7 Great Places to Travel Solo in Sri Lanka

Are you looking to travel solo? Solo travelling is a rewarding experience since solo travellers can do whatever and go wherever they want (within reason). With plenty of great places to travel to, visitors who like to travel alone will adore Sri Lanka.

Why travel solo?

Solo travelling offers fantastic benefits and advantages. Here are some compelling reasons for you to travel alone to Sri Lanka.

1. Self-discovery. Solo travelling gives you space to learn about yourself, your preferences, limits and endurance. It is a powerful way to boost self-confidence and learn independence.
2. Flexibility and freedom. You can create your itinerary (or change it) without any input from others.
3. Personal growth. Navigating a foreign country as a solo traveller can help you face challenges better. It can teach you to problem-solve, adapt to changes, and be resilient.
4. Meeting new people. Travelling solo makes you more approachable to make new connections with locals and other visitors.
5. Budget control. You can manage your expenses without considering the needs of others. It will also teach you to budget better.
6. Pace yourself. When you are travelling solo, you can take as much time as you want to explore a place.
7. Immersion. When you travel alone in Sri Lanka, you have no distractions. So you can concentrate on the great places you travel to. Without companions to interact with, you can also connect with locals better.

Can you safely travel alone in Sri Lanka?

As much as we would wish otherwise, no place is one hundred per cent safe. However, there is good news for those who wish to travel alone to Sri Lanka. For the most part. The island has several highly popular tourist resorts and towns. Here, you are likely to feel the safest. You would also find other solo travellers with whom you could connect.

If you are travelling solo to rural destinations, have someone who knows the area accompany you. Not because of any dangers, but because they can help you navigate nuances of local culture. Big cities, of course, can be tricky for solo travellers. You have to be on alert for pickpockets and scammers. Since there are no backups, keeping your belongings and valuables safe takes too much time. That said, despite these inconveniences, Sri Lanka is a great place to travel if you are alone. The island has a great public transport system, affordable accommodations, fantastic food and friendly people. If you are ever in need, don’t hesitate to approach the locals. While the younger generations are more fluent in English, even senior citizens would happily help you. It is better to have a few simple phrases in Sinhala or Tamil in your arsenal. No one would begrudge you if you can’t speak the language. But when you travel solo, you get the opportunity to learn a new language. Even a simple greeting in the local tongue will help you to make friends faster!

Where to go if you are alone in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has some great places to travel to that let you experience so much. Your options aren’t limited when you travel alone in Sri Lanka. Of course, for safety reasons, it is always best to let someone know where you are. Especially if you plan to go hiking, diving or do other activities that carry some level of risk. Whether you like solo travelling or not, it is always better to let someone know your whereabouts! That said, if you stick to cities and towns, you will come across other solo travellers. There are hostels, boutique hotels, Airbnbs and homestays where backpackers tend to stay. These accommodations allow you to belong to a part of a community while solo travelling. Here are some of the great places for you to travel solo in Sri Lanka.

Colombo

Sri Lanka’s commercial capital is a great destination to travel solo. The city offers plenty of things you can do, and there are many great places to travel to near Colombo. You can base yourself in the city and enjoy one-day trips to other parts of the island as well. Colombo itself is a fascinating mixture of the old and the new. It merges the West and the East beautifully, and you can see the influence of these two cultures coexisting perfectly. The historical sites in Colombo like Independence Square are popular spots for tourists. If you are into solo travelling, it will give you the freedom to explore these attractions as much as you want!

Unfortunately, the tuk-tuk drivers can be a bit of a menace. If you want to stick to a low budget, firmly decline their offers and use the public transport system. If you like to travel solo, Colombo is a great start. You can get a bus or train easily if you are in Colombo.

Galle

Another popular place for solo travellers is Galle. One of the best destinations in coastal Sri Lanka, Galle is a haven for solo travellers looking for community. Many visitors who prefer solo travel gather down south to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and the fantastic beaches. The historic Galle Dutch Fort attracts a lot of visitors. Thanks to its quaint colonial charm and modern-day conveniences, the fort offers a lot of possibilities. You can explore the fort, admire the architecture, enjoy some shopping or even play at the beach!

Several museums within the fort give you the chance to learn more about Sri Lanka’s maritime history. If you want to travel solo away from Galle, visit Koggala. The quaint fishing village has several attractions you can explore on a day trip.

Negombo

Negombo is an excellent destination for solo travellers. The resort town offers a blend of vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and delicious seafood that attract visitors. Since it’s located just a short drive from Colombo, Negombo is perfect for a day trip. Negombo is an accessible and delightful destination for those who like to travel solo.

The city’s bustling fish market is always lively and interesting. The historic Dutch fort offers fascinating insights into local life and history. On the other hand, the beautiful lagoon is ideal for tranquil boat rides. Those who travel alone in Sri Lanka can easily navigate the compact city centre. Filled with charming shops, cafes, and restaurants, it comes to life especially after the sun goes down. Negombo’s long sandy beaches are perfect for relaxing, swimming, or engaging in water sports. The town’s friendly atmosphere makes it easy to meet others travelling solo. You also get to interact with locals. Homemade wine is a speciality of Negombo, especially towards December. The nearby Muthurajawela Bird Sanctuary is another attraction that solo travelling allows you to explore.

Ella

Nestled in the lush hills of Sri Lanka, Ella is a fantastic destination for solo travellers. Its serene atmosphere and friendly locals make it a welcoming place for those exploring alone. The town offers a range of activities, from hiking to the stunning views at Little Adam’s Peak and the Nine Arches Bridge, to relaxing in quaint cafes with breathtaking views of tea plantations.

Despite the number of great places to travel to around Ella, it is a small town, making it simple to explore on foot or by tuk-tuk. The vibrant backpacker community ensures you’ll never feel lonely. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to meet fellow adventurers. Moreover, the affordability of accommodation and food means you can enjoy a comfortable stay without breaking the bank.

Arugam Bay

Located on Sri Lanka’s picturesque southeast coast, Arugam Bay offers a blend of relaxation and adventure. Renowned for its world-class surf breaks, the town attracts surfers from around the globe, offering ample opportunities to connect with fellow enthusiasts. Beyond surfing, Arugam Bay’s laid-back vibe is perfect for unwinding on pristine beaches, exploring charming local eateries, and immersing yourself in the vibrant culture. The area is also a gateway to stunning natural attractions like the Kumana National Park, where you can witness diverse wildlife on safari.

Solo travellers will appreciate the friendly and welcoming atmosphere, making it easy to meet new people and form lasting connections. The town’s compact size ensures everything is within walking distance, promoting a sense of safety and ease.

Mirissa

Mirissa is a fantastic destination for people who wish to travel alone in Sri Lanka. The coastal town is perfect for seeking relaxation in a picturesque setting. Its stunning beaches provide a serene environment for unwinding, while the town’s vibrant nightlife offers ample opportunities for socialising and meeting fellow travellers.

Mirissa is renowned for its whale-watching tours, a thrilling experience that allows you to witness these magnificent creatures up close. For the adventurous, the area boasts excellent surfing spots and snorkelling sites teeming with marine life. The local cuisine, with its fresh seafood and traditional Sri Lankan dishes, is a delight to explore on your terms.

Anuradhapura

If you are looking for great places to travel that are also safe for solo travellers, look no further than Anuradhapura. As an ancient city, it is rich with well-preserved ruins, temples, and stupas, such as the iconic Ruwanwelisaya and the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree. Thanks to the number of ancient temples in Anuradhapura, there is a deep sense of history and spirituality surrounding the town.

It is easy to explore on foot or by bicycle, making it perfect for people who travel solo. The locals are friendly and welcoming, ensuring that you never feel alone. The surrounding countryside, dotted with paddy fields and small villages, offers peaceful escapes and opportunities for reflection. Whether you’re interested in archaeology, spirituality, or simply enjoying the beauty of Sri Lanka, Anuradhapura provides a fulfilling and enriching solo travel experience.

BSL is here to help with your travels

Join our Cultural Triangle Luxury Tour, or experience culture and wellness in one with our Sri Lanka Hill Country & Tea Trails.