Travel Safety in Sri Lanka

There are a number of security concerns in Sri Lanka. One of these is terrorism. In April 2019, hundreds of people were killed in attacks carried out in churches and hotels in Colombo and elsewhere. Further such attacks are possible and the government may declare a state of emergency at any time to manage the risk.

Due to political instability in Sri Lanka, demonstrations are a regular occurrence in urban centres, particularly in Colombo and some have turned violent in the past.

Petty crime, such as pick-pocketing and bag-snatching, is known to occur in Colombo, Kandy and other cities (particularly in marketplaces, at sporting events and on public transport). Thefts are also common from rooms in hotels and guesthouses in the south and west coast resort areas. Violent crime (most commonly sexual assault and armed robbery) is more of an issue in northern, eastern and central provinces of Sri Lanka than in other parts of the country.

There have been reports of harassment towards foreign women by groups of men, ranging from sexually suggestive comments to physical advances.

There have been occasional kidnappings in Sri Lanka, but kidnappers almost solely target wealthy locals.

Medical facilities are largely inadequate, but there are a few private hospitals in Colombo that offer adequate medical care.