Travel Security

 

Tourism Police Service

Sri Lanka has a dedicated Tourism Police Division, operating in major tourist areas such as Colombo, Galle, Kandy, Negombo, and popular beach towns. They assist with complaints, security patrols, lost-and-found services, and emergencies.

Hotline: 1912

Safety and security

• Risk of terrorist attacks in areas popular with tourists

• Demonstrations can disrupt transport; avoid protest areas

• Curfews and emergencies may be declared at short notice; always carry ID

• Crime such as robbery, harassment and sexual assault can occur; use reputable travel services

• Be cautious of drink spiking and methanol poisoning in alcohol

• Landmines remain in Northern and Eastern Provinces; stay on main roads

• Scams and fraud are common, including fake gems and jewellery; check bank statements often

• Flooding and landslides can occur during monsoon seasons (Dec–Mar northeast, May–Oct southwest)

Health

• Medical services in Colombo are limited; very poor outside the city

• Serious illness or injury may require medical evacuation – ensure travel insurance covers this

• Import delays can affect availability of medicines; some shortages reported

• Mental health services are limited

• Dengue fever risk, especially during monsoon season – use mosquito repellent, seek help if fever develops

• Other insect-borne diseases: chikungunya, Japanese encephalitis, filariasis – use repellent, vaccination advised for Japanese encephalitis

• Food and waterborne diseases: typhoid, hepatitis, leptospirosis – drink only boiled or bottled water

• Rabies present in dogs, monkeys, bats – avoid contact with animals

Local Laws 

• Public emergencies and curfews can be declared at short notice

• Always carry travel and photo ID; not doing so may lead to detention

• Illegal to cover your face in a way that prevents identification

• Legal drinking age is 21; alcohol and smoking in public are prohibited

• Photography/video banned in High-Security Zones (HSZs), including military and some government sites

• Mistreating Buddhist images is illegal – avoid posing with statues, or wearing tattoos/clothing with Buddhist symbols

• Seek advice before photographing places of worship

• Dress and behave conservatively to respect local culture

Travel 

• Visa required (Electronic Travel Authorisation – ETA); best to apply before travel

• Entry and exit conditions may change; check with nearest Sri Lankan embassy or consulate

• Airlines may require proof of vaccinations; confirm before flying

• Curfews and travel restrictions may be imposed at short notice

• Local currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR); exchange available at airports and banks

• ATMs available in most towns/cities, but not all accept international cards

• Credit cards accepted at major hotels and shops

Local Contacts (Sri Lanka)

• Tourism Police (Colombo HQ): +94 11 242 1052

• Tourist Police Hotline: 1912 (available 24/7 for tourist-related issues)

• Emergency Services:

  • Police: 119

  • Ambulance/Medical Emergency: 110

  • Fire & Rescue: 110

• Bandaranaike International Airport (Colombo): +94 11 225 2861

• Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau: +94 11 242 6800

• Australian High Commission, Colombo (example since your sources mention Australian standards):

  • Phone: +94 11 246 3200

  • Address: 21 Gregory’s Road, Colombo 07

• Hospitals in Colombo (recommended for tourists):

• Asiri Central Hospital: +94 11 466 5500

• Lanka Hospitals: +94 11 543 0000

Advise Levels