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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.

Related Posts

• Solo Travel in India  
• Solo Travel in Asia

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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 one of the top travel destinations in Asia.

This country offers a lot of variety and there are plenty of places to explore here, from the colonial Nine Arch Bridge to Lipton’s Seat , one of the most beautiful tea plantations in the world.

You might ask yourself some questions if you’re planning on travelling in Sri Lanka by yourself, though, and that’s exactly where this guide comes in handy. It will answer your questions about safety, the cost of travel, how to get around, the best solo travel destinations and more.

So, let’s dive right into it! Here’s everything you need to know if you’re planning a solo trip to Sri Lanka.

Solo Travel in Sri Lanka: Everything You Should Know

Is Sri Lanka safe for solo female travellers?

One of the main concerns you may have is whether Sri Lanka is safe for solo female travellers, and the answer is yes, Sri Lanka is generally safe . Except for one (very unpleasant) occasion, there hasn’t been a moment I didn’t feel safe during the 2,5 months I backpacked around this island by myself.

However, no destination is 100% safe and sexual harassment occurs in Sri Lanka . This happened to me too at a hotel in Sirigiya. Turns out I was very lucky nothing really bad happened because, according to the locals, that hotel owner has raped plenty of women in the past.

Although I pressed charges against him and other women have done the same, the police didn’t take any action because he bribed them. Unfortunately, corruption is a big problem in many Asian countries and Sri Lanka is no different.

I’m not saying this to scare you and would like to encourage you to travel to Sri Lanka by yourself. However, there are things you should be aware of. It’s important to stay vigilant, trust your gut and stand up for yourself if necessary.

Apart from this incident, I always felt safe in Sri Lanka, even though I was travelling there at the height of the severe economic crisis of 2022 . The locals were super friendly and I met plenty of other solo (female) travellers.

❗ If you go to Sigiriya, DO NOT STAY AT  Wali Kukula Nest  and keep an eye on where this hotel is located because it changes names all the time due to the terrible reviews.

Cost of solo travel in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is one of the cheapest countries in Asia and it’s pretty affordable to travel here by yourself. You will find a couple of examples of what you can expect to pay below.

All in all, Sri Lanka is cheaper than India and many other Asian countries I have visited.

How to get around in Sri Lanka

It’s pretty easy to get around Sri Lanka. You will find the best methods of transport below:

• Train: Sri Lanka is home to some of the most beautiful train journeys in the world (the train from Kandy to Ella is particularly famous). The train network in Sri Lanka is pretty extensive and taking the train is a great way to get from one city to another.
• Bus: If the train is not an option or if you’re travelling to more remote areas, taking the local bus is another economical way to get around Sri Lanka.
• Tuk-tuk: Taking the tuk-tuk is the easiest method of transport for shorter distances. You will find these nearly everywhere in Sri Lanka.
• Scooter: If you feel comfortable riding a scooter in Sri Lanka, this can easily be done. You will find plenty of scooter rental shops all over the island.
• Private car: Although a private car is more expensive, this is a fast and flexible way to get around Sri Lanka.

Best time to visit Sri Lanka

There are two rainy seasons in Sri Lanka. November and December are the wettest months in the Northeast and April to June are the wettest months in the Southeast.

So, the best (read: dryest) time to visit Sri Lanka depends on the region:

• Southwest Sri Lanka: November to April
• Northeast Sri Lanka: February to September

It’s good to know that the temperatures stay more or less the same all year round. The average temperature is 27 to 28°C (80°F to 82°F) in Sri Lanka. It will be a bit colder in and around Ella and Nuwara Eliya, though.

Top solo travel destinations in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is one of these countries where I met plenty of other solo travellers . In fact, I met more solo travellers here than in any other country I’ve visited so far! So, you don’t need to worry about meeting other travellers in Sri Lanka.

You will find the best places to travel in Sri Lanka for solo travellers below. These are the places where most solo travellers hang out.

Although the capital of Sri Lanka is often skipped during a trip to the country, I think Colombo is worth visiting for a day. I wouldn’t go out of my way to visit this city, but as Colombo is close to the airport, you will probably be in the neighbourhood anyway.

Colombo is home to plenty of temples, colonial buildings and bustling markets. Some of the places that you cannot miss here are the Gangaramaya Temple , the  Seema Malakaya Temple , the Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque and Pettah Market .

If you like visiting museums, the Colombo   National Museum and the Dutch Museum , which is set in a colonial building, are great places to head as well.

All in all, Colombo might not be the most exciting destination in Sri Lanka, but it is worth spending some time here after landing or before heading back to the airport.

2. Galle Fort

Galle Fort is one of Sri Lanka’s most picturesque destinations. This colonial town was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century but was later conquered by the Dutch and the British.

You will find plenty of colonial buildings here, and Galle is also famous for its charming boutiques and interesting museums.

Some of the best places to visit in Galle are the Galle Lighthouse, the ramparts, the All Saints Church and the Old Gate. There are many more, however. Galle is a place I really loved visiting.

3. Sigiriya

Sigiriya is part of the Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka and it’s one of the highlights during a trip to this country. This little town is home to the famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress , which dates back to the 5th century. It was built by King Kasyapa and used as his royal residence.

There are plenty of other interesting places to visit in and around Sigiriya as well, though. The Dambulla Cave Temples, the Avukana Buddha Statue and Anuradhapura, the first capital of Sri Lanka, are just a few examples.

As Sigiriya is a stop nearly every traveller will make when they’re visiting Sri Lanka, you will find plenty of other solo travellers here.

Ella is one of my favourite places in Sri Lanka. It’s located in the middle of lush green hills and tea plantations, in the south-central part of the island, and it’s a dream for nature lovers.

This town is home to the famous Nine Arch Bridge and some of the best hikes in Sri Lanka . It’s also famous for the Kandy to Ella train ride , which is considered to be one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world.

As Ella is a popular stop during a trip to Sri Lanka, this is another place where you will find plenty of other solo travellers.

Kandy, the capital of Sri Lanka’s Central Province, is famous for being home to the famous Temple of the Sacred Tooth , which is one of the most important Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka. It’s believed that this temple houses the tooth of the Buddha himself, and an interesting ceremony is held here three times a day.

Apart from the Temple of the Tooth, there are also beautiful botanical gardens in Kandy and the Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue is worth checking out as well.

All in all, Kandy is worth visiting and adding to your itinerary.

If you have the time and are up for an adventure, I would recommend visiting Ambuluwawa Tower too when you’re in Kandy. This tower is a 25-km (15.5 mi) ride from Galle and it’s one of Sri Lanka’s most unique landmarks.

Mirissa is another destination that should not miss from any itinerary for Sri Lanka .

Not only will you find some of the island’s most beautiful beaches here, but Mirissa is also home to Coconut Tree Hill , one of the most photogenic places in Sri Lanka.

Apart from that, Parrot Rock and Secret Beach are worth checking out as well, and Mirissa is one of the best places to go whale watching in Sri Lanka.

Although I’m not much of a beach person, I liked Mirissa. This is a great place to relax and as this is one of the most famous beaches on the island, you will meet a lot of solo travellers here.

7. Unawatuna

Unawatuna is another beautiful beach destination, just 5 km (3 mi) from Galle (#2 on this list). Apart from Unawatuna Beach , the nearby Jungle Beach and Wijaya Beach are worth visiting too.

There are plenty of restaurants and bars here as well, and Unawatuna is famous for its vibrant nightlife scene. So, if this is something you’re interested in, Unawatuna is the place for you.

8. Arugam Bay

Arugam Bay is located on the east coast of Sri Lanka . This place is famous for its lively surfing scene between May and September.

This is one of Sri Lanka’s top surfing destinations and it’s one of these must-visit places if you enjoy this sport.

It’s good to know that if you’re not into surfing, there are plenty of other things to do in Arugam Bay as well. Some of the things you cannot miss here are the Muhudu Maha Viharaya and Elephant Rock . On top of that, there are some nice things to do in the surroundings too. Going on a safari and visiting Buddhist monasteries, for example.

9. Trincomalee

Also located on Sri Lanka’s east coast, Trincomalee is another amazing beach destination in the country. Some of the most popular things to do here are snorkelling , scuba diving , whale watching and simply relaxing at the beach .

The east coast of Sri Lanka is quieter and less touristy than the west coast, which is a good reason to visit it if you’re asking me.

10. Yala or Udawalawe National Park

One of these bucket list experiences in Sri Lanka is to go on a wildlife safari! You will have a chance to spot plenty of animals in this country.

Yala National Park , Sri Lanka’s most popular national park, is famous for being one of the places where you might spot a leopard, although you have to be very lucky to do so. Some of the other animals that live here are elephants, water buffalos, sloth bears, deer, peacocks, crocodiles and many species of birds.

If you would like to spot elephants, Udawalawe National Park is the place to go. Although it’s true that there’s no guarantee to spot anything as wildlife is unpredictable, you have a very high chance to spot these animals here.

I did a safari in Yala National Park and spotted many animals, but no leopard in sight, though.

Tip: If you would like to see swimming elephants and would rather visit a less crowded park, Gal Oya National Park is the place for you! This was one of my favourite places to visit in Sri Lanka. I went on a boat safari there and it’s one of my favourite travel experiences so far.

Tips for travelling in Sri Lanka solo

Finally, if you’re convinced and decide to travel to Sri Lanka solo (which I highly recommend doing), make sure to check out the following tips:

• Stay in hostels if you want to meet other solo travellers easily. Although you will find more solo travellers in hostels, I didn’t stay in hostels myself and still met plenty of people travelling alone.
• Always use your common sense , if something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.
• Act confident and as if you know where you’re going, even if you don’t.
• Dress modestly and always carry a scarf with you to cover your shoulders when visiting temples.

Solo travel in Sri Lanka: Final thoughts

And that was it! All in all, I had a great time travelling around Sri Lanka by myself. I met plenty of other solo travellers in this country and, apart from the incident mentioned earlier in this post, I never felt unsafe.

Sri Lanka is a destination nature and culture lovers will love. This island is full of amazing beaches, historical landmarks and beautiful temples.

I hope that you have found exactly what you were looking for in this post and that it inspires you to travel to Sri Lanka by yourself!

Do you have more questions or is something missing from this guide? Let me know in the comments below!

Read more about Sri Lanka:

• The Ultimate 10-Day Sri Lanka Itinerary
• 15 Famous Landmarks in Sri Lanka

Ultimate Sri Lanka Bucket List: 29 Epic Experiences

• 16 Best Things to Do in Galle Fort
• 15 Best Things to Do In Ella
• 16 Epic Things to Do in Sigiriya
• 14 Best Things to Do in Mirissa
• 8 Places to Visit on the East Coast of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka travel planning guide

🛫 Find the cheapest flights to Sri Lanka on  Skyscann e r . 🏨 Find the best accommodation via  Booking  or  Hostelworld . 🛺 Download the  Pick Me app  to order a rickshaw or a taxi. 💰 Get travel insurance via  VisitorsCoverage , one of the best-reviewed travel insurance companies. 📋 Don’t forget to  check if you need a visa  to visit Sri Lanka.

Pin it for later: Did you find this post helpful? Save it on Pinterest and follow me on Instagram and Facebook for more travel tips and inspiration.

Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has travelled to over 40 countries, many of them solo. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

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• Trips & Itineraries

Solo Travel in Sri Lanka: Complete Guide (2024)

Solo travel is a liberating and empowering experience that allows individuals to embark on self-discovery and exploration. Sri Lanka, known as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” offers a perfect destination for solo travellers seeking adventure, cultural immersion, and natural beauty. This article will delve into the benefits of solo travel, safety tips, must-visit destinations, cultural experiences, outdoor activities, accommodation options, local cuisine, transportation, budgeting, interacting with locals, solo travel tips for female travellers, and sustainable travel practices in Sri Lanka 2024.

Benefits of Solo Travel in Sri Lanka

Self-discovery and personal growth.

Solo travel in Sri Lanka offers a unique opportunity for self-discovery and personal growth. Exploring the vibrant cities, serene beaches, and lush landscapes of Sri Lanka alone allows you to delve deep into your thoughts and desires. You can connect with the rich history and culture of the country, embark on adventures, and uncover hidden treasures that resonate with your interests.

Freedom and Independence

Solo travel in Sri Lanka provides unparalleled freedom and independence. You can create your itinerary, deciding where to go, what to see, and how long to stay at each destination. You can embrace spontaneity, wander off the beaten path, and explore the hidden gems of Sri Lanka at your own pace. This freedom allows you to immerse yourself in the island nation’s wonders fully.

Flexibility in Itinerary

Travelling alone in Sri Lanka allows you to design your itinerary according to your preferences and interests. Whether you want to spend more time in the cultural triangle, embark on a wildlife safari, or relax on pristine beaches, you can tailor your journey to suit your desires. The flexibility allows you to make the most of your time in Sri Lanka and create unforgettable memories.

Enhancing Self-Confidence

 Solo travel in Sri Lanka is an excellent way to improve self-confidence. Navigating through bustling cities, interacting with locals, and immersing yourself in new experiences all build self-assurance. By successfully handling challenges and embracing the unknown, you gain a more profound belief in your abilities and become more self-reliant.

Stepping out of Comfort Zone

Solo travel in Sri Lanka pushes you to step out of your comfort zone and embrace new experiences. Whether hiking to the summit of Adam’s Peak, engaging in water sports along the stunning coastline, or exploring ancient ruins, you’ll find yourself venturing into exciting territories that broaden your horizons. Embracing the unfamiliar helps you grow as an individual and expand your perspectives.

Cultural Immersion

Travelling alone in Sri Lanka allows you to immerse yourself in the island’s rich cultural heritage. From visiting ancient temples and UNESCO World Heritage sites to attending traditional festivals and interacting with locals, you can better understand Sri Lankan culture and traditions. Engaging with the warm and welcoming locals provides unique insights and enriches your travel experience.

Connecting with Locals

Solo travel in Sri Lanka presents numerous opportunities to connect with locals on a personal level. Sri Lankans are known for their hospitality and friendliness, and travelling alone makes it easier to establish meaningful connections. Whether sharing a meal with a local family, joining a community project, or participating in cultural activities, these interactions create lasting memories and foster a genuine appreciation for the local way of life.

Embracing Solitude

Travelling alone in Sri Lanka allows you to embrace moments of solitude amidst the captivating beauty of the country. Whether meditating in a tranquil temple, strolling along a secluded beach, or hiking through lush tea plantations, these solitary moments offer a chance to reflect, find inner peace, and connect with your surroundings on a deeper level.

Learning to Trust Yourself

Solo travel in Sri Lanka requires you to make decisions, solve problems, and navigate unfamiliar situations independently. You develop a sense of self-trust and self-reliance as you face and successfully overcome these challenges. Learning to trust your instincts and judgment while exploring Sri Lanka translates to increased confidence and resilience in all aspects of your life.

Empowerment and Liberation

Solo travel in Sri Lanka empowers you to control your experiences and make choices based solely on your desires. It liberates you from the constraints of societal expectations, allowing you to embrace your individuality and travel on your terms. This sense of empowerment carries over into other aspects of life, fostering a spirit of independence and autonomy.

Pushing Personal Boundaries

Travelling alone in Sri Lanka encourages you to make your boundaries and challenge your limits. Whether it’s conquering a fear of heights while hiking to breathtaking viewpoints, trying adventurous water sports, or exploring remote corners of the island, solo travel pushes you outside of your comfort zone and helps you grow as an individual.

Creating Unforgettable Memories

Solo travel in Sri Lanka often leads to some of the most memorable experiences of your life. Without the distractions of companions, you can fully immerse yourself in the present moment, savouring the island’s sights, sounds, and flavours. From witnessing stunning sunsets on golden beaches to exploring ancient ruins and encountering diverse wildlife, these unique and cherished memories become a part of your personal story, forever treasured.

Deepening Self-Awareness

Solo travel in Sri Lanka offers an opportunity for introspection and self-reflection. Being in a new environment and experiencing different cultures and perspectives can help you better understand yourself and your place in the world. It allows you to reflect on your values, priorities, and aspirations, leading to greater self-awareness.

Building Resilience

Traveling alone in Sri Lanka inevitably comes with its share of challenges and obstacles. However, overcoming these challenges helps build resilience and adaptability. It teaches you to be resourceful, problem-solve, and stay calm in unexpected situations. The strength you develop through solo travel can positively impact various areas of your life.

Discovering Hidden Talents and Interests

Travelling alone in Sri Lanka allows you to explore new activities, hobbies, and interests without any external influences. You may discover hidden talents, develop new passions, or gain insights into your interests. Solo travel provides a space for self-discovery and engaging in activities that genuinely resonate with you.

Embarking on a solo travel adventure in Sri Lanka offers numerous benefits beyond the destination. It allows you to grow, create lasting memories, and develop a deeper understanding of yourself and your world. So, embrace the freedom, embark on a journey of self-discovery, and let the enchanting beauty of Sri Lanka captivate your soul.

Safety Tips for Solo Travelers

Solo travel in Sri Lanka can be a safe and rewarding experience if you take certain precautions and stay alert. While the country is generally considered safe for travellers, it’s always important to prioritize your safety. Here are some detailed safety tips to keep in mind when embarking on a solo adventure in Sri Lanka:

Research the Local Customs and Traditions

Before your trip, take some time to research the local customs and traditions of Sri Lanka. Understanding and respecting cultural norms will help you blend in better and prevent any unintentional misunderstandings. In addition, familiarize yourself with basic greetings, appropriate dress codes, and local etiquette to show respect for the local culture.

Share Your Itinerary with a Trusted Person

Always share your travel itinerary with a trusted family member or friend. Please provide them with details of your accommodations, transportation plans, and any activities you have planned. Then, they will have the necessary information in an emergency or if someone needs to reach you.

Stay Vigilant and Trust Your Instincts

While exploring Sri Lanka, staying vigilant and trusting your instincts is essential. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid isolated areas, especially at night. If something feels off or uncomfortable, remove yourself from the situation. It’s better to prioritize your safety and find alternative options.

Choose Reputable Accommodation Establishments

When selecting your accommodations, opt for reputable establishments with positive reviews. In addition, look for places prioritizing security measures, such as 24-hour reception or security personnel. This will give you extra safety and peace of mind during your stay.

Use Reliable Transportation Services

When travelling within Sri Lanka, use reliable transportation services. Choose licensed taxis, reputable car rental companies, or reliable ridesharing services. If you’re taking public transportation, be cautious of your belongings and keep them secure. Avoid sharing personal information with strangers during your journeys.

Be Cautious with Your Valuables

Always secure your valuables, such as passports, cash, and electronics. Consider using a money belt or a secure bag to keep your belongings close to you. Be discreet when handling money or displaying expensive items to minimize the risk of theft or attracting unnecessary attention.

Stay Informed About Current Events

Stay informed about the current events and any potential travel advisories in Sri Lanka. Check the official travel websites of your home country or consult with local authorities to ensure you have the latest information. This will help you make informed decisions regarding your travel plans and destinations.

Respect the Ocean and Follow Beach Safety Guidelines

If you plan to enjoy Sri Lanka’s beautiful beaches, respecting the ocean and following beach safety guidelines are important. Listen to warning signs and lifeguards’ instructions, and avoid swimming in rough conditions or areas with strong currents. Always prioritize your safety while enjoying the coastal beauty.

These safety tips can enhance your solo travel experience in Sri Lanka and ensure a smooth and secure journey. Remember to stay alert, trust your instincts, and respect local customs and culture. Solo travel can be a transformative experience, and with the proper precautions, you can create lasting memories in the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean.”

Best Times to Visit Sri Lanka

When planning your solo trip to Sri Lanka, it’s crucial to consider the best time to visit, as the climate can vary across different regions of the country. Sri Lanka offers year-round opportunities for exploration, but understanding the seasonal patterns will help you make the most of your visit. So let’s dive into the specific seasons for the down south and east coast regions of Sri Lanka:

Down South Region

The down south region of Sri Lanka , including popular destinations such as Galle , Mirissa, and Tangalle, experiences a slightly different climate than other parts of the country. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons in this region:

Dry Season (November to April)

From November to April, the down south region experiences pleasant and sunny weather during the dry season. This is considered the peak tourist season for this part of Sri Lanka, as the beaches are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and engaging in water sports. The sea is usually calm, allowing you to enjoy snorkelling and diving adventures. It’s important to note that this period coincides with the winter months in many Western countries, making it an ideal time for travellers seeking respite from the cold.

Intermonsoonal Season (May to June, September to October)

The down south region experiences inter-monsoonal seasons during May and June, as well as September and October. These transitional periods bring occasional rain showers but are typically short-lived and followed by sunny spells. The advantage of visiting during these months is that you’ll find fewer crowds and better deals on accommodations and activities. Nevertheless, it’s worth packing an umbrella or rain jacket to be prepared for sporadic showers during your exploration.

East Coast Region

The east coast of Sri Lanka, including destinations like Trincomalee , Arugam Bay, and Pasikudah, has its distinct weather patterns. Here’s what you need to know:

Dry Season (May to September)

The dry season on the east coast occurs from May to September, making it the prime time to visit this region. You can expect plenty of sunshine, minimal rainfall, and calm seas during these months. The beaches on the east coast are renowned for their pristine beauty, and this is the perfect time to indulge in water activities such as surfing, snorkelling, and diving. However, it’s worth noting that due to its popularity, the east coast can get crowded with tourists during the peak dry season.

Intermonsoonal Season (October to November, February to April)

The inter-monsoonal seasons on the east coast fall between October and November, as well as February and April. You may experience occasional rain showers and slightly rougher seas during these periods. However, the showers are usually brief, allowing you to continue exploring the region. This is an excellent time to visit if you prefer a quieter atmosphere and want to avoid the crowds.

Understanding the distinct seasons of the down south and east coast regions of Sri Lanka will help you plan your solo travel adventure accordingly. Whether you’re seeking vibrant beach life or a more tranquil experience, Sri Lanka offers a range of options throughout the year. Consider your preferences and the activities you wish to engage in when deciding the best time to embark on your solo journey in this beautiful island nation.

Must-Visit Destinations in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a treasure trove of captivating destinations that offer a diverse range of experiences for solo travellers. From ancient historical sites to scenic coastal towns and lush green landscapes, here are some must-visit destinations to include in your solo travel itinerary:

Located on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, Galle is a charming city that seamlessly blends colonial charm with a vibrant local atmosphere. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Galle Fort , wander through narrow cobblestone streets, and admire the Dutch and Portuguese architecture. The fort offers breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean and houses quaint cafes, boutique shops, and art galleries. Places to visit in Galle 

As the capital city of Sri Lanka, Colombo is a bustling metropolis that showcases the country’s vibrant culture and modern development. Visit the bustling Pettah Market, admire the stunning Gangaramaya Temple , and explore the National Museum to glimpse the island’s rich history. Enjoy a sunset stroll along Galle Face Green , a famous seaside promenade, and savour delicious street food. Places to visit in Colombo 

Mirissa is a must-visit destination on Sri Lanka’s southern coast if you seek idyllic beaches and a laid-back coastal vibe. Spend your days basking in the sun on palm-fringed beaches, enjoy water sports such as snorkelling and surfing, and embark on a memorable whale-watching excursion. Mirissa offers a range of beachside restaurants and bars where you can unwind while enjoying stunning sunsets. Places to visit Mirissa and Things to Do 

Nestled amidst the misty hills of Sri Lanka’s central highlands, Ella is a picturesque town known for its breathtaking landscapes and hiking trails. Explore the stunning Ella Rock, hike to Little Adam’s Peak for panoramic views, and visit the iconic Nine Arch Bridge. Ella’s laid-back atmosphere and lush tea plantations create a serene ambience perfect for solo travellers looking to connect with nature. Places to visit in Ella 

The cultural capital of Sri Lanka, Kandy, is a city that immerses you in the country’s rich traditions and religious heritage. Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic , which houses a sacred tooth relic of the Buddha, and witness captivating cultural performances at the Kandy Cultural Show. Explore the Royal Botanical Gardens , stroll around Kandy Lake, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding hills. Places to visit in Kandy 

For surf enthusiasts, Arugam Bay is a paradise on the east coast of Sri Lanka. Known for its world-class waves, this laid-back beach town attracts surfers from around the globe. Whether a beginner or an experienced surfer, you can catch exhilarating waves and soak up the sun on pristine sandy beaches. Arugam Bay also offers a vibrant nightlife scene and a chance to connect with fellow travellers. 

Situated on the northwest coast, Kalpitiya is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of pristine beaches and stunning marine life. It’s an ideal destination for water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Enjoy kiteboarding or windsurfing in the turquoise waters, go dolphin and whale watching, and explore the vibrant coral reefs through snorkelling or diving excursions. Kalpitiya’s tranquil atmosphere and untouched beauty make it a memorable stop on your solo journey. Places to Visit and Things to Do in Kalpitiya 

Anuradhapura

For history buffs, Anuradhapura is a must-visit ancient city that showcases Sri Lanka’s rich historical and cultural heritage. Explore the sacred Bodhi Tree , which is believed to be the oldest recorded tree in the world, and marvel at the grandeur of ancient stupas and ruins. Anuradhapura offers a glimpse into the island’s ancient civilizations and provides solo travellers with a serene and spiritual experience. Best Places to visit in Anuradhapura

Located in the northern part of Sri Lanka, Jaffna is a city that has gradually opened up to travellers after the end of the civil war. Explore the historic Jaffna Fort , visit the colourful Nallur Kandaswamy Temple , and sample delicious local cuisine influenced by Tamil traditions. Jaffna’s rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality offer a unique perspective on Sri Lanka’s diverse identity. Best Places to Visit in Jaffna 

Habarana is a gateway to some of Sri Lanka’s most famous ancient sites in the heart of the Cultural Triangle. Visit the awe-inspiring Sigiriya Rock Fortress , which offers panoramic views from its summit, and explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, known for its well-preserved ruins. In addition, Habarana’s central location makes it a convenient base for exploring the region’s cultural treasures. Habarana Travel Guide 

Nuwara Eliya

Nestled in the misty mountains, Nuwara Eliya is often referred to as “Little England” due to its colonial architecture and tea plantations. Enjoy the cool climate, visit tea factories to learn about tea-making, and take a scenic train ride through the lush green landscapes. Nuwara Eliya’s picturesque setting and charming atmosphere make it a perfect retreat for solo travellers. Best Places to Visit in Nuwara Eliya.

Polonnaruwa

As the second capital of ancient Sri Lanka, Polonnaruwa offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s rich history and archaeological marvels. Explore the well-preserved ruins of ancient palaces, temples, and statues that date back to the 12th century. In addition, Polonnaruwa’s UNESCO World Heritage site showcases the architectural and engineering prowess of the bygone era. Best Places to Visit In Polonnaruwa

Sigiriya, also known as the Lion Rock, is an iconic UNESCO World Heritage site that captivates visitors with its ancient rock fortress. Climb to the top of this massive rock formation and admire the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Explore the well-preserved frescoes, marvel at the intricate water gardens, and learn about this beautiful site’s fascinating history and legends.

These must-visit destinations in Sri Lanka offer a diverse range of experiences for solo travellers. Each destination has unique charm and allure, from historical sites and cultural landmarks to stunning natural landscapes and serene beaches. So embark on a solo adventure and create unforgettable memories in the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean.” Sigiriya travel Guide

Cultural Experiences in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a country steeped in rich cultural heritage and traditions. As a solo traveller, immersing yourself in the local culture is an excellent way to connect with the island’s soul. Here are some subheadings highlighting the diverse cultural experiences Sri Lanka has to offer:

Temples and Sacred Sites

Sri Lanka has numerous temples and sacred sites with deep religious and historical significance:

• Visit the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, where the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha is enshrined.
• Explore the ancient city of Anuradhapura, known for its magnificent stupas and ruins.
• Take a trip to the Dambulla Cave Temple , a UNESCO World Heritage site adorned with intricate murals and statues.

These cultural landmarks provide insights into the spiritual traditions and beliefs of the Sri Lankan people.

Traditional Festivals

Participating in traditional festivals is an exhilarating way to experience the vibrant culture of Sri Lanka. First, witness the grandeur of the Esala Perahera in Kandy , a magnificent procession featuring traditional dancers, drummers, and adorned elephants. Then, celebrate the Sinhala and Tamil New Year, where locals engage in customs and rituals to welcome the new year. The vibrant colours, music, and dancing during these festivals create a truly immersive cultural experience. Also, Nallur Festival in Jaffna Region is a further famous month-long Festival. 

Historical Sites and Ancient Cities

Exploring the historical sites and ancient cities of Sri Lanka allows you to step back in time and appreciate the island’s rich past. Discover the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya, marvel at the well-preserved ruins of Polonnaruwa, and wander through the ancient city of Anuradhapura. These sites offer a glimpse into the architectural marvels and advanced civilizations that once thrived in Sri Lanka.

Traditional Arts and Crafts

Sri Lanka is known for its intricate arts and crafts, showcasing the craftsmanship and creativity of the local artisans. First, visit traditional villages like Ambalangoda, famous for its mask -making industry, and witness the intricate process of creating these vibrant masks. Next, explore the handloom villages of Kandy and Matale, where you can observe weavers crafting exquisite textiles. Purchasing these unique handcrafted items supports local artisans and allows you to bring a piece of Sri Lankan culture home.

Cultural Performances

Immerse yourself in the rhythm and grace of Sri Lankan cultural performances. Attend a mesmerizing Kandyan dance show in Kandy, where skilled dancers showcase their talent in vibrant costumes. Experience the traditional drumming ceremonies, known as “geta beraya,” which add a captivating beat to cultural events and rituals. These performances offer a glimpse into the rich artistic traditions and folklore of Sri Lanka. Cultural Show in Colombo and  Cultural Show in Habarana further popular among travellers.

Culinary Exploration

Sampling the local cuisine is an integral part of experiencing the culture of any country. Sri Lankan cuisine is a compelling fusion of flavours and spices. Indulge in delicious rice and curry dishes, try street food like hoppers and kottu roti, and sip authentic Ceylon tea. Take a cooking class and learn to prepare traditional Sri Lankan dishes, allowing you to bring the island’s flavours back home with you. 15 Most Popular Street Foods In Sri Lanka.

Cultural Villages and Homestays

For a truly immersive cultural experience, consider staying in a traditional village or a homestay. Engage with the locals, participate in traditional activities like farming or fishing, and gain a deeper understanding of their way of life. You can forge meaningful connections and create lasting memories by staying in a cultural village or a homestay. One of the best villages tours is the Hirivadunna village tour near Habarana 

These cultural experiences in Sri Lanka provide a window into the island’s vibrant heritage and traditions. Embrace the opportunity to engage with the local culture, learn from the locals, and create unforgettable memories during your solo journey.

Outdoor Activities for Solo Travellers

Regarding outdoor activities, Sri Lanka offers a wide array of thrilling adventures for solo travellers. Whether you seek adrenaline-pumping experiences or a chance to immerse yourself in the island’s natural beauty, there’s something for everyone. Here are some subheadings that provide more details about the outdoor activities you can enjoy in Sri Lanka:

Sri Lanka’s coastline is a paradise for surfers, catering to all experience levels. Popular surf spots such as Arugam Bay, Hikkaduwa, and Mirissa offer consistent yearly waves. So whether you’re a beginner looking to take your first lesson or an experienced surfer seeking challenging breaks, the island’s surf scene has something to offer. Surfing Beaches and Seasons  

Scuba Diving

Explore the vibrant underwater world surrounding Sri Lanka through scuba diving. The crystal-clear waters teem with colourful coral reefs, tropical fish, and intriguing shipwrecks. Destinations like Hikkaduwa, Trincomalee, and Unawatuna provide excellent diving opportunities, where you can discover the wonders of the Indian Ocean up close. 100+ scuba Dive Spots In Sri Lanka

Embark on an exciting wildlife safari adventure in Sri Lanka’s national parks and reserves. Yala National Park , Wilpattu National Park , Udawalawa and Minneriya National Park are renowned for their abundant wildlife, including elephants, leopards, sloth bears, and various bird species. Join a safari tour and witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitats.

Bird Watching

Sri Lanka is a haven for bird enthusiasts, boasting over 430 bird species, including resident and migratory birds. Bundala National Park, Kumana National Park, and Sinharaja Forest Reserve are some of the top birding spots. So grab your binoculars and spot a colourful array of feathered creatures amidst lush forests, wetlands, and coastal habitats. Best Bird watching Places in Sri Lanka

Kite Surfing

With its consistent winds and beautiful beaches, Sri Lanka is an ideal destination for kite surfing . Kalpitiya, located on the northwestern coast, is a popular spot for this thrilling water sport. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced kite surfer, the strong winds and flat water provide an exhilarating experience for solo travellers.

Hiking and Trekking

Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes offer ample opportunities for hiking and trekking adventures. From the misty hills of Ella and the Knuckles Mountain Range to the sacred trails of Adam’s Peak and the breathtaking trails of Horton Plains National Park, there’s a hike or trek for every level of fitness and interest. Best Places for Hiking and Trekking in Sri Lanka 

Water Rafting

For adrenaline junkies, white water rafting in Sri Lanka’s rivers is an exhilarating experience. Kitulgala , located in the central highlands, is the country’s premier rafting destination. Navigate through rapids and enjoy the breathtaking scenery as you conquer the gushing waters, creating unforgettable memories.

For a unique and breathtaking experience, consider hot air ballooning in Sri Lanka. Float above the scenic landscapes of Dambulla or Sigiriya and enjoy panoramic views of ancient ruins, lush greenery, and picturesque villages. The tranquillity and beauty of the surroundings from a hot air balloon will leave you with a memorable and awe-inspiring experience.

Explore Sri Lanka’s coastal beauty and pristine waters by indulging in a  adventure. Charter a yacht or join a sailing excursion to navigate the scenic coastline, discovering hidden coves, coral reefs, and tranquil bays. Enjoy the serenity of the open sea and soak in the beauty of the surrounding landscapes.

Snorkelling and Whale Watching

Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Sri Lanka and explore its underwater wonders through snorkelling . Put on your snorkel gear and witness colourful coral reefs and marine life. Additionally, the southern coast of Sri Lanka, particularly Mirissa and Trincomalee, offers the opportunity to spot magnificent whales and playful dolphins in their natural habitat. Whale watching in Sri Lanka

Immerse yourself in these outdoor activities during your solo trip to Sri Lanka, and let the beauty of nature and thrilling adventures create unforgettable memories.

Local Cuisine and Food Experiences

Exploring the local cuisine is essential to any travel experience, and Sri Lanka offers a tempting array of flavours and dishes that will delight your taste buds. From spicy curries to mouthwatering street food, the country’s culinary scene combines aromatic spices and fresh ingredients. Here are some subheadings that delve into the local food experiences in Sri Lanka:

Rice and Curry

Rice and curry form the heart of Sri Lankan cuisine. This traditional dish typically consists of aromatic basmati rice served with various vegetarian and non-vegetarian curries. Each curry bursts with flavours derived from a blend of cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and curry leaves. Indulge in a delightful array of curries, including chicken, fish, beef, and various vegetable options.

Street Food Delicacies

Immerse yourself in the vibrant street food culture of Sri Lanka. Wander through bustling markets and street stalls to sample a range of delicious snacks. Try hoppers, a popular Sri Lankan breakfast dish made from fermented rice flour, which can be enjoyed plain or with various accompaniments. Next, relish kottu roti, a savoury dish made with chopped roti, vegetables, and your choice of meat or seafood, all stir-fried on a hot griddle. Finally, don’t miss out on the delectable savoury pastries known as “short eats,” available in various fillings such as fish, chicken, or vegetable.

Seafood Extravaganza

With its vast coastline, Sri Lanka is a seafood lover’s paradise. Indulge in abundant fresh seafood, including succulent prawns, flavorful crabs, and a wide range of fish. Sample delicious seafood curries, grilled fish marinated in spices, or opt for the famous Sri Lankan delicacy, deviled seafood, featuring a tantalizing blend of spices and tangy flavours. Whether you’re dining at a beachside restaurant or a local eatery, the seafood in Sri Lanka is a culinary delight not to be missed.

Traditional Sweets and Desserts

Satisfy your sweet tooth with Sri Lanka’s traditional sweets and desserts. Try “kavum,” a deep-fried sweet made with rice flour and treacle, or “kokis,” intricately shaped crispy cookies made from rice flour and coconut milk. Indulge in “wattalappam,” a creamy coconut custard infused with jaggery and spices, or relish the tropical flavours of “wood apple” and “king coconut” in refreshing juice form. Sri Lankan sweets offer a delightful finale to your culinary adventures.

Tea and Spice Plantations

Sri Lanka is renowned for its tea and spice plantations that dot the scenic landscapes. Take a journey to Nuwara Eliya or Ella, where you can explore tea estates and witness the process of tea production. Engage in tea-tasting sessions and learn about the art of brewing the perfect cup of Ceylon tea. Then, discover the aromatic spice gardens, where you can observe the cultivation of cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and pepper. Immerse yourself in the scents and flavours that have made Sri Lanka a hub for spice enthusiasts.

Cooking Classes and Food Tours

Enhance your culinary experience in Sri Lanka by participating in cooking classes and food tours. Join a local chef who will guide you through preparing authentic Sri Lankan dishes, teaching you the techniques and secrets behind the flavours. Then, embark on a food tour to explore the bustling food markets, sample a variety of dishes, and gain insights into the local food culture from knowledgeable guides.

Sri Lankan cuisine offers a tantalizing journey for your taste buds with its bold flavours, aromatic spices, and diverse culinary traditions. Immerse yourself in the local food experiences, savour the rich flavours, and engage in the vibrant food culture that reflects the island’s heritage. From street food adventures to indulging in traditional dishes, Sri Lanka promises a delightful culinary exploration.

Transportation in Sri Lanka

When it comes to getting around in Sri Lanka, several transportation options are available to suit different preferences and budgets. Whether you prefer the convenience of taxis, the charm of train rides, the affordability of public transport, or the flexibility of tuk-tuks, you can easily navigate the country. Here are some subheadings that provide more details about transportation in Sri Lanka:

Train Travel

Travelling in Sri Lanka is a popular and scenic way to explore the country. The train network connects major cities and offers breathtaking views of lush landscapes, tea plantations, and picturesque villages. The observation carriages provide panoramic views, allowing you to soak in the natural beauty during your journey. Trains are known for their relaxed pace, allowing you to enjoy the scenery and interact with fellow travellers. A few of the popular Train travel journeys are Colombo to Ella , Colombo to Anuradhapura  , Seethawaka Tourist Train 

Taxi Services

Taxis are a convenient mode of transportation for those seeking comfort and privacy. You can hire taxis in Sri Lanka for short trips within cities or longer journeys between destinations. Using licensed taxi services or booking through reputable companies is advisable to ensure safety and fair pricing. Many taxi services offer standard sedans and larger vehicles to accommodate different group sizes.

Public Transport

Sri Lanka has an extensive public transport system that includes buses and trains, providing affordable options for travellers. Buses are the most common mode of public transportation, with routes covering various parts of the country. While buses can get crowded, they offer a chance to experience local life and interact with fellow passengers. Trains, on the other hand, are a popular choice for longer distances and scenic routes.

Tuk-tuks, also known as three-wheelers, are a ubiquitous sight in Sri Lanka and a unique mode of transport. These small, motorized vehicles are perfect for short distances and busy city streets. Tuk-tuks are a convenient and flexible option, allowing you to reach your desired destination easily. However, negotiating the fare is expected, so agreeing on the price before starting your journey is essential.

For those who prefer the freedom of driving themselves, car rental services are available in Sri Lanka. Renting a car allows you to explore at your own pace and venture off the beaten path. However, it’s important to familiarize yourself with local driving laws and road conditions and consider the traffic congestion in major cities.

Ride-Hailing Apps

Ride-hailing apps such as Uber and PickMe are gaining popularity in Sri Lanka, providing convenient and reliable transportation options. These apps allow you to book a ride using your smartphone and track your driver’s arrival. Ride-hailing services are especially suitable for airport transfers, city tours, and exploring urban areas.

Navigating Sri Lanka’s transportation system offers a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture, interact with locals, and enjoy the country’s scenic beauty. Whether you choose the old-world charm of train travel, the convenience of taxis, the affordability of public transport, or the excitement of tuk-tuks, each transportation mode has its unique charm and benefits. Select the option best suits your preferences and embark on a memorable journey through Sri Lanka.

Budgeting for Solo Travel in Sri Lanka

Travelling solo in Sri Lanka can be affordable if you plan your budget wisely. You can enjoy a fulfilling experience without breaking the bank by considering your expenses and making conscious choices. Here are some subheadings that provide more details about budgeting for solo travel in Sri Lanka:

Accommodation

Accommodation options in Sri Lanka cater to various budgets, ranging from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to mid-range hotels and luxury resorts. Consider staying in budget accommodations or guesthouses that offer comfortable and clean rooms at affordable prices. Another option is to explore homestays, where you can stay with local families and experience their hospitality. Research and compare prices to find the best accommodation option that suits your budget.

Transportation

Transportation costs can be minimized by opting for public buses or trains, which are affordable modes of travel in Sri Lanka. Buses are the cheapest option, while trains offer reasonably priced scenic journeys. Tuk-tuks can be a convenient choice for shorter distances, but negotiate the fare in advance to avoid overpaying. If you prefer more comfort and flexibility, consider sharing taxis with fellow travellers to split the costs.

Sri Lanka offers a wide range of dining options to suit different budgets. Local eateries and street food stalls serve delicious and affordable meals, allowing you to experience authentic Sri Lankan flavours without spending a fortune. Look for local “rice and curry” spots or try popular street food dishes like hoppers and kottu roti. Additionally, purchasing snacks and fruits from local markets can be a cost-effective way to satisfy your hunger while exploring.

Sightseeing and Activities

Plan your sightseeing activities to make the most of your budget. Many attractions in Sri Lanka have entrance fees, so prioritize the ones that interest you the most. Opt for free or low-cost activities such as exploring public parks, visiting temples, and enjoying the natural beauty of the beaches and landscapes. Take advantage of affordable outdoor activities like hiking, walking tours, and beach activities that allow you to immerse yourself in the beauty of Sri Lanka without spending a lot.

Sri Lanka is known for its vibrant markets and unique handicrafts. While shopping can be a tempting activity, set a budget for souvenirs and be mindful of your spending. Look for local markets and small shops where you can find authentic handmade items at reasonable prices. Bargaining is common in markets, so don’t hesitate to negotiate for a better deal. Remember to prioritize quality over quantity and choose items that hold sentimental value.

Miscellaneous Expenses

Consider additional expenses such as travel insurance, visa fees (if applicable), and any vaccinations or medications you may need before travelling to Sri Lanka. Keeping some extra cash for emergencies or unexpected expenses is also advisable. By accounting for these miscellaneous expenses in your budget, you can ensure a smoother and stress-free journey.

With careful planning and budgeting, solo travel in Sri Lanka can be an affordable and enriching experience. Research and compare prices, make conscious choices, and prioritize your expenses based on what matters most. Finding a balance between cost-effective options and memorable experiences can create lifelong memories while staying within your budget.

Interacting with Locals

One of the highlights of solo travel in Sri Lanka is the opportunity to connect with friendly and welcoming locals. Sri Lankans are known for their hospitality and warm smiles, and engaging with them can enhance your travel experience. Here are some subheadings that provide more details about interacting with locals in Sri Lanka:

Embrace the Local Culture

Immerse yourself in Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage by embracing the local customs and traditions. Respect the local dress code, especially when visiting religious sites, and be open to learning about and experiencing traditional practices. Sri Lankans take pride in their culture and appreciate visitors interested in understanding their way of life.

Learn Basic Local Phrases

Learning a few basic local phrases can go a long way in building connections with locals. Simple greetings like “Ayubowan” (hello) and “Thank you” in Sinhala, the predominant language, can instantly create a friendly atmosphere. Sri Lankans appreciate when visitors try to communicate in their language and are often delighted to converse.

Participate in Community Activities

Look for opportunities to participate in community activities or events happening in the area you’re visiting. Sri Lanka is known for its vibrant festivals, and joining in the celebrations can provide a deeper insight into the local culture and traditions. You can also consider volunteering for local initiatives, such as environmental projects or community-based tourism, which allow you to interact with locals while making a positive impact.

Ask for Recommendations

Don’t hesitate to ask locals for recommendations on places to visit, hidden gems, or authentic local experiences. Sri Lankans are generally proud of their country and love to share their knowledge. Whether it’s a recommendation for a lesser-known beach or a local restaurant serving delicious cuisine, locals can provide valuable insights and help you discover hidden treasures.

Engage in Conversations

Strike up conversations with locals you meet along your journey. Sri Lankans are known for their friendliness and are often happy to converse with travellers. Whether chatting with a vendor at a local market or conversing with your homestay host, these interactions can offer unique perspectives and create memorable connections.

Respect Local Customs and Traditions

Respecting local customs and traditions is essential when interacting with locals in Sri Lanka. Be mindful of cultural norms, such as removing your shoes before entering religious sites or showing respect during religious ceremonies. Observing and understanding these customs will earn you respect and contribute to fostering positive interactions with the local community.

Interacting with locals in Sri Lanka can provide a deeper understanding of the country’s culture, traditions, and way of life. Embrace the opportunity to connect with friendly Sri Lankans, learn from their experiences, and create meaningful memories. You’ll undoubtedly forge connections that enrich your solo travel journey by approaching interactions with an open mind, curiosity, and respect.

Solo Travel Tips for Female Travelers

Travelling solo as a female can be a rewarding and empowering experience in Sri Lanka. While the country is generally safe and welcoming, taking certain precautions is essential to ensure a smooth and secure journey. Here are some subheadings that provide more details about travel tips for international solo female travellers in Sri Lanka:

Dress Modestly and Respect Local Customs

Sri Lanka is a conservative country, and female travellers should dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or conservative areas. Opt for clothing that covers your shoulders and knees to show respect for local customs and avoid unwanted attention. Carrying a scarf or shawl can be useful for covering up when needed.

Research and Plan Your Itinerary

Before embarking on your solo trip, research and plan your itinerary. Please familiarize yourself with the destinations you’ll visit, including their cultural practices and local customs. A well-thought-out plan will give you confidence and help you navigate the country more effectively.

Share Your Itinerary and Stay Connected

Share your travel itinerary with a trusted friend or family member back home. Provide them with details of your accommodation, transportation, and contact information. Regularly check in with them and keep them updated on your whereabouts. Staying connected will give you peace of mind and ensure someone knows your plans.

Choose Safe and Reputable Accommodations

When selecting accommodations, prioritize safety and choose reputable establishments. Look for accommodations with good reviews from other travellers, especially solo female travellers. Consider staying in well-known guesthouses, hostels, or hotels with a record of providing guests a safe and secure environment.

Avoid Isolated Areas at Night

While Sri Lanka is generally safe, avoiding isolated areas is advisable, especially at night. Stick to well-lit and busy areas, particularly when exploring unfamiliar places after dark. If you need more clarification about the safety of an area, seek advice from locals or your accommodation staff before venturing out.

Trust Your Instincts and Stay Vigilant

Trust your instincts and rely on your intuition throughout your journey. If something doesn’t feel right, remove yourself and seek assistance. Stay vigilant of your surroundings and be cautious of strangers who seem overly friendly or intrusive. It’s essential to balance being open to interactions and maintaining personal boundaries.

Seek Advice from Fellow Female Travelers

Take advantage of the knowledge and experiences of fellow female travellers who have visited Sri Lanka. Online travel communities, forums, and social media groups can be valuable resources for connecting with other solo female travellers and obtaining firsthand advice and recommendations.

When moving around Sri Lanka, opt for reliable and reputable transportation services. Use registered taxis or pre-booked transportation services rather than hitchhiking or accepting rides from strangers. If you choose to use tuk-tuks, ensure they are licensed and negotiate the fare in advance.

Be Mindful of Your Alcohol Consumption

If you choose to consume alcohol during your solo trip, do so responsibly. Excessive alcohol consumption can impair judgment and make you more vulnerable. Also, be cautious of accepting drinks from strangers, and always watch your drink to prevent tampering.

Connect with Other Travelers and Locals

Connecting with other travellers or seeking advice from locals can enhance your safety and overall experience. Engage in conversations with fellow female travellers you meet along the way, as they can provide valuable insights and tips. Locals can also offer guidance and recommendations while helping you navigate through the country.

Travelling solo as a female in Sri Lanka can be a transformative experience. You can have a safe and enjoyable journey by taking necessary precautions, being aware of your surroundings, and trusting your instincts. Embrace the opportunity to connect with the friendly Sri Lankan people, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, and create unforgettable memories as you explore this beautiful island nation.

Sustainable and Responsible Solo Travel

As a responsible solo traveller in Sri Lanka, you can minimize your environmental impact and contribute to preserving the country’s natural and cultural heritage. By adopting sustainable travel practices, you can ensure your journey enriches and benefits the local communities and ecosystems. Here are some subheadings that provide more details about sustainable and responsible solo travel in Sri Lanka:

Choose Eco-Friendly Accommodations

When selecting accommodations, opt for eco-friendly options that prioritize sustainability. For example, look for hotels, guesthouses, or resorts implementing environmentally friendly practices, such as energy conservation, waste management, and water-saving initiatives. Supporting these establishments encourages responsible tourism and helps preserve Sri Lanka’s natural resources.

Support Local Businesses and Communities

One of the best ways to contribute to the local economy is by supporting local businesses and communities. Eat at local restaurants, shop at local markets, and engage in activities that directly benefit the local people. Doing so gives you authentic experiences, empowers local entrepreneurs, and contributes to the region’s socioeconomic development.

Respect the Environment and Wildlife

Sri Lanka is blessed with diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. Therefore, respecting the environment and wildlife during your solo travels is crucial. Avoid littering, especially in natural areas and protected sites. Adhere to designated trails and follow guidelines set by national parks and wildlife reserves. Maintain a safe distance from animals and never engage in activities that may harm or disrupt their natural behaviour.

Practice Responsible Waste Management

Be mindful of your waste and practice responsible waste management throughout your journey. For example, refill a reusable water bottle to minimize plastic waste. Please dispose of your trash properly in designated bins or take it until you find suitable disposal facilities. Reduce, reuse, and recycle whenever possible to minimize your ecological footprint.

Engage in Community-Based Tourism

Participate in community-based tourism initiatives that provide direct benefits to local communities. Engaging in homestays, village tours, or cultural exchanges allows you to connect with the local people, learn about their traditions, and contribute directly to their livelihoods. These experiences foster cultural understanding and appreciation while supporting sustainable development.

Respect for local customs and traditions is essential when practising responsible solo travel. Familiarize yourself with the cultural norms and etiquettes of Sri Lanka, such as appropriate dress codes, behaviour in religious sites, and interactions with locals. Respect for local customs demonstrates cultural sensitivity and appreciation for the host community.

Conserve Water and Energy

Conserving water and energy is crucial for sustainable travel. Be mindful of your water usage, especially in areas where water is scarce. Take shorter showers, turn off lights and air conditioning when unnecessary, and use natural ventilation when possible. Small actions can make a significant difference in reducing your ecological footprint.

Learn About and Support Conservation Efforts

Take the time to learn about conservation efforts and initiatives in Sri Lanka. Support organizations and projects that preserve the country’s natural heritage, such as wildlife conservation, forest restoration, or marine protection. Consider volunteering or donating to these causes to contribute directly to conservation efforts.

Educate Yourself and Others

Continuously educate yourself about sustainable travel practices and share your knowledge with others. Encourage fellow travellers to be mindful of their environmental impact and promote responsible tourism. You can inspire others to make a positive difference by spreading awareness and advocating for sustainable travel.

Incorporating these sustainable and responsible travel practices into your solo journey can positively impact Sri Lanka’s environment, communities, and culture. Travel with a sense of responsibility and leave a legacy of conservation and appreciation for this beautiful destination.

1. Is Sri Lanka safe for solo travellers? Sri Lanka is generally safe for solo travellers, but it’s important to take common-sense safety precautions and stay vigilant.

2. When is the best time to visit Sri Lanka? The best time to visit Sri Lanka depends on the specific regions and activities you plan to engage in. Coastal areas are best visited from December to March, while the central highlands are ideal from April to September.

3. What are some must-visit destinations in Sri Lanka? Some must-visit destinations in Sri Lanka include Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Galle Fort, Nuwara Eliya, and Mirissa Beach.

4. What are the transportation options in Sri Lanka? Sri Lanka offers buses, trains, and tuk-tuks as transportation options. Buses and trains are affordable and allow you to interact with locals, while tuk-tuks provide convenience and flexibility.

5. How can female travellers ensure their safety in Sri Lanka? Female travellers in Sri Lanka should dress modestly, avoid isolated areas at night, and seek advice from fellow female travellers or locals. It’s important to exercise caution and follow common-sense safety practices.

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

16 Nov 2021

“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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Beautiful, beguiling, and unlike anywhere you’ve been before

The beauty and challenge of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is the jewel of the Indian Ocean. A devastatingly beautiful island covered in lush vegetation with coconut trees as far as the eye can see, well-preserved colonial architecture, tall mist-covered mountains, and beaches that go on forever. Solo travellers rave about Sri Lanka and rightfully so. It’s stunning!

The train journeys across the tea regions are breathtaking, and the white sandy beaches and ocean waves draw surfers from all over the world. That said, solo female backpackers may find it a bigger challenge than other Asian countries, so preparation is crucial.

Sri Lanka is not a destination for first-time backpackers or solo travellers. If you’re a first-time or less seasoned traveller, you may be better off hiring a car and driver. It’s a very popular way to see the country and also lets you enjoy it to the full without any hassles. You definitely won’t be missing out!

Why is this?

Sri Lanka is only a decade into recovery from a nearly 30-year civil war that devastated the island and many areas are still recovering and rebuilding. While the larger cities are quickly bouncing back – the capital city, Colombo, is vibrant and thriving – smaller, more rural areas and towns are still in the early process of rebuilding.

The country is defined regionally by three very different peoples: Sinhalese, an almost singularly Buddhist people along the south and west; Tamils in the north, also predominantly Buddhist and Hindu; and Muslims who live primarily along the east coast. With often different beliefs and ways of life, the focus has been on rebuilding communities and learning to live with one another after fighting for so long. To their credit, most of the people you encounter are really lovely and want to tell you about their island and their culture. Guesthouse and restaurant staff, as well as homestay families, will help you experience the best the country has to offer. Even bus conductors can be extremely helfpul and will make sure you don’t miss your stop.

Getting to Sri Lanka

Entry is via the international airport in Katunayake, to the north of the capital, Colombo. The airport is about 19 miles (31km) from Colombo and is easily accessible by road. There is ongoing highway network across the island. However, the road to the airport is ready and fully open, making it a smooth drive into the city.

Most visitors will need a visa to enter Sri Lanka, known as an electronic travel authorisation (ETA). It’s easy to apply in advance and present your passport at immigration on arrival. You can also apply on arrival if you prefer. However, it’s worth noting that you can only pay by credit card or in US dollars. Fees range between US$20 (for South Asian nationalities) and US$35 (for all others). Visas allow you to stay in the country for 30 days.

Travelling around Sri Lanka

Getting around Sri Lanka is a tale of two halves. The highway network is fairly well developed and being continually upgraded. Roads into and out of main cities are good, but those in smaller towns and villages less so. They are also upgrading the train network; while some of the world’s most scenic train journeys are in Sri Lanka, journeys can still be very slow in parts. If you’re slow travelling that can be one of the attractions – the scenery is spectacular.  

Heading to the east and south-west out of Colombo the roads and rail network are pretty good. The trains can be severely overcrowded though – if you thought rush hour on the London tube was bad, think again! Further east and to the north, they are still upgrading the infrastructure, so allow more time for journeys.

The bus network is extensive, but the buses are, for the most part, ancient. There will be a direct bus between main towns at least once a day. Often, it is only once a day and usually very early in the morning. If you miss the direct bus, you’re better off waiting until the following day. The alternative is a number of bus connections that take you around every tiny village. It will take hours to reach your final destination.

Taxi sharing is also common, and a very useful option if you’ve missed the day’s only direct bus. Be prepared to bargain hard and to share with others you may not know – but another great way to meet other solo travellers in Sri Lanka. These taxis are for tourists rather than locals; drivers will often find you at bus stations and bus stops as they tout for business.

Tuk-tuks are everywhere and a great way of getting around for short journeys. Drivers will try to convince you to take longer journeys in them but think twice before agreeing. The condition of the roads outside main cities is not great. Careering around mountain bends on pot-holed roads in a tuk-tuk is not the safest way to travel. Not to mention that there are no shock absorbers on those things!

The most common way for tourists to explore the island is by hiring a car and driver. Arrange it in advance or through your hotel/guest house on arrival, and they are exclusive to you. You can set you own itinerary and they are a great resource as part-drivers, part-tourist guides.  

For the solo traveller and backpacker

If you are travelling solo or want to backpack, you may just need to adapt your plans slightly. Backpackers are, more often than not, on a shoestring budget, especially if travelling alone and can’t easily share transport and accommodation expenses to keep costs down. For backpackers, that means giving yourself plenty of time to get around.

The best alternative is direct buses from one town to another, but often there is only one per day. My advice? If you miss the direct bus, you’re better off waiting for the following day. The alternative is connecting buses that provide a service to every little village off the beaten path. It can take the best part of a day to get there, when a three-hour journey on a direct bus will do the job with less discomfort. I also met a few other backpackers who did the direct bus. It was a good alternative to meeting people when I could only find a guest house for the night.

Finding other backpackers who are going in the same direction is an opportunity to group together. Then you can get a taxi instead of a bus – especially if the one daily direct bus is long gone. Shop around and bargain hard, though… They will!

A word of caution. If you are going for independent, solo travel, the alternative method via tuk-tuk may seem attractive. However, my experience was less than ideal. The rides come with risk of life and limb by drivers who careen around corners up mountains on the wrong side of the road in a three-wheeler, or of becoming stranded if there’s a disagreement about their extortionate fares.

This happened to me when I was waiting for a connecting bus to Ella. Two tuk-tuk drivers gave me the wrong bus stand number. They wanted to isolate me without anyone listening in while they tried to convince me of the merits of a three-hour journey up a winding mountain road. Gratefully, they disappeared when I politely declined their offer, although it did take a while to get the message across. Someone eventually rescued me making sure I got to the right stand and made the bus.

One of the best ways to see Sri Lanka is to hire a car and driver. Besides the relative comfort, your own wheels and a local guide who knows their way around and what sights are worth visiting is both helpful and less stressful. It can be an incredibly useful way of tailoring your itinerary to better suit your timescales, geographical desires, and budget. And just as importantly, the guide also provides a buffer between overeager locals aggressively seeking business. While they may get a commission from particular businesses for your custom, your money is still going to local businesses and back into the community. It will also reduce the risk of big rip-offs from those few looking to profit any way they can.

Advice for solo females

My trip to Sri Lanka was the culmination of a 7-month travel and business odyssey around Asia. Admittedly, I was exhausted. That said, as a solo female traveller Sri Lanka may be one of the more frustrating places I’ve been to. In part it’s because there are not that many solo female travellers. Those that are there are seen as unusual and treated differently.

There was a surplus of unexpected attention, generally from men. Men, women and children would look me up and down and stare until I’d walked past. Car, bus, and lorry drivers would honk as they drove past, just so that I would turn around and they could wave. It was not surprising. Many Sri Lankans still aren’t used to seeing tourists on the streets, much less an unaccompanied female.

If you are a solo female backpacker, the best way to deal with it is to ignore it as much as possible. A very firm ‘no, thank you’ is essential. Sri Lankan women experience the same treatment from men. While it can be unsettling and irritating at times, it is rarely malicious. I never felt like I was in danger. The usual street smarts and awareness of your surroundings apply here as they do anywhere else.

Prepare to be accosted frequently by those touting for local business. A typical day had, without exaggeration, around 50 such calls and approaches for attention. Most of the time they would drop off. A few would insist as I continued walking only to give up for the next one in line to pick up the baton.

Compared to other Asian destinations, I was routinely and sometimes overtly overcharged more than usual. Perceived as a rich Westerner, I expect to be charged a few extra rupees and usually don’t mind. The money goes much further for the locals and could mean the difference between having dinner or not. But there were times when I had to enlist the help of the locals to help me get a fair price.

Ultimately, I enjoyed Sri Lanka and I would recommend it to other travellers. Prepare yourself for a few questions, lots of attention, and plan some extra time to get around. The mind-blowing scenery makes up for it, trust me!

Sri Lanka for the digital nomad

A relatively new destination, and not one that is well-established on the backpacker trail yet, and there can be challenges for digital nomads. WiFi can be patchy, even in larger towns. If you need to spend some time workign to meet a deadline, find a spot with good WiFi and stick to it. For me, Ella had the best options and the two or three places with the best WiFi and most comfortable set-up got to know me pretty well. On the plus side, it means you can enjoy the rest of the country without having to worry about finding decent WiFi!

Best time to visit Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka gets two monsoons a year – one in the east and one in the west. The heavier one, known as the ‘yala’ affects the west, south-west and hill country from around April/May until September. The less severe ‘maha’ monsoon affects the east between November and March. Rain can affect any part of the island during October and November . You are likely to get afternoon rain or thunderstorms in the hill country at any time of the year.  

Temperatures are fairly constant all year round. They range between 26 and 30 degrees Celsius (75-85 Farenheit) and humidity can reach 90%. It’s hotter and more humid along the coast and cooler in the hills where it can get quite chilly in the evenings. 

If you want to head to the south or west , go between December and March . If you want to see the east , visit between April/May and September .

Money in Sri Lanka

The currency is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR). You will get around LRK 180 for US$1 or LRK 230 for GBP1. You can get rupees outside Sri Lanka, but the exchange rate may not be all that favourable. Your best bet is to withdraw money on arrival from an ATM at the airport. There are also ATMs in cities and larger towns around the country.

Cuisine and food in Sri Lanka

If you like curries and spicy food, then you’re definitely in the right place! Sri Lankan cuisine primarily revolves around steamed or boiled rice with a curry. This could be vegetable, fish, or meat based. Chutneys and spices will typically accompany most dishes. Coconut and cardamom are key ingredients in many dishes as well.  

If you’re not a fan of spicy food, there is still plenty of choice. Often you just need to say that you don’t want a dish to be spicy. Personally, I don’t like my food to be fiery hot, and I can’t cope with too much spicy food. But there’s a fine line between fire and flavour, so don’t be too hasty in dismissing all spice.

Street food may not be as obvious to find as in other Asian destinations, but keep your eyes peeled for hole-in-the-wall eateries. They may look like they’ve seen better days, but the food is delicious! They typically work by pre-preparing a number of dishes and displaying them so you can choose what you want. You then choose your accompaniment of steaming hot rice or fried rice. If you’re concerned about food safety, check out my guide to eating street food to help with knowing how to choose wisely.

The locals eat with their hands, although cutlery is available and usually provided for tourists. If you want to eat like the locals, remember to only use your right hand. Grab a small handful of rice and roll it into a ball in your hand. Now dip it into the curry and pop into your mouth! Delicious!

Found all over Sri Lanka is a well-loved staple, dhal curry (made with lentils). Fish or chicken curry are the local dishes depending on where you are on the island. For fast and delicious comfort food, look out for kottu or kottu roti . It’s fried, chopped-up flat bread which comes with spicy curry sauce for dipping or pouring over.

Driving and riding in Sri Lanka

Car hire by tourists is not that widespread yet in Sri Lanka and motorbike hire even less so. Given the condition of roads outside the main cities it may not be the best idea either. Better to have a driver deal with any chaos on the roads, letting you sit back and drink in the views.

If you are hiring a car and driver, try to meet them first. This way you can make sure you are comfortable with them and their driving. You could always book them for a day or two and extend if you are happy. Most drivers will speak decent English so there shouldn’t be a need for an additional guide.

Things to do and see in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a charming and very scenic country. From white-sand beaches, to misty tea-covered mountains and endless views, not to mention chock-full of history and culture, there is plenty to do.

More details coming soon on things to do and see for solo travellers in Sri Lanka. Sign up for an email alert once they’re up!

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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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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. 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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Exploring Sri Lanka Alone: Must-Know Tips

Are you longing for an adventure but hesitant to travel solo? Sri Lanka is a perfect destination for solo travelers as it offers a comfortable and safe environment. It’s a place where you will discover the beauty of nature, meet friendly locals, and immerse yourself in unique cultures. In this blog, we have put together some essential tips for exploring Sri Lanka alone.

From preparing for your trip, understanding safety concerns, determining the best time to visit the country, to crafting the perfect itinerary- we’ve got you covered! We’ve also included some must-try dishes that you shouldn’t miss during your stay.

Additionally, we’ll talk about budgeting for a week in Sri Lanka. Lastly, we’ll share our top safety tips to protect your belongings while traveling alone and basic Sinhala phrases that would help you connect with locals better.

Preparing for a Solo Trip to Sri Lanka

When planning a solo trip to Sri Lanka, it’s important to prepare in advance to make the most of your time on this beautiful island. To ensure a smooth journey, pack light with essentials such as a sarong and sunscreen to stay protected.

Familiarize yourself with the local customs and traditions to show respect to the welcoming Sri Lankan people. Research public transportation options to conveniently explore the best places, from the stunning Arugam Bay to the serene southern coast. Connect with fellow solo travelers for valuable tips and recommendations, making your adventure even more enjoyable.

Essential Items for Your Sri Lankan Adventure

When embarking on a solo adventure in Sri Lanka, there are a few essential items you shouldn’t leave behind. First and foremost, don’t forget to pack a hat to shield yourself from the relentless sun.

Staying hydrated is crucial, so carrying a reusable water bottle is a must. With the country’s picturesque trails and landscapes, investing in a good pair of walking shoes will ensure you’re prepared for any exploration. Sri Lanka is known for its mosquitoes, so be sure to bring insect repellent to avoid unpleasant encounters.

Lastly, don’t leave without a power bank to keep your devices charged while you’re on the go. These essential items will enhance your experience as you discover the best of what Sri Lanka has to offer.

Vaccinations Required for Sri Lanka

To ensure a safe and healthy trip to Sri Lanka, it’s important to be aware of the vaccinations required. First and foremost, make sure you are up to date on routine vaccines to protect against common illnesses.

Additionally, it is crucial to check with your healthcare provider for any recommended vaccinations specific to Sri Lanka. Diseases like typhoid and hepatitis A are prevalent in the region, so considering getting vaccinated for these is highly advised. Depending on your travel plans, malaria prevention medication might also be necessary.

Lastly, carrying a copy of your vaccination records will provide peace of mind throughout your solo adventure in Sri Lanka.

Understanding Safety Concerns for Solo Travelers in Sri Lanka

When traveling alone in Sri Lanka, it’s important to understand and address any safety concerns that may arise. To ensure a safe journey, always stay cautious and aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas, to minimize the risk of encountering any potential dangers.

Be sure to keep your belongings secure to prevent theft and avoid attracting unwanted attention. Trust your instincts and avoid situations that feel unsafe. Stay informed about any travel advisories or warnings that may be issued.

These precautions will help you have a worry-free experience as you explore the beautiful and diverse landscapes of this small island country.

Determining the Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka

When planning your solo trip to Sri Lanka, it’s essential to determine the best time to visit this beautiful country. Consider visiting during the dry season, which ensures sunny weather and makes it easier to explore the various regions. If you’re interested in coastal areas, the months of December to March are ideal.

For wildlife enthusiasts, July to September is the perfect time to witness the abundant flora and fauna. The cultural triangle, with its ancient Buddhist temples, is best explored between April and September. If you prefer lower prices and fewer tourists, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons.

Navigating Sri Lanka’s Seasons

When traveling to Sri Lanka, it’s important to navigate the country’s seasons effectively. The dry season in Sri Lanka experiences hot and humid weather, so be prepared by packing appropriate clothing and staying hydrated.

Conversely, the wet season brings heavy rainfall, so make sure to pack rain gear and plan your activities accordingly. It’s essential to remember that weather patterns can vary across different regions of Sri Lanka, so be mindful of this when planning your itinerary.

To avoid the scorching midday heat, plan outdoor activities for the morning or late afternoon. Regularly checking weather forecasts will also help you stay updated on any changes.

Building Connections: Meeting Other Solo Travelers in Sri Lanka

When traveling solo in Sri Lanka, there are several ways to meet other like-minded travelers . One option is to stay in hostels or guesthouses, where you can mingle with fellow solo adventurers.

Another way is to join group tours or activities, which provide opportunities to connect with others who share similar interests. Additionally, participating in local events or festivals allows you to meet new people and experience the culture of the country. Social media platforms and travel forums are also great resources for connecting with other solo travelers. Lastly, attending language exchange or cultural classes provides a chance to interact with both locals and fellow travelers.

Taste of Sri Lanka: Must-Try Dishes

Indulge in the fragrant biryani, a popular rice dish in Sri Lanka, bursting with flavors. Experience the crispy pancakes called hoppers, topped with a variety of delicious ingredients.

Delight your taste buds with authentic Sri Lankan curry, infused with aromatic spices. Enhance your culinary journey with coconut sambol, a refreshing condiment made from coconut.

Finally, end your gastronomic adventure with wattalappam, a traditional dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth. Sri Lanka offers a diverse and rich food culture that will surely leave you craving for more.

Experience a burst of flavors with the popular street food, kottu roti. Delight in the unique taste of lamprais, a Dutch-influenced rice dish.

Try string hoppers, a traditional Sri Lankan breakfast staple. For those who enjoy spicy heat, indulge in deviled chicken. And don’t forget to savor a bowl of creamy dhal curry.

These dishes showcase the culinary diversity of Sri Lanka. Each bite takes you on a journey through the country’s vibrant food scene. From the explosion of flavors to the comforting spices, these dishes are a must-try for any food lover exploring the small island paradise.

Ambul thiyal

Treat your taste buds to the tangy and flavorful seafood ambul thiyal, a mouthwatering fish curry that is a must-try in Sri Lanka.

For a taste of Sri Lankan street food, indulge in the isso vade, shrimp fritters that are bursting with delicious flavors. If you’re in the mood for something comforting, savor the delicate and aromatic Sri Lankan egg curry, best enjoyed with a side of fluffy rice.

Meat lovers will delight in the rich and spiced beef curry that will leave you wanting more. And for those looking for a vegetarian option, the crispy and flavorful vegetable roti is a popular choice and is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Crafting a Budget for a Week in Sri Lanka

Crafting a budget for a week in Sri Lanka requires careful planning to maximize your funds. To make the most of your budget, consider planning your expenses wisely. Look for affordable accommodation options that fit your budget, such as villas or budget-friendly hostels.

Explore local markets and street food stalls for delicious and budget-friendly dining experiences. Take advantage of public transportation, like buses and trains, to save money on travel within Sri Lanka.

Additionally, consider visiting free or low-cost attractions to stay within your budget. By following these tips, you can enjoy a fantastic week in Sri Lanka without breaking the bank.

Designing the Perfect 7-day Itinerary for Solo Travelers in Sri Lanka

Day 1 – Exploring Colombo

Begin your solo adventure in Sri Lanka by immersing yourself in the bustling streets of Colombo. Lose yourself in the spiritual ambiance of the iconic Gangaramaya Temple, a must-visit for any traveler.

As you wander through the vibrant Pettah Market, you’ll discover unique local products and have the chance to indulge in some shopping. Take a leisurely stroll along Galle Face Green and experience the colonial charm of this waterfront promenade.

Don’t forget to sample delicious street food and traditional dishes at local eateries, where you can savor the flavors of Sri Lanka.

Day 2 – Discovering Kandy

On the second day of your solo adventure in Sri Lanka, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Kandy.

Begin your day by visiting the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, where you can learn about the significance of this revered Buddhist relic.

Afterward, explore the picturesque landscapes of the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, home to a diverse range of plant species.

In the evening, don’t miss the chance to witness traditional Kandyan dance performances and cultural shows, which offer a glimpse into the vibrant local arts scene.

To get to Kandy, consider taking a scenic train ride from Colombo, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the countryside along the way.

Once in Kandy, take some time to experience the tranquility of the Kandy Lake and indulge in a leisurely walk around its picturesque surroundings.

Day 3 – Venturing into Ella

Embark on an adventurous journey to Ella, renowned for its breathtaking scenery and extensive hiking trails. Begin by hiking up to the iconic Ella Rock and soak in the panoramic views of the lush tea plantations that surround you.

Don’t miss the chance to visit the mesmerizing Nine Arch Bridge, a marvel of architectural beauty. Immerse yourself in the richness of the region by exploring the Ella Spice Garden and learning about the aromatic spices grown there.

For a moment of relaxation, head to the enchanting Ravana Falls and take a refreshing swim amidst nature’s embrace.

Day 4 – An Adventurous Day in Negombo

Embark on an exciting adventure in Negombo, a coastal town in Sri Lanka. Discover the pristine beaches that stretch along the coastline and indulge in exhilarating water sports like surfing or snorkeling.

Immerse yourself in the rich marine life of Negombo Lagoon through a boat ride or a fishing tour. Visit the historic Dutch Fort and learn about the town’s colonial past. Experience the vibrant fish market and witness the local fishing culture in action.

To top it off, enjoy a relaxing sunset cruise along the beautiful coastline of Negombo. This adventurous day will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Days 5-7 – Individual Exploration

Customize your itinerary for days 5 to 7 based on your interests and preferences. Delve into Sri Lanka’s ancient history by visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, or Anuradhapura.

Explore the picturesque hill station of Nuwara Eliya, indulge in tea tasting at a local plantation, and take in the beauty of Sri Lanka’s hill country with a scenic train ride through the tea estates of Ella.

Embark on a safari adventure in Yala National Park, home to diverse wildlife including leopards and elephants. Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting traditional villages and participating in cultural activities.

Is Sri Lanka Affordable for Solo Travelers from India?

Discover the affordability of solo travel in Sri Lanka! Explore this stunning country on a budget, enjoying its beauty without breaking the bank. From affordable accommodations to local cuisine and cost-effective transportation options, Sri Lanka offers budget-friendly options for solo travelers from India.

The Hostel Experience in Sri Lanka

Stay at vibrant and social hostels in Sri Lanka to truly immerse yourself in the backpacking culture of this small island. These hostels offer a comfortable and affordable stay, perfect for solo travelers on a budget.

You’ll have the opportunity to connect with fellow travelers from around the world, creating lasting friendships and sharing incredible experiences.

Additionally, hostels in Sri Lanka often organize activities and events that allow you to explore the local culture and make the most of your trip. So, skip the expensive villa and opt for a fun and lively hostel experience in Sri Lanka.

Why Renting a Scooter is Beneficial for Solo Travelers in Sri Lanka

Explore Sri Lanka’s scenic landscapes easily with a rented scooter, allowing you to experience the freedom of solo travel.

With a scooter rental, you can navigate through the country at your own pace, discovering hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations that may not be easily accessible by public transport.

Whether you’re visiting the beautiful beaches of Arugam Bay or exploring the Buddhist temples scattered throughout the small island, having a scooter allows you to have the best way to get around.

Plus, renting a scooter in Sri Lanka is an affordable option, giving you the flexibility to explore the southern part of the country, from the bustling town of Adams Peak to the stunning waterfalls along the south coast.

So why not embrace the thrill of the open road and embark on a solo adventure through Sri Lanka with a rented scooter? It’s a surefire way to have much fun and make the most of your trip.

Safety Tips for Protecting Your Belongings While Traveling Alone in Sri Lanka

Ensure the safety of your belongings while traveling solo in Sri Lanka by following these essential tips.

Firstly, utilize a secure locker provided by your accommodation to safeguard your valuable items. It’s advisable to minimize the number of possessions you carry to avoid attracting unwanted attention.

Stay vigilant and cautious in crowded areas, keeping a watchful eye on your belongings. Consider using a money belt or hidden pouch to securely store your money and important documents.

Additionally, obtaining travel insurance will provide added protection against theft or loss. By implementing these safety measures, you can enjoy your solo travel experience without worrying about the security of your belongings.

The Role of Local Language: Basic Sinhala Phrases for Solo Travelers

Enhance your solo travel experience in Sri Lanka by learning basic Sinhala phrases to communicate with the locals. Connecting with the local people and immersing yourself in their culture can make your journey more rewarding.

Show respect and gratitude by using a few words in Sinhala, which will not only help you navigate through the country but also create a deeper connection with the community.

Learning Sinhala phrases such as greetings, thank you, and asking for directions can go a long way in making your solo adventure in Sri Lanka much more enjoyable.

Dealing with Emergencies: Important Contact Numbers and Tips for Solo Travelers in Sri Lanka

Staying safe during solo travel in Sri Lanka is essential, and being prepared for emergencies is crucial. Keep important contact numbers handy so that you can quickly reach out for assistance if needed.

Familiarize yourself with emergency services and hospitals in Sri Lanka beforehand, ensuring you know where to go in case of any medical emergencies.

Additionally, it’s important to stay informed about local customs and laws to avoid any unwanted situations. By following these tips and having the right contacts, you can ensure a smooth trip and feel more secure during your solo adventure in Sri Lanka.

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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
• 6 Are You On Pinterest? Click To Save For Later Read!

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.

Are You On Pinterest? Click To Save For Later Read!

Any other thoughts or more information about a trip to Sri Lanka? Share your experiences in comments!

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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14 Safety Tips for Solo Female Traveller’s in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a beautiful country, packed with palm trees, mountains, beaches, temples, and tea plantations. Travelling alone can be daunting so this solo female traveller’s guide to Sri Lanka will explain how to travel this wonderful country alone.

First up- Is it Safe to Travel to Sri Lanka Alone?

If you ask other solo female travellers how their experience was travelling alone in Sri Lanka, I’m sure you would receive mixed opinions.

Sri Lanka is a very conservative country and unfortunately some of the local men have certain perceptions about women (especially foreign women). I feel that they have a sort of power over women and that can lead to unwanted behaviour. The local women are usually covered, so when men see the tourists coming from overseas, wearing shorts or strappy tops they may get the wrong ideas.

Although there have been reports of females being groped or assaulted, I do believe that shouldn’t stop you. I myself was groped, whilst walking along the seafront in Galle- in broad daylight. I walked past a big group of teenage boys, aged around 14. After I waked past them, one came running up to me and out of nowhere just grabbed my breast. I batted his hand away fast and yelled “get away!”. He looked pretty shocked and then just ran back to his friends. I reckon it was just a dare from his mates but still I felt angry that a child could make me feel like that.

Unfortunately that sort of thing does happen- and you need to be careful. In the backpacker town Hikkaduwa at night it can get a little dangerous after dark so always ensure you are with a group if you want to go out in the evening.

That being said, I wouldn’t make the above a reason not to go to Sri Lanka. I would go back again and just be extra careful in certain places. So here are my safety tips for solo female travellers in Sri Lanka.

Do Your Research

Make sure you read up about local customs/norms/rules/culture, etc BEFORE you travel. Knowledge is power and knowing a bit about the country you are going to will help you to understand what to expect once you arrive. Read about each off the areas you want to visit, make sure you now how to get there and which transport options are available.

Research the local religion, what do the local women usually wear? What is considered offensive? Are there certain areas to be avoided? Knowing these things before you travel will allow you to feel in control and ready.

Ask Other Solo Female Travellers For Advice

By asking women who have already travelled alone to Sri Lanka you can get very real, honest and recent advice. Facebook groups such as GirlsLoveTravel are a great way to get helpful advice from girls who have recently travelled there. You can find out about their experiences, if they would have done anything different, the best places to stay and the best way to get around. The women are super friendly and helpful and no doubt your question will get answered in no time.

Stay in a Hostel

By staying in a hostel, you will be sure to find other travellers in the same boat as you. By making friends with other travellers you can feel much more comfortable heading to certain places, knowing you’re not alone. Particularly if you want to go to the bars or night clubs- this should definitely not be done alone, so making friends in the hostel is a great way to still be able to enjoy the nightlife. The bigger the group the better, and having some males in the group would also be an advantage (as much as that annoys me to say, but unfortunately at the moment its true).

Do Not Go Out Alone After Dark

This is a very important female safety tip for Sri Lanka. After dark the crime rates go up and for men in Sri Lanka, seeing a woman walking around by herself in the dark is not a normal thing. They may get the wrong idea and you could get yourself in trouble. It’s always best to book a taxi if travelling at night too and make sure you’re with a group.

Book A Day Tour

Booking yourself on a day tour is a great idea. Not only do have far less safety concerns but you also have company. Sometimes when travelling alone its nice to be able to book a tour to be able to share the experience with other people, and maybe make some friends in the process. Usually tour companies will pick you up from your accommodation and drop you off- meaning you don’t have to worry about travelling around alone.

Do Not Be Afraid to Use Public Transport

Although I wouldn’t advise to use the public transport in Sri Lanka after dark, it’s perfectly fine in the day. I caught a local bus to the beach and back by myself and had no problems. The buses can get busy and the seats are really small but if you manage to get yourself a seat by the window, the experience can be quite enjoyable.

I just loved sitting by the open window of the bus, the warm breeze blowing through my hair and driving along right by the sea. The train from Ella to Kandy is also super popular with travellers, giving you stunning mountain and forest views.

Dress Appropriately

If you’re not on the beach, make sure to cover your shoulders and knees at least. This is especially true if visiting temples. Not only does it show respect, it can also be a great way to stay safer. Walking around alone in skimpy clothing is a big no no in Sri Lanka.

Don’t Make Yourself A Target

Try to only take out what you need and keep your valuables that you don’t need back at your accommodation. It’s fine to get your camera out to take pictures but I wouldn’t be walking around with it over my neck and on show. Using a small, inconspicuous bag that can wrap over your shoulders is a good idea- don’t make it look like you have valuables on your person.

Show Your Confidence

Even if you don’t feel it- fake it! Make sure you look confident, walk tall, sound firm and sure of yourself and act as though you know exactly where you are going (even if you don’t). Men in Sri Lanka will stare at you and this can be uncomfortable but try not to let if affect you or show it on your face. By looking intimidated or walking around looking lost you are making yourself appear vulnerable and perhaps a bigger target.

Be Vigilant but Still Chat With The Locals

Sri Lankan people are very friendly and do not mind stopping for a chat and getting to know a little about where you are from. Although its great to be vigilant and a little on the cautious side, that can sometimes stop you from experiencing the local side.

Talking with locals is great fun and you can learn a lot about the country, places to go, their own family or the best things to eat. Just make sure you are in a busy place like in a market and do not go wander off with them to somewhere secluded and unknown.

Keep your eye out when walking out alone and if something doesn’t feel right then call a taxi or head to a busy place. But mostly the locals will be very friendly and helpful.

Book Accommodation in A Central Location

When you book your accommodation, be sure to find somewhere that’s close to town and in a reasonably busy place. Booking a small hostel somewhere off the beaten track with no amenities near by, means you may have to walk down quiet roads to get anywhere. By booking a place in a central location you can easily walk to local shops or attractions. Plus, there will more likely be other people there to connect with.

Don’t Say You Are Alone

If a local guy starts talking with you when you are out, its best to say you are just about to meet someone (a boyfriend or group of friends). Don’t let on that you are travelling alone as this could make you seem more vulnerable to them. If asked for your personal details- don’t give anything away as this could lead them to think that you are being more than just friendly.

Get Advice From Your Accommodation

When I arrive at my hostel I always head to reception and ask the people that work there about the best places to go. They can tell you which areas to avoid and various safety tips for the local areas. They can also tell you where the best restaurants, attractions and amenities are, as well as the best taxi companies to look for.

Save Emergency Numbers in Your Phone

By learning and saving the countries emergency numbers, you have them quick on hand if you run into a problem. Hopefully nothing happens that you need to use them but at least you know they are there and don’t have to worry if you find yourself in a situation where you need to use them.

The emergency numbers for Sri Lanka are (always double check these before your trip):

119 – Police Emergency Service

110 – Ambulance

111 – Fire and Rescue

* Getting a local SIM is a great idea too!

I hope you enjoyed my Safety Tips for Solo Female Traveller’s in Sri Lanka. It really is a stunning country that should be explored. By being prepared us women can make our trip much more enjoyable and take the stress out of worrying so much.

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More on Sri Lanka:  Teaching Buddhist Monks in Sri Lanka

Hi, I'm Sam, a British backpacker, solo travelling for over a decade. I aim to inspire and advise on solo female travel.

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A lot of these are very useful, but I would not recommend using public transport, especially if crowded . I was groped continuously for about half an hour on a crowded train. I ended up crossing my arms over my boobs to stop them from being attacked by perverts Another thing is to avoid drinking the tap water – a guy we met had to take off a week when he came down with cramps and vomiting

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Tips for Solo Female Travel in Sri Lanka

Despite its modest size, Sri Lanka boasts a wealth of attractions – from its pristine beaches and awe-inspiring mountain panoramas to lush green jungles and undulating tea fields. The country’s rich and diverse history, spanning thousands of years, adds an extra layer of fascination to its allure.

Considered a gem among travel destinations, Sri Lanka has gained popularity among backpackers. During the planning stages of my solo trip, I delved into blogs authored by fellow female solo travelers, predominantly from the West. They consistently emphasized that, while the country is generally safe, they encountered occasional awkward stares and fell victim to scams.

Understanding that solo female travel in Sri Lanka can be both exhilarating and daunting, I took in their experiences as valuable insights. Like any journey, I knew there would be a mix of positive and challenging encounters, and I felt adequately prepared for the adventure that awaited me.

So, here’s my experience traveling solo as a female in Sri Lanka.

Related read : 8 Days in Sri Lanka

Is Sri Lanka Safe for a Solo Female Traveler?

Sri Lanka is generally safe for solo female travelers. I spent two weeks exploring the country on my own and had a fantastic experience. Meeting fellow travelers in hostels added to the adventure, and my Airbnb hosts were accommodating. The local Sinhalese people are generally friendly, contributing to the welcoming atmosphere.

However, as with any destination, personal safety relies on judgment and decisions . It’s crucial to trust your instincts if something feels off.

While I did encounter a few awkward situations, they were minor compared to the overall positive experience of the trip. If you’re a solo female traveler contemplating a journey to Sri Lanka, I wholeheartedly recommend it. Embrace the adventure, and you’re sure to return home with unforgettable memories!

Related read : Top Places to Visit in Sri Lanka

Travel Tips for Solo Female Travelers in Sri Lanka

Here are a few tips for solo female travel in Sri Lanka.

Dress Moderately

In Sri Lanka, where cultural conservatism is more pronounced than other tourist destinations, it’s advisable to dress modestly. Avoid wearing crop tops, shorts, bikinis, or overly revealing outfits, especially when exploring smaller towns and religious sites.

When visiting heritage sites and temples, ensure your clothing covers your shoulders and knees ; otherwise, entry might be restricted. While it’s more relaxed at beaches in the South or the Southwest, it’s generally better to be well-covered to avoid unwanted attention.

Act Confident and Be Cautious with Information

While Sri Lanka is generally safe, it’s wise to maintain a confident demeanor and not always disclose that you’re traveling alone. In less crowded areas, you might encounter individuals with questionable intentions. Stay alert, and trust your instincts.

Share limited information about your solo travels with strangers, including details about where you’re staying. This precaution can help avoid uncomfortable situations and ensure a smoother and more secure solo travel experience.

Stay Vigilant and Seek Crowded Places if Stalked

In unsettling situations where you feel someone might be following you, act promptly. A seemingly harmless encounter became a potential issue during my walk around Kandy Lake. After turning down a ticket offer for a cultural show, I realized the person was following me.

I increased my pace, crossed the road, and sought refuge in a souvenir store among fellow tourists. If you ever feel stalked, stay brisk and head towards crowded areas or establishments . If necessary, inform the staff or security, as they can assist in diffusing the situation.

Avoid Solo Night Exploration

While exploring freely is tempting, avoiding wandering alone at night is advisable, especially in quieter areas like Sigiriya, Dambulla, Kandy , or Ella after 8 PM. While Colombo and beach towns are vibrant after dark, other locations may become quiet .

Plan any nighttime outings with a companion, whether it’s for dinner, drinks, or a late stroll. I experienced the importance of this in Sigiriya, where finding a tuk-tuk became challenging after dinner, and walking back alone felt uneasy. Partnering with a fellow traveler can add an extra layer of safety and reassurance.

Use Google Translator for Communication

English is not widely spoken in Sri Lanka, particularly among locals like tuk-tuk drivers and street food vendors who predominantly communicate in Sinhalese. During my travels, when I mentioned being Indian, many assumed I was from South India and began speaking in Tamil.

Google Translator was a lifesaver – a quick way to bridge the language gap . I would type my message, and the app helped convey my thoughts, making communication much smoother.

Opt for Hostels or Airbnb Accommodations

When solo traveling, consider staying at hostels or Airbnb accommodations instead of hotels. This not only allows for cost savings but also provides opportunities to connect with fellow travelers, discover hidden gems, and enjoy great company.

I was fortunate to meet incredible people during my journey. While hiking Pidurangala, I teamed up with a guy from India and a girl from Canada. In Kandy, my stay at Clock Inn Kandy (temporarily closed) led to a road trip to Nuwara Eliya with two fellow solo travelers I met there. Spending Christmas Eve together became a memorable experience.

Similarly, my host at Babylon Hostel in Mirissa shared insights about local beaches, popular eateries, and stories from his village. Wise accommodation choices and reading reviews beforehand can enhance the solo travel experience.

Ensure Phone Connectivity

Activating international roaming or obtaining a local SIM card is crucial when traveling solo. Having access to your phone not only allows you to stay connected to the internet but also enables you to make calls.

I made it a habit to save the contact details of my Airbnb hosts and hostel owners at each location. This way, if I ever faced any challenges, I could easily reach out to them. Keeping loved ones informed about your whereabouts is equally important while traveling alone.

Travel Dudes Tip :You can also get an eSIM that allows you to stay connected at all times without needed to get a local SIM in each country. Check out the benefits of using an eSIM while traveling .

With competitive pricing and global coverage in over 180 countries, the Travel Dudes eSIM card is the perfect solution for any traveler.

Exercise Caution with App-Based Services

While app-based services like ‘Pick-Me’ in Sri Lanka (similar to Uber) can offer cost-effective transportation, it’s important to be cautious. During my trip from Mirissa to Galle, I encountered a situation where the local tuk-tuk drivers were unhappy with the prevalence of app-based services.

Despite a lower fare on the app, I faced some confrontations and eventually had to opt for a local tuk-tuk due to the escalating tension. While using such apps can save you money, be prepared for potential local resistance , and consider the overall situation before making a choice. Despite these challenges, don’t let anything deter you from enjoying your journey and experiencing the best that the country has to offer.

While my journey to Sri Lanka was initially a solo adventure, it transformed into a series of shared experiences with newfound friends. From savoring delectable crabs in Colombo to unwinding on the beaches of Welligama, and from impromptu singing sessions on a train to Ella to the excitement of spotting leopards in Yala, the trip was enriched by the incredible people I encountered. It’s a testament to the fact that Sri Lanka is a place where you’ll inevitably meet remarkable individuals and share memorable moments.

Undoubtedly, solo female travelers should exercise caution and remain vigilant, but it shouldn’t hinder the enjoyment of new experiences. Sri Lanka, with its slightly conservative atmosphere, requires careful exploration, but by adhering to the provided tips and trusting your instincts, there’s nothing to fear. As your journey unfolds, you’ll accumulate wonderful stories to share with friends and family, capturing the essence of this beautiful island.

Riyanka is a traveler who is keen on exploring different parts of the world. She's a freelance blogger who's equally passionate about photography. Her quest is to turn all her journeys into beautiful stories. Being a die-hard ‘mountain-aholic‘, her favorite destinations are all around the Himalayas! She can spend days gazing at the snow-capped mountains, binge on Maggi and lemon-honey-ginger tea and reading Ruskin Bond books.

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A Solo Female Traveler’s Guide to Sri Lanka

• By: Riyanka
• Feb 03, 2022
• (2) Comments

Sri Lanka is a small island nation, but this gorgeous country has a lot to offer – from the countless beautiful beaches, breathtaking mountain vistas, lush green jungles, and rolling tea fields – there’s something for everyone to see and explore. And of course, the nation’s varied and unique history that dates back thousands of years is incredible!

A gem of a country, Sri Lanka has become quite popular as a backpacking destination, and while I was planning my solo trip, I read quite a few blogs by female solo travelers, to understand what their journey was like! Needless to say, they were all from the West, and they mentioned that the country is safe in general, but they did come across awkward stares and faced scams. I knew that traveling alone could be slightly intimidating, and there would be a mix of good and bad experiences (like every other journey) – I was kind of prepared for it all.

In case you’re planning to travel to Sri Lanka, you can apply for your visa here.

Is Sri Lanka safe for a solo female traveler?

Well, I’d say that Sri Lanka is safe for solo female travelers. I spent two weeks traveling alone. It was also pretty amazing to meet other travelers in the hostels where I stayed. My Airbnb hosts were extremely helpful and the Sinhalese folks are generally quite friendly. However, our safety depends on our moves to an extent – and I would suggest that you need to trust your gut when something doesn’t feel right.

I did find myself in certain awkward situations, but overall, it turned out to be a great trip! If you’re a solo female traveler contemplating whether you should travel to Sri Lanka alone or not, then I would suggest that you go for it. You’ll return home with memories to cherish forever!

How to travel within Sri Lanka?

Traveling within Sri Lanka is a captivating journey through a land of diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the bustling streets of Colombo to the lush tea plantations of Nuwara Eliya and the ancient cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, this island nation offers a wide range of experiences.

You can explore pristine beaches along the southern coast, witness the majesty of elephants in national parks like Yala and Minneriya, and immerse yourself in the spiritual serenity of Kandy’s Temple of the Tooth.

Travel options are abundant, whether you prefer scenic train rides through the hill country or leisurely tuk-tuk adventures through charming villages. 

Here are a few travel tips for solo female travelers heading to Sri Lanka, which I feel would be helpful.

1. Dress moderately.

Sri Lanka isn’t like Thailand, and people are a little conservative! Hence, it’ll be good to avoid wearing crop tops, shorts, and bikinis (or too-revealing outfits) while exploring the smaller towns and religious places. While visiting the heritage sites and temples, you must wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees – otherwise, you won’t be allowed to enter the premises. You can loosen up a bit while you head to the beaches in the South or the Southwest – but everywhere else, it’s better to be covered well, to avoid uncomfortable stares.

2. Act confident, and don’t always disclose that you’re traveling alone!

Although it’s a safe country, that doesn’t mean that there aren’t a few creepy people here!

One morning in Mirissa, I stepped out to catch the sunrise, and the beach was pretty empty, with only a few people jogging or surfing. I bought a coconut from a guy, who seemed pretty friendly. As I walked ahead along the beach, he followed me and asked where I was going. The conversation became weird when he asked me why I was alone there and if I was married! I blatantly lied, saying that I was with my friends who were going to join me in some time. He turned his cycle full of coconuts and left.

This wasn’t the only incident though – there were quite a few times when I was asked why I was alone! The best trick is to act confident, don’t disclose where you’re staying, and also, don’t let strangers know that you’re traveling all by yourself.

3. If you feel stalked, walk fast and make your way into a crowded place!

I know this might sound scary, but there’s always a way out of creepy situations. While walking around Kandy Lake, there was a guy who offered me a ticket for the cultural show that evening. I had to turn him down saying that my friend was at the hostel, busy with work, and I’d like to go to the show with him. This person said ‘Okay’ and left, but later I figured out that he had been following me for quite some time. I immediately started to walk fast, crossed the road, and walked into a souvenir store, to find myself amidst the crowd of other tourists.

If you find yourself in a similar situation, don’t panic! Just make your way into some crowded place or walk inside any hotel nearby, and tell the matter at the reception. That’ll surely help you.

4. Don’t roam around alone at night.

We all would love to explore without any inhibition, but it is just not possible to do that, especially in Sri Lanka. While Colombo and the beach towns are bustling at night, places like Sigiriya, Dambulla, Kandy, or Ella become quiet after Eight ‘O Clock! It’s better to avoid going out alone after dark and in case you plan to go out for food or a drink – it’s best to find someone to go with.

In Sigiriya, I made friends with a German guy and went out for dinner with him – and while returning back to our stay, we couldn’t find a tuk-tuk. We had to walk back through deserted streets which felt eerie, and I kept wondering what would have happened if I was alone!

5. Not everyone understands English, so make sure you have Google Translator.

English isn’t widely spoken in the country, and most of the locals (especially tuk-tuk-walas , street food sellers, etc) speak in Sinhalese. 

Also, when I said I was Indian, many assumed that I was from South India and started speaking in Tamil. 

Google Translator turned out to be a savior for me – I would simply type what I had to say and turn the screen to them, to understand what I was trying to say.

6. Stay at hostels/ Airbnb accommodations.

It’s always better to stay at hostels/ Airbnb accommodations while traveling solo, rather than staying at hotels. This will not only help you to save some money, but you’ll also get to make friends, know the best places to explore, and have some great company! I was lucky to meet some amazing people during my trip.

While hiking up Pidurangala, I met a guy from India and a girl from Canada. In Kandy, I was staying at this hostel (Clock Inn Kandy) where I met two boys (solo travelers) and three of us decided to do a road trip to Nuwara Eliya together! I also ended up spending my Christmas Eve with them. My host at the hostel in Mirissa (Babylon Hostel) told me about the quaint beaches and the most popular eateries in the town. He narrated stories from his village to me, and also told me where to go in Galle.

As a solo traveler, you should be wise while choosing your stay, and make sure to read the reviews before you book a place.

7. Activate your International Roaming or just get a local SIM Card.

When you’re traveling alone, it’s very important to have access to your phone. I activated my International Roaming, which made it easy for me to access the internet as well as to make calls. I used to take the contact details of my Airbnb hosts/ hostel owners at all places so that if I got stuck somewhere, I could call them up. Also, while traveling solo, it’s important to keep the folks back at home updated about where you’re going.

8. Be careful while using app-based services!

I don’t know if this is a helpful tip or not, but it’s surely something that I would like to share. There’s an app called ‘Pick-Me’ in Sri Lanka (it’s like Uber) through which you can book cabs as well as tuk-tuks, and their charges are lower than what the tuk-tuks standing by the roadside would charge.

When I was going from Mirissa to Galle (approx 40 km), I asked my host to call a tuk-tuk for me, and he said they’d charge about 3500 LKR (1200 INR approx). He suggested that I book it from the app, where it was charging me around 2000 LKR (750 INR approx). As I was waiting for my Pick-Me tuk-tuk to arrive, the local tuk-tuk-wala s came and started asking me where I wanted to go, and one of them even tried to grab my suitcase. Later, when the Pick-Me tuk-tuk arrived, these people started arguing with him in the local language (which nearly freaked me out) and then, the Pick-Me person told me that he’d cancel the ride because these folks were threatening him!

I had no choice but to go with one of the local tuk-tuk-walas . When I reached Galle, this person (who was previously agitated) told me that there has been no business for 2 years (due to Covid) and these app-based services are ruining their business.

Let nothing stop you from having a good time, and experiencing the best that the country has to offer.

Although it was a ‘ solo trip to Sri Lanka ‘ and I did have a lot of adventures by myself, I also ended up making new friends and having great company as I explored. From gorging on crabs in Colombo to chilling by the beaches in Welligama, from singing along with strangers on a train to Ella to spotting leopards at Yala – trust me, you are going to find the most amazing bunch of people here on your vacation, just as I did.

As solo female travelers, we do need to be careful and vigilant but that doesn’t mean we should stop ourselves from enjoying and experiencing new things. Yes, Sri Lanka is a little conservative and must be careful while exploring alone. But if you follow the tips mentioned above and trust your gut, then you have nothing to worry about.

And by the end of your trip, you will have some wonderful stories to tell your friends and family back home about this beautiful island.

• Backpacking in Sri Lanka
• Exploring Sri Lanka

I found your writing helpful. I want to visit Sri Lanka in March 2024.

I really appreciate your blog! I am an Asian-American who does frequent solo travel, and often find observations by European-origin travelers (which make up the VAST majority of travel writers) a bit different to my own experiences. Thank you for blogging. I really appreciate your perspective, and find it incredibly helpful!

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An absolute foodie and a die-hard ‘mountain-aholic’, I love to read and write! (Give me a book and I’ll love you all the more!) Over the last few years, I have had the opportunity to travel to a lot of places across India and abroad, and I escaped to the mountains often – blame it on my ardent love for the quaint Himalayan towns and Lemon-Honey-Ginger tea!

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23 things you need to know before going to Sri Lanka

Oct 14, 2023 • 11 min read

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

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

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

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

1. Apply for a visa in advance

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

2. Check your travel vaccinations

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

3. Plan your trip according to the monsoons

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Be realistic about how much ground you can cover

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

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

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

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

8. Plan ahead for the hill country trains

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

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

9. Swimwear is for the beach only

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

10. Avoid public affection and disruptive behavior

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

11. Dress respectfully when visiting temples

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

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

12. Show respect to Buddha images

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

13. Be considerate when taking photographs

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

14. Use your right hand to eat

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

15. Tipping is customary

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

16. Give wildlife space

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

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

17. Take standard safety precautions

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

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

18. Do not drink the tap water

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

19. Beware of scams and pickpockets

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

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

20. Protect yourself against mosquitoes

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

21. Be road-safe in Sri Lanka

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

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

22. Never underestimate the ocean

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

23. Natural disasters are a risk

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

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

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

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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

Keep Reading for my honest experience doing 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 !

Ella was one place that I loved for solo travel in Sri Lanka!

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!

The snorkelling in Trincomalee was worth the trip up there though!

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.

I really enjoyed being solo in Ella and visiting places like the Nine Arch Bridge!

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!

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

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! :)

Travelling 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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Tips for Solo Female Travellers Visiting Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka Hub Writer

Are you a solo female traveller considering a visit to Sri Lanka? Going it alone here is not complicated, the people are lovely and getting around is pretty simple. That said, there are still plenty of things you can do to make your trip safer and more comfortable.

To get the most out of Sri Lanka, book an exclusive 12-day experience with Culture Trip making the most of the country’s ancient temples and exotic wildlife .

What to pack

When going solo in Sri Lanka you should always have: baby wipes and toilet paper, for when there’s nothing more than a hand shower or bucket; a sarong or long skirt for visiting temples; a reusable water bottle, which you can refill at your hotel; and cash in small bills for tuk tuks and buses.

The best way to really get to know a country is to make friends with the locals. As a female, you are better off making friends with women first and foremost. Sri Lankan women are some of the friendliest in the world and will happily offer you a seat at their dinner table. A lot of people will be surprised that you are travelling on your own but will also offer you advice on the best places to visit and where to stay.

Visit the Barefoot Garden Cafe in Colombo

The Barefoot Garden Cafe is great for many reasons. The shopping is wonderful, with many beautiful things to buy for yourself or friends back home, and the cafe area on the garden patio is perfect for sending emails from your laptop. It’s also a great place for meeting other travellers.

Dress modestly

You will need to dress modestly when visiting temples; legs and shoulders must always be covered. You will not be able to go inside otherwise.

Know when not to be alone

When the sun goes down, the city, and the towns especially, become very quiet. Avoid going out alone after dark. If you plan to go out on the town for a drink and a good time, best to find someone to go with.

Mind the staring

If you’re a female travelling solo through Sri Lanka, there’s a good chance that someone will stare at you. It’s not something you can necessarily avoid, but if you feel particularly uncomfortable being in a group may help. And, as always, follow your gut – if a situation feels risky, get to somewhere you feel safe as soon as possible.

Keep your eyes open and your head up

As a solo female traveller you probably already have your wits about you. Either way, it’s not overkill to mention that you need to keep your eyes open and follow your gut. Keep your head up, be confident and have the time of your life in Sri Lanka.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

See & Do

The solo traveller’s guide to sri lanka.

Places to Stay

The best luxury hotels to book in sri lanka.

Guides & Tips

The coolest fortresses you can visit with culture trip.

The Best Hotels to Book Near Mirissa, Sri Lanka

The Best Hotels in Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka, for Every Traveller

The Best Hotels in Weligama, Sri Lanka, for Every Traveller

The Best Hotels in Yala National Park, Sri Lanka, for Wildlife Lovers

The Best Hotels in Dambulla, Sri Lanka, for Every Traveller

The Best Resorts in Sri Lanka

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Sri Lanka ranks top destination for solo female travel in 2024

Thursday, 4 April 2024 02:27 -     - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Sri Lanka has been named the top destination for solo female travel in 2024, by globally renowned timeout.com.  Solo female travel has seen a surge in popularity, with a recent survey revealing that over half of Gen Z women are contemplating travelling abroad alone. As more women seek adventure, cultural immersion, and unforgettable experiences, the question arises: Where to go and what to know? Numerous countries have earned a reputation for being safe and welcoming for solo female travellers, offering established backpacker routes, amicable locals and opportunities for both social interaction and serene solitude.  The global spotlight on Sri Lanka comes as a testament to the country’s appeal and suitability for women travelling alone.  A few countries are known to be relatively safe and easy to navigate for women looking for an adventure, with well-trodden backpacker routes, friendly locals and the chance to meet new people – or spend some good quality alone time. Following closely behind Sri Lanka in the rankings were Portugal, Czechia, Japan, Guatemala, Vietnam, Australia, Greece, and New Zealand.  Describing Sri Lanka, timeout.com states, “The tiny teardrop island of Sri Lanka is like India in miniature but with its own unique charm, making it the perfect first stop for female travellers wanting to dip into South Asia. It’s popular with backpackers and perfectly sized for a week or a month spent exploring the ancient UNESCO-listed sites like Dambulla and Sigiriya or visiting tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya. And for some blissful downtime, the golden beaches of Arugam Bay, Mirissa, and Hikkaduwa promise beachfront hostels, surfing, and delicious local food.” Time Out Group is a leading global media and hospitality business that inspires and enables people to discover and experience the best of the city. Time Out Media’s multiple digital and physical channels span websites, mobile, social media, videos and live events.  From the beginning of 2023, Sri Lanka has continually basked in the global spotlight for its unique tourism offerings and its scenic beauty. 

The Ultimate Guide to the Cheapest Countries to Visit

S o you've caught the travel bug, but your wallet's feeling a bit light? You're not alone. Many of us dream of exploring the world but are held back by a tight budget. But what if we told you that there's a world of affordable, breathtaking destinations waiting for you?

• Tunisia is the cheapest country to travel to with an average daily cost of $19.60 per person.
• South Asian countries are known for their budget-friendly travel experiences.
• Expert travel blogger, Nomadic Matt, champions traveling cheap without missing out on experiences.

A Deeper Dive into Cost-Effective Wanderlust

The world is vast, diverse, and filled with destinations that won't drain your savings. Let's unpack some of these budget-friendly wonders.

Tantalizing Tunisia

With an enticing blend of Mediterranean beaches, Saharan desert landscapes, and rich history, Tunisia offers a unique North African experience. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council , it ranks as the cheapest country to visit. Imagine wandering the ancient ruins of Carthage or losing yourself in the medinas of Tunis without spending a fortune.

South Asia: A Pocket-Friendly Paradise

The magic of South Asia lies not just in its rich culture and history but also in its affordability. Countries like India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka are magnets for budget travelers, offering experiences ranging from Himalayan treks to serene beach retreats. These nations, with their low cost of living, have become iconic for backpackers and wanderlust chasers globally.

Nomadic Matt's Wise Words

It's essential to find value while lowering expenses on your travels. As Nomadic Matt , a celebrated travel blogger, says, "Traveling cheap is all about...finding ways to lower your expenses while still being able to afford to do what you want." With the right strategies and destinations, budget travel doesn't mean missing out.

Kevin Erickson's Insider Tips

Our very own travel expert, Kevin Erickson, has had his fair share of affordable adventures. He recommends using local transport, savoring street food, and staying in hostels or guesthouses to truly immerse oneself in a place. Kevin also emphasizes the importance of traveling during the off-peak season to get the most bang for your buck.

Challenging the Status Quo

Who says you need to be rolling in cash to see the world? It's time to challenge this assumption. The planet brims with destinations that are both unforgettable and affordable. It's all about knowing where to look and how to travel smart .

India , often termed the subcontinent, provides a mosaic of experiences. From the architectural marvels of the Mughal-era like the Taj Mahal to the vibrant bazaars of Jaipur and the serene backwaters of Kerala, there's something for everyone. Street food, often costing less than a dollar, allows travelers to savor flavors from different regions without emptying their pockets.

In contrast, Nepal , nestled amidst the towering peaks of the Himalayas, calls out to those seeking both adventure and spirituality. Trekking the Annapurna Circuit or visiting the ancient temples and stupas in Kathmandu can be surprisingly affordable. Furthermore, the warm hospitality of the Nepali people often leads to homestays, giving travelers an authentic experience at a minimal cost.

Sri Lanka , the teardrop island, boasts pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and a rich Buddhist heritage. Whether it's riding the scenic train through Ella's tea plantations or spotting leopards in Yala National Park, Sri Lanka offers luxury experiences at a fraction of the cost. Moreover, the island's delectable seafood is a treat for the taste buds and the wallet!

Exploring South Asia can be a transformative experience, not just for the soul but also for your savings. It’s a testament to the fact that some of the most enriching travel experiences don't have to come with a hefty price tag.

Travel isn't a luxury reserved for the wealthy. With the right knowledge and approach, it's accessible to everyone. So pack your bags, embrace the adventure, and discover the myriad of wonders that the world's cheapest countries have to offer.

Why is Tunisia so affordable for travelers?

Tunisia's cost of living is significantly lower than many Western countries, and the local economy benefits from tourism, leading to competitive pricing to attract visitors.

Are there safety concerns when traveling to cheaper countries?

Safety varies by destination. Always conduct research, use common sense, and follow travel advisories for the most up-to-date information.

How does the off-peak season impact travel costs?

Traveling off-peak often means fewer tourists, leading to lower accommodation and attraction prices. Airlines and hotels may also offer discounts to attract visitors.

Can I still have a luxury experience in a cheap country?

Absolutely! Your money can often go much further in these countries, allowing for more upscale experiences at a fraction of the price you'd pay elsewhere.

How do I find the best deals when planning my trip?

Utilize travel comparison sites, set up fare alerts, and consider flexible travel dates to snag the best deals.

What are the top 5 cheapest countries to visit right now?

This can vary based on economic factors, but as of this writing, some of the cheapest countries include Tunisia, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam.

References:

• World Travel and Tourism Council. (2021). Tunisia Travel Cost Analysis.
• Nomadic Matt. (2020). Tips for Budget Travel.
• U.S. Department of State. (2021). Travel advisories.

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The top 10 visa-free countries for Indian passport holders in 2024

Visa-free countries for indians in 2024: discover the top 10 best global destinations that indian passport holders can travel to visa-free in 2024..

Many countries worldwide are currently offering visa-free entry to enhance their tourism industry and attract more visitors, including those from India, ensuring a seamless travel experience and eliminating travel obstacles. This initiative has led to a surge in new explorers eager to venture out and discover these countries.

Thailand and Sri Lanka have recently extended their visa-free entry provisions for Indian visitors. Thailand’s extension is in effect until November 11, 2024, while Sri Lanka’s lasts until May 31, 2024. However, in some instances, it is crucial to note that travel to visa-free countries is usually limited to a specific duration and additional documents, such as proof of onward travel or payment of airport taxes might be required.

Indian passport holders currently benefit from visa-free access to 62 countries, simplifying travel and exploration. Visa-free travel allows entry into a country without the need for a prior visa and only requires a passport to clear customs, eliminating the complexities of visa procedures and associated fees.

So, as the summer vacation season approaches, it’s an ideal time to travel. If you hold an Indian passport, there are several destinations you can visit without the hassle of obtaining a visa. Below is the list of the top 10 best global destinations that Indian passport holders can travel to visa-free.

1. Bhutan: 14 days

Bhutan is a neighbouring country of India and is considered one of the top visa-free destinations for Indian passport holders. They can travel for up to 14 days without needing a visa. Often referred to as the Land of the Thunder Dragon, the country is located in the Himalayas and is renowned for its snow-capped peaks, vibrant monasteries, and spiritual culture.

Nepal is a country famous for having Mount Everest, which is the highest mountain in the world. The country is an ideal destination for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers as it offers a unique and enriching experience with ancient temples, breathtaking landscapes, and amiable locals. Indian passport holders do not require a visa to enter Nepal, as the country shares a friendly relationship with India.

3. Mauritius: 90 days

Mauritius, an island nation surrounded by the Indian Ocean, is a picturesque tropical paradise famous for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and coral reefs. While many visitors come to Mauritius to experience nature and indulge in luxury resort stays, it can also be an excellent destination for Indian solo or group travellers who want to explore the cities, visit tourist attractions, and try delicious local cuisine. Furthermore, Indian travellers can stay in Mauritius for up to 90 days without a visa, making it an attractive option for those seeking to travel hassle-free.

4. Kenya: 90 days

Starting January 1, 2024, Kenya will allow visa-free travel to Indian passport holders to promote tourism through its electronic travel authorization programme. Exploring its vibrant wildlife and marine reserves, with over 50 national parks to choose from, Indians can travel to Kenya visa-free for 90 days to experience its world-renowned safari experience.

5. Malaysia: 30 days

Malaysia is a magnificent travel destination that offers a blend of ancient rainforests and a multicultural city-life experience. The capital, Kuala Lumpur, boasts the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, one of the tallest buildings in the world. The country is renowned for its exceptional food, historical vibe, gorgeous beaches, and wildlife-packed national parks. Indian passport holders can now travel to Malaysia visa-free until December 31, 2024, as per the latest update. It permits a stay of up to 30 days for each entry and visit to the country.

6. Thailand: 30 days (till November 11, 2024)

Thailand, a gem of Southeast Asia, is famous for its exquisite beaches, delicious cuisine, and lively culture. From the busy streets of Bangkok to the grand temples of Chiang Mai and the tranquil beaches of Phuket, Thailand offers a perfect combination of cultural immersion, adventure, and relaxation. As per the latest update, Thailand has extended its visa-free travel for Indian passport holders until November 11, 2024, which was previously May 10, 2024.

7. Dominica: 6 months

Dominica is a mountainous Caribbean island nation, also known as “Nature Island.” It boasts tropical and balmy weather, natural hot springs, and tropical rainforests. The Morne Trois Pitons National Park is a must-visit place, where you can find a 1,342-metre-high volcano. The country’s best features include the 65-metre-tall Trafalgar Falls and the narrow Titou Gorge. Indian passport holders can easily book flights to Dominica from India to enter this beautiful country. The good news for Indian nationals is that they do not require a visa for either tourism or business purposes for six months.

8. Qatar: 30 days

Qatar is a Middle Eastern country known for its impressive infrastructure and futuristic capital, Doha, with its towering skyscrapers. The country is also recognised as one of the wealthiest nations in the world and is currently in the spotlight for hosting the FIFA World Cup 2022. Indian passport holders can enjoy 30 days of visa-free travel in Qatar.

9. Sri Lanka: 30 days (till May 31st, 2024)

Sri Lanka is the latest addition to the list of visa-free countries for Indians. This South Asian island is rich in history and boasts stunning landscapes, diverse cultures, and incredible wildlife. Visitors can experience beautiful weather and indulge in delicious cuisine. Indian passport holders can travel visa-free to Sri Lanka until May 31st, 2024, as per the latest update. The hospitality of the locals is great, and the country is famous for its sweetmeats.

10. Seychelles: 30 days

The Seychelles are renowned for their stunning waters, coral reefs, sea turtles, and underwater rock formations teeming with beautiful fish, whale sharks, and shipwrecks. The beaches in the Seychelles offer a calm, peaceful, and secluded environment, and Indian passport holders can visit visa-free for 30 days.

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