Solo Travel in Sri Lanka: The Ultimate Guide (2025)

My solo trip to Sri Lanka was a long time in the making, and when I finally arrived in the country, I left a little piece of my heart behind. The wild landscape, elusive wildlife, and white sand beaches captivated my soul, and to this date, my solo Sri Lanka trip is one of my favourites. Sri Lanka is a destination for solo travellers who want to get off the beaten path and experience an authentic connection with the country, and it's people.

Located in South Asia, Sri Lanka is known for its warm climate, tropical beaches, wildlife, and endless adventure opportunities for visitors. Tourist infrastructure exists on the island, but it remains authentic, and many rural areas feel untouched by man, where nature is thriving with biodiversity. There are some areas which have become super popular with digital nomads, surfers and travellers, so it is up to you what kind of solo trip you choose. When you finally decide to solo travel Sri Lanka, there’s a lot to think about!

Flights, accommodation, and getting around the country were my biggest concerns initially, but getting organised plenty of time before my departure date kept me stress-free. I’ve created this solo travel guide to Sri Lanka to better enable you to be prepared before you set off. Knowing the kind of experience you’re looking for and what to expect when you touch down will help you feel more confident as a solo travelling female. 

Planning a solo trip to Sri Lanka? Here's where you'll find:

1. Everything You Need To Know Before A Solo Trip To Sri Lanka
2. How To Get To Sri Lanka As A Solo Traveller
3. Tips For Finding Cheap Flights To Sri Lanka
4. Do I Need A Visa For My Trip To Sri Lanka?
5. How Do I Book A Solo Trip To Sri Lanka?
6. How To Book Hostels and Hotels in Sri Lanka
7. Can I Get Around Sri Lanka As An English Speaker?
8. Travel Insurance For A Solo Trip To Sri Lanka
9. SIM Cards in Sri Lanka
10. Is Sri Lanka a Good Place to Travel Solo?
11. How Much Does A Solo Trip To Sri Lanka Cost?
12. Is Sri Lanka Safe For A Solo Female Traveller?
13. Best Places For Solo Travel In Sri Lankae
14. How Do I Make Friends When Solo Travelling Sri Lanka?

Everything You Need To Know Before A Solo Trip To Sri Lanka

The captivating scenery in Sri Lanka feels untouched in so many areas, and this is one of the reasons the island is an epic location for safaris and wildlife tours. Before getting over-excited and booking countless activities, it’s best to begin with when you’ll be taking your trip. December to the middle of April is peak time for travelling Sri Lanka as the weather isn’t too severe, but peak time means higher prices and more tourists!

Once you’ve planned the time of year you’ll be flying to Sri Lanka, you’ll next need to determine your plan for flights and accommodation. Planning your trip to Asia can feel overwhelming, especially if this is your first solo trip, but fear not! You can take a solo trip as a female and you can make the best memories while doing so. It’s all about being confident, researching beforehand, and knowing the precautions to take.

How To Get To Sri Lanka As A Solo Traveller

If you're flying from the UK to Sri Lanka, you’ll most likely fly into Bandaranaike International Airport in Katunayake. Most flights will have at least one layover, but the total flight time tends to only be around the 15-hour mark. 

Flights costs to Sri Lanka can start from £200, depending on the time of year you’re travelling. Taking a less convenient flight such as one with more than one layover may not be appealing, but it can save you money. The price difference between the two flight options above was £150 when I researched available flights. If you have a tight budget and would like to free up funds to do more when you land in Sri Lanka, stay open-minded about the flight you choose!

Tips For Finding Cheap Flights To Sri Lanka

I’ve become a bit of an expert in finding cheap flight deals, and I’ve learned many tips and tricks over the last decade of solo travelling. Flights are usually the biggest budget-eaters when planning a trip overseas, but I’ve put together a blog with my advice for sourcing cheap flights. Let’s dive into some of my tips for finding cheap flights to Sri Lanka:

Use Comparison Websites

If there’s one hero for saving time and money on your solo trip to Sri Lanka, it’s comparison websites. Sites like these compare prices in seconds, and that’s why I’ve trusted Skyscanner for several years! I can search a range of airlines, airports, destinations, and dates easily on their website, and I don’t have to do any of the hard work. This allows for more time to be spent planning amazing activities than searching for cheap flight options. 

Book Off Peak

Travelling during peak times of the year is a gateway for pricier flights and accommodation, along with a busier experience. Avoid booking your trip in line with peak travel times and you’ll save a considerable amount. Take a look at flights departing at inconvenient times of the day such as early morning, as these tend to be cheaper too!

Avoid Overweight Luggage

Overweight luggage is a promise for last-minute fees at the airport when you check in. Airlines have strict rules on baggage weight, so when packing, make sure you know the limit of the airline you’re travelling with. Coordinate outfits and download audiobooks so you can save space and weight without loading all of your favourite novels into your bag! Making small changes like this can have a big effect on your overall luggage weight. 

>> Shop my fave travel bags

Sign Up For Flight Deals

An air miles card is a wise move if you’re a frequent aeroplane user and want to start earning back while you’re in the air. You can rack up points without doing a thing and use them towards your next long-haul flight, or an upgrade to business class if you want a taste of the finer things in life!

Keep Plans Flexible

Remaining flexible about dates, departure airports, and destinations can lead you on a path of creating a completely different trip than you’d originally planned. Certain airports are cheaper than others, so even if you had your sights set on flying from Heathrow, explore options for Gatwick and Stansted. You may be able to fly to a different airport in Sri Lanka than Colombo Bandaranayake for a cheaper price!

Do I Need A Visa For My Trip To Sri Lanka?

You need a tourist visa for your solo Sri Lanka trip, along with a valid passport with validity for at least 6 months from your arrival date, and one blank page. You need to apply for a Sri Lanka eVisa before you depart to gain permission to enter the country. Tourist visas typically last for 30 days, and visits can be extended by getting in touch with the Sri Lankan immigration authorities. Once you’ve applied for your visa, approval should be granted within 24 hours, so you won’t have long to wait to know if you can take your trip!

How Do I Book A Solo Trip To Sri Lanka?

So, you’ve been staring at the world map and have finally decided Sri Lanka is the destination you want to explore. But what kind of experience do you want to have? Various ways exist for booking your trip abroad. Organise everything and follow an itinerary, join a group trip or tour for a few days, or leave most of your adventure for when you’re in the country by booking next to nothing!

Entire Planned Trip:

Fully booking your trip including flights, accommodation and activities beforehand makes for an easier time when you arrive in Sri Lanka, as you’ll know where to head straight away! Organising your entire trip can be useful if it’s your first solo adventure and you want the comfort of organisation and routine, but it can feel a little suffocating if you’re an adventurous, spontaneous type of traveller!

Group Trip:

Group trips are an excellent opportunity to meet other travellers while exploring Sri Lanka. Many different types of group trips exist, so be sure to choose one that includes everything you want to see and do. If you make friends with a few other travellers on your trip, keep in touch and maybe you will cross paths again in a different part of the world!

Outward Flight and First Night’s Accommodation:

Having fun is a huge part of travelling, and only booking your outward flight and first night’s accommodation is a surefire way of challenging yourself! Leaving most of your trip unplanned leaves plenty of opportunity for last-minute plans with new friends, and the ability to remain flexible without pressures to be in certain places at specific times.

How To Book Hostels And Hotels In Sri Lanka

To book hotels in Sri Lanka, I look no further than Booking.com and hotels.com – while for hostels it's always hostelworld. I’ve used both of these websites for the last few years for my solo adventures around Asia, Africa, and America. I’ve found cheap accommodation options to see me through my travels, no matter where I am. 

I love that I’m able to see ratings and real-life opinions from travellers who have stayed in the locations listed on booking and hostelworld. Knowing I have somewhere to stay that’s safe, clean, and in a good location is important for me to feel assured as a solo female. 

How To Book Transfers And Ferries In Sri Lanka

The role of 12go is to unite travellers with the best transport options available all across Asia. This means there’s no need to feel stressed when searching for accurate information about buses, ferries, trains, or flights. The team at 12go is producing accurate results so you can arrive on time and get transport at the best price possible. 

The website is mobile-friendly so all of the results can be displayed easily on your phone. Booking transfers and ferries in Sri Lanka can help you navigate around the country and beyond, and with 12go at your side, you can stick to your schedule and purchase tickets for less. >>Book your Sri Lanka transport

Currency, Plugs And The Best Ways To Get Sri Lanka

The currency you’ll need to have to solo travel Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee, so be sure to have a mixture of cash and card so you can easily make purchases when needed. It’s best to have various methods of payment available, especially in rural towns, or when travelling by tuk-tuk, bus, train, taxi, or private car. 

You’ll also need to pack a suitable adapter for plug types D, M, and G, as this is what’s used in the country. Packing can be a stressful time, but I’ve put together an in-depth blog on packing for long-haul trips. 

Best Travel Insurance For A Solo Trip To Sri Lanka

I pushed travel insurance aside in my early travelling days, but as I began increasing my trips overseas, I quickly realised how much more calm I would feel being supported by travel insurance. Making investments like travel insurance can eat into your budget, but as there are so many activities to do in Sri Lanka, it’s wise to take out a policy to protect yourself if anything doesn’t go to plan. >> Read my travel insurance guide.

Need to know quickly?

My go-to travel insurance provider is SafetyWing's Nomad Insurance Essential which provides coverage in over 180 countries and means never compromising on my safety or wellbeing. I can include adventure sports and electronics cover which is great as a gal who loves an adventure and who works remotely when she travels. Think of it as your safety net, if something goes wrong its great to have back-up in case you get sick, injured or your kit gets damaged. I know how frustrating travel can be sometimes, so it's good to know that when things go wrong I've got a good insurance policy in my corner. Affordable travel insurance can be hard to come by, but Safety Wing offers such flexibility that you can choose the policy and options that suit your specific situation the best, without paying for things you don’t need.

If you need coverage for a longer period, you might consider looking at their Complete plan - includes all Essential features, plus comprehensive health coverage with routine healthcare, mental health support, and maternity, most countries in the world, including in your home country.

Best eSIM For Travelling To Sri Lanka

Even when I’m travelling around the world, I still need a way of staying connected to loved ones and the internet. Hotels and hostels sometimes have free Wi-Fi available which is a bonus, but I need internet access when I’m away from my accommodation too. The eSIMs available from Holafly are the best answer I’ve found for a reliable SIM option when travelling. Holafly has eSIM solutions for over 200 countries, and the options for Sri Lanka start at just $6! I've got some great discount codes from my friends at Holafly for you to use today!

• Holafly Pre-Paid eSIMs – If you just need a one-off eSIM for an upcoming trip or destination, you are best to choose their pre-paid sims which are available for a few days or weeks or a specific destination. Save 5% with discount code: ABSOLUTELYLUCY >> Download your eSIM now

• Holafly Plans is a brand new monthly eSIM subscription created for global travellers who need seamless, borderless connectivity. These plans are ideal for digital nomads, frequent  and long-term travellers! Plans are available in three tiers – 10GB for light data users, 25GB for moderate data users or unlimited. Sound good? Save 10% every month (for 12 months) using my discount code ABSOLUTELYLUCY.

>> Get your Holafly eSIM Plan now!

Read my full blog post on the Best eSIM For Solo Female Travellers To Beat Roaming Charges for more information.

Is Sri Lanka A Good Place To Travel Solo?

My travels in Sri Lanka have made a long-lasting impression on me, and I hope to return one day and immerse myself in the culture and landscape once again. As a solo female traveller, some friends and family members had concerns about me flying to Sri Lanka alone. Just moments after leaving Colombo Airport, I was surrounded by friendly, warm, welcoming local people, and a spark inside told me I was safe.

Sri Lanka is a great place to travel solo, and regardless of your gender, you will have an epic time. Lean into the culture and its differences from your own. Taste the cuisine, marvel at the landscape, and make memories for the entire time of solo travelling Sri Lanka. You won’t be alone as many backpackers head here in search of a new culture and environment, and the best place to meet others is by staying in hostels and getting to know one another.

Should I Go To Sri Lanka On My First Solo Trip?

Sri Lanka is a great fit for solo travel in terms of existing infrastructure, affordability, and safety, but if it’s your first solo trip, I would advise pre-planning. Sri Lankan people are friendly and approachable, but you will have a lot to get used to when you land such as the different culture, language, climate, and pace of life. This can be overwhelming for new solo travellers, but if you have a plan for at least your first week or two in Sri Lanka, you’ll find your way and gain confidence as time progresses. 

In 2023, Sri Lanka welcomed over 1.4 million tourists, so if you’re concerned about not having the opportunity to make friends during your adventure, think again! The country doesn’t experience many crimes against tourists, but it’s still worth keeping up to date with current situations to avoid potentially putting yourself in harm’s way. 

>> READ: Sri Lanka | What you need to know before you visit

Is Sri Lanka Expensive For A Solo Traveller?

Sri Lanka isn’t an expensive destination for solo travellers, with food, accommodation, and activities being affordable. Searching for cheap flight options will help bring down your total spend, and avoiding staying in luxury hotels will also help you avoid racking up costs! Getting around the country is fairly simple and affordable, with public transport like buses, trains, and tuk-tuks having cheap fares. After flights and accommodation, activities are the next most expensive part of a solo trip to Sri Lanka, and it can be easy to go over budget by taking part in too many excursions. 

I know the feeling when you want to do everything in a country, but unless you have a never-ending bank balance, this simply isn’t possible! My biggest piece of advice is to work out what activities, tours, and excursions you cannot leave Sri Lanka without doing, and prioritise these before spending money on other activities. For me, my non-negotiables included Yala National Park, Cultural Triangle, and Mirissa. 

How Much Does A Solo Trip To Sri Lanka Cost?

Sri Lanka is a budget-friendly location to visit, but it takes some strong willpower to keep costs low! I love the opportunities staying in hotels brings, from a cheap place to sleep for the night to the chance to meet other solo backpackers all in one place. Luxury hotels also have a place in my heart but staying in fancy Eating street food and using public transport can also help keep costs down while providing an authentic Sri Lankan experience. 

One Month In Sri Lanka

Keeping to a budget for your solo Sri Lanka trip will help limit your spending and stretch your funds as far as possible. If you have a tight budget and need to save funds for onward travel, try making a budget plan beforehand. Allocate certain amounts for activities, food, accommodation, etc, so it’s easier to keep on track when you arrive. >> Read my blogs on money-saving travel.

Is Sri Lanka Safe For A Solo Female Traveller?

Overall, Sri Lanka is a safe country for solo female travellers, particularly in popular locations such as Colombo and Kandy. It’s wise to still take precautions as you would in any destination, as crime still exists and it’s essential to stay vigilant. Avoid walking around alone at night, and keep belongings close to hand, especially in busy tourist sites where pickpockets operate. As Sri Lankan culture has a large Buddhist presence, the country is safe for solo women, with Sri Lankan people searching for peace. 

Something I noticed during my time in more rural parts of Sri Lanka was the prolonged stares from locals. I quickly understood this wasn’t an act of rudeness, but one of curiosity, where locals are simply interested in tourist presence in Sri Lanka. Give a friendly smile and you will receive a welcoming, smiley expression in return.

>> Read: How to Safely Solo Travel as a Woman – a Solo Travel Expert

Which Part Of Sri Lanka Is Best For Solo Female Travellers?

Mirissa, even though stormy because of the time I visited, was one of my favourite parts of Sri Lanka. Recognised for incredible opportunities for whale and dolphin watching, the quaint town on the south coast of Sri Lanka is a hidden gem that filled my soul from the offset.

Mirissa

When visiting during sunnier months, you can expect to fall asleep on soft, white sand, listening to waves gently breaking on the shore. Along with a tranquil paradise, Mirissa is also known for its energetic nightlife, where you can meet other travellers and talk about your plans for Sri Lanka over drinks by coconut palms.

• Hotel: Glamour Mirissa
• Hostel: Yasis Surf Lodge
• Best things to do in Mirissa

>> Read: Guide to Mirissa - where to stay and what to do

Where Are The Best Places For Solo Travel In Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka has everything for tourists, from ancient cities and golden beaches to mountains, and rare wildlife. During my solo trip to Sri Lanka, I explored incredible sites like the Cultural Triangle and Yala National Park and even took a hot air balloon ride in Dambulla. Here are my best places for solo travel in Sri Lanka:

Colombo 

Colombo is a blend of modern buildings towering into the air, with colonial-era architecture nestled between modernity. The contrast gives visitors the dramatic blend of Colombo’s past and the sleek city it has become. Read my guide to the ultimate 2 week Sri Lanka itinerary from Colombo.

• Hotel: Marino Beach Colombo
• Hostel: Colombo Beach Hostel
• Best things to do in Colombo

Negombo

With proximity to Bandaranaike International Airport, Negombo is a convenient and popular resort. Expansive beaches and a range of accommodations fill the town, making it a great place to touch down and settle into the country after a long flight. I had the honour of visiting Dickman Resort, the country’s first gay-friendly accommodation, and this gave me such a welcome to the area!

• Hotel: Mango House Japanese Guest House
• Hostel: Sea Sands Beach Hostel
• Best Things to do in Negombo

Trincomalee

The port city of Trincomalee was worth the hours I spent travelling across the country on buses! Although my visit coincided with the rainy season, I couldn’t resist taking a trip to Trincomalee and seeing the beaches and crystal water for myself. I truly feel this is the best location in Sri Lanka for activities, as tourists can experience tours with locals to see blue whales and even snorkel with them!

• Hotel: Blue Water Beach Resort
• Hostel: Wanderers Hostel
• Best things to do in Trincomalee

Ella

I love nothing more than spending time in nature, but if there’s one thing I also like doing, it’s socialising! Ella was the perfect location for this. Cafes and restaurants line the main street, where I found myself meeting other travellers and diving into conversations over a coffee.

• Hotel: Hilltop Guest House
• Hostel: Wild Bee Hostel
• Best things to do in Ella

Kandy

Mountainous central Sri Lanka is home to the city of Kandy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with the incredible Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. The cooler climate in Kandy makes it a pleasant location to explore, where vibrant green trees and foliage encompass the city. 

• Hotel: Mount Palace
• Hostel: Kandy Back Packer’s Hostel
• Best Things to do in Kandy

Yala National Park

Yala National Park is a must-visit location in Sri Lanka, and during my trip, I had the luxury of being able to stay at Yala Safari Camping. Never have I slept under a starry sky as clear and magical as I did in the Sri Lankan jungle. Bird sounds decorate the jungle landscape with everlasting calls, while leopards prowl through the tropical plants. Experience a jungle paradise like never before with an adventure in Yala National Park. 

• Hotel: Safari Lodge Yala
• Hostel: Funky Leopard Safari Lodge Bordering Yala National
• Best Things to do in Yala National Park

>> READ: Making your Yala National Park visit budget AND eco-friendly 

Cultural Triangle 

Venture to Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle to experience a cluster of the country's UNESCO World Heritage Sites and stay in unique accommodation. Visit Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Kandy and marvel at ruins, fortresses, and ancient kingdoms, learning about the country’s history and culture. You could even take a sunrise hot air balloon over the savannah.

• Hotel: Tropicara Resort (Sigiriya)
• Hostel: Evergreen Villa Nature Resort (Anuradhapura)
• Best things to do in the Cultural Triangle 

>> READ: The ultimate guide to the Cultural Triangle, Sri Lanka

How Do I Make Friends When Solo Travelling To Sri Lanka?

Making friends when you decide to solo travel Sri Lanka is easy, I promise! You’ll come across far more travellers during peak time, so consider this when making your booking. Regardless of the time you head to the country, you’ll meet other solo travellers, and most of them will be staying in hostel accommodation. Book hostel stays for a better chance of making new friends! Read more of my tips for travelling by yourself.

Book a Group Tour 

Group tours are an amazing opportunity to meet new people and make friends with other travellers. Especially if this is your first solo trip, you might feel tempted to book a group tour, and I say GO FOR IT! Group tours in Sri Lanka can include opportunities like dolphin or whale watching or hiking through the jungle. Awe-inspiring settings like the Sri Lankan wilderness will bring you together with others, connecting with the country’s natural world and each other. 

Hang Out In Communal Hostel Areas

Spending time in the communal areas of your hostel is the perfect way to make friends with other travellers. Have a book on stand-by or take your sketchpad to the lounge where you can spend some time doing a hobby, and invite other people to your table. If all goes well, why not make dinner plans together, and taste some of the local cuisine? 

Be Open To Saying Yes

One of the joys of travelling around the world is the people you meet along the way. I’ve kept in touch with so many friends over the past few years of travelling, and I got to know lots of them by being open to changeable plans and last-minute decisions. Saying ‘yes’ when you're invited for a dinner out with other backpackers or a group activity could be the beginning of blossoming friendships!

Sri Lanka stole my heart for its sheer beauty, stunning wildlife, and opportunities for solo travellers. What are your plans for your solo Sri Lanka trip?