Is Sri Lanka safe for solo female travelers?
Safety rating
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How safe is Sri Lanka for solo female travelers?
Travel safety index
based on 45 experiences from female travelers
Sofia
Cyprus
Sri Lanka, Couple travel
I went to Sri Lanka with my ex boyfriend and it was my favorite trip so far. People were really nice, and friendly. They all speak English since it was an English colony in the past so we didn’t have any difficulties in communication. The best part tho was the scenery and the beauty of the country. I loved every second of it. Every beach, every monument, every train ride, all of it, and if you like tea, you are in for a treat! The food was also amazing, with the highlight being the fish in areas next to the beach. You could actually choose the fish you wanted to eat from the fishermen and...
Posted: February 2, 2026Sri Lanka, Solo travel
Loved the country, most delicious foods and dishes without doubt, also love the rotis (street food). Very beautiful nature Safety wise back in 2016 they just opened part of the country to tourism and men were not very used to seeing white woman, had some uncomfortable experience ves from catcalling to men touching me in busses or teenage boy on the street showing me hi private area. So def not for first time travelers, have to be careful, but still an amazing trip and 100% worth it!
Posted: November 13, 2025Experienced: July, 2016
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...
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, 2025Galle, Group travel
Truly everything went well just don’t go alone anywhere I did that and almost got raped by a group of men I went to the beach after sunset to get some fresh air and they started following me. Please don’t make the same mistake as me.
Posted: August 27, 2025How safe is Sri Lanka for women?
Local safety index
Based on 14 local experiences
Local crime index
Based on 14 local experiences
Bandarawela
Bandarawela is not unsafe but there's not much night life unlike Ella so transport etc might not be convenient the more late it gets. It's always best to stay alert, take care of your belo belongings like any city, small town.
Posted: February 5, 2026Kurunegala
Yes its safe, local people are so good. Helpfull you will get support but dont trust everyone thats common for any coubtry anfd sny town that noy all people are the best, but you can trust woman mostly. They will support you
Posted: December 4, 2025
Charlie
Talalla
Good area, spectacularly beautiful beach. In season now. There are some nice restaurants and accommodations in my area. Safe to walk, low crime. I've lived in SL for 2,5 years and it's safe for solo female travellers. Dress modestly of possible as it's a conservative area. Use pickme in Matara town or drivers with meters
Posted: November 30, 2025Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is safe but depends on the places you visit. It’s safe in Colombo but night time is bit doubtful when the roads are empty. And downsouth is pretty safe since it always crowded. The public transport is also safe but better to take at your own risk.
Posted: October 20, 2025Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka was as a solo female traveler not really what I expected. I could not walk 2 meters without getting talked to, whisteled at. Colombo was worst, men always came and walked with me. I did not went out at night.
Posted: October 10, 2025Safety in Sri Lanka
Hospitality Exchange in Sri Lanka
Dhushy
Colombo
Can host for:
3 days
About me
Hey everyone! I’m Dhushy from Sri Lanka, a solo traveler on a mission to explore the world one adventure at a time! Whether it’s chasing sunsets, getting lost in new cities, or diving headfirst into the unknown, I’m always up for the thrill. Looking for awesome travel buddies to share epic experiences, spontaneous trips, and unforgettable memories. Let’s explore together!
Speaking
Dulmini
Colombo
Can host for:
3 days
About me
Hi, I’m Dul! I’m an adventurous traveler who loves a mix of exploring beautiful beaches and hiking through nature. History is also a big passion of mine, so I’m always eager to dive into the past when visiting new places. I’m a kind of an extrovert who loves meeting new people and sharing experiences, and I’m also really into volunteering whenever I can—it’s a great way to connect with people and help them. If you're planning a trip to Sri Lanka, I'd love to help guide you around and show you some hidden gems! Oh, and I’m always up for trying new recipes—cooking is one of my favorite ways to unwind and get creative. Let’s explore together! 💗
Speaking
