and mind relaxing with an Ayurvedic massage from any right spa center in Ella.

All waterfalls are free to visit in Sri Lanka. Ravana Falls is a famous attraction in Ella. You can go trekking at Little Adam’s Peak if you plan to stay in Ella.

Overnight I stayed at Neem Villas Hotel in Tissamaharama to explore the next day Yala National Park. And so on the way to Tissamaharama found one beautiful Buddhist Stupa and Tissa Wewa Lake to explore. You can go for an evening walk at Tissa Wewa Lake.

Day 5: Hambantota, Mirissa

Yala National Park, Yala Beach, Tangalle Beach, Matara Beach, Mirissa Beach

On the fifth day, you can enjoy three hours jeep safari tour at Yala National Park . A must-visit national park to explore the abundant wildlife of Sri Lanka in Hambantota. One of the top attraction here is the beautiful Yala Beach and the remote view of Elephant rock in the Indian Ocean.

The entrance fee for Yala National Park is almost $28 to $30. You’ve to pay extra for the jeep.

After that, I left for Mirissa and crossed over Tangalle Beach. I loved the local Matara Beach for the scenic view of Parey Dewa Buddhist Temple. The coastal areas in Sri Lanka started from Tangalle.

In the afternoon surfing, sunbathing, or walking on Mirissa Beach can be the best fun.

Overnight I stayed at Latheena Resort nearby Mirissa.

Day 6: Mirissa, Galle, Colombo

Mirissa Fisheries Harbour, Weligama Beach, Hikkaduwa Beach, Galle Fort, Sea Turtle Hatchery Centre, Domanwila Moonstone mines

On the sixth-day early morning, you can leave for whale watching at Mirissa Fisheries Harbour. I took a Tuk Tuk to reach me to the harbor. I enjoyed the stunning beauty of the Indian Ocean from the boat. One snack box per person included with the boat tour. You can book the package early from the hotel for a boat tour.

Weligama Beach is best for surfing. And many prefer to stay in Hikkaduwa to explore Hikkaduwa Beach and other beaches around.

UNESCO World Heritage Site Galle

Galle is a popular touristic destination in Sri Lanka. I left for Galle to explore the picturesque Galle Fort in the Indian Ocean. Historic Galle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some must-visit attractions at Galle Fort are Lighthouse, All Saints Church, Meeran Jumma Mosque, and Dutch Church. The Dutch Fort Galle is free for all to visit.

You can also visit the Sea Turtle Hatchery Centre in Galle if got time and interest.

I didn’t stay in Galle and on the way to Colombo visited one Moonstone mines in Domanwila. If you’re not visiting Ratnapura, the famous gemstones mining destination in Sri Lanka then you might like to see the process of Moonstone mining here.

And overnight I stayed at Ceylon City Hotel in Colombo.

Day 7: Colombo

Independence Memorial Hall, Beira Lake, Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple, Galle Face Green, Old Parliament House

There are some top places to visit in Colombo for one day. Some popular attractions are Independence Memorial Hall, Beira Lake, Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple, Old Parliament House, and Galle Face Green. I loved spending some time at Galle Face Green before leaving for Bandaranaike International Airport to catch my next flight to the Maldives .

However, no entrance fees required to visit all the above attractions apart from the Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple.

Furthermore, Colombo is best for brand shopping if you got time can visit some smart shopping malls like House of Fashion and ODEL.

After three days of solo travel in the Maldives , I came back again to Sri Lanka and stayed one night in Negombo to catch my next day’s flight to Dhaka.

In conclusion, I had a fantastic time in Sri Lanka. I wish to back again for exploring the north and east parts of Sri Lanka shortly. However, Haputale you’ve stolen my heart in all way. 🙂 See you beautiful Sri Lanka!

Some Money-Saving Tips

You can also enjoy Sri Lanka travel on a budget by staying not so touristic areas and moving around by public transport. For longtime travelers, there are many budget options and accommodations to stay.

• The cost of the trip to Sri Lanka is not high if you prefer to travel like a local.
• There are many budget accommodations like cheap hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in almost every destination but stay a bit away from touristic places to save money.
• The accommodation cost is a bit high in Colombo, Galle and, Hikkaduwa. The hill station Ella and nearby Mirissa is best for backpackers. Nearby any hilly and coastal areas are best for budget travelers.
• The food cost is cheaper in a local restaurant. Tropical fruits are also less expensive and suitable for the tropical climate. Have a lot from the roadside vendors.
• The public transport service is excellent and you can travel everywhere by bus which is the cheaper one.
• To enjoy the breathtaking view, travel by train for long distances. The train journey is also very popular among tourists in Sri Lanka. It will cost you decidedly less, but the fun is unlimited.
• Bike tour can also help you to save a lot and much popular among backpackers in coastal areas to some hill stations.
• Tuk Tuk is also available and reasonable to move around by this three-wheeler for short distances.
• Mostly all top attractions and Sri Lanka sightseeing admission fee is high. If you’re on a tight budget instead of those you can explore many pristine beaches free of cost.
• Pettah Market in Colombo is famous for budget shopping but be aware of the product’s quality.

Nafisa Habib

Nafisa Habib loves nature and often got fascinated by old beautiful architecture. Here she is with My Own Way To Travel to share her adventures on the road. To her nothing is so interesting than exploring new destinations around. And knowing a new culture and meeting new peoples on the road? Oh, yeah she just loves that too.

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Best of Sri Lanka holidays

Solo Travel in Sri Lanka: The Ultimate Guide

Table of contents, why choose sri lanka for solo travel, best time to visit, 3. sigiriya and dambulla, 5. arugam bay, 7. yala national park, accommodation options for solo travelers, transportation tips, safety tips for solo travelers, meeting other travelers, cultural experiences for solo travelers, adventure activities, culinary journey for solo foodies, budget tips for solo travelers, practical information, sustainable solo travel, packing essentials for solo travelers, challenges and how to overcome them, off-the-beaten-path experiences for solo travelers, photography tips for solo travelers, connecting with locals, wellness and self-care.

Sri Lanka, the teardrop-shaped island in the Indian Ocean, is rapidly becoming a hotspot for solo travelers. With its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, friendly locals, and affordable travel options, Sri Lanka offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and self-discovery. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to plan and enjoy an unforgettable solo trip to this tropical paradise.

Solo travel in Sri Lanka offers a unique blend of adventure, self-discovery, and cultural immersion. From the bustling streets of Colombo to the serene beaches of the coast, from the misty tea plantations of the hill country to the ancient ruins of the Cultural Triangle, Sri Lanka provides endless opportunities for meaningful experiences.

As a solo traveler, you’ll have the freedom to craft your own journey, connect with locals and fellow travelers, and push your boundaries in a safe and welcoming environment. The key to a successful solo trip is to stay open to new experiences while respecting local customs and taking necessary precautions.

Remember, solo travel doesn’t mean you have to be alone. Sri Lanka’s warm hospitality, vibrant backpacker scene, and multitude of group activities ensure that you’ll have plenty of opportunities to connect with others if you choose to do so.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, cultural insights, or personal growth, a solo trip to Sri Lanka promises to be an enriching and unforgettable experience. Embrace the journey, stay safe, and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime in this tropical paradise.

• Safe and Friendly: Sri Lanka is known for its warm hospitality and is generally safe for solo travelers, including women.
• Diverse Experiences: From ancient ruins to pristine beaches, from wildlife safaris to tea plantations, Sri Lanka offers a wide range of experiences in a compact area.
• Affordable: Your money goes a long way in Sri Lanka, making it an excellent destination for budget-conscious solo travelers.
• Easy to Navigate: The country has a decent public transportation system, and English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
• Rich Culture: Immerse yourself in a distinctive culture that draws from South Asian traditions, colonial history, and Buddhism.
• Natural Beauty: Explore diverse landscapes, including tropical beaches, misty mountains, lush rainforests, and expansive national parks.

Sri Lanka has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, which vary depending on the region:

• December to March: Ideal for the south and west coasts, and the Cultural Triangle .
• April to September: Perfect for the east coast.
• Year-round: The hill country of Sri Lanka has its own microclimate and can be visited throughout the year.

For solo travelers, the shoulder seasons (April–May and September–November) can offer a good balance of decent weather and fewer crowds.

Top Destinations for Solo Travelers

• The capital city is a great starting point for your solo adventure:
• Explore the bustling Pettah Market
• Visit the National Museum
• Take a stroll along Galle Face Green
• Join a walking tour to discover colonial architecture

The cultural capital in the hills:

• Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
• Explore the Royal Botanical Gardens
• Take a scenic train ride to or from Kandy
• Join a cooking class to learn about Sri Lankan cuisine

Discover ancient wonders:

• Climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress
• Explore the Dambulla Cave Temples
• Visit the ancient city of Polonnaruwa
• Take a village tour to experience rural life

Ella is a laid-back mountain town popular among solo travelers:

• Hike to Little Adam’s Peak for panoramic views
• Visit the Nine Arch Bridge
• Take a cooking class
• Meet fellow travelers at backpacker-friendly cafes

Arugam bay is the surfer’s paradise on the east coast:

• Learn to surf or improve your skills
• Join yoga classes on the beach
• Explore the nearby Kumana National Park
• Enjoy the relaxed, social atmosphere

A charming colonial town on the Sri Lanka’s southwest coast :

• Wander through the historic Galle Fort
• Join a cycling tour of the countryside
• Take a day trip to nearby beaches
• Attend the Galle Literary Festival (if visiting in January)

For wildlife enthusiasts:

• Go on a safari to spot leopards, elephants, and diverse birdlife
• Stay in eco-friendly accommodation
• Join group safaris to share costs and meet other travelers
• Hostels: Great for meeting other travelers and keeping costs down. Popular in Colombo, Kandy, Ella, and coastal areas.
• Guesthouses: Offer a more local experience and are often family-run.
• Boutique Hotels: For those wanting more comfort without the impersonal feel of large resorts.
• Eco-Lodges: Ideal for nature lovers, especially near national parks.
• Homestays: Perfect for cultural immersion and home-cooked meals.
• Beach Cabanas: Budget-friendly options along the coast.
• Trains: The most scenic and social way to travel. The Kandy to Ella train ride is particularly famous.
• Buses: Cheap but can be crowded. Good for short distances.
• Tuk-tuks: Convenient for short trips within cities and towns.
• Taxis and Car Rentals: More comfortable for longer journeys. Use reputable companies or book through your accommodation.
• Domestic Flights: Time-saving options for longer distances, e.g., Colombo to Jaffna.

While Sri Lanka is generally safe, it’s always wise to take precautions:

• Stay Aware: Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
• Dress Modestly: Respect local customs, particularly when visiting religious sites.
• Use Reliable Transportation: Stick to registered taxis or tuk-tuks, especially at night.
• Trust Your Instincts: If a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself from it.
• Stay Connected: Buy a local SIM card for easy communication and navigation.
• Respect Wildlife: Maintain a safe distance from animals, especially elephants.
• Water Safety: Be cautious when swimming, especially during monsoon seasons.
• Health Precautions: Drink bottled water and be careful with street food.
• Stay in Hostels: Many hostels organize social events and group activities.
• Join Group Tours: A great way to meet people while exploring attractions.
• Use Travel Apps: Apps like Couchsurfing or Meetup can help you connect with locals and other travelers.
• Attend Local Events: Look for festivals, markets, or cultural shows.
• Take Classes: Cooking classes, yoga sessions, or surf lessons are great for meeting like-minded travelers.
• Temple Visits: Explore ancient Buddhist temples and learn about Sri Lankan spirituality.
• Tea Plantation Tours : Visit a tea factory and learn about Ceylon tea production.
• Ayurveda Treatments: Try traditional Sri Lankan wellness therapies .
• Volunteering: Participate in short-term volunteer projects (research thoroughly to ensure they’re ethical).
• Festivals : Time your visit with colorful festivals like Vesak or the Kandy Esala Perahera .
• Cooking Classes: Learn to prepare Sri Lankan rice and curry .
• Art and Craft Workshops: Try your hand at batik, mask-making, or pottery.
• Surfing: Popular spots include Arugam Bay, Weligama, and Hikkaduwa.
• Hiking: Trek through Horton Plains , Adam’s Peak, or Knuckles Mountain Range .
• Scuba Diving: Explore underwater wrecks and vibrant marine life.
• White Water Rafting: Experience thrills in Kitulgala .
• Rock Climbing: Try bouldering in places like Riverston.
• Cycling: Take a bike tour through rural villages or ancient cities.
• Whale Watching: Join boat tours from Mirissa or Trincomalee.

Sri Lankan cuisine is a highlight for many travelers. Don’t miss:

• Rice and Curry: The staple meal with a variety of flavors.
• Hoppers: Bowl-shaped pancakes, perfect for breakfast.
• Kottu Roti: A popular street food made with chopped roti.
• String Hoppers: Steamed rice noodles served with curry.
• Seafood: Fresh catches prepared in various styles along the coast.
• Tropical Fruits: Try wood apple, rambutan, and mangosteen.
• Ceylon Tea: Enjoy the world-famous tea in its home country.

For solo travelers, food markets and small local restaurants are great places to sample a variety of dishes without ordering full portions.

• Use Public Transportation: Trains and buses are incredibly cheap.
• Eat Local: Street food and small restaurants offer delicious, budget-friendly meals.
• Negotiate: Bargain at markets and for tuk-tuk rides, but always do so respectfully.
• Free Activities: Many temples and beaches can be enjoyed without entrance fees.
• Book in Advance: Especially for popular train routes and accommodations in peak season.
• Travel in Off-Peak Seasons: For better deals on accommodation and activities.
• Group Tours: Join group tours to split costs for safaris and long-distance travel.
• Visa: Most visitors need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before arrival. This can be done online through the official Sri Lanka ETA website.
• Money: The currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid card blockages.
• Language: Sinhala and Tamil are the official languages, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basic Sinhala phrases can go a long way in connecting with locals.
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi is available in most accommodations and cafes. Purchasing a local SIM card is recommended for staying connected and using maps.

Consult your doctor about vaccinations before travel. Travel insurance is highly recommended. Be cautious with tap water and ice in drinks.

As a solo traveler, you have the power to make a positive impact:

• Support Local Businesses: Stay in locally-owned accommodations and eat at local restaurants.
• Minimize Plastic Use: Carry a reusable water bottle and shopping bag.
• Respect Wildlife: Choose ethical wildlife experiences that prioritize animal welfare.
• Conserve Water and Energy: Be mindful of your resource consumption.
• Learn and Respect Local Customs: Take time to understand and honor Sri Lankan traditions.
• Lightweight, Modest Clothing: Breathable fabrics and clothes that cover shoulders and knees for temple visits.
• Comfortable Walking Shoes: For exploring cities and hiking trails.
• Rain Jacket or Umbrella: Especially if traveling during monsoon seasons.
• Sunscreen and Insect Repellent: Essential for tropical climates.
• Universal Adapter: Sri Lanka uses Type D, M, and G sockets.
• Reusable Water Bottle: To stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.
• First-Aid Kit: Include any personal medications.
• Photocopy of Passport: Keep separate from your actual passport.
• Sarong or Light Scarf: Versatile for beach cover-ups or modest dress at temples.
• Loneliness: Combat this by staying in social accommodations and joining group activities.
• Unwanted Attention: Dress modestly and be firm but polite in refusing unwanted advances.
• Language Barrier: Use translation apps and learn basic phrases in Sinhala.
• Transportation Confusion: Use reliable taxis from sirilaktours.com, or ask your accommodation for help.
• Cultural Misunderstandings: Read up on local customs before your trip and always approach situations with patience and respect.
• Jaffna: Explore the unique Tamil culture in the north.
• Trincomalee: Discover less crowded beaches and historical sites.
• Knuckles Mountain Range: Trek through pristine forests and rural villages.
• Wilpattu National Park: A less crowded alternative to Yala for wildlife watching.
• Mulkirigala Rock Temple: Visit this hidden gem of ancient cave temples.
• Invest in a Tripod: For self-portraits and low-light shots.
• Use Timer or Remote: For including yourself in photos.
• Ask Locals or Fellow Travelers: Most people are happy to take a photo for you.
• Respect Photography Rules: Some sites have restrictions or fees for cameras.
• Capture Daily Life: Markets, train journeys, and street scenes make for great photos.
• Back Up Your Photos: Use cloud storage or external hard drives.

Solo travel offers unique opportunities to connect with local communities:

• Learn Basic Sinhala: A few words go a long way in building rapport.
• Stay in Homestays: Experience daily life with a Sri Lankan family.
• Visit Local Markets: Engage with vendors and practice your bargaining skills.
• Attend Community Events: Look for local festivals or cultural shows.
• Use Public Transportation: Trains and buses are great places to strike up conversations.
• Join Local Tours: Many cities offer free walking tours led by locals.
• Respect Cultural Norms: Understanding and respecting local customs will open more doors.

Solo travel can be transformative but also challenging. Take care of yourself:

• Practice Mindfulness: Try meditation at a Buddhist temple.
• Maintain Routines: Keep up with exercise or journaling habits.
• Treat Yourself: Indulge in an Ayurvedic spa day.
• Stay Connected: Regular check-ins with family or friends can provide comfort.
• Listen to Your Body: It’s okay to take rest days between adventures.
• Journal Your Experiences: Reflect on your journey and personal growth.

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Sri Lanka Travel Guide

Home » Destinations » Asia » Sri Lanka » Sri Lanka Travel Guide

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Updated: 1st September 2021

Sri Lanka not only surprised me (in a good way), but it was also a country with which I fell in love very quickly.  There is so much to pack in here, every couple of hours you feel like you have arrived in a new country. If you want the headlines, I’ve written up the  ten best things to do in Sri Lanka .

From the lush green tea fields of the hill country to the much warmer and blissfully peaceful beaches of the south with old forts, wildlife safaris and rich traditions thrown in, don’t underestimate how much time you need to explore the country formerly known as Ceylon.

I hope this in-depth Sri Lanka travel guide will help you plan an incredible adventure to this Island that is slowly gearing up for a tourism invasion.

In this article...

What to see in Sri Lanka

You need at least two weeks to explore Sri Lanka properly – the transport and infrastructure here, although developing, is still not the best, making getting around Sri Lanka a fun adventure. My personal favourites were taking the Kandy to Ella train, seeing Elephants in the wild on Safari and exploring the beautiful hill country. The beaches can’t be missed on the south coast, and you are sure to discover one that is nearly empty.

My personal favourites were taking the Kandy to Ella train, seeing Elephants in the wild on Safari and exploring the beautiful hill country. The beaches can’t be missed on the south coast, and you are sure to discover one that is nearly empty to spend the day killing time on.

The top attractions in Sri Lanka

Empty beaches on the coast While beaches nearer to Galle and Unawatuna are quite developed, drive along the coast towards Mirissa and Matara, and you can have a whole stretch of sand to yourself.

The Historic Triangle The most famous of Sri Lanka’s UNESCO sites are all within easy access to each other and offer some impressive architecture and ruins to explore (see more below).

Wildlife Safaris You are truly spoilt for choice when it comes to  wildlife in Sri Lanka . Yala National Park, home to Leopards, Monkeys, Elephants, and more, offers a safari experience cheaper than its African counterparts, while Whale sea safaris are a must-do in Season.

Exploring Tea Fields The hill towns, especially around Ella and Nuwara Eliya, are home to many tea plantations. Visit factories, go on tastings and take in the breathtaking green vistas.

Visit Adams Peak This trek isn’t for the faint-hearted, but the views are well worth the early morning rise to take this sacred summit.

Sri Lanka UNESCO List

There are eight  UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Sri Lanka  – find a detailed summary of them below.

Ancient Polonnaruwa The second capital of Sri Lanka offers some impressive ruins and archaeological sites, with many similar UNESCO attractions in the country; those short on time could opt only to see one or two.

Golden Temple of Dambulla These five intricate rock temples, behind the large Golden Buddha of Dambulla, are easily reached from Sigiriya. In the dark light, it is a struggle to make out how beautiful the artwork truly is.

Historic Anuradhapura The heart of Sri Lanka for many years; if you only visit one UNESCO site in Sri Lanka, this will likely be it. Impressive collections of buildings and history collide here and offer a glimpse into history over 1000 years old.

Old Town Galle This Dutch and Portuguese fort town is worth a day to explore and wander around. The small streets offer churches, cute cafes, and some fine dining options, while the new town Galle has the main train station in the south.

Central Highlands With rolling green tea fields, colder temperatures and mountains in the clouds, the central highlands are a complete contradiction to the rest of the island.

Citadel of Sigiriya The Lions Rock, with the relatively destroyed ruins of the citadel on top, not only offers incredible views but also gives a fascinating insight into historic construction methods, especially given how the water used to be pumped up to the top. Sigiriya and the Dambulla caves can be easily combined.

City of Kandy Home to the temple of the Tooth, this off-beat city surrounded by hills didn’t really capture my inspiration, but the temple is one of the most visited attractions in the country.

Sinharaja Forest A lesser-visited UNESCO attraction in Sri Lanka, the Sinharaja Forest is a biodiverse national park located not far from Galle, one of the last remaining rainforests in the country.

Read more details about Sri Lanka’s UNESCO attractions here .

Unique places to visit in Sri Lanka

The Kandy to Ella Train This train journey has quickly become a popular tourist attraction. With only a few journeys a day, touts have sadly latched on to buying out many tickets in advance and selling them at a premium.

Minneriya Elephant migration This national park hosts one of the most impressive Elephant gatherings I have ever seen. With around 300 elephants departing the dry north between May to September, this national park becomes a must-do Safari.

Stilt Fishermen of the South The traditional method of fishing in Sri Lanka involves balancing on a wooden rod in the ocean to get your catch. Nowadays, it has become much more of a tourist attraction with men posing and wives collecting ‘donations’. I kept driving past these shows and found a lonely spot further along the coast where a couple of fishermen with no watchers were still practising this beautiful method.

Submarine Yard In the north of Sri Lanka, the remains of this secret military tourist base for the Tamil Tigers have recently surfaced as one of the odd ‘tourist attractions’.

Where to stay in Sri Lanka

As with much of Asia,  Agoda actually has a good selection of properties that aren’t available on other websites, so it might be worth taking a look at alongside the normal search engine you use.

Sri Lanka is a relatively small country, and one to two nights is usually plenty in most locations. If you are going on a safari or visiting a UNESCO site, there isn’t always much more to do. I’ve hand-picked a couple of my favourite places below.

Cantaloupe Aqua South Coast

Situated on the nearly empty and pristine beach of Habaraduwa, with palm trees and ample relaxation, the pool is on the beach, as are many boutique rooms. It’s a good base to explore Unawatuna or even Galle Fort.

98 Acres Resort Ella

Photos can’t do this place justice. Surrounded by acres of tea fields and with stunning views across little Adams Peak, these stilt-perched huts are one of the most relaxing escapes in the whole country.

Radisson Hotel Kandy Kandy

Kandy is a funny little town and somewhere you might want to give an extra day, so taking a hotel with facilities and a rooftop pool isn’t a bad call. This modern hotel, perched above the city, isn’t traditional but is a good option for unwinding.

Getting to Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has one main airport between Colombo and Negombo – it’s a pretty old place and one of the only places I have ever seen washing machines and hoovers for sale in the arrival area.

Getting around Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a bit of a nightmare for public transport. The buses and trains between Colombo, Galle and further on to Matara are pretty good, but the buses are usually faster. There are also domestic internal flights that can connect you with some of the harder-to-reach parts of the island.

The Kandy to Ella train is a must-do. Although it takes seven hours to complete the whole journey,

For most buses in the more remote parts, it is best to ask local shops for where/when they operate as timetables can be pretty flexible. Sometimes, you may opt to go for the private driver route for certain legs, which is what I did to get from Ella down to Mirissa to save time – the cost is not that big.

Sri Lanka visas and safety

Sri Lanka is a genuinely safe place to travel, and you will be met with more intrigue, especially as a solo traveller, than any threats. That said, here are a few basic tips to help your trip run smoothly.

Bottled water is readily available, and you should never consume the tap water. Always make sure the seal on the bottle is secure before drinking it.

Sri Lanka has a mix of religions, with the main belief system being Theravada Buddhists, with Hindus, Muslims and Roman Catholics making up most of the rest of the population. Certain pockets of the country are focused more on one of the minority regions, so be mindful of any local events that may be taking place due to the religious calendar.

The 25-year civil war is still evident in some parts of Sri Lanka and is something to always be mindful of in your actions and behaviour whilst travelling around Sri Lanka.

Dengue Fever is a risk factor here, so wearing deet/using repellent coils at night is recommended. Malaria tablets won’t stop the chance of this, so be sure to take precautions.

Women should take greater care if offered drinks; spiking has been reported, as has verbal sexual advances. In such a lovely and welcoming country, it can be easy to let your guard down, but be mindful at all times.

Only use ATMs if possible in the bigger cities when actually connected to a bank building; card fraud has been on the rise.

If visiting the north of the island, which was closed off for some time, you no longer need a special permit. Military activities are obviously present here, so filming and photographing sensitive sites is strongly advised against. In parts of the country, there is still a risk of minefields, so ask locals and stay on marked paths. More information on the safety aspects of different regions can be found here .

When visiting temples, be mindful of the standard etiquette. Shoes should be removed, shoulders and legs covered, and any headgear such as hats removed. Having your back to a Buddha is disrespectful, even for a photo, so keep this in mind. It should also be noted that visible Buddha tattoos should be covered at all times anywhere in the country.

Travel Insurance

No matter where you are travelling, travel insurance is essential. Trust me, I have been mugged and lost all my gear and nearly my health – no matter how much you think something won’t go wrong, it is not worth the risk.

I personally use Insure and Go as I find their premiums fantastic. However, it is a mainly UK company. Another popular option that plenty of my frequent traveller friends use and recommend is World Nomads. Whoever you decide to book with, do it!

Visas and Travel Warnings

To find out the visa requirements and current travel advisories for Indonesia that are relevant to your home country, follow the links here to the official government websites.

UNITED KINGDOM | USA | AUSTRALIA | CANADA

For all other nationalities, please add your nationality in the box before ‘Citizen’ and hit enter to search…

Sri Lanka travel costs *Out of Date*

Sri Lanka is a relatively small island, but the costs will vary depending on whether you are on the developed coast or places such as Ella or have ventured off into the less chartered territory. As such, please take the cost prices as a rough guide based only on my personal experience.

Food: Meal for 1 Budget – 320Rs | Meal for 1 Upscale – 900Rs

Accommodation:   Double Room Budget – 1600Rs | Double Room Middle – 3800Rs | Double Room Luxury – 7000Rs  +

Taxi (1 Mile) – 80Rs | 1 Beer – 260Rs | 1ltr Water – 60Rs  | Petrol/Gas 1ltr – 130Rs

Exchanging Sri Lanka Rupee

Always shop around when exchanging currency , especially when you are already abroad. If using an ATM, be sure it has not been altered, and aim to arrange an emergency credit card as a backup before you set off on a trip.

If you are looking to exchange money before your travel, then Travelex is a pretty huge international brand with either cash offices or various pre-paid card options. I keep their Cash Passport with me alongside my current account for its ease of re-loading and an emergency backup.

Tours of Sri Lanka

While arranging tours once you arrive in Sri Lanka can sometimes prove a challenge outside of big cities, it is by no means impossible, and there are plenty of local operators for you to track down. I arranged most of my tours, such as tea fields and Safari, on arrival to a destination by chatting with local rickshaws or taxi drivers. That said, tourism is hotting up in Sri Lanka, and in peak times, supply and demand may not match each other, so forward planning may well be the best option.

Here are a few tours you might want to book in advance so you don’t miss out on the best things in Sri Lanka.

Whale watching from Galle | From $62.50

Take a six-hour tour along the coast (in season) to spot Humpbacks, Blue and Killer whales alongside Dolphins.

Sigiriya and Dambulla from Kandy | From $30

With a transfer from Kandy, see the famous citadel on top of Sigiriya and the beautifully intricate Dambulla caves.

8-Day Sri Lanka tour | From $699

Make the most of your visit to Sri Lanka and take in all the famous sights of the country with a private driver.

Yala National Park from Galle | From $150

With transfers from Galle, enjoy a Jeep safari ride with elephants, leopards, monkeys, and so much more in this national park.

The Languages of Sri Lanka: Tamil & Sinhala

Sri Lanka has a few regional dialects and languages, as well as two main ones that are classed as the official language. Learning the basics here, though, will likely get you by through, and English is widely spoken.

Here are a few quick phrases to get you going. Check out my favourite language apps on the link below to delve deeper.

Hello:  Vanakkam |  Goodbye:  Poyvituvarukiren

Yes:  Amam |  No:  Illai |  Thank You:  Nandri

One:  onru |  Two:  irandu |  Three:  munru

How Much?:  yenna vilai? |  Do you have?:  Vendum

Hello/Good Day:  Ayubowan |  Yes:  Ow |  No:  Naa

Please:  Karunakerara |  Thank You:  Istuti

One:  eka |  Two:  deka |  Three:  tuna |  Yes:  satu |  No:  dua

How Much?:  kiyadha? |  Do you speak English?:  Singhala danna naa

Sri Lanka weather & climate

The weather in Sri Lanka is a mixed bag – with a usual temperature of 28c year-round, people expect a hot and sunny climate.

However, the hill country is much colder, so packing for two seasons is essential. It also has two monsoon seasons, affecting different parts of the island at different times, so planning your itinerary first, before when to visit, might be advisable.

When to Visit Sri Lanka

Peak Season:  As a rule of thumb December to the end of March is classed as peak season, it is dry and therfore all the treks in the hill country can usually be done.

Shoulder Season: April and September, in my opinion, are the best times to visit as the visitor numbers decrease. But the weather is usually generally good throughout.

Off Season: During May to August, the monsoon season hits the beaches of the south coast, but the North and East still remain pretty dry – as you can see, the peak season and best time to visit will vary depending on what you want to do.

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Encounter Sri Lanka

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Sri Lanka Solo Travel Tours

Sri Lanka is abundant in culture, ancient history, white sandy beaches, lush leafy tea plantations, and the warm hospitality of the Sri Lankan people. And for many, the major highlight is the proliferation of the elephant population in the National Parks of Sri Lanka.

A tropical island, shaped liked a tear drop, off the south east coast of India, Sri Lanka is ideal for a two week discovery.

Solo Sri Lanka Tours Highlights

Arriving to the country’s capital, Colombo, there’s a relaxed overnight in the nearby coastal town of Negombo. We then head to the cultural triangle, including a visit to Mineriya National Park by safari jeeps to witness Wild Elephants and the incredible Sigiriya ancient rock fortress.   From the ancient culture, it’s on to the old capital of Sri Lanka, Kandy and taking in the scenic views of the ‘tea country’ with a train ride from Kandy to the hill country of Sri Lanka’s Central Province. There’s an overnight stay in the picturesque town of Nuwara Eliya, reminding many visitors of a ‘little England’.

From the hills, we make our way down to Udawalawe National Park, including a safari to see the elephant population and a visit to the elephant transit home. On our final leg of our discovery, we have a south coast visit of the old fort city of Galle, enjoying a relaxing two night stay before a final night in the Sri Lankan capital of Colombo.

During your Sri Lankan encounter you’ll enjoy the country’s unique cuisine plus there’s time to enjoy some unique Ayurveda spa treatments.

• Duration: 13 Days
• Status: Early preview
• Region: Asia
• Destinations: Sri Lanka
• Travel Style: Discovery
• Accommodation: Quality hotels
• Prices from: T.B.A
• Transport: Coach, Minivan, Bus, Train, Boat, 4WD vehicle
• Pace: 3 Click for more info about the Pace
• Traveller Reviews: 21 Reviews READ THEM >
• Max Group Size: 14
• Trip Code: CurrentPage.holidayTripCode

'My holiday to Sri Lanka exceeded all expectations. Accommodation was excellent, itinerary comprehensive and guides extremely helpful and knowledgeable.'

'I found Sri Lanka to be a surprisingly diverse and beautiful country. The accommodation was excellent and the food was superb. The highlight on this trip however was the people, who are so friendly and gentle. If you've never holidayed in an Asian country, then Sri Lanka is the perfect place to start.'

ACCOMMODATION & MEALS

• 12 nights superior hotels
• 11 breakfasts
• 9 dinners including a highlight farewell dinner
• bottled water while travelling (2 bottles per day) 

SIGHTSEEING & GUIDES

• English speaking Sri Lankan national group tour leader ^
• Tours and excursions as per itinerary 
• 1 scenic train journey, during the day
• Elephant jeep safaris
• Local canoe trip
• River boat ride
• Driver and transportation by air-conditioned minivan tourist vehicle^
• Arrival & departure airport to hotel transfer, Colombo.

ADDITIONAL SERVICES

• Porterage in and out of hotels included where available
• Tips for included restaurant service personnel & porters included
• Government taxes & fees ~ tipping fund USD70 paid locally in Sri Lanka ^ if group size falls below 7 travellers, a driver-guide is provided

Travel insurance is a mandatory requirement for joining this tour and is in addition to the package price.

Not included:   

• Airfares to/from Colombo (unless requested)
• Airport transfers unless specified
• Travel insurance
• Excess baggage
• Visa fees if applicable
• Any tips or porterage at airports, hotels, drivers & local staff
• Meals and beverages not specified on itinerary
• Items of a personal nature such as laundry & medical expenses
• Incidental expenses such as taxi fares, telecommunications

Departure Dates for this tour

Highlights - discover sri lanka.

• Relaxed arrival stay at Negombo Beach
• Visit Mineriya National Park by safari jeeps to witness Wild Elephants.
• A local village visit by jeep with lunch, Dambulla
• Cooking demonstration by local villagers
• Sigiriya Rock Fortress visit
• Dambulla Rock Cave Temple
• A tea factory visit & tea tasting
• The Royal Botanical Gardens, Kandy
• The Temple of the Tooth, Kandy
• An evening Kandyan Dance Performance
• A train journey from Kandy to Nanu Oya
• Udawalawe National Park entrance and jeep safari
• Visit The Elephant Transit Home
• Relax with a 2 night stay in historic Galle
• A Madu River boat ride
• A Turtle hatchery visit
• The Gangarama Temple, Colombo
• Deluxe 4-5 star hotels

PRE TOUR STAY

Consider arriving a day before the tour starts or staying on after the tour ends. Some flights that arrive early on day 1 of the tour require a pre tour night of stay to guarantee morning check in. The cost of the additional night/s of stay applies. Ask our travel team about this option, and the additional costs.

Arrive to Colombo

Welcome to Sri Lanka. It’s arrival day and travellers will arrive on various flights. Mid afternoon, meet up with your fellow group members and tour director for a welcome drink and briefing at the hotel. This afternoon there’s a sightseeing tour of Negombo, visiting the fishing village and the local market. Tonight, enjoy a welcome dinner at our lovely beachside hotel. Meals: Welcome Dinner 

SNAPSHOT – WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• 3PM group meets for tour briefing
• Negombo sightseeing tour
• Hotel welcome dinner  

Negombo to Dambulla

After breakfast we depart for Dambulla for the next three nights of stay.  

Later in the day, visit Dambulla Rock Temple. We climb up to the temple which was donated by king Walagambahu in the 1st century BC to Buddhist monks. Dambulla is a World Heritage site and is the most impressive of Sri Lanka’s cave temples. The complex of five caves with over 2000 square metres of painted walls and the ceiling is the largest area of paintings found in the world. These caves contain over 150 images of the Buddha of which the largest is the colossal figure of the Buddha carved out of rock spanning 14 metres. Dinner is at our lovely hotel. Meals: Dinner

• Travel Negombo to Dambulla, approximately 3.5 hours travel time
• Dambulla Rock Cave temple visit
• Relaxed in house dinner 

Minneriya National Park     

This morning take the option to join the outing to Polonnaruwa. Or, if you prefer, relax and enjoy the setting of the hotel.

HIGHLIGHT EXCURSION This afternoon, visit Minneriya National Park by safari jeeps to witness Wild Elephants This park consists of mixed evergreen forest and scrub areas and is home to Sri Lanka’s favourites such as sambar deer, leopards and elephants. However the central feature of the park is the ancient Minneriya Tank built in the 3rd century AD by King Mahasena. This tank is an incredible place to observe the elephants that come to bathe and graze on the grasses as well as the huge flocks of birds (cormorants and painted storks to name but a few) that come to fish in the shallow waters. Dinner tonight is at our hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

• Minneriya National Park afternoon visit by safari jeeps

FREE TIME EXTRAS:

Optional Vist To Polonnaruwa | Cost USD25 Polonnaruwa, the 2nd capital city of Sri Lanka, built in  the 11th and 12th centuries AD, is a world heritage site. It’s here that you can see the ruins of the Royal Palace, the  Gal Viharaya; where four splendid statues of the Buddha in ‘Upright’, ‘Sedentary’ and ‘Recumbent’  postures carved out of rock, the Audience Hall, the Lotus Bath, king Parakramabahu’s statue, and the Parakrama Samudraya lake built by King  Parakramabahu the great.  There are also monuments of famous places of worship such as the Shiva Temple, the Lankathilake, the Watadage, the Galpotha, the Kiri Vehera and the remains of a former Temple of the Tooth Relic. Entry Fee paid directly to your tour leader. 

Sigiriya and Village Visit

Today is a full day and we have an early start to make our way to Sigiriya, a 5 th century rock fortress. Setting out early avoids the hotter part of the day.   Sigiriya Rock Fortress is a world heritage site, built by King Kashyapa (477-495 AD). The ‘Lion Rock’ is a citadel of unusual beauty rising 200 metres from the scrub jungle. The rock was the innermost stronghold of the 70 hectare fortified town. A moat, rampart, and extensive gardens including the renowned water gardens ring the base of the rock.  Visit the world-renowned frescoes of the ‘Heavenly Maidens’ of Sigiriya, which are in a sheltered pocket of the rock approached by a spiral stairway.  These frescoes are painted in earth pigments on plaster. There’s time at the rock to make the climb to the top and enjoy the bountiful views in all directions.

LOCAL EXPERIENCE Afterwards, we take a jeep ride though the village paths up to the lake, then cross the lake by canoe. We take part in a cooking demonstration by the local women of the village and enjoy a locally prepared lunch . After lunch, a jeep or tuk tuk returns through the village paths before we make our way back to our hotel.

Tonight, there’s a group dinner at our hotel restaurant. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

• Highlight Sigiriya Rock Fortress visit
• Jeep and canoe ride to a local village
• Cooking demonstration by local village women
• Local village lunch
• Hotel dinner 

DAY 05          

Sigiriya - Matale - Kandy

Today we depart for Kandy and en route visit a local village in Matale to see the different spices & herbs, for which Sri Lanka is famous. You will be introduced to different spices and shown how some of these spices are grown and processed, and lunch follows.

After lunch we visit a Temple in Matale * to have a discussion with a Buddhist monk to understand the philosophy of Buddhism, and way of life. 

From here, we continue to Kandy and check into our hotel. There’s the option to visit Kandy town this afternoon, always enjoyed with leisurely strolls discovering on foot at leisure.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner SNAPSHOT – WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• Visit a spice garden
• Local lunch
• Template visit and talk with a Buddhist monk
• Hotel dinner  

After breakfast, there’s a walking orientation tour of Kandy, including a visit to the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens. This botanical garden was first built as a pleasure garden by a Sinhala king and was expanded by the British.  It is 147 acres and provides an amazing variety of trees, plants and flowers. There afternoon is unplanned; make your own local discoveries or otherwise enjoy the hotel facilities.  

This evening we visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic and afterwards, witness a cultural show featuring traditional Sri Lankan dancing.  We then return to our hotel for a group dinner. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner SNAPSHOT – WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• Walking orientation tour of Kandy
• Visit Peradeniya Botanical Gardens
• Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic
• Cultural show of Sri Lankan dancing
• Hotel dinner

Kandy to Nuwara Eliya

Breakfast is at our hotel and then we travel to Kandy Railway Station to board a train for a scenic journey through tea plantations and waterfalls up to Nanu Oya. On arrival into Nanu Oya railway station, we will be transferred to a tea estate. The train’s not luxurious but it’s a train journey sought out for its picturesque scenery.

After lunch, take a tea factory and tea estate tour. The The tour will take you through the process of turning the tender green tea leaf buds to dark brown finished tea products. After, take a freshly brewed cup of tea right from the estate.

We then transfer to Nuwara Eliya for our overnight stay. Nuwara Eliya has many characteristics that will remind you of a colonial English scene and this is the spot for our high tea later in the afternoon. Meal: Breakfast, High Tea

• Scenic train journey, Kandy to Nanu Oya
• Local restaurant lunch
• Tea estate plantation tour
• Local Lunch

Nuwara Eliya to Udawalawe

After breakfast, we travel to Udawalawe via Elle and Wellawaya.  In the afternoon we visit the Elephant Transit Home at the Udawalawe National Park. The elephant transit home was set up in 1995 as a pilot project by the Department of Wildlife Conservation to look after the abandoned baby elephants until they are able to take care of themselves and be returned to their natural habitats.

Meal: Breakfast, Dinner

• Afternoon visit of the Elephant Transit Home

An early start, breakfast first then out for our dawn Jeep Safari to visit the Udawalawe National Park. Udawalawe National Park was established in 1972 and this park has some fascinating characteristics that make it well worth a visit. Not least of these is the large elephant population.  Udawalawe is the most reliable place to see elephants in their wild habitat year round. Some 400-500 elephants live in the park and herds of up to 50 are commonly seen.   The open plains are covered in thick manna grass up to the borders of the large reservoir in the centre and the Walawe River. The park is also covered by some abandoned teak plantation and dense scrub jungle. This variety in habitat makes for a rich variety of wildlife and game. As well as elephants, leopards live in the park (though you will be very lucky to spot one), toque monkeys, grey langur, spotted deer, wild pig and sambar. There are numerous bird species of course and Udawalawe is particularly rich in raptor species, among them the white bellied sea eagle and the crested serpent eagle. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner 

• Jeep safari, Udawalawe National Park

FREE TIME EXTRAS: Afternoon optional return visit to Udawalawe National Park | Cost USD45

Udawalawe - Weligama - Galle

Breakfast is at our hotel and then we leave for Galle, on the south coast. En route we visit the stilt fishing at Weligama.   On arrival to Galle we check into our hotel and the rest of your day is at your leisure to relax and enjoy the resort facilities.  Meals: Breakfast

• Depart Udawalawe for Galle, about 3.5 hours travel time
• Stop at Weligama to see the ‘stilt fishing’

This morning, a sightseeing visit of the Galle Dutch fortress.   There will be time at leisure to explore the old fort city plus time for some browsing and shopping. At the end of the afternoon there’s the option to make your own way back to the hotel or meet the group transfer. Tonight, opt for dinner in house or head back to town for dinner at one of the many local restaurants. Meals: Breakfast SNAPSHOT – WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• Galle Dutch Fortress visit
• Free time in Galle
• Transfer option Galle Fort area back to the hotel 

SHOPPING TIP: 

Galle is an easy spot for finding locally made items for you or for gifts. You may like to visit:  Barefoot. Look out for the Spa Ceylon range of personal care items including body lotions, perfumes and bathroom items.

Galle - Balapitiya - Colombo

We leave Galle for Colombo. En route, we stop to enjoy a scenic cruise along the Madhu River, a relaxing trip with plenty of interesting stops. We cruise in a canopied, outboard motor-powered boat; pausing to view a 200-year-old temple & to watch the locals cultivating cinnamon. We cruise past dozens of islets forested with mangroves, and the scene of rural life. While making our way to Colombo we visit a Turtle Hatchery at Kosgoda.  At the end of the day, we check in to our hotel in Colombo. Tonight, come together for a highlight dinner.

Meals: Breakfast, Highlight Farewell Dinner  

• A scenic cruise along the Madu River
• Visit the Turtle Hatchery,Kosgoda
• Total travel time by road today is around 3.5 hours
• Farewell dinner at our hotel 

DAY 13     

This morning we take a sightseeing tour of Colombo city . We drive through the Commercial area of the “Fort” so named, because both the Portuguese and Dutch had a Fort at this point. We drive past “Pettah”; a noisy Oriental bazaar with a hotchpotch of ancient vehicles, bargains, mosques & temples.  There’s a visit to a Hindu temple and we continue the tour through the Wolvendaal Dutch Church, Hultsdorf Law courts, to the residential area of Cinnamon Gardens and on to the Independence Square and Bandaranayke Memorial International Conference Hall. We also visit Gangaramaya Temple. After our sightseeing tour we return to the hotel for check out. The rest of the day is at your leisure until you need to transfer to the airport or make plans for an onward journey.

Meal: Breakfast

• Morning sightseeing tour, Colombo city 

SPECIAL NOTES:

• Extend hotel check out for a fee to suit travellers with evening departures.
• For travellers with morning flight departures you may prefer to add an additional night of stay in order not to forfeit the morning city tour. 

Itineraries may be subject to change, due to circumstances outside of our control. If there is any itinerary change prior to departure of significance we aim to inform you prior to travel.  Itinerary changes while on tour will be informed by your tour leader/guide while on tour.

ACCOMMODATION

Hotels may be subject to change, due to circumstances outside of our control. Should this occur, a hotel of a similar standard will be provided.

Jetwing Beach, Negombo

Radisson Blu, Galle

SRI LANKA HOTEL DESCRIPTIONS

JETWING BEACH, NEGOMBO

Located on the golden sands of Negombo, effortlessly combining beauty and luxury. Jetwing Beach is a landmark property of Jetwing Hotels. Designed by the internationally renowned Sri Lankan architect, Geoffrey Bawa, the hotel is a wonderful example of Sri Lankan design amidst a tropical paradise. A magnificent pool to swim in, a spa full of wellness treatments and elegant rooms. With five dining options to choose from, guests are assured of delectable cuisine, both local and international.

There are 75 well-appointed rooms, decorated in earthy tones creating a relaxing ambience and also are equipped with carefully picked furniture and luxurious modern bathrooms. Each room has a private terrace or balcony with a fantastic view.

JETWING LAKE, DAMBULLA

Jetwing Lake nimbly combines contemporary architecture with the solitude of the Siyambalaweva banks, and its placid ambience. Sprawled on an expansive area of 18 acres, the hotel is a languid retreat with easy access to Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle and its curiosities.

Besides an internationally inspired menu, and an in house Chinese Restaurant, for those preferring an experience of a true Sri Lanka flavour, Jetwing Lake also specialises in authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, prepared from fresh produce grown locally in the area.

Dressed in contemporary elements that subtly blend in with the surrounding area, the rooms are designed to offer guests complete, unhindered rest in an ambience of luxury. These living spaces are generously proportioned, with plush bathrooms that afford sensuous soaking away in their luxury bathtubs.

MAHAWELI REACH HOTEL, KANDY

Nestled beside the mighty Mahaweli River, Mahaweli Reach Hotel combines a sense of luxury with the old-world charm of an ancient kingdom. Located at 488 metres above sea level, the city is the hill capital of Sri Lanka which offers incredible culture and history all the way to authentic local life. 

ARALIYA GREEN HILLS, NUWARA ELIYA Located amidst misty mountains, surreal tea hills and salubrious climes Araliya Green Hills is premier amongst hotels in Nuwaraeliya that is adorned by colonial splendour and an eclectic charm. Being a property that offers an extensive range of accommodation options, exquisite restaurants and snazzy bars, Araliya Green Hills seamlessly blends modern conveniences with true Sri Lankan hospitality to offer you truly mesmerising stay in the enchanting highlands of Sri Lanka.

THE GRAND UDAWALAWE SAFARI RESORT, UDA-WALAWE The Grand Udawalawe Safari Resort, offering 4-star facilities, is the only hotel of its’ class in the area and an environmental friendly hotel. Situated on 7 acres of land only 500 metres from the Ath Athuru Sevana (Elephant Orphanage), and is only a five minutes drive from the Uda Walawe National Park. 

Rooms include air conditioning, 24 hours TV / DVD Players, free wi-fi, tea making facilities 24 hours room services, direct dialing telephone (including IDD) / 24 hours laundry service and a doctor on call.  

RADISSON BLU, GALLE

Enriched with lush natural greenery, bursts of spices in the air, stunning architecture and fascinating sculptures set against dramatic coastal scenery explore and unearth Galle’s unimaginable beauty.

Seaside inspired with influences of the local colonial heritage, all guestrooms at Amari Galle Sri Lanka have been designed with the stunning seascape centre stage. Flexible living spaces, light and airy, spacious yet still cosy, the hotel will offer you the choice of modern yet homely deluxe rooms to exquisite suite accommodation all designed within a theme of natural simplicity complete with modern technology.

Hotel descriptions are taken from the hotel website and edited to suit our page.

GETTING THERE

‘Start’ and ‘End’ – relates to itinerary start and end. ‘Arrival’ and ‘Departure’ destination is the airport for access to start/end points.

First Day Information:  Arrival day commences with a 3PM tour meet up. Final Day Information:  There are no tour excursions on the final day.   Hotel Check In/Out Times Consider the hotel check in time on arrival and the hotel check out time on departure. If you arrive prior to the check in time, the hotel will store your luggage until the check in time and can also store your luggage until you are ready to depart for your onward journey.

Hotel check in:  various - hotels have check in from 2PM or 3PM Hotel check out: various - hotels require check out by 10AM, 11AM or 12 midday AIRPORT TRANSFERS Airport Transfers are included on arrival and departure given that you provide your full flight itinerary as issued by the airline no later than 45 days priors to travel. Where we have booked your flights for you, we have the details and this step is not required. note: if you have extended your stay by your own arrangement transfers cannot be provided.

FLIGHT INFORMATION As an Australian travel company we can provide flight assistance for flights originating from Australia. If joining the tour from outside Australia we recommend making your own flight arrangements or to use the service of a travel advisor located within your country of residence for access to best fares.

Read on for other key trip information that you should know before you decide on joining the group. TRIP AVAILABILITY If this trip seems right for you then we encourage you to book early and secure your place with a deposit.  Tour space is limited. Also, many services on this tour must be booked well in advance. To ensure your place, please check trip availability at your earliest convenience

FELLOW TRAVELLERS  You will enjoy this boutique small group experience with a maximum of 14 travellers. This is a Solos Only (couple-free) tour. You are welcome to join with a friend. It will depart with a minimum of four travellers.

THE PACE [3 out of 5] A moderately paced tour and includes some days with early starts. Touring is most enjoyed with a good level of fitness. A minimum of an average level of fitness is recommended for this tour.  Travellers of 75 years or more may be required to return a Fit to Travel form that is completed by their doctor.  See MORE ABOUT FITNESS in More Information section below. More Information >  Visit Travel Fitness

ABOUT THE MEALS    It’s regular that our trips include welcome dinners and farewell dinners for our groups. In addition, we include other group dining experiences to ensure that everyone can enjoy the benefit of travelling and dining as a group.  There’s nothing better than to share a meal with new friends and discuss the day’s adventures.

The Local Cuisine The lunch and dinner meals included with the itinerary are Sri Lankan cuisine.

We like to ensure that our travellers have dining experiences at local quality restaurants, and you won’t be limited to buffet style meals, but also enjoy A La Carte dining. There may be occasions where the group dines at the hotel, due to limited choice of restaurants in the area.

For days where lunch or dinner isn’t included, your guide will be on hand to offer recommendations. There may be one, or a few exceptions with western-style options. The hotel breakfasts will offer a variety including Sri Lankan breakfast and some western breakfast options. 

The traditional cuisine of Sri Lanka has been influenced by many nationalities over the years including the Dutch, English, Arabs, Malays, Moors, Indians and Portuguese. Food is colourful with many vegetarian options and by the coast seafood features.  The staple diet is rice and curry and the curry is usually offered as a variety of small dishes of curry including vegetarian, chicken, fish and some beef and mutton curries.  The curries are accompanied by other dishes including dhal and sambol (like a chutney). Coconut milk is widely used in the curries. And contrary to belief of some westerners, curries are not usually ‘hot’ in taste, but rather ‘spiced’ for flavour. Given Sri Lanka is a tropical island, tropical fruits are abundant. Be sure to sip on a King Coconut juice.

We advise travellers against street food and that you only dine at places that are recommended by your guide or guide/leader.  By following best advice it’s far less likely that you will become unwell with any stomach complaints.

About the Water in Sri Lanka Due to poor quality of drinking water in Sri Lanka, you must only drink bottled water and only bottled water from reliable sources. Also, use bottled water for brushing teeth. Most hotels have bottled water included in the room for the purpose of brushing teeth.

GROUP GUIDE This is a private group tour with a driver and tour guide from Sri Lanka. Your tour guide is there to assist with group arrangements and to act as the liaison for all tour services. If the group size falls below 7, then a driver-guide will escort the group.

TRANSPORT Touring is mostly by road. There is also a local train journey during the day, a short canoe trip, boat ride and a tuk tuk transfer for an excursion in the highlands. While in the National Park there is a jeep safari.

If the group size finalises between 4 to 6 passengers, a six seater van is used for the group touring with one driver-guide (not a driver and a guide). Where the group size finalises with 7 to 13 passengers a mini tourist van/coach with a driver and guide is included. If the group size finalises with 14-16 passengers a medium size coach is used for the group.

LUGGAGE INFORMATION AND RESTRICTIONS For airline luggage restrictions refer to your ticket details. Please note that the maximum luggage weight for touring may be less than the airline maximum limit.

Checked Luggage Maximum Weight: 20 kilograms Luggage is limited to one medium size suitcase per person, the sum of its length/width and depth not to exceed 140cm (56") plus an overnight bag (airline bag size) which may be carried on board the vehicle. If your luggage exceeds this limit, we ask that you make alternative arrangements for the excess to be forwarded to the termination point of your tour. We suggest you have wheels on your suitcase, as there are certain places where assistance is not available.

Hand Luggage Maximum Weight/Information: 7 kilograms/small bag

TRAVEL GUIDE QUICK FACTS Visit our  Travel Guide  page on our website for destination information.

MORE INFORMATION

• MORE ABOUT FITNESS >
• About Mobile Phone/Internet >
• Roommate Option >
• Other Price Information >
• General Information >
• Sri Lanka Airport >
• Personal Expenses >
• Custom Regulations >
• Disclaimer >
• Trip Insights >

TRAVELLER REVIEWS

'The holiday was just what I needed with the right balance of activity and relaxation. Sri Lanka is a beautiful country, well worth visiting.'

SIMILAR TRIPS

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Solo Travel in Sri Lanka & Solo Female Travel in Sri Lanka Tips!

Categories Asia , Sri Lanka

To be honest, a post on solo travel in Sri Lanka, isn’t a post I thought I’d have to write. From what I knew about Sri Lanka it doesn’t have a bad reputation for not being safe for female travellers, especially solo female travel in Sri Lanka, not like countries like India, or the Middle East do, however, there were times during my 3-week backpacking Sri Lanka alone trip that as a solo female traveller, I felt a bit uneasy.

Related Post:  A Guide on Where To Visit in Sri Lanka on Your First Trip!

Now, that doesn’t mean not-safe.  My initial answer to – ‘is Sri Lanka safe for female travellers’ is YES. But there are things to watch out for and I couldn’t not write them down and warn you about them!

Solo Travel in Sri Lanka

Backpacking Sri Lanka Alone

Sri Lanka has been on the backpacker radar for several years but only recently did it start to boom, noticeably after being named the top country to travel to by lonely planet for 2019 .

Many travellers heading to Sri Lanka may have had experience travelling South East Asia and now want to move onto South Asia but from my experience travelling Sri Lanka solo for 3 weeks, travelling around Sri Lanka is not the same as South-East Asian countries such as Thailand , Vietnam and Indonesia which are all deemed safe countries in Asia for female travellers.

Maybe it’s because mainstream tourism to Sri Lanka is relatively new , I mean, Sri Lanka’s 26-year civil war only ended in 2009.

Maybe it’s because many females, myself included, tend to dress like they’re in Thailand in Sri Lanka in small dresses and shorts and Sri Lanka is a very religious country where the local women do not dress quite like this.

Either way, this is not an excuse for some of the actions I saw and received in Sri Lanka, or those other females I know and met experienced.

I’m not writing this Solo Female in Sri Lanka Blog Post to scare you or put you off Sri Lanka, I just want to be honest so you know what to expect if you intend to travel to Sri Lanka as a solo woman or as a group of women.

For more information on what to expect from Sri Lanka before you go and solo travel in Sri Lanka, have a watch of my YouTube video here !

TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR SRI LANKA

Have you got travel insurance for Sri Lanka yet? Make sure you take insurance out before you go! I am insured with World Nomad’s who I really like because they designed by travellers, for travellers, you can even purchase insurance with them once you have left for your trip.

Solo Female Travel Sri Lanka

Men wanking over women in public.

I’ll start by explaining the worse thing I experienced during my solo travel in Sri Lanka trip, something I have never experienced in any of the other 55 countries I have been to and although I don’t judge the whole of Sri Lanka from this one incident, it did change my views of the country when wondering is Sri Lanka safe, and it’s what made me want to write this post.

I was on a public bus from Sigiriya to Trincomalee, the bus ride had been fine, sure I was squished at the back and at one point had a little girl being sick next to me, but that’s all part of the public bus experience in Sri Lanka, and they’re cheap so being a bit hot and sweaty is ok. Towards the end, most people had gotten off the bus and the back seat that I was on went from having 6 people squeezed on it to me at one end a local guy at the other.

Looking around I saw him staring at me but I didn’t think anything of it, I was a white girl on a public bus heading to the North East of Sri Lanka and that’s still not the norm. Fast forward a few minutes, I was listening to a podcast so I couldn’t hear much else but something made me turn my head and I see him with his penis out, wanking and staring at me!!

As soon as he saw me see, he put it away (I saw everything, it was awful!) and started to get up, I shouted ‘what the fuck?!’ to him and he swiftly jumped out of the back of the bus.. as we were still moving, so he knew what he was doing was wrong!

When I got to Trincomalee, I shared what had happened on my Instagram Stories and I got a lot of messages back from women. The comments were that this had happened to them all around the world, in different Asian countries and Europe countries but for the purpose of this post, 4 of the responses I got were from women who said that this had happened to them in Sri Lanka too!

So maybe, wanking in public over a female foreigner is a thing in Sri Lanka?

This is not to say all men will do this and that would be an awful assumption, but getting 4 responses from ladies that follow me on Instagram who also experienced this happening in different parts of the country- Kandy and the Southern Beaches being some of the places, I personally found this quite shocking and I feel this needs to be spoken about so men there know it’s not ok, and men and women know that this is the kind of thing that women could face when travelling to Sri Lanka.

This didn’t deter me using public buses or deter me from solo travel in Sri Lanka, and I wouldn’t let it put you off either, generally I found the buses very safe and locals seemed either happy to have me on- it’s true that many locals do know how important tourism in Sri Lanka is to the country, especially after the bombing incident during Easter 2019 which meant a lot of tourists were unable to visit Sri Lanka due to our countries enforcements, or they seemed unfazed to see me on the buses, which is also a nice feeling when you do stand out a lot.

Related Post:  Tips for Planning Your First Solo Trip So You Go On It!

Staring in Sri Lanka

India is known for its stares, people tell you that you’ll be stared at constantly in India, which is true, no one told me that I’d be stared at in Sri Lanka, but I was. I had eyes staring at me everywhere here too. Along with a fair few catcalls and those annoying kissing sounds as I walked past men.

When I walked out of my hotel that was run by men only, when walking out of a shop and down the street, I could feel the stares on the back of me. This kind of thing doesn’t happen in South East Asia, from my experience there the local men couldn’t care less about foreign women and don’t stare in a sexualising way or because we look different.

Again, this doesn’t mean that solo travel in Sri Lanka or solo female travel in Sri Lanka is not safe, but it’s something to be aware of.

You will be stared at and you may have annoying, sexualising comments made to you too.

‘Where is your boyfriend??’

The final issue that made me feel a bit uneasy as a solo female traveller in Sri Lanka was the oh so typical question ‘where’s your boyfriend?’.

Ladies, many parts of the world still think we need to be travelling with a boyfriend or husband!

This question gets asked a lot all over the world and especially in Asia, so it’s not just Sri Lanka but I was asked this a lot in Sri Lanka. I never know what this question is asking – do they genuinely think I can’t travel alone and therefore me saying ‘I don’t have a boyfriend, I’m travelling Sri Lanka on my own’ just surprises them and isn’t the norm for them, or are they asking in a sly way to see if I’m solo and therefore available..

Who knows and I’m sure each situation changes depending on the male asking.

In general, without comparing Sri Lanka too much, I found travelling through Sri Lanka to be in the middle of South East Asia and India . Sri Lanka is not as intense as India at all, firstly there are not the same amount of people in Sri Lanka density wise as India and it’s not as loud, busy and hectic. However, it’s not as easy and breezy as South East Asia where all the countries are fully used to tourism and have a solid tourism infrastructure. 

I will take this time to say that overall I found the people in Sri Lanka extremely nice, happy and helpful!

I was welcomed with a smile in many places, people helped me with directions, I had a lot of nice conversations with locals and even the tuk-tuk guys weren’t overly pushy!

‘Is Sri Lanka safe for women travellers?’, like I said at the start, from my experience – YES!

But I wanted to write this post so if you are coming to Sri Lanka soon on your own, or you’re thinking about travelling Sri Lanka solo and looking for solo travel tips for Sri Lanka, you are prepared for a few things that might happen and a few ways you may feel uneasy. Although I really hope the first experience I shared doesn’t happen to you!

Solo Female Travel Tips for Sri Lanka

My main travel tip for solo female travellers to Sri Lanka to ensure you receive less attention as a foreign woman travelling Sri Lanka solo, or even a group of foreign women, is to watch how to you dress , and this is essentially the answer in all countries.

What to wear in Sri Lanka as a Female

On travel days in Sri Lanka using public transport, I always had my legs covered in full length or 3/4 length trousers and wore a t-shirt. I mean this still didn’t stop one guy thinking I looked attractive, but it does and will help with how local people look at you and how you are perceived as being dressing respectfully in Sri Lanka.

In the beach towns of the South Coast and East Coast you can dress more like you are on holiday in dresses, shorts and a tank top, Ella is another town that is based around tourism and it is ok to dress like this in Ella too. However in cities like  Colombo, Negombo, Dambulla, Jaffna and Kandy that do get tourism but they are mainly local cities where people live over being tourist hubs, I would again recommend you dress more conservatively with your legs covered and your shorters too with no cleavage on show.

Let me know in the comments if you found this useful, if you can relate, or if you have another opinion and different experiences on the subject.

• To read more of my Sri Lanka posts see:
• Where To Visit in Sri Lanka on Your First Trip!
• Arugam Bay Travel Guide – Surf Spots, Yoga, Cafes, Day Trips & Parties!
• How To Get From Negombo to Sigiriya By Public Bus.
• ALL SRI LANKA POSTS

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Thursday 7th of December 2023

Thank you for your info! I am heading to Sri Lanka soon as a solo female. I have occasionally been harassed in most countries I have travelled to. I get tired of males asking about a husband or boyfriend and IMO they are trying to figure out if I am available since males in other countries think females can't live without sex and so are easy. Haven't experienced being stared at extensively by males, being groped, or wanking by males anywhere.

TheWanderingQuinn

Monday 11th of December 2023

Hello, thanks for reading my post and I hope it didn't worry you but does give some warning just in case. I know women who have got on with no issues in Sri Lanka and at least not to the extent I had so I hope you have the same! :)

Sunday 21st of May 2023

I know certain countries have a bad rep, but you sure do seem to love putting India at the forefront of this post in terms of a benchmark. :)

Anyway, thank you for your travel tips. Very helpful.

Saturday 24th of April 2021

Heyyy I'm from Sri Lanka and I read the awful situation you had to face in Sri Lanka. That's how SOME men here react when they see a girl (any girl, they just don't care what colour or where are they from). We go through such situations so often. I feel sorry for the situation that you had to go through, but Sri Lanka is a BEAUTIFUL country and I hope you got to enjoy your visit here. I know how terrible was the experience but I wish you had more good memories about Sri Lanka. ❤️

Monday 3rd of May 2021

Thank you so so much for your kind message!

Friday 24th of July 2020

Hey this is a really informative blog, the penis situation has happened to me in Cuba and Thailand. Often when I went off the beaten track on my own. For example when I went for a run outside of pai in north Thailand a boy wanked off in front of me on his moped ? and followed me. The same kind of thing happened to me in Cuba. Always when I climbed off the beaten track. Not a nice experience at all. But both countries are fantastic but lets remember these are developing countries. I couldn’t cope with Sri Lanka staring tbh, so won’t be heading there anytime soon. Thank you kindly for your blog post, it’s good to know that I am not the only one this has happened to.

Monday 27th of July 2020

Hello Katherine, Urgh that's awful and I'm sorry that happened to you too! Yes the staring in Sri Lanka is bad but I'm glad you have been to see the country anyway and hope you can head somewhere else as soon as possible! Thank you for reading the post :)

SkyAndStars

Tuesday 10th of September 2019

So sorry that your trip was tarnished by a pervert in the bus. :-(

Regarding the questions on being married or having a boyfriend/girlfriend, those are typically innocent/ignorant. A lot of people (especially older, less educated or rural folk) tend to be nosey, and find it acceptable to ask such questions which would be regarded as rude/private elsewhere. Even Sri Lankan youngsters get asked that if they're of age. For example, a single Sri Lankan man/woman of say 30-35 would be flooded with questions about their marital status (if married, then about kids etc.) even from people they barely know. Even though those people don't mean any harm, it's super annoying, but they just don't know any better unfortunately. Another thing to note is that when such people travel, they travel in big family groups, and therefore find it surprising that people indeed travel solo!

Wednesday 16th of October 2019

Thank you for those thoughts, that's good to know! :)

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• The ultimate solo travel guide to Sri Lanka: Everything you need to know

Tamsin Wressell 22nd Oct 2022 9 min read

With an abundance of sights, it’s easy to see why thousands of people choose to experience solo travel in Sri Lanka each year. Ancient cities, misty hills, tropical beaches, lush mountains and dense jungle – despite its size, the country really does pack a lot in. Biodiversity is incredibly rich, with iconic train journeys passing abundant flora and wildlife, and there are stunning relics from the coast to the central heartlands. 

Where to start? The Cultural Triangle – encompassing the relics of the Sinhalese Kingdom from Anuradhapura to Polonnaruwa and the revered cave temples of Dambulla – in the north-central plains might be one of the most popular spots, but it’d be amiss to not branch beyond. Immerse yourself in the day-to-day life of the tea estates, the history of temples and sights and the wildlife, from leopards to whales.

And you can’t visit Sri Lanka without tasting the local cuisine, such as k ottu ( meat, vegetables and flatbread),  k u kul ( a creamy curry with coconut and spices) and  lamprais ( a rice dish folded within a banana leaf). With so much to see and do, solo travel with a group of other like-minded people means you can reap all the benefits of travelling solo while having the comfort of friends around you. And, of course, the trickier logistics are all taken care of. Here’s what you need to know about a group solo holiday to Sri Lanka .

Sri Lanka travel facts

The teardrop island off the southern tip of India may be small in size but it’s mighty in stature, from wildlife to waterfalls and striking landmarks. Rich in biodiversity, there’s over 120 species of mammals, over 400 types of birdslife, and more than 350 waterfalls, many with natural pools you can swim in. Sri Lanka is one of the largest tea exporters in the world with black, green and white tea widely grown. There are also eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites , including the Sacred City of Kandy, the Old Town of Galle and its Fortifications and Rangiri Dambulla Cave Temple.

Is Sri Lanka good for solo travel?

The tourism infrastructure in Sri Lanka regathered pace following the end of the 26-year-long Civil War in 2009, with hotels, tours and transport links all invested in, making it a strong lure for the solo traveller. While Sinhala and Tamil are the official spoken languages, in the main hubs of Colombo and Kandy English is widely recognised, too. If you don’t want to travel alone, joining a group solo holiday to Sri Lanka is a great way to explore the coast and verdant interior with other like-minded travellers, without having to arrange any of the logistics yourself.

Best places to visit in Sri Lanka

Its ancient cities, rolling hills, elevated railways, tea plantations, beautiful coastline and mountain pilgrimages make Sri Lanka perfectly set up for immersive adventures. Most journeys begin in the capital Colombo. From here, it’s south to the port city of Galle, with its fortifications and glorious stretch of coastline, and ​​leopard-spotting in Yala National Park. You’ll need to head inland to the Cultural Triangle for ancient temples at Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and Kandy, and then take the onward train for tea plantation views to Ella. 

In the small coastal town of Kosgoda in the southern province, there’s an opportunity to unwind on the beach, catch a glimpse of birdlife on the lagoon and learn about the area’s turtle conservation projects. Haputale in the southern Uva Province has rich biodiversity and is a great spot for white water rafting, caving and jungle hikes (in the dry season, of course).

Where to stay as a solo traveller in Sri Lanka

What are the hotels like for solo travel in Sri Lanka? In the likes of Arugam Bay on the southeast coast, you’ll find beach huts, treehouses and boutique villas. Elsewhere, there’s spa hotels, villas and inns in most popular spots for visitors. Guesthouses are a great way to immerse yourself in local life, staying with a welcoming family. 

As always with solo travel, some of the more unique and luxury accommodations can become less accessible with the additional cost of the single supplement. Travelling on a solo group holiday to Sri Lanka with Flash Pack removes this by offering an option to share a room to keep the costs down. Want to have your own room still? That’s also fine.

How to get to Sri Lanka

As a small island, Sri Lanka isn’t accessible by road or train. The easiest way to reach it is by flying. The main hub is Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo, just north of the city on the country’s west coast. It can be reached directly from the UK or via a London stopover if travelling from the US. From here, it’s a short hop into the city centre via bus or taxi.

How to get around Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has a network of major highways running throughout but driving here can be a little nerve-wracking if you’re not a confident driver – overtaking and car horns are commonplace. One of the most popular ways to get around is hiring a car with a driver for your stay, or by using local taxis. A combination of government and private buses run in the cities and in more rural areas, as well as air conditioned coaches which take fewer passengers than the buses (which can get crowded). If you’re heading more to the coast, taxis are a good shout, while, for example, in the Cultural Triangle, a driver and car work best as buses are less frequent. 

For covering longer distances on your solo travels in Sri Lanka, trains are ideal. Colombo Fort Train Station is the main hub, which can take you to places like central Kandy. From here, the train ride southeast to Ella, through lush greenery, is incredibly beautiful (sit on the right hand side). If you want to save yourself the logistics, consider joining a group of other solo travellers with Flash Pack , where all internal travel is included.

Best time to visit Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a tropical country sitting close to the equator, so it tends to have warm weather all year. The temperature doesn’t typically vary much, and you can expect an average of around 27-29°C most days. The main factor impacting the temperature in Sri Lanka is altitude – the south-central mountain ranges can get quite cold, for example. However, there’s also the monsoon season to consider. On the south and west coast, the best months to travel are between December and April, and for the east coast, it’s at its finest from May to October. For travelling around the country as a whole, your best bet is in the shoulder seasons of September, October and April.

Sri Lanka travel itineraries

On Flash Pack’s 12-day  Inside Sri Lanka trip, you’ll get to experience a mix of immersive adventure, culture and unique experiences. Start your trip in a local restaurant in Colombo before heading to the fishing village of Negombo to explore the local fish market. You’ll also cycle to the temples of Polonnaruwa before travelling inwards to the sacred city of Kandy. Meditate with a master and take a train ride through the incredible rolling hills in Tea Country, where you’ll also learn the art of making the perfect brew. 

The next stop will be Yala National Park for a game drive to spot leopards and other wildlife. For the final few days, you’ll have the chance to relax into beach life, with seafood barbecues by candlelight along the shoreline  – the ultimate way to cap off a solo holiday to Sri Lanka.

What to pack for solo travel in Sri Lanka

You’ll definitely need a good mosquito repellent for solo travel in Sri Lanka – ideally a natural one as they are kinder to the environment and feel nicer on the skin. Sunscreen is another essential. If you can, use a backpack rather than a suitcase as it’s easier to carry on public transport, and always take a day bag with you on explorations. A sarong can come in handy in a multitude of ways, teeming up as a towel, a pillow on long journeys and a way of covering up when needed at Buddhist temples. Paradoxically, you’ll need to pack items for the beach and any rainy weather. Modesty is valued in Sri Lanka, so opt for loose, lightweight clothes.

Solo travel advice for Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is well known for being a hugely welcoming and friendly country and its important to follow local rules of etiquette to respect the culture and traditions. When visiting Buddhist temples, cover your shoulders and legs (if you’re travelling as a solo woman, it’s best to follow this advice as a whole). When greeting people, shake hands and eat with your right hand. And, do your research before visiting any wildlife sanctuaries.

Is it safe to travel solo in Sri Lanka

Many visitors experience solo travel to Sri Lanka every year and most trips are trouble-free. However, do check out the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (UK), the Department of State Travel Advisories (US) or your country’s local government guidelines for the latest advice before travelling. 

Once there, follow local advice and be aware of your surroundings at all times, while keeping an eye on your belongings. Be careful of taking trekking routes during the monsoon season as they can become unsafe with trails washed away in the rain. For extra peace of mind, consider travelling with a group of other solo travellers. 

Ready for your next adventure? Try group solo travel to Sri Lanka with Flash Pack – designed exclusively for people in their 30s and 40s, seeking the independence of solo travel within the safety of a group.

A cool 98% of Flashpackers arrive solo to join our group adventures . So, you’ll be in good company – whether a first time solo traveller or a seasoned pro looking for like-minded new friends.

Images: Flash Pack and Unsplash

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“Ghosting” in friendship is rare – most people simply drift apart

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Finding Alexx

| Bucket list adventures around the globe

Asia , Solo travel , Sri Lanka · June 26, 2024

Solo female travel in Sri Lanka: The ULTIMATE (& honest) guide!

Before I visited Sri Lanka, I found myself Googling ‘is Sri Lanka safe for solo female travellers?’ and honestly was a little terrified by the responses. After two solo visits, I wanted to give you an up to date (as of June 2024) guide on solo female travel in Sri Lanka. d

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Sri Lanka is one of those destinations that elicits eyebrow raises and (well-meaning) concern when you say you’re going as a solo female traveller.

And while Sri Lanka has certainly had some rocky history, and while I absolutely believe that fellow solo ladies have had issues while exploring the country, in my personal experience Sri Lanka doesn’t deserve the overarching ‘unsafe’ stamp it seems to have been given.

Can the country’s infrastructure be tricky to navigate when you’re by yourself? For sure. Are there religious, cultural and social norms that are different from what we’re used to? No doubt. Is there a part of the male population who doesn’t treat women with the respect we deserve? Like all countries, unfortunately, yes.

But beyond the scary Reddit threads from 2014 that come up when you search ‘solo female travel Sri Lanka’, the truth is that solo female travel in Sri Lanka can 100% be safe, enjoyable and fulfilling .

Here’s a detailed guide to solo travel in Sri Lanka, with important safety tips as well as some ways to make your trip as smooth as possible, based on my own experience from two visits in two years. And as always, if you have any questions you can leave them in the comments below or get in touch with me on Instagram .

Is Sri Lanka safe for solo female travellers?

While solo female travel in Sri Lanka might not be as easy and relaxed as solo female travel in Switzerland for example, it can still be safe .

I think scaremongering and clickbait headlines have a lot to answer for, but at the same time I also think that being aware of potential safety concerns and risks can let us prepare in advance so we know what to expect.

Here’s what you need to know about the risks of travelling Sri Lanka solo.

But first, an important note…

I always start my solo female travel guides with two disclaimers.

The first one is that there is a difference between being in danger and being uncomfortable.

If you asked me if I’ve ever felt uncomfortable travelling solo in Marrakech , New York, India, or even Amsterdam , the answer is a resounding yes. From cultural differences to drunken behaviour to just generally being alone in an unknown destination, travelling by yourself is often going to push you outside of your comfort zone.

But, if you can help it, try not to get the feeling of discomfort mixed up with your brain thinking you’re in genuine danger.

Those fight-or-flight responses are on high alert when we’re in a different environment to what we’re used to, and it’s easy to jump to a conclusion of ‘DANGER’ when most behaviours we’re perceiving, like staring, chatting or even unwanted flirting, actually have no malicious intent.

But at the same time, always trust your gut.

HOWEVER, if you’re feeling icky about a situation, get out ASAP and reassess the danger vs. discomfort dilemma later. Your safety is paramount, and it’s always better to overreact than underreact.

Being able to tell the difference between being uncomfortable and being in danger is something that comes with solo travel experience, each time you visit somewhere new you’ll continue fine-tuning your safety/comfort radar, and in no time you’ll be a solo travel pro.

Unwanted attention

The biggest concern for solo female travel in Sri Lanka is probably unwanted attention.

Staring is very normal in Sri Lanka, and if you look different to the locals you’ll probably experience men, women and kids looking at you intently when you’re eating at a restaurant, catching the train or walking around the city.

It’s not considered rude here like it is in most Western countries, and while it’s super uncomfortable when you’re on the receiving end, it’s generally nothing more than a cultural difference.

Beyond staring, you might find some locals trying to chat to you, ask you where you’re from, etc. Friendly conversations with strangers are one of my favourite things about travel, and I definitely name-dropped some Kiwi cricketers I know personally to my various tuktuk drivers and waiters!

If you feel like friendly conversation is escalating to more than you feel comfortable with, remove yourself from the situation physically if you can, or fake a phone call, put on your headphones, wear sunglasses, anything to break that connection with that person until you can get to safety.

In my experience, the men in Sri Lanka were less persistent and more polite than what I witnessed in Marrakech, so if you’ve been to Morocco that will maybe give you something to compare it to.

Petty crime

Petty crime is less common in Sri Lanka than in many Western countries, but even though it’s not a major concern, it’s always a risk in big cities and in crowded destinations.

Sri Lanka has had major economic struggles in recent years, so your fancy camera or new iPhone could mean a world of difference to a struggling family, which does make obvious tourists a target. Keep your belongings secure, as you would in any busy place.

Political instability

Sri Lanka has had its fair share of political issues in recent decades. with a brutal 26-year civil war only ending in 2009, a devastating terrorist attack in 2019, and an economic crisis in 2021-2022 that caused energy shortages and massive inflation, and resulted in huge (but mostly peaceful) protests.

These events have contributed to Sri Lanka’s reputation on the world stage, especially for older generations, hence why your grandparents might think you’re mad for wanting to come here alone 🙃

Most governments (NZ, AU and UK included) have light to moderate travel alerts in place for Sri Lanka, mentioning the economic crisis, civil unrest, and terrorism.

At the time of writing (June 2024) the economic situation is stable, there are no current concerns about fuel shortages. Tourism is vital for them to rebuild their economy, so if you do visit, know that you are making a positive impact.

The political situation is also currently stable as of June 2024, however there is an election coming up in September/October 2024. Visiting anywhere during an election means you need to take some additional precautions, so my general advice here is to avoid government buildings around the election date if you can, stay aware of the daily situation so you know what to expect, and keep away from protests and demonstrations.

In terms of terrorism, there hasn’t been a terrorist incident since the horrendous Easter Sunday bombings in 2019.

Sri Lanka isn’t a particularly scammy destination, just be aware of the usual scams like inflated tuktuk prices, fake guides at landmarks, etc.

Health concerns

Food and water hygiene in Sri Lanka is no more of a concern for a solo female traveller than if you were travelling with a companion, but being sick is extra horrible when you don’t have someone to run to the pharmacy for you!

Tap water is not drinkable in most places in Sri Lanka, so you’ll want to drink and brush your teeth with bottled or filtered water.

Food hygiene might not be up to the standard of Western regulations, and sheltered bellies are extra sensitive when we’re eating new and different things, so digestive upset can happen.

Take the usual food precautions (eat freshly prepared hot food, avoid salads etc.) and if you do get hit, stay hydrated, top up your electrolytes, and have Imodium with you for unavoidable travel at inconvenient times.

Water safety

If you’re spending time on Sri Lanka’s stunning coast, keep safe when you’re swimming, snorkelling or surfing.

The beautiful beaches can be quite exposed, and rips and currents are often hard to see from shore.

Tell your hotel that you’re heading to the beach and when you expect to be back, take note of any warnings of swimming conditions, and ideally make friends with fellow travellers when you’re in the water so someone can keep an eye out for you.

Dogs & monkeys

Sri Lanka is full of wild dogs that roam the streets, but the good news is that these are the chillest wild dogs I’ve ever encountered on my travels, They’re clearly on island time!

They will probably come say hello hoping for some food, but in my experience they seemed to move on pretty quickly if you ignored them, and many of them weren’t phased by people at all.

I didn’t witness a single incidence of aggression from any street dogs, but rabies does exist in Sri Lanka, so it’s best to keep your distance from the dogs unless you know they’ve been vaccinated.

There’s an incredible dog sanctuary and clinic that you can visit near Mirissa called Dog Care Clinic , if you want to get your fix of doggos and donate to a worthy cause at the same time.

Monkeys though 🙃 I loooove them so much, but they can be very aggressive if they think you have food. Avoid taking food in your bag when you’re walking through areas with monkeys, never feed them, and don’t get too close when you take photos unless you’re willing to part with your phone.

Solo female travel in Sri Lanka: How to get around

Sri lanka public transport as a solo female traveller.

At the risk of fear-mongering, I do have to say that almost all negative stories I’ve heard about solo female travel in Sri Lanka have happened on public transport.

Pickpocketing and luggage theft is a risk in any crowded place, and busy buses and train carriages offer a prime opportunity. Keep your bags with you, and if you’ve got too much luggage for that, consider private transport instead.

Staring and chatting are both common throughout Sri Lanka as I mentioned, but being stuck on a mode of transport means these are very hard to get away from which can make them that much more uncomfortable. If you feel concerned at the thought of this, perhaps avoid long bus or train journeys solo.

There are multiple mentions online about worse behaviour on public transport too, including indecent exposure and physical harassment. From what I can see most of these mentions are from 5+ years ago, that’s not to say it doesn’t ever happen now, but I do think Sri Lanka’s general treatment of foreign women has probably improved with the growing importance of the tourism industry.

If you are an experienced and confident solo traveller, or if you’ve used public transport in places like India, Morocco or Egypt, then I’m sure you will be fine.

If you are quite new to solo adventuring and haven’t taken a bus or train outside of the Western world, then just be aware that Sri Lanka’s public transport might be a shock to your system. And if you’re not comfortable with that, opt for private transfers or organised tours instead.

Private drivers in Sri Lanka

Private drivers are more affordable than you’d find in most countries, the quotes I got in 2024 ranged from $60-100USD per day depending on how nice of a car you want.

If you’re travelling with friends and aren’t pinching pennies then it’s kind of a no-brainer, but for a solo traveller this is still a decent amount per day for transport on top of accommodation, food and activities.

If you do decide to book a private driver for your solo trip to Sri Lanka, I’d recommend choosing one that you have had a personal recommendation for, preferably from another solo female traveller. Online reviews are important too but generally those reviews are for the whole company, you won’t know what driver you’re getting until you get there.

I can personally vouch for Shan Udagama, I found him through another friend’s recommendation for my first solo trip to Sri Lanka last year. Great communication, available 24/7, his Prius was comfortable enough for long journeys and had decent air con, and he was helpful and friendly. You can get in touch with him on WhatsApp, his details are in his Instagram bio here .

Group tours for Sri Lanka solo female travellers

If public transport seems daunting, and if a private driver is out of your budget, my top recommendation for solo travellers heading to Sri Lanka would be to jump on an organised tour. This is what I did on my second Sri Lanka solo trip, and I had the time of my life.

The main benefits of booking a group tour are:

• All the logistics are taken care of
• You can meet fellow travellers and make new friends
• You’ll have an expert guide to show you around
• A good tour will cover major must-dos as well as give you some downtime
• One price covers most of your travel costs, so you have a better idea of how much the total trip will cost you
• You can feel safe and comfortable as a solo traveller, and your guide will be available 24/7 if you need help
• You generally cover a lot of ground in a short time period

But as with any decision, there are also cons. The not-so-great things about group tours are:

• They’re usually quite fast-paced and can be a whirlwind
• You’ll be around your tour-mates for hours each day and days on end, which is great if you like them, but not so great if you don’t 😂
• Some tours (particularly big bus tours) can feel very inauthentic and and sightsee-y (that’s a word now), rather than giving you a true cultural experience. But that really depends on what tour you choose, which brings me to…

My top Sri Lanka tour recommendation: One Life Adventures

I actually had the One Life Adventures Sri Lanka tour booked for March 2020, they had just won TourRadar’s ‘Best Tour in Sri Lanka’ award for 2019 (and the company won ‘Tour of the Year’ for their Japan tour !). A little something 🦠 obviously got in the way and it was cancelled.

For my 2023 Sri Lanka solo trip I didn’t have enough time for the tour, but in May 2024 I had two weeks to explore and it perfectly aligned with a One Life Adventures Sri Lanka departure. Ideal!

You can read my full One Life Adventures Sri Lanka tour review to get a play-by-play of what the tour’s like and who it’s good for, but here’s a quick intro to One Life:

• They run small group adventures for 18-45s
• They’re best known for their Sri Lanka , Japan and Philippines tours but they also operate in Morocco, Bali, South Korea and Vietnam, and all their tours are top-rated on TourRadar
• They’re all about transformational travel, combining bucket list ticks with authentic travel experiences that take your trip to the next level
• The tour is kind of flashpacker-style, simple but comfortable accommodation with some epic stays (like jungle glamping in Sri Lanka!)
• They combine nature, culture and adventure with a big focus on responsible tourism as well, which I love!
• They include a bunch of activities, like the Ella train, a safari, all the temples and some incredible hikes, whereas many youth-focused or budget-friendly tours have these as ‘optional extras’ that you have to budget for separately
• They’re perfect for solo travellers, there’s no single supplement if you’re happy to share with another solo rider. 70% of our tour were solo travellers!

P.S. One Life have given me a cheeky discount code to share with you, you can get 15% off any of their tours (Sri Lanka or any other destination) with the promocode FINDINGALEXX. See all the tours here >>

Sri Lanka solo female travel safety tips

To help you see the best of Sri Lanka while minimising any chances of hiccups, here are some helpful tips for planning your trip.

All the usual solo safety precautions

As solo travel girls we often have to take additional precautions vs. our male counterparts or if we were travelling with friends or a partner, regardless of the destination. Take all these usual precautions in Sri Lanka too:

• Avoid walking in unlit areas at night
• Be careful when drinking
• Make sure someone back home knows your travel plans
• Take a battery pack with you so you’re never stuck without a phone
• Dress according to social and cultural norms so you don’t draw attention to yourself

Stay connected with an eSIM or local SIM

One of my top solo travel must-haves is an eSIM or a local SIM, they’re so affordable and convenient these days that there’s no reason to *not* get one.

Phone data in Sri Lanka is especially cheeeeap, I got an eSIM at the airport for 10USD that gave me 30GB 🤯 This was from Mobitel but all the phone companies offer the same deals, the only downside is that you have to line up at the stalls in the arrivals terminal (which can be busy) and they only take cash so you’ll need to line up at the ATM too.

If you’d prefer to have your eSIM sorted when you hit the ground, buy one and install it in advance so you can switch it on as soon as you land. Generally I sort my eSIM before I arrive for this reason, getting eSIMs on arrival are sometimes cheaper but I prefer to ditch the airport ASAP instead of faffing around with SIM cards and cash withdrawals. But with Sri Lanka I forgot until I landed and realised I had no data 🙃

I use MobiMatter for all my eSIMs, they’re always cheaper than the brands with big marketing budgets! Here’s a quick comparison for you for their Sri Lanka eSIMs:

• MobiMatter: 10GB for $17USD
• Airalo: 10GB for $21USD
• Alosim: 10GB for $48USD
• Holafly: Unlimited data for 12 days for $43USD
• Nomad: 10GB for $20USD

You can use the promocode FINDINGALEXX to get extra cashback on your MobiMatter eSIM 💰

Check the political situation on the ground

As I mentioned, Sri Lanka has an election coming up in September/October 2024, and campaign events, protests and demonstrations can be expected in the weeks leading up to it.

Check local news, post on travel Facebook groups or get in touch with your hotel or tour company just before your trip to get an insight into what it’s like and if there are any particular places you should avoid.

If you’re going to be there during the actual election, I’d recommend being somewhere small and calm that day, rather than being in Colombo or another big city.

Check reviews before booking

Reviews are gospel, always always always check them before booking accommodation, tours or activities.

For accommodation I’ll always check on booking.com because they’re from genuine customers, and you can order them by ‘lowest score first’ so you can see what people don’t like about a place. If they mention safety, security, dodgy location or staff that make them feel uncomfortable, it’s a no-go.

And as a bonus tip, pleas leave reviews for the places you stay and tours you join! Recent, honest feedback can really help other solo female travellers heading to Sri Lanka.

Don’t share your location online (until you leave)

One thing I did notice about Sri Lanka is that local men aren’t shy about sliding into the DMs of a stranger, and after sharing a TikTok about a particular hotel I had looooads of messages from guys asking me where I was going in Sri Lanka and if I wanted a tour guide. No thank you 🙃

Don’t post anything on social until you’ve left that accommodation or that city, turn off your dating apps if you have a unique name, and block people if they’re weirding you out.

Lie about being solo

I’ve never gone as far as wearing a fake wedding ring, but the ‘I’m waiting for my boyfriend’ lie can work wonders.

Beware of the Arrack Attacks

Arrack is a local spirit in Sri Lanka that’s made from the sap of the coconut flower, and it’s used in cocktails like the infamous Arrack Attack, which you’ll find at most bars throughout the country.

The alcohol is generally between 33-50% ABV but they don’t measure pours in Sri Lanka, so one drink can give you a good buzz if you’re somewhere with friendly bartenders! Drink carefully if you’re solo, keep your wits about you, never leave your drink and ideally stay close to your hotel so you don’t have to wander home in the dark.

Book an airport transfer in advance

Colombo Airport can be hectic when you walk out of the arrivals terminal, with hundreds of taxi drivers vying for your business.

It’s no different to most other major airports in South/Southeast Asia so if you’ve dealt with this before you’ll be fine, but if you’re fresh to solo travel or you prefer a calmer arrival experience, book an airport transfer in advance .

Book organised tours

Even if you aren’t keen to do a fully guided tour like the One Life Adventures one I did , there are loads of day trips and organised city tours that you can book to see particular places with the comfort of a local guide and other travellers.

These are a great idea for places that are a little remote, like the Pidurangala Monastery or the hiking trails in Ella, or for things that would be more fun with fellow travellers, like a snorkelling trip, cooking class or safari.

P.S. Check out all the Sri Lanka experiences available on Klook , you can get 10% off all of them with the promocode FINDINGALEXXKLOOK

Get travel insurance

Travel insurance is essential for all international trips, and a good travel insurance policy will cover mishaps like lost luggage, delayed flights, medical issues and more.

What to wear in Sri Lanka as a solo female traveller

Sri Lanka is a conservative country, and dressing appropriately is not only respectful but also helps you blend in, which is a key part of feeling comfortable as a solo traveller.

Temples have strict regulations of what you can wear, as women we need to cover our shoulders and our knees, and avoid sheer or tightly-fitting clothes. Most temples have scarves and skirts you can borrow or rent if you get there and realise you aren’t wearing the right clothes.

If you’re visiting small villages away from tourist areas, it is respectful to dress conservatively.

If you’re in the big cities there are no specific rules, you’ll see some locals as well as tourists wearing all kinds of outfits, but if you show a lot of skin or wear tight-fitted clothes you will definitely draw attention to yourself.

Some must-haves for your solo female travel Sri Lanka packing list are:

• Lightweight tshirts, tops and blouses that cover your shoulders and chest
• Flowy trousers and long skirts
• Maxi dresses
• A wrap that can be used as a shoulder covering
• An easy dress or kaftan to wear over swimwear if you’re at the beach and want to head into a cafe or restaurant for something to eat
• Hiking clothes for Pidurangala Rock, Sigiriya, Little Adam’s Peak or other epic hiking trails
• Long socks to wear if you’re walking through the jungle, there are leeches 🩸

I hope this Sri Lanka solo female travel guide has helped you get a better idea of what to expect on your upcoming adventure! If you have any questions let me know in the comments below.

SAFE TRAVELS MY FRIENDS 💃🏼

MORE ABOUT MY TIME IN SRI LANKA:

• The most epic safari glamping experience in Sri Lanka
• 12 days in Sri Lanka with the country’s top-rated tour
• That time a travel company CEO undercover-bossed us on our tour

MORE SOLO TRAVEL TIPS AND GUIDES:

• A guide to solo travel in Porto, Portugal
• A guide to solo travel in Amsterdam, the Netherlands
• A guide to solo travel in the Maldives
• A guide to solo travel in Marrakech, Morocco
• A guide to solo travel in Edinburgh, Scotland
• A guide to solo travel in Jordan

MY GO-TO TRAVEL PLANNING RESOURCES Flights ✈️ I use Skyscanner to find the best flights for my trip and then I’ll always book direct with the airline to protect myself from having to deal with dodgy third parties if anything goes wrong. Trains 🚂 If I’m travelling through Europe, I try to travel by train wherever possible! For an extended trip (2+ weeks) I’ll calculate if a Eurail Pass is worth it , or I’ll book point-to-point tickets through RailEurope or the local train operator. Accommodation 🛎️ I book almost all of my accommodation through booking.com , they have a user-friendly website + app and many of their options are free cancellation, easily cancelled with a simple click of a button. Activities 🗽 I use GetYourGuide , Klook and Viator to look for activities in the places I visit, or I just Google ‘things to do in [city]’! P.S. If you book anything on Klook you can use the promocode FINDINGALEXXKLOOK to get 10% off Travel cards 💳 I’m a Wise gal through and through, they’ve been my chosen travel card for more than five years now. You can easily top up your card from your bank account or through Apple Pay, convert your money to local currency, and spend money with minimal fees and the best exchange rates around. Travel insurance 🩺 I use Cover-More NZ travel insurance for my own trips, I have a comprehensive policy and I’ve only had good experiences with them. Cover-More also has an Australian company , but if you’re from elsewhere then two popular insurance options for global travellers are SafetyWing (cheaper policy, lower coverage) and World Nomads (more expensive but significantly better coverage). Luggage 💼 I travel with Samsonite Cosmolite suitcases , one 75cm check in bag and a 55cm carry on bag, and I absolutely adore them and will never travel with anything else! They are SUPER lightweight (2.8kg and 1.9kg respectively) so I have much more space for my actual stuff. Camera gear 📸 I use a iPhone 15 Pro Max for phone photos/videos, and my camera kit includes a Lumix S9 (incredible lightweight full-frame camera, a game changer for travel creators!) with a 20-60mm lens, a Lumix G9 with an 8-18mm and 12-60mm lens, a DJI Mini 3 Pro drone and a GoPro Hero 10 . I do all my writing and editing on my ASUS Zenbook 14 , it’s lightweight but powerful enough for photo editing and intense blogging sessions.

Written by:

Alexx is the human behind the keyboard and camera here at Finding Alexx. She’s a full-time solo traveller with a passion for finding bucket list experiences, unique stays that are worth writing home about, and those meals you’ll think about for the rest of your life. Having visited more than 60 countries (50 of them solo!), she shares super detailed itineraries and travel guides on the blog, as well as providing an authentic behind-the-scenes look at all her adventures (and misadventures) on Instagram.

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15 Tips for Solo Female Travel in Sri Lanka

Heading to Sri Lanka as a solo female traveler? What everyone says about Sri Lanka is true: it’s an incredibly diverse and wondrous destination that is bound to capture your heart.

The landscapes and historical monuments will wow you, the palm-fringed coast will enchant, and tea from the sweeping highlands will warm your soul. In other words, it lives up to the hype!

But there’s just no way to sugarcoat it, solo travel in Sri Lanka for women can be challenging; the sad truth is that some female travelers have experienced (or will experience) some form of harassment and receive unwanted attention during their time on the island.

I have personally experienced verbal harassment and lewd comments from men while walking down the street on multiple occasions, eve-teased by a tuk tuk-full of beach boys, and sadly even groped at a temple.

Which begs the question, is it actually safe for a woman to travel alone in Sri Lanka? Unfortunately, the harsh reality for many female travelers is that there is no place in the world that is completely “safe” and free of potential risk of catcalling, harassment and abuse. These types of unsavory experiences are not unique to any one destination.

That being said, you should know that the authorities take reports of these vile incidents very seriously. In 2017, two off-duty police officers were arrested for harassing a women near Colombo; in 2018, an establishment in Mirissa was shut down by the tourism authorities for being the location of sexual and physical assault of tourists; and in 2019 a man was prosecuted in Kandy using evidence and testimony via video conference – prior to this, the victims had been flown to Sri Lanka by the tourism authorities for suspect identification.

Let me make it clear: Sri Lankan people are famous for their hospitality, and violent crimes towards tourists are very uncommon. More likely than not, you will have a wonderful, fuss-free experience in Sri Lanka as a solo female traveler.

In fact, a small 2019 study interviewed solo female travelers to Sri Lanka and found that 82% said they would visit again, and 92% of respondents said that they would recommend Sri Lanka to other female solo travelers. Personally, I have met some of the kindest and most welcoming people in the country, but just like every other destination around the world there are bound to be some bad apples and issues.

My hope is that this article helps to prepare you in the (hopefully unlikely) event that you run into an issue in Sri Lanka – please don’t let this turn you off traveling to the Pearl of the Indian Ocean! If you are wondering to yourself, “is Sri Lanka safe for female travelers?” then read on for my top tips for solo female travelers to this stunning country.

1. Be smart with transportation

First timers to Sri Lanka often make a few common mistakes when it comes to transportation. For female travelers in Sri Lanka it is important to have a plan when it comes to getting around the country. Many people who visit Sri Lanka make the mistake of organizing one driver to chauffeur and follow them across the country.

However, in my opinion, the fastest and best way to travel around Sri Lanka is to book a private car and driver from point-to-point – this way, you won’t need to organize driver accommodation, have some more flexibility in your schedule and itinerary, and are less likely to get “stuck” with a driver that you don’t like for hours and days on end.

Sri Lanka is only about 430 KM tall and 220 KM wide (about the same size as Tasmania in Australia or Lithuania), but it can take you hours and hours to travel from place to place. Don’t make the mistake of underestimating travel time in Sri Lanka. Here are some other common Sri Lanka travel mistakes to avoid .

Drivers and cars are a dime a dozen in Sri Lanka and can easily be arranged 1-2 days before you need a ride. Female solo travelers in Sri Lanka should reach out to the hotel they are staying at to organize intercity transfers and airport pick ups or drop offs, or use their recommended tuk tuk driver – all you’ll need to do is organize a driver to collect you from the airport on arrival (especially important if you are arriving late at night or early in the morning – I have used and recommend Andrew’s transportation service. Contact him at +94 776 042 915 or you can reach him via Facebook if you look for “Sri Lanka Taxi Andrew”), and to take you to destination/hotel A. Then another driver to take you from destination A to destination B and so on. Once you are in those places you can get around easily by tuk tuk, and Uber is also available in some areas.

Headed somewhere for dinner and not sure how you’re going to get back to your hotel? Ask the hotel’s recommended tuk tuk driver if he’s willing to wait or come back at an agreed-upon time.

Where it becomes a little more complicated or daunting is if you’re taking public transportation. Unfortunately, a report by the United Nations Population Fund found that 90% of Sri Lanka’s women have endured some kind of sexual harassment on buses and trains in Sri Lanka, and 82% said they had noticed others being sexual harassed in public transport. The anecdotal stories go on and on.

Does that mean that you shouldn’t take public transportation if you’re a solo female traveler in Sri Lanka? Not necessarily. But it does mean that you need to be cautious and plan carefully: this means that where possible, you should avoid long, overnight bus and train rides, and if it is not jam packed you can place your bag in the seat next to yours so that you have the row to yourself. The report noted that “incidents are more prevalent during peak hours (morning and evening) when transportation is more crowded. High congestion on buses or trains is a contributing factor for sexual harassment, particularly unwanted physical contact. “

If something happens, scream and don’t suffer silently, and if you see something, say something. Once you are able to do so, file a police report. If you find yourself in this kind of situation, don’t be afraid to stand up for yourself and call out the offender – if you are taking public transportation, notify the staff or conductor immediately and ask for help from other bystanders. The incident should be reported to the police as soon as possible.

Next up is the issue of renting a scooter in Sri Lanka – let me put it this way, Sri Lanka is not the place to practice your scooter or motorcycle skills. The main roads are hectic and road safety can be substandard. You also are not covered by insurance unless you get your license verified in Sri Lanka , and you will need to have a motorcycle license from your home country in order to drive a scooter over 100cc. Turning up in Sri Lanka with an international driving permit is not sufficient, and you are very likely to run into issues with the police if you are pulled over.

2. Be mindful of your attire

Traveling to Sri Lanka alone? One of the most important things to know about Sri Lanka is that Sri Lanka is unlike some other Asian countries in the sense that it is still relatively modest, despite being a popular beach destination in Asia.

The primary religion is Buddhism so you will need to be mindful of your attire when you visit temples (cover your shoulders and wear pants – the same applies in any Hindu temples and Islam mosques) and also when you walk around town – save the beachwear for the beach.

Sri Lanka is not the place where you drive shirtless on a scooter or walk through local villages in your bikini or speedos. Not only will it be perceived as culturally offensive, some tourists are even being stopped by police in the street and asked to cover up.

In Sri Lanka’s heat, you will want to pack light, breathable clothes that aren’t skin tight – t-shirts, rompers, long cotton trousers and maxi-dresses are my go-to. It is also always advisable to have a thin scarf or shawl in your backpack, especially if you are visiting temples or religious sites in the Cultural Triangle .

Headed to the hill country? Don’t be surprised if the temperature drops to the low double digits – you absolutely will need a thick sweater and warm leggings or trousers for the mornings and evenings in Ella or Nuwara Eliya !

3. Keep an eye on your drink

Just as you would need to in any other country in the world, you’ll need to be careful about taking drinks from strangers at bars and restaurants. Make sure you don’t leave drinks unattended, and keep a close eye on your belongings.

If you are a female solo traveler in Sri Lanka you should be careful of spiked drinks and petty theft – if something goes missing, report the loss to the manager of the bar or club, or if it took place on the street file a lost property report with the police.

4. Stay connected with friends and family back home

Keep friends and family at home up-to-date with your whereabouts and how to get in touch with you by  purchasing a local SIM card – Mobitel/Sri Lanka Telecom and Dialog are pretty reliable options. The easiest place to purchase a SIM card and data package is via the booths at the airport in the arrivals hall once you clear customs. Do not rely on free wifi connectivity in Sri Lanka as it is spotty at best, and some guesthouses and restaurants may not provide it.

In general, your data package should last for the duration of your 1 to 2 weeks in Sri Lanka as long as you aren’t using it to stream Netflix or spend hours on Instagram – if however you find yourself running out of data then simply pop into a Food City supermarket and top up your number at the cashier. In the past, Sri Lanka has implemented social media bans without warning, I therefore recommend that you sign up for a VPN service before your solo trip to Sri Lanka, especially if you largely rely on Whatsapp, Facebook Messenger or Instagram to communicate with your loved ones.

5. Don’t accept random friend requests and DMs

Wondering if Sri Lanka is safe for female solo travelers? Here is a top tip: don’t be surprised if you receive a friend request from the waiter at the restaurant you had lunch at, or the jeep driver who took you on a safari. Most of the time it is fairly harmless and all you need to do (if you don’t want to become Facebook friends) is to ignore the request.

However, I once received a DM via Instagram from a tuk tuk driver who claimed he drove me (“remember me from the other day?”) – the only problem is, I only ever ride with 2 regular tuk tuk drivers who I know personally! You can see how it’s easy to give someone the benefit of the doubt, only for them to have some sort of hidden agenda.

6. Use generic location tags

In the same vein as Sri Lanka solo female travel tip #5 above, avoid pinpointing your specific location and don’t tag your hotel or guesthouse. You’re better off using the general area or city, just in case, and not posting live to social media so that people can track your whereabouts.

7. Keep an eye on your belongings

Bag snatching is not as commonplace as in some other cities in Asia, but if you leave your valuables unattended on the beach there is a chance that it will go missing by the time you’ve finished going for a swim in the ocean.

One option is to buy a few drinks and nibbles from a beach restaurant and ask if they’ll keep an eye on your belongings while you go for a quick dip. Be a smart solo traveler in Sri Lanka and leave your valuables in the hotel room safe, or keep a close eye on your belongings at all times.

8. Book reputable hotels, guest houses and hostels

There are many, many excellent boutique hotels in Sri Lanka . If you can dream it, it probably exists – from luxury safari tents and open-air treehouses to cozy homestays and hip co-working spaces.

But what you need to do as a female solo traveler in Sri Lanka is to research, research, research. Do not skimp on your due diligence and read every single review out there.

I once booked a last-minute hotel in Negombo near the international airport to tide me over until a late night flight, only to show up to a complete delipidated property with not one person on site – and this place had what I thought was pretty decent reviews! When I did eventually get in touch with someone from the property, two men arrived in a SUV 15-minutes later to let me in. Needless to say, I got out of there and never looked back. If it feels off, trust your gut and move on!

BOOKING TIP:   Read this article for tried-and-tested boutique hotels in Sri Lanka , or  click here for current accommodation rates in Sri Lanka ! You can filter by price, type of accommodation and ratings – I generally avoid booking any hotels or guesthouses if their overall rating score is below 8 out of 10.

9. Avoid visiting quiet or isolated places alone

Some of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka are off the beaten track. I mean, who doesn’t love an empty stretch of beach? But sadly it can be fairly common for peeping toms to take advantage of the fact that there’s no one around, and get handsy in the bush.

While I was elated to be able to explore the ruins of Anuradhapura on my own and wander around centuries-old stupas without another soul around, how I wish I wasn’t the only person in that shrine room. Maybe then the man wouldn’t have had the opportunity to grope me from behind.

Does that mean you shouldn’t go places alone? Of course not. But you may want to always have an exit strategy in the back of your mind, and if something feels off then find a way out of there, pronto. You can never be too safe. An alternative is to meet like-minded travelers once you are in Sri Lanka to see if they’re keen to join you on a day trip or two for an adventure!

10. Get comfortable saying no

“No” is a full sentence. Sometimes women are made to feel like they aren’t allowed to say no, or that we are being rude by saying no. It’s not uncommon to be offered services – whether it be tour guiding, transportation or accommodation – in Sri Lanka. And sometimes you may be offered that service again, and again, and again, even if you said no the first time. If it’s something that you’re not interested, all you have to do is say “no, thank you” firmly.

11. But also learn a few phrases of Sinhala

Sinhala is one of the official languages in Sri Lanka and spoken and understood by a large percentage of the population. When tourists learn a few simple phrases, it usually takes people by surprise (in a good way).

People in Sri Lanka value sincerity, and in my experience a smile and genuine attempt at speaking Sinhala can disarm even the most grumpy people. Here are a few quick Sinhala phrases you can use:

• Ayubowan = may you live long, a formal way of greeting someone. Usually you would put your palms together when greeting someone and saying “ayubowan”
• Istuti = thank you
• Kohomadha = how are you?
• Hari = okay, got it, fine (you often say this twice – “hari hari”)
• Lassanayi = beautiful
• Hondayi = very good
• Suba dawasak = good day
• Esema wewa = same to you

12. Be alert around public holidays and Poya days

One important thing you should know about visiting Sri Lanka is that every full moon day (also known as “Poya”) is a public holiday in Sri Lanka and hard liquor consumption tends to be fairly high around this time of month. Though hotels and restaurants are not supposed to sell alcohol on Poya day, many people stock up from their local liquor shop ahead of time.

The standard drink of choice is arrack (usually distilled from coconut flower sap) which is very high in alcohol content. On Poya days in Sri Lanka it is not uncommon for groups of men to get intoxicated and rowdy on beaches or even in the streets. While there is minimal alcohol-related violence, eve-teasing tends to increase as inhibitions decrease so be alert and aware, just as you would anywhere else in the world.

13. Have a plan for the evening

There are certain areas in southern Sri Lanka , Colombo and Arugam Bay where you can find a vibrant nightlife scene. But what many people forget to do while they’re getting dressed up for the evening is to have a plan on how to get home. Drinks and conversation start flowing, and next thing you know you’re trying to hail down a tuk tuk and negotiate pricing with the driver, or you’re attempting to get back to your hotel down poorly-lit streets and non-existent sidewalks.

Planning an epic night out in Sri Lanka? Have a plan for how you’re going to get home, don’t walk back to your hotel or guesthouse alone, and check on each other to make sure everyone is safe and sound. This might mean that you pre-book your transportation and ask a trusted tuk tuk or car driver to pick you up at the end of the night at an agreed-upon time, or you pair up with a fellow solo female traveler or two and make a pact to head home altogether.

Looking for great places to go on a Friday or Saturday night in the south coast? You can’t go wrong with Verse Collective, The Doctor’s House, or Dot’s Hiriketiya.

For quiet(er) drinks head to Lighthouse Ahangama, Smoke & Bitters, Mond, Harding Boutique Hotel or the recently relocated Zephyr restaurant in Kamburugamuwa.

14. Do not escalate

One of the worst things you can do when faced with confrontation in Sri Lanka is to escalate the issue, get aggressive or use profanities. Do not, I repeat, do not, escalate the situation. Sometimes with the language barrier all that is heard on the other end of the conversation is swear words, even if the F word is just being used emphatically – you never know when something will be taken out of context.

The best thing you can do if you find yourself in unwanted confrontation is to walk away – you may want to remove yourself from the situation and step into a shop or a restaurant where there are other people.

As I said before, people in Sri Lanka are generally very warm, friendly and hospitable. But there are difficult people all around the world, especially if alcohol is involved. I recommend that you exercise a reasonable amount of caution and humility, and be aware of your surroundings.

15. Keep these numbers handy

The tourism industry is critical to Sri Lanka’s economy, and as of 2018 created nearly half a million direct and indirect employment opportunities for its citizens – those in the tourism industry in Sri Lanka want you to enjoy your time in the country, and work very hard to create unique and memorable experiences.

So, if something happens to you, call the tourism police or tell your hotel immediately so that they can file a report on your behalf. Don’t leave incidents unreported. Here are some key numbers to know for your solo trip to Sri Lanka:

• 1912 for Sri Lanka’s tourist police
• 119 for emergency services
• +94 112426800 and +94 11 2426 900 for Sri Lanka tourism
• +94 11 242 1052 / +94 11 242 1451 for the Senior Superintendent of Police for Sri Lanka Tourism Police. Also reachable via e-mail at [email protected]

Looking for more tips on what NOT to do in Sri Lanka?  Click here for 15 things to avoid doing in Sri Lanka!

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.

SRI LANKA BOOKING TIP:   Read this article for tried-and-tested boutique hotels in Sri Lanka , or  click here to explore the array of accommodation options in Sri Lanka ! You can filter by price, type of accommodation and review scores.

And as is the case while traveling in general, it also makes sense not to flash money around and leave expensive jewelry and electronics in your hotel room or at home, and keep a close eye on your personal belongings when you head out.

The vast majority of solo female travelers will have a wonderful, fuss-free experience and create extraordinary memories in Sri Lanka. However, I hope these solo female travel tips for Sri Lanka help you to better plan for any contingencies during your trip!

Planning a trip to Sri Lanka? Here are some quick logistics must-knows:

✈️  To get into Sri Lanka by air you will fly into Bandaranaike International Airport  (airport code: CMB).

🛂  Most visitors will need to  apply for a Sri Lanka e-visa  (except for nationals of Singapore, Maldives and Seychelles) but can be done online. It usually takes 24-48 hours for the visa approval to come through via e-mail. Here is my step-by-step guide to using the new Sri Lanka electronic visa website. You can also get a Sri Lankan visa upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, though lines can be long during the peak season. Save yourself some time and hassle by  filling out the arrival form online  as paper forms may not be distributed on your flight.

💱  The currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee  (different from the Indian Rupee), and the official exchange rate currently varies from approximately 300-330 LKR: 1 USD/Euro or 200 LKR: 1 AUD. Cash is king, so either exchange some money upon arrival or withdraw some from ATMs in major cities like Colombo and Galle.

📱  Local SIM cards and data packages can be picked up at the airport . You can  buy a 30-day Sri Lanka SIM card from Mobitel here  (the booth is located in the arrivals hall after you pick up your luggage) and top it up during your stay at any Food City supermarket or local Mobitel shop.

👚  The primary religion in Sri Lanka is Buddhism , so be mindful of your attire when you visit temples. While there is no strict dress code it can be considered culturally offensive to walk around towns and villages wearing extremely skimpy outfits – the same goes for men and women. If you are driving a scooter you absolutely need to wear a helmet, shoes and a shirt (at the very least!)  Read more on what not to do in Sri Lanka here.

💵 In general there is no need to tip if your hotel or restaurant has included a service charge. However, a small tip is always appreciated by people in the service industry (such as porters, housekeeping staff, waiters etc.) and tuk tuk drivers.

🛏️  There are a variety of hotel options suiting every budget : budget hotels can cost anywhere from US$30-50/night, mid-range hotels from US$75-120/night and luxury hotels from US$150-200/night and upwards. l always recommend booking hotels in advance when you are planning a trip to Sri Lanka, as popular hotels fill up quickly –  click here for some of the best tried-and-tested boutique and luxury hotels to stay at in Sri Lanka .

• Hit (On) and Run: The Hazards Of Being Female In Sri Lanka
• 90% Of Sri Lankan Women Have Been Sexually Harassed On Public Transport
• An Analysis of the Effect of Tourist Harassment on the Destination Image of Sri Lanka: Foreign Tourists’ Perspective
• The economic hit of harassment: The female tourist experience
• The Behavioral Characteristics of Female Solo Travellers in Sri Lanka

Heading to Sri Lanka? You might also find these guides helpful:

• Kick off 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 or my express 1 week in Sri Lanka guide
• Traveling down south? Here is my ultimate guide to south Sri Lanka
• One of the best things to do as a solo female traveler in Sri Lanka is to join a yoga retreat. Here are some reasons why!
• Did you know? Sri Lanka is one of the best places in the world to see elephants in the wild. Here is  where to see elephants in Sri Lanka
• I’ve loved experiencing boutique and luxury hotels around the island. Here are some of my favorite  hotels in Sri Lanka
• Looking for even more Sri Lanka travel tips and destination guides?  Click here for everything you need to help plan your trip to Sri Lanka

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A Solo Traveller’s Guide to Colombo, Sri Lanka

Senior Travel Writer

Colonial architecture alongside modern hotels, busy street markets juxtaposed with traditional afternoon tea – the Sri Lankan capital is all about contradictions. A gateway to the country’s ancient temples and unspoilt jungle, Colombo is steeped in history and culture, with plenty of shopping opps, making it a destination in its own right and the perfect spot for a solo stay.

What’s the vibe.

However you make the most of your “me” time, you’re in for a treat in Colombo, with an itinerary of shopping sprees in boutiques and indie stores, bouncing around classy bars and street-food stalls, and time on the beach. A melting pot of cultural influences – from Buddhist and Hindu to western – and generally safe streets make Colombo a great destination for solo travellers of any gender.

A Colombo trip overview for solo travellers

The diversity of Colombo spills out into a variety of neighbourhoods both near to and away from the seaside. You’ll need more than two days to explore the Gangaramaya temple, eat your way down the Galle Face Green and wander Pettah’s unique mosque, museum and market. The dry season here runs from December to March, granting the best weather conditions here on the west coast. You won’t be put off when visiting in other months, but you won’t catch nearly as many rays on popular Mount Lavinia Beach.

Where to stay in Colombo as a solo traveller

Divided into numbered neighbourhoods, Colombo is home to 15 unique areas that each have a special flavour. From the up-and-coming Colombo 2 to the ever-growing Colombo 5, there’s an amazing street eat, a revered temple or quirky shop near your hotel. Spice things up with a stay in one of these colourful Colombo neighbourhoods .

Cinnamon Gardens

The affluent Cinnamon Gardens is only 3km (2mi) from the city centre but feels like a world away, and it’s the place to stay if you want to spoil yourself with lavish digs. Check into a hotel and you’ll have the Prime Minister’s Office as your neighbour. Upmarket cafes and galleries will allow you to enjoy your visit in style. With its own rooftop bar and infinity pool, we recommend a stay at Jetwing Colombo Seven .

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Home to some of the oldest buildings in the city as well as the busy harbour, Fort is the CBD of Colombo. Popular tourist spots like the Dutch Hospital and Old Colombo Lighthouse call this neighbourhood home. Spend the night in Fort if you want to stick close to your itinerary without being in the city centre. There are budget options in C1 Colombo Fort and CityRest Fort , as well as a luxury experience available at the Grand Oriental Hotel .

Kollupitiya

Kollupitiya is the multicultural heart of Colombo. Home to the Gangaramaya Temple, the National Museum, Galle Face Green and an old colonial brewery, this central neighbourhood puts you within walking distance of the city’s best sights. Push the boat out with a stay at the Taj Samudra or the Galle Face Hotel , right on the shoreline.

Bambalapitiya

Colombo 4, Bambalapitiya, is a shopper’s paradise by the sea. Scour the malls for deals, then take the cash you’ve saved out for a night on the town. Casinos, pubs and restaurants galore dot this bustling neighbourhood.

What to do in Colombo as a solo traveller

The longer you stay in Colombo, the more you realise just how much there is to see and do here . After visiting the hallmark sights like the National Museum and Gangaramaya Temple, dig deeper into the country’s history and culture with these engaging and enlightening activities that are perfect for solo travellers.

Take a relaxed ride on Beira Lake

Located close to the Gangaramaya Temple, Beira Lake is a tranquil place to kick back and rest your feet. The beautiful Buddha statues lining the shore will inspire you to discover the stunning Seema Malakaya temple in the centre. Take a boat ride to get closer to the shrine, spotting wildlife like monitor lizards and storks as you paddle through the water.

Shop for a batik

Batik is a technique used to dye cloth that originated in Indonesia – and it’s a souvenir you can’t leave Colombo without. Head to one of the best places to get batik from , such as Buddhi Batiks in Koswadiya, where you’ll be supporting a family-owned business full of talented artisans. Buddha Batiks has batik products ranging from bags and saris to bikinis and dresses, so it’s an excellent place to pick up gifts.

Drink up a dodgy bar walk

Unlike other cities, the no-frills bars of Colombo are institutions, with their own hole-in-the-wall histories. Downing arrack, a spirit made from the fermented sap of a coconut flower, while getting to know the local history of Colombo, is a wonderful way to liven up a night in the city.

You can join a dodgy bar walk during your first night in Colombo on Culture Trip’s 12-day small-group tour of Sri Lanka .

Eating and drinking in Colombo

You’ll find Indian, Dutch, English and Portuguese influences here, so you won’t be surprised to find the capital has an eclectic food scene, and foodies of all budget levels will have a gut-busting good time here.

When dining out in Colombo, you’ll rarely find a menu without rice and curry. The flatbread roti will surely accompany every dish from the pancake-like appam to lamprais , banana leaves full of rice, curry and meatballs. If you’re avoiding meat – whether permanently or just for your trip – fear not. There’s a great selection of vegetarian restaurants to pick from.

Drinking in Colombo is about simple pleasures. A refreshing gulp of coconut water served in the shell always hits the spot. Also, make time for a cuppa – Sri Lanka is the world’s fourth largest tea producer, so you’ll get a decent brew here. For a stronger sip, a drink mixed with the arrack or a local Lion beer is what you should request at the bar.

Stay safe, stay happy

The Indian Ocean is alluring and you can enjoy time on the beach in Colombo at Galle Face or Wellawatte. However, do keep in mind that undertows can make swimming and surfing dangerous, so be mindful of conditions and only enjoy the water when there’s a lifeguard present.

Getting around Colombo as a solo traveller

The Sri Lankan capital isn’t difficult to navigate, though it may be time-consuming depending on your mode of transportation. Metered taxis are easy to hail, and your hotel should have no trouble arranging a ride if requested. Tuk-tuks and buses will also take you around, though traffic throughout the city could cause delays. If you don’t mind light walking, it’s convenient to take a tuk-tuk to, say, Galle Face Green, and you’ll then have no issues walking to sights such as Gangaramaya Temple, Independence Square and the National Museum.

Cultural need-to-knows

You won’t need to be on guard in Colombo any more than you would in the average capital city. However, it’s wise to keep in mind that scammers and pickpockets may take advantage of tourists. Regarding customs, you’ll likely be given cutlery in restaurants, but eating with your right hand is customary around Asia.

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Solo travel in sri lanka: unraveling the safety quandary.

• By gotourslanka.com
• 7 April 2024

Solo Travel in Sri Lanka!

The allure of Sri Lanka, with its lush landscapes, pristine beaches, and vibrant culture, often beckons solo travelers seeking adventure and tranquility. But a common question looms: Is it safe to travel alone in Sri Lanka? Let’s unravel this safety quandary and shed light on the solo traveler’s experience in this enchanting island nation.read our Bold to stay updated with solo Travel in Sri Lanka.

1. A Friendly Nation

Sri Lanka is renowned for its warm and welcoming people. Solo travelers often find themselves embraced by the hospitality of locals. Whether you’re exploring bustling markets, dining at local eateries, or seeking directions, you’ll encounter friendly faces ready to assist and engage in genuine conversations.

2. Low Crime Rates

Sri Lanka boasts low crime rates, particularly in comparison to many other travel destinations. Violent crime against tourists is rare, and petty theft is minimal. As with any place, it’s essential to exercise basic precautions, such as safeguarding your belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night.

3. A Budding Solo Travel Scene

Sri Lanka’s tourism landscape has evolved to accommodate solo travelers. Hostels, guesthouses, and boutique hotels offer affordable accommodations tailored to individual explorers. These establishments often foster a sense of community, making it easy to connect with fellow travelers.

4. Exceptional Transportation

Navigating Sri Lanka as a solo traveler is relatively straightforward. The country’s public transportation network, including buses and trains, is extensive and economical. Tuk-tuks, the iconic three-wheeled taxis, provide convenient and budget-friendly rides within cities.

5. Cultural Sensitivity

Respecting local customs is crucial for solo travelers. Dress modestly, particularly when visiting temples and rural areas, to show respect for cultural norms. Engaging with locals with an open heart and a smile goes a long way in fostering positive interactions.

6. Natural Beauty and Adventure

Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to pristine beaches, offer solo travelers a playground of natural beauty and adventure. Safaris in national parks, hiking through tea plantations, and relaxing on idyllic shores provide ample opportunities for unforgettable experiences.

7. Adventure with Caution

While Sri Lanka is generally safe, solo travelers should exercise caution in regions where civil unrest or natural disasters are prevalent. Staying informed about local conditions and heeding government travel advisories is essential.

In conclusion, solo travel in Sri Lanka can be a safe and rewarding experience. By embracing the country’s rich culture, connecting with its friendly inhabitants, and taking necessary precautions, solo travelers can embark on a journey filled with exploration, adventure, and the creation of lasting memories in this gem of an island nation.

Visit  Go Tours Lanka Travel Blog to read more about Solo Travel in Sri Lanka. and read our tour reviews on Tripadvisor

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Solo Experiences in Sri Lanka

Whether you’re here alone or with friends and family, Sri Lanka has a way of adopting you and making you feel at home. Maybe it’s the friendly people or maybe it’s the culture steeped in history, either way there’s always something to intrigue the soul here.

If you’re travelling in Sri Lanka alone, here are a few things you mustn’t miss out on.

Sri Lanka’s flourishing biodiversity is one of the country’s closely-protected treasures.There are hundreds of endemic animal species as well as plants spread out around the country, and its climate accommodates a wide variety of flora and fauna to thrive. If you’re in Sri Lanka, one thing you mustn’t miss out on is visiting the island’s nature parks, rainforests, or bird sanctuaries. The land animals most commonly associated with Sri Lanka includes the Asian elephant subspecies Elephas maximus and a variety of Old World monkeys, all of which could be seen across the country.

2. Beaches and the Ocean

As Sri Lanka is an island, there’s bound to be tons of great beaches all around. This is, in fact, true. Sri Lanka’s beaches are not only beautiful, but also quite active. You can surf, snorkel, swim, and even bump into a few sea turtles now and then. If you’re worried about shark attacks, you shouldn’t be. Though they are already relatively rare across the globe, there are no incidents of shark attacks close to Sri Lanka’s shores. Of course, this doesn’t mean there’s a lack of sharks, though. Places like Trincomalee are positively teeming with them, especially along the coral reefs, where you could find blacktip reef sharks. Whales and dolphins are plentiful in Sri Lanka’s waters, and that’s just another reason to pay it a lengthy visit.

3. Villages

The city has a lot to offer tourists, of course, but the villages is where you can find heart. Keeping to the old ways, you could still find in rural areas mud huts and thatched roofs, woodfire stoves, and traditional Sri Lankan clothing (sarong, redda hatte). The air is unpolluted and greenery is abundant.

It’s a quiet sort of escape from the hustle and bustle of the cities and towns. If you’re keen on exploring Sri Lankan culture, dropping by a few rural villages is highly recommended.

4. Street food

Sri Lankan cuisine is a combination of various other cuisines in the region as well as authentically Sri Lankan styles. A chunk of the local cuisine was built on the influences of the country’s minorities, such as the Malays and Tamils, which is why some of these dishes bear a striking resemblance to South Indian and Malaysian foods. The foods available here are variegated and there’s something to fit every palate, even the more sensitive ones. For example, appa (hopper), a type of local pancake, is served with an egg in the centre and a type of ground-up chilli paste, but kiri appa (milk hopper) is actually closer to dessert and is quite easy on both the tongue and the stomach.

5. Peraheras

A perahera is a grand progression involving dancers, elephants, monkeys, instruments, and more. They only take place on certain nights of the year, but is filled with colour and light, and is near-luxurious.

If you happen to be in the country during the season, it’s worth catching a glimpse of these progressions. The twirling fire dancers, traditional music, fairy lights, and densely embroidered Kandyan costumes do not disappoint!

Traveling Without a Passport

Solo Female Travel in Sri Lanka: is it Safe?

With hospitable locals, flourishing tea fields, and idyllic beaches, Sri Lanka is a common spot on many 2019 top destination lists; and it’s no surprise why. But is Sri Lanka safe for solo female travel? The answer is yes, but of course, there are always a few things you can do to feel safer and more secure during your trip.

The rolling hills that encompass the island provide a peaceful haven in which travellers are invited to ditch their data roaming and instead find their inner zen. Here, you can experience the true essence of Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist culture and follow the history back through ancient pilgrimages across some of the oldest cities in the world.

Considering Sri Lanka is so small in size, the amount of fun things there are to do and amazing places to explore is quite remarkable. The long list of must-do activities in Sri Lanka, and the fact that it oozes a safe, welcoming and hospitable ora, makes it an appealing destination for female solo travellers.

Although it may be safe now, Sri Lanka has had a rocky past, and still struggles with some of the issues involved with being a developing nation. It’s always good to be aware of the risks and follow some safety tips.

Travel to: Sri Lanka

1. Dress conservatively

When visiting Sri Lanka, try to pack some slightly more conservative clothes for the days spent exploring the cities and leave bikinis and skimpy pieces for the days spent on the beach. Not only are the locals not used to it, but it can be seen as disrespectful to the Buddhist culture, which is the primary religion in Sri Lanka.

See Also: Make Human Connections While Travelling and the World Becomes Your Oyster

2. Avoid being alone at night

Although female solo travellers are free to travel wherever they want in the day, nighttime is a different matter. Don’t walk home or catch a tuk-tuk by yourself late at night; instead, travel home in a group and ask to be dropped off first. For extra precaution, you can also tell your accommodation what time you expect to be home so that they know you’re safe.

3. Keep your wits about you on public transport

Public transport in Sri Lanka is both reliable and affordable, but like most cities, peak hours see lots of passengers huddled together. This unfortunately means that touching strangers is unavoidable and sometimes can encourage those who take a liking to you to perhaps act inappropriately. If you feel uncomfortable, change your seat, or sit with local women (who also go through this). Much like the point listed above, try to also avoid taking trains or buses at night and just keep it to daytime use.

4. Drink responsibly

Although much like Thailand, Sri Lanka offers the opportunity to take part in all-night beach parties, for a female solo traveller it is important to keep your wits about you and take a pass on some of the big nights out. The last thing you want is to be in a situation where you’re in a foreign country and don’t quite understand where you are or what’s going on. So, perhaps visit the party with friends that you’ve gotten to know well, or alternatively give the drinking a miss in Sri Lanka and instead embrace a spiritual detox like no other (there’s no better place to do it!).

See Also: We Rank the Best Beaches in Sri Lanka

5. Choose accommodation right in the action

Staying near all the main attractions not only means that you’ll save heaps of money on transport but you will also avoid being in secluded places where there are not many people around you. Travelling alone can lead to putting yourself in vulnerable situations, and so being in highly populated areas will ensure there will always be people around if you need help at any time.

6. Always ask for help when needed

Never shy away from asking for help! Sri Lankans are extremely hospitable and friendly people and would be happy to help with anything you may need, particularly if you’re feeling unsafe or need directions. Not everyone will speak English, so it’s a good idea to learn a few basic phrases before your trip. There are three official languages in Sri Lanka: English, Sinhala, and Tamil; here are a few phrases to get you started.

Important phrases in Sinhala

• හෙලෝ ( Helō ): Hello
• මට උදව් අවශ්යයි (Mata udav avaśyayi): I need help
• ඔබට ස්තුතියි (Obata stutiyi): Thank you
• නාන කාමරය කොහෙද (Nāna kāmaraya koheda) : Where’s the bathroom?

Important phrases in Tamil

• வணக்கம் (Vanakkam): Hello
• எனக்கு உதவி தேவை (Enakku utavi tēvai): I need help
• நன்றி (Nanri): Thank you
• குளியலறை எங்கே (Kuliyalarai enkē) : Where’s the bathroom?

7. Be confident

There’s power in trusting your gut: if a situation doesn’t feel right, don’t do it. Of course it’s flattering to get attention on your trip to Sri Lanka, but if you find you’ve been taken somewhere away from the crowds and begin to feel uncomfortable, then simply give it a miss. Also, if you do find yourself uncomfortable, be confident in the signals you give to people and they will respect your wishes.

8. Keep your family and friends in the know

Although they may be back home, it’s a good idea to keep your family and friends aware of both where you are going and where you are staying. On the ‘Find Your Friends’ iPhone app you can keep your location switched on so that your contacts can track your location and notice if something becomes a bit odd. They can then, if needed, contact authorities or your accommodation host on your behalf.

See Also: Travelling to a Country Post-Conflict

9. Or… Travel as a group!

Although there are lots of benefits to solo trips, travelling as part of a group breeds a whole new type of experience! Perhaps you’re only visiting Sri Lanka alone because your friends are all busy, or have different places on their travel bucket lists, but this doesn’t mean you have to go solo. Groups are a great way to remain safe and try things you may not have been able to do if you were by yourself. It’s also extremely cost-effective to travel as a group, with splitting tuk-tuks for transport, sharing multiple dishes to get a real taste of Sri Lanka, and even enjoying group discounts on accommodation. Not to mention the fact that you get to share the experience with other people and make life-long friends.

Although these tips present possible risks, don’t let any of this shy you away from Sri Lanka as the people here, as a whole, are extremely genuine and welcoming. It’s much more likely that you’d be invited into a local’s home for a jackfruit curry (a popular Sri Lankan delicacy) than be pickpocketed. However, it’s good to be aware of the risks and take precautions accordingly, so that you can relax and enjoy your time in the country of warm smiles, tranquil settings, and enchanting wildlife.

Simone Richardson

Half-English and half-Canadian, Simone now resides in Melbourne where she is consumed by both the Victorian architecture and the love of tending to her garden. When she isn’t planning her next adventure or fertilising her blood orange tree, she enjoys writing, hiking, and learning German.

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