Safety & Travel Information
Current conditions, practical health advice, and emergency contacts for travelling in Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka is a safe and welcoming destination for international travellers. Millions of tourists visit each year without incident. That said, it is a tropical island with its own conditions and quirks, and a few minutes of preparation makes a real difference.
This page covers the practical things worth knowing before and during your trip. If you are travelling with BSL Tours, your guide will brief you on anything specific to your route. If you are planning independently, this is a good starting point.
Monsoon season
The southwest monsoon runs May to September, affecting the west, south, and central regions. The east coast is best during this period. We adjust all itineraries to match current conditions.
Dengue awareness
Dengue cases increase during rainy months in urban and coastal areas. Use DEET-based repellent, wear long sleeves at dawn and dusk, and choose accommodation with mosquito nets or air conditioning.
Emergency contacts
General emergency
119
Medical emergency / Ambulance
1990
Police
118 / 119
Tourist Police
+94 11 242 1052
Fire
110
BSL Tours 24/7 support
0330 043 4463
Health and wellness
Drink bottled or purified water. Avoid ice unless you are at a reputable hotel or restaurant.
Use sunscreen daily. Sri Lanka sits close to the equator and the sun is strong even on overcast days.
Carry basic medication for stomach issues, headaches, and allergies. Pharmacies are available in all major towns.
If you take prescription medication, bring enough for your entire trip plus a few extra days.
Travel insurance is essential. Make sure it covers medical evacuation and activity-specific cover if you plan to hike, dive, or surf.
Wildlife encounters
Maintain a safe distance from all wild animals, including elephants, monkeys, and monitor lizards.
Never feed wild animals. It changes their behaviour and creates danger for future visitors.
Follow your ranger or guide's instructions at all times during safaris.
Monkeys near temples can be aggressive. Keep bags zipped and do not show food.
If you encounter a wild elephant on the road, stay in your vehicle and keep the engine off until it moves on.
Getting around safely
All BSL Tours transport uses experienced, licensed drivers in maintained vehicles with seatbelts.
If you take a tuk-tuk independently, agree the fare before you get in.
Avoid travelling on rural roads after dark if you are driving yourself.
Sri Lanka drives on the left. Roads can be narrow and traffic unpredictable outside major highways.
