Is Colombo safe for solo female travelers?

Colombo, as the capital city of Sri Lanka, has a relatively high safety record. However, as with any travel destination, it's critical for solo female travelers to maintain a level of vigilance. Harassment and pickpocketing can occasionally occur, particularly in crowded areas. Therefore, it's urged to keep an eye on your belongings, avoid isolated areas after dark, and try to blend in with the local culture as much as possible. Taxis and public transport are generally safe, but it's always best to go with a reputed company or book rides through hotel reception desks. Sri Lankans are typically friendly and helpful, making your journey more enjoyable and less stressful. Just remember to pay attention to your surroundings and actions to guarantee your safety.

Safety rating

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How safe is Colombo for female travelers?

Travel safety index

3.3 /5

based on 3 experiences from female travelers

Solo travel

I didn't feel safe. There were a lot of homeless people. Also, people on the street were begging for money, not only children. The bus driver tried to cheat me, and I lost some money. I would not recommend going alone at night.

Posted: January 6, 2025Experienced: November, 2024
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Laura

Laura

Sri Lanka

Solo travel

Not too much to do here, but feels safe. Locals are friendly and helpful. I just went to the museums which was nice. Not many other eu/UK travellers which tbh was quite nice. I only spent a day here and it was relaxing (but hot). Felt safe and secure at all times really

Posted: February 17, 2024Experienced: January, 2024
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How safe is Colombo for women?

Local safety index

3.2 /5

Based on 3 local experiences

Local crime index

1.5 /5

Based on 3 local experiences

Colombo is a beautiful and clean city . The residents are helpful and it feels safe to travel around. I had visited in 2023 with my sister and faced no problems. People were warm and welcoming. There were people wanting to be your guide in the tourist parts but, they were not aggressive.

Posted: June 27, 2025
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Colombo is relatively safe, however, I personally don't feel comfortable enough to be out and about past 8 pm as it gets quite dark and there are not many street lights around. Locals are pretty friendly though.

Posted: June 14, 2025
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It's like as long as you're streetwise stick to public roads and places with people you would be safe just like in any city. in other words there is no definite risk like that, all about just being in th wrong place at the wrong time. Ofvourse I'd advice to avoid public transport after office hours cause it can be quite packed

Posted: January 14, 2025
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Safety in Sri Lanka