Sri Lanka

A terrorist attack could happen anywhere in Sri Lanka at any time, targeting anyone. Terrorists may target areas popular with foreigners.

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

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

Security has increased across the country following the 21 April 2019 terrorist attacks. The attacks targeted prominent hotels and churches in the cities of Colombo, Negombo and Batticaloa. Over 250 people were killed and more than 450 injured.

When you're travelling:

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

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

• Terrorism

Public demonstrations can occur throughout Sri Lanka. Several violent incidents have taken place during large demonstrations. 

Avoid demonstrations and events that draw large groups. Demonstrations can lead to disruptions to traffic and public transport. Follow the advice of local authorities and monitor the media for updates. Such events may become a target for politically motivated attacks.

A Public Emergency can be declared and curfews may be imposed at short notice. Carry relevant travel and identification documents with you at all times.

Communal and inter-ethnic tensions have been high since the Easter 2019 attacks. Isolated incidents of violence can occur with little warning.

In response to protests in Sri Lanka, police have:

• used tear gas and water cannons
• imposed curfews at short notice

Always carry an ID, such as your passport or a copy of your passport biodata page and visa page certified by the Australian High Commission in Colombo.

To stay safe during periods of unrest:

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

If you're detained, ask to contact the Australian High Commission. See Local contacts

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

Communal and inter-ethnic tensions have been high in the Eastern provinces in the past. Isolated incidents of violence can occur with little warning.

If you travel to the Northern or Eastern provinces:

• stay on main roads
• obey landmine warning signs
• ask local authorities about unsafe areas
• be ready to adjust your travel plans if travel restrictions or security issues arise

Military and police have wide-ranging powers, and may:

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

Security forces have at times detained non-Sri Lankan citizens of Sri Lankan heritage.

Authorities may apply travel restrictions for foreigners without notice.

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

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

You could encounter violent crime in Sri Lanka, including sexual assault and robbery.

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

• markets
• sporting events
• public transport
• hotels and guesthouses

Female travellers

Women may experience unwanted attention. Sexual harassment and assault are risks. Take care in:

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

If you're a solo female traveller, arrange your trip through travel agents with a good reputation.

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

The following crimes have also been reported:

• verbal harassment
• physical advances
• drink-spiking

To protect yourself:

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

Scams and fraud

Scams and fraud are a problem, such as:

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

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

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

If you plan to do an adventure activity:

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

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

Swimming conditions at some beaches are unsafe and there are often strong rips.

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

Take appropriate precautions.

Sri Lanka experiences severe weather and occasional tsunamis.

The monsoon season is from:

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

Flooding and landslides are frequent.

If a natural disaster occurs:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location or carry it on you at all times (in a waterproof bag)
• follow the advice of local authorities
• monitor the media and other sources
• keep in touch with friends and family
• consult with your tour operator about disruptions to your travel plans

More information:

• Sri Lankan Disaster Management Centre
• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance. 

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

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

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many 1000s of dollars up-front for medical care.

Confirm:

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

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. Consider whether you may be in a vulnerable category for COVID-19.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

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

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

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

More information:

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips (Healthdirect Australia)
• COVID-19 (Department of Health and Aged Care)

Import delays may impact your ability to access some medicines.

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

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

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

• what the medicine is
• how much you'll take
• that it's for personal use

More information:

• Medication

COVID-19

COVID-19 remains a risk in Sri Lanka. 

For the latest information on COVID-19 cases in Sri Lanka, refer to Ministry of Health's Epidemiology Unit.

For information on Sri Lanka’s COVID−19 vaccination program, refer to Ministry of Health Sri Lanka and your local Public Health Inspector. You should consult your local health professional for advice on vaccine options, including assistance that may be available locally. The Australian Government cannot provide advice on the safety, quality and efficacy of vaccines that have been approved for use outside of Australia's regulatory process.  

More information:

• Coronavirus (COVID-19) (Department of Health and Aged Care)

Insect-borne diseases

Dengue fever is a risk in Sri Lanka. In 2022 there has been a significant increase in the number of reported cases. Outbreaks of dengue occur in all regions of Sri Lanka.

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

If you have a fever, seek medical attention.

For the latest information on dengue cases in Sri Lanka, refer to the Ministry of Health's Epidemeology Unit.

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

• chikungunya
• Japanese encephalitis
• filariasis

To protect yourself from disease:

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

Other health risks

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

• typhoid
• hepatitis
• leptospirosis
• rabies

To protect yourself:

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

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

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

More information:

• Infectious diseases

Medical facilities

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

Private hospitals will ask you to pay a deposit or prove you have insurance cover before treating you. Public general hospitals are free for Sri Lankan nationals. Foreigners will need to pay for any treatments received at public general hospitals.

If you test positive for COVID-19, you may be sent to a designated hospital or a quarantine hotel. This will be a private cost to you.

The Sri Lanka Navy Base in Trincomalee has a decompression chamber.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you'll need to be evacuated to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

A Public Emergency can be declared and curfews may be imposed at short notice. 

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

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

Drugs

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

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Other laws

Authorities may apply the death penalty for murder or rape.

The legal drinking age is 21 years.

In certain cases, Sri Lankan law permits:

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

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

In Sri Lanka it's illegal to:

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

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

• military establishments
• some government buildings
• official residences

Some HSZs may not be signposted.

It's illegal to mistreat Buddhist images, including:

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

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

More information:

• Sri Lankan Customs (Sri Lankan)
• Advice for LGBTI travellers

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

More information:

• Staying within the law

Sri Lanka recognises dual nationality.

More information:

• Dual nationals

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

Respect local restrictions and observances around religious holidays.

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

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

Visas

Entry and exit conditions can change. Details on Sri Lankan entry requirements can be found on Sri Lanka Travel.

You need a visa, in the form of an Electronic Travel Authority.

Tourists are unable to obtain visas on arrival. Select the correct visa category for your situation. Depending on your ETA category, you may be charged a processing fee. You will need to apply online and obtain a valid visa prior to arrival in Sri Lanka. If you engage in activities that breach your visa conditions, authorities could detain or deport you.

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

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

Yellow fever and Cholera

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

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

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

More information:

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

Border measures

Travellers are not required to quarantine on arrival or present evidence of a negative COVID-19 (PCR/Rapid Antigen) test. However, your airline may still require you to present a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test prior to boarding. 

If you're fully vaccinated you must carry proof of your vaccination status is English.

Staying in Sri Lanka

Curfews may be imposed and travel restrictions changed at short notice. You'll be fined or imprisoned if you don't comply.

Validity

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

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

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

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

Lost or stolen passport

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

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

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

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

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

You can change Australian dollars for LKR at:

• the airport
• commercial banks in major centres

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

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

Hotels and major shops will accept credit cards.

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

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

High Security Zones

You must get approval from the Ministry of Defence to:

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

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

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

Driving permit

To drive in Sri Lanka, you need either:

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

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

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

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

Road travel

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

There's a shortage of fuel in Sri Lanka. You may experience disruptions to fuel supply.

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

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

If you plan to drive in Sri Lanka:

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

More information:

• Road safety

Motorcycles

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

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

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

Public transport

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

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

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

Take care of your belongings because theft occurs. See Safety

More information:

• Transport and getting around safely

Sea travel

Piracy occurs in the coastal areas of Sri Lanka.

Get piracy reports from the International Maritime Bureau.

Travelling by yacht or small craft

Air travel

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

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

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

Commercial domestic Sri Lankan Air Force flights may not meet international airline standards for safety and maintenance.

When Australian officials book scheduled flights with Helitours, the Air Force-run domestic airline, they choose only MA60 aircraft.

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

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

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Fire and rescue services

Call 110.

Medical emergencies

Call 110.

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

Police

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

Tourist police

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

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Contact your provider with any complaints about tourist services or products or call the Tourism Hotline 1912.

You can also call the Sri Lankan tourist police on (+94 11) 242 1451.

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

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

Australian High Commission

21, Srimath R. G. Senanayake Mawatha (formerly Gregory's Road)
Colombo 7, Sri Lanka
Phone: (+94 11) 246 3200
Fax: (+94 11) 268 6453
Email: consular.colombo@dfat.gov.au
Website: srilanka.embassy.gov.au
Twitter: Australia in Sri Lanka and Maldives
Facebook: Australia in Sri Lanka and Maldives

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

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

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

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