Safety and security

Terrorist Attacks

A number of explosions occurred in Sri Lanka on 21 April 2019, primarily targeting hotels and churches in the cities of Colombo, Negombo and Batticaloa. The attacks caused the death of at least 250 people including foreign visitors.

There remains a risk of terrorist attacks in Sri Lanka. Irish citizens are advised to exercise caution in public places, to avoid large gatherings or demonstrations, to keep informed of local news reports and to follow the advice of local authorities.

Regional travel

Foreign nationals, with the exception of foreign media crews, no longer need to have permission from the Sri Lankan Ministry of Defence before travelling to the northern districts of Jaffna, Kilinochchi, Mannar, Mullaittivu and Vavuniya.

However, there is still a heavy military presence in the north and north-east of Sri Lanka. Freedom of movement is possible, but if you’re travelling to the north, you may still come across access restrictions around military establishments and areas where demining operations continue. You can get up-to-date information on access to a particular village or area from the Sri Lankan Military Liaison Officer (tel: +94 11 2430 860).

Landmines

Unexploded mines and ordnances can be a hazard in the north and north-east of Sri Lanka so obey orders from the security forces and signs warning about the danger from landmines. Don’t stray off main routes, particularly in rural areas, and always check with local security authorities before travelling to affected regions.

Crime

While most visits to Sri Lanka are trouble-free, watch out for petty crime such as pick-pocketing, especially in crowded places. Although not very frequent, there have been reports of violent crime against foreigners so always take sensible precautions:

• Don’t carry your credit card, travel tickets and money together - leave spare cash and valuables in a safe place.
• Don’t carry your passport unless absolutely necessary and leave a copy of your passport (and travel and insurance documents) with family or friends at home.
• Credit card fraud has been reported in Sri Lanka so take care of your credit and ATM cards. Use cash wherever possible and only use ATMs attached to banks or major hotels. Don’t let your credit card leave your sight when you use it.

Reporting crime

If you’re a victim of a crime while in Sri Lanka, report it to the local police immediately. And you can contact us at the Honorary Consulate of Ireland in Colombo or the Irish Embassy in New Delhi in India if you need help.

Driving

If you’re planning to drive in Sri Lanka, you should be careful. Poor standards of driving and bad road maintenance lead to frequent traffic accidents. If you want to drive, an Irish or international licence alone will not suffice – you’ll need to bring your international driving permit and a Sri Lankan recognition permit to drive in Sri Lanka. You can get a recognition permit at the AA in Colombo. Make sure you have adequate and appropriate insurance

Hiring a vehicle

Hiring a car is cheap in tourist areas. However, if you’re hiring a vehicle, we advise you not to hand over your passport as a form of security. If you’re allowing your passport to be photocopied, keep it in your sight at all times.

Check that you have adequate insurance and read the small print of the vehicle hire contract (particularly any waiver that will come into effect if the vehicle is damaged).

Public transport

Buses and trains are particularly dangerous modes of transport in Sri Lanka. Consider taking taxis instead, as they’re cheap in tourist areas.

Water safety

Many beaches and coastal areas in Sri Lanka have strong currents, dangerous rip tides and big surf. Always seek local advice before entering the water and be alert to the dangers.

Local laws and customs

Remember, the local laws apply to you as a visitor and it is your responsibility to follow them. Be sensitive to local customs, traditions and practices as your behaviour may be seen as improper, hostile or may even be illegal.

Personal identification

It is advisable to take a number of photocopies of your passport with you. During your stay you should carry a photocopy of your passport at all times, as Sri Lankan laws require persons to carry photo identification with them at all times.

Illegal drugs

Penalties for possession, dealing and trafficking drugs are severe and include the death penalty. 

Homosexuality

Homosexuality is illegal in Sri Lanka. Caution and discretion are advised at all times.

Clothing

Be sensitive to local norms of dress and sensibilities. Nude or topless sunbathing is generally not allowed, and you should dress modestly when visiting religious shrines or temples.

Photography

You are not allowed to take photographs near government or military establishments. Be respectful when visiting religious shrines or temples. In 2012 three foreign nationals were sentenced to six months in prison with hard labour, suspended for five years, and given a fine for wounding the religious feelings of Buddhists by taking pictures that were deemed insulting. You should not pose for photographs with a statue of Buddha.

Natural disasters and climate

Rain and flooding

Inland flooding and landslides happen frequently in the rainy seasons. Be aware that there are two different rainy seasons in Sri Lanka. It is May to August in the South West, November to February in the North East.

During the rainy season you should consult your tour operator or accommodation provider before travelling and monitor local media for weather warnings.

Tsunami

The December 2004 tsunami killed more than 30,000 people and caused extensive damage in the south western, southern and eastern coasts of Sri Lanka. Be alert for tsunami warnings that may be issued by the authorities. You can also learn more about what to do in the event of a tsunami by checking out the International Tsunami Information Centre website.

Additional information

Entry requirements (visa/passport)

All holiday travellers to Sri Lanka must have Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) before entering to Sri Lanka. You can learn more about ETAs here. 

Passports should minimum have 6 months’ validity from the date you enter Sri Lanka. It’s advisable to take a number of photocopies of your passport with you when travelling to Sri Lanka and you should carry your passport at all times during your stay.

Health

Always check with your health care provider before you travel to Sri Lanka about vaccinations or other preventative treatments you may need.

Malaria and Dengue fever

Malaria and Dengue fever are risks in Sri Lanka. Avoid being bitten by mosquitoes by covering up and using mosquito repellents.