Safest Places in Sri Lanka for Solo Female Travelers
1, Kalpitiya
Kalpitiya, located in the Puttalam District of Northwestern Sri Lanka, is a spectacular travel destination that's an undiscovered gem. Known for its remarkable beauty, the region is a wonderland of natural attractions, from its serene sandy beaches to an archipelago of 14 islands in the Indian Ocean. Outside of the captivating coastal scenery, Kalpitiya is famous for its vibrant marine life and is highly regarded as one of the best spots globally for dolphin and whale watching. It's also a world-renowned location for its conditions perfect for kitesurfing. Nestled within this unspoiled paradise, you'll find historical Dutch colonial structures and a predominantly fishing community showcasing Sri Lanka's rich culture and history.
2, Bandarawela
Located in the emerald hills of Sri Lanka's Uva Province, Bandarawela paints a picture of scenic beauty with lush tea plantations, cascading waterfalls, and mist-covered mountains. Known as the second largest export town of the island nation, it's a haven for tea lovers who come from far and wide to savor some of the finest brews in the world. With a pleasant cool climate all year round, it serves as a base for eco-tourism enthusiasts drawn to its rich biodiversity. Hiking trails leading to its mystical pre-historic Belilena caves, visits to ancient Dowa Temple housing a grand Buddha statue, and ambling through the local market bursting with freshness are experiences synonymous with Bandarawela.
3, Talpe
Talpe, a serene coastal town in Sri Lanka, is situated in the southern region of the country, near the city of Galle. Known for its breathtaking beaches with dazzling azure waters, this town is a paradisiacal haven for both peace-seekers and adventure-enthused travelers. Unawatuna Beach and Mihiripena Beach are particularly famous for their remarkable beauty and recreational activities like snorkeling and surfing. Talpe is also renowned for its lush tropical climate, unique wildlife including sea turtles, and splendid oceanfront resorts that offer a serene retreat into nature's finest vistas. With its stunning sunsets coupled with a balmy ocean breeze, Talpe provides a soulful journey that captivates its visitors with its simplistic charm and tranquility.
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4, Nuwara Eliya
Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka's tea country, Nuwara Eliya is a charming city known for its soothing cool climate and breathtaking panorama of verdant mountains, meticulously terraced tea plantations, gushing streams, and towering waterfalls. Often referred to as 'Little England', this gorgeous city embodies quaint features of a British colonial past, from its well-preserved Victorian-style architecture to the manicured gardens and sophisticated hedgerows of its country house-like hill clubs. Apart from luxuriously sipping fresh local tea, visitors here can partake in visits to lush tea estates, enjoy a round of golf on an immaculate 18-hole course, indulge in trout fishing, or savor the beauty of blooming roses and magnolias in the renowned Hakgala Botanical Gardens. Houses of worship, like the Seetha Amman Temple, add to Nuwara Eliya's rich cultural flavor, making it an irresistible retreat for tourists seeking serenity and scenic beauty.
5, Mirissa
Mirissa is a scenic and captivating coastal town located in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka. Known for its magnificent crescent-shaped beach, Mirissa is a haven for travelers who seek to dive into the serene beauty of nature. The turquoise waters are perfect for surfing and swimming while the golden sands offer an ideal spot for sunbathing. It's also renowned for providing some of the best opportunities for whale and dolphin watching in the world. A sea-side paradise, Mirissa not only promises tranquil moments under the sun but also offers vibrant nightlife with numerous beachside cafes and bars, adding a touch of modern pleasure to the more traditional and tranquil beauty of this tropical sanctuary.
6, Colombo
Colombo, the commercial capital and largest city of Sri Lanka, is a vibrant metropolis located on the western coast of the island. Renowned for its striking blend of modern architecture and colonial buildings, bustling street markets, and serene Buddhist temples, it beautifully reflects the country's rich cultural and historical heritage. The city is famous for its diverse cuisine, the captivating Gangaramaya Temple, the mesmerizing Beira Lake, and the iconic Galle Face Green where both locals and tourists flock to enjoy the exquisite sunset. Colombo, a gateway to discovering the island’s beauty, is undeniably a place where you can experience the best intriguing mix of old and new Sri Lanka.
7, Kandy
Kandy, a city nestled in Sri Lanka's hill country and the heartland of the island, is famed for its extraordinary beauty and historical significance. Also known as the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, Kandy is renowned for its verdant hills and tranquil Lake Kandy, bestowing the city with breathtakingly serene vistas. The city is also home to one of the most sacred Buddhist shrines in the world, the Temple of the Tooth, which enshrines Buddha's tooth relic. Each year, Kandy enthralls countless visitors with its colourful Esala Perahera festival, during which decorated elephants, traditional dancers, and drummers parade in the city as part of a significant religious ritual. Whether you are captivated by ethereal natural beauty, rich history, or vibrant cultural traditions, Kandy promises an unforgettable experience.
8, Haputale
Haputale is a quaint town beautifully nestled in the hill country of Sri Lanka. Known for its breath-taking views and enchanting climate, the town sits on the southern edge of the country's central highlands, typically marked by lush green landscapes and endless tea plantations. The area is widely celebrated for the Dambatenne Tea Factory, where you can enjoy a surreal journey through the process of brewing Ceylon Tea. Not far from the factory, Lipton's Seat lookout is another famous spot, offering the mesmerizing views of the misty mountains and surrounding estates, often considered as one of the best vantage points in Sri Lanka. Visitors to Haputale also frequent the Adisham Bungalow, a monastery run by Benedictine Monks, known for its tranquil atmosphere and architectural beauty.
9, Galle
Galle, Sri Lanka is a breathtaking coastal city located on the southwestern tip of the island, known for its rich history and vibrant culture. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is widely recognized for its well-preserved 16th century Dutch Fort, a testament to the city's colonial past. Stroll through the charming, narrow streets lined with Dutch-colonial buildings and explore the maritime museum, quaint boutiques, and crafted jewelry shops. Galle's coastal location offers beautiful beaches, like Unawatuna and Hikkaduwa, that captivate tourists with turquoise waters and golden sands. Besides its historical and natural attractions, Galle is also known for its spicy Sri Lankan cuisine, with a plethora of exotic dishes to satiate food lovers' appetites.
10, Trincomalee
Trincomalee, often fondly called Trinco, is a captivating port city located on the northeast coast of Sri Lanka, boasting remarkable colonial charm and serene subtropical landscapes. Known for its magnificent azure beaches such as Uppuveli and Nilaveli, Trincomoalee is a paradise for sun-seekers and diving enthusiasts, offering thrilling opportunities for whale and dolphin watching, and scuba diving around the famous Pigeon Island. The city boasts a rich historical significance, evident in the sacred Koneswaram Temple perched on a cliff above the harbor and the thought-provoking remnants of the World War II at the Commonwealth War Cemetery. Whether you are a history buff, adventure aficionado, or a quiet tranquility seeker, Trincomalee is a must-visit destination that will surprise and delight you at every turn.
11, Vavuniya
Located in the Northern Province of Sri Lanka, Vavuniya is a vibrant city with a rich historical and cultural background. Reverberating with tropical charm, Vavuniya is well-known for its significance during the country's civil war showcased in war memorial monuments that dot the city. It's also famous for the Vavuniya Fort, a major landmark that dates back to the Portuguese era. Visitors can also explore the natural allure of areas such as the Great Vavuniya Forest – a haven for biodiversity, or dive into local traditions with various cultural festivals. With plentiful street food stalls offering an array of spicy Sri Lankan delicacies, Vavuniya provides a unique blend of history, culture, and mouthwatering cuisine for globe-trotters.
12, Jaffna
Jaffna is a vibrant city located in the northernmost region of the tropical island nation Sri Lanka. Known for its rich history, unique Tamil culture, and captivating landscape, Jaffna or "Yapahuwa" embodies an entirely distinctive charm that sets it apart from other Sri Lankan cities. This enthralling city boasts of fascinating landmarks such as the historic Jaffna Fort, the sacred Nallur Kandaswamy Temple, and the picturesque Jaffna Public Library. Abundant with luscious Palmyra palms and sea-kissed sand, it offers a range of enchanting islands like the Delft Island, home to wild ponies and ethereal scenerith. Jaffna's vibrant markets, brimming with exotic fruits, beautiful cotton sarees, and delightful Jaffna Cuisine are a visual and gourmet treat for every visitor.
13, Batticaloa
Batticaloa, also referred to as the "land of the singing fish", is an enchanting coastal city located in the Eastern Province of the beautiful island nation, Sri Lanka. Known for its picturesque lagoons, sunny beaches, and vibrant local culture, Batticaloa oozes a charm that is uniquely its own. The town's rich history is evident in its Dutch-era fort, ancient Hindu temples, and cathedrals. The mysterious phenomenon of 'singing fish', where musical sounds resonate from the lagoon waters during full moon nights, is a major attraction of this alluring city. Batticaloa is also home to the breathtaking Kallady Bridge, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, making it a haven for photographers and adventure seekers alike.
14, Arugam Bay
Arugam Bay, a coastal hamlet located on the southeast coast of Sri Lanka, is a haven for surfers worldwide due to its renowned point break. This picturesque coastal settlement, framed by swaying coconut palms, is imbued with a laid-back lifestyle. Beyond its surfing reputation, Arugam Bay is known for its rich biodiversity, characterized by nearby Kumana National Park, perfect for bird watching and wildlife spotting. Nearby ancient ruins provide a pinch of cultural heritage, showcasing the varied elements that make this destination a sweeping mix of beauty and adventure. The bay is also home to a vibrant nightlife, offering an alluring blend of local eateries and international cuisine, perfectly catered to the mix of locals and global explorers who frequent this hidden gem of a beach town.
15, Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa, nestled in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, is a city of ancient beauty and rich historic significance. It's renowned as one of the cleanest and more beautiful cities in the country and is considered Sri Lanka's second-most ancient kingdom. Polonnaruwa, now a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as a testament to the architectural and engineering prowess of the medieval Sri Lankans. The city's iconic ruins, including stunning Buddha statues, intricate carvings, and majestic structures like the royal palace complex and the Quadrangle, attract a significant number of history enthusiasts and tourists from around the world. Besides its cultural wealth, Polonnaruwa also offers easy access to nature, being close to beautiful parks, like the Minneriya National Park, making it a must-visit destination for globetrotters seeking a blend of historical exploration and nature-based adventures.
Is Sri Lanka safe for female travelers?
Alexandra
Spain
Sri Lanka, Solo travel
I was traveling solo in Sri Lanka, in between I joined a group of backpackers. I had an overall good experience. The locals were mostly helpful and when I had a doubt or question, I could ask a person around and they would mostly try to help. Public transport can get crowded, and there is no centralised bus schedule, so you need to figure it out by asking around. I had some misunderstandings, but all went well in the end. In buses and trains, people were mostly nice to me, I had pleasant conversations and several people shared their food with me when sitting next to me (which I am not used to at all:) ). For booking a taxi or tuktuk, I recommend to use the Pick Me app. Otherwise, I used to tell the tuk tuk drivers the price I would get on PickMe, so I wouldn't have to bargain, and they normally accepted. I haven't spent much time in Colombo, but I felt fine. A lot of traffic, I didn't like to walk around. Some stray dogs (I was fine, but a fellow backpacker got attacked at some point). Places like Sigiriya and Ella have a tourist infrastructure, many guesthouses and restaurants, so it's very easy to be there as a traveler, but also the prices are higher and there are not many locals. Keep in mind that pickMe doesn't work in Ella, so tuktuks are expensive. If you stay far from the centre, it's not always ideal in the night (especially if you have to walk, it is very dark, couple I met got attacked by dogs on the way back; I heard a story of somebody who had to stay at a different person's hotel room, because the tuktuk wouldn't come that "far" in the night for a reasonable price). Tricomalee has a touristy part which has a bar with beach access where all the party happens, many western people stay there etc. But the city centre is not touristy at all. That's the only place where I felt a little uncomfortable sometimes when young men were staring/ calling me "baby", etc., so I recommend not showing to much skin not to attract attention. But also it was the part where I have experienced a festival and learned a lot about the culture. In Kandy I felt generally safe, I just didn't like the air pollution, and around the lake there are many people trying to sell you tickets for the dance show. They will walk behind you and not leave you alone for some time. In Galle (Fort area) I felt very safe, but I was only there for a few hours till sunset. There were many local families with kids, so it had a nice ambience. Also, I went to Ambalangoda and a tea plantation in Dolosbage, and I had good experiences and felt safe there. But I was Couchsurfing, so I was not alone. If you feel I can help you in any way, feel free to reach out:)
Posted: September 3, 2025Experienced: July, 2025
Anastasia
Russia
Sri Lanka, Solo travel
My experience on Sri Lanka was quite good. It was my first solo trip and it wasn’t just a vacation, I came there with one way ticket and eventually stayed on the island for 3 months. Local people seems nice and friendly, sometimes they can be intrusive, but I think it’s just part of Asian culture. I felt safe out there. I stayed at Weligama and I rented a room in villa. It cost me around 300 bucks, in general I spend 1-1,5k in one month. If you stays in Weligama I definitely recommend you to visit Nomad and Pasijou, both places have great kitchens.
Posted: August 28, 2025
