Women travellers

Is Sri Lanka safe for female tourists?

To avoid causing offence or inviting harassment, there are simple precautions that a woman should take since what a woman might wear in her home country could be regarded as provocative in Sri Lanka.

Thus loose-fitting, non-see-through garments covering the shoulders, and skirts, dresses or shorts that are at least knee-length, are sensible clothing and provide protection from the sun too. Normal beachwear on the beach not on the streets is fine but nudity and topless, even on the beach, is not allowed.

Bus & Train Travel for women travellers

Women travelling solo will find buses and trains trying at times. In Colombo, ordinary buses are so packed that sometimes it’s impossible to avoid bodily contact with other passengers. Stray hands-on crowded buses and trains happen; this is something that local women are also subjected to. Change your seat or sit with a local woman. If you gesture to a local woman to sit next to you, she’ll understand.

Avoid getting too personal

In Colombo and popular tourist areas, you can relax the dress code. ‘Are you married?’ could be the snappy conversation starter you hear most often, so if you are single consider wearing a fake wedding ring and carrying a few pics of your imaginary partner back home.

Travelling in Sri Lanka is not one long hassle

Unpleasant incidents are the exception, not the rule. But remember there are many social environments that are almost exclusively male in character – local bars, for example.

General tip

Women travelling alone may be hassled while walking around day and night, or while exploring isolated places. Physical harassment (grabbing and groping) can occur anywhere in the world. Single women may be followed, so try to be connected with larger groups of people. There have also been cases of solo women being attacked by guides at heritage sites; again, don’t go alone.

Last Modified: April 17, 2024