Travel Vaccines and Advice for Sri Lanka

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Sri Lanka. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Sri Lanka: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, yellow fever, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza.

COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. Check with your local Passport Health clinic if immunization is offered in your area.

Mosquito-borne diseases, such as dengue fever and chikungunya, are present in Sri Lanka. Travelers should do their best to avoid mosquito bites to prevent these diseases.

In the capital city of Colombo, there are six hospitals, including four with emergency trauma care. But, outside of Colombo, medical care can be more difficult to get. You should bring any necessary special medication with you.

See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now.

Yes, a passport and visa are required for visiting Sri Lanka. A visa, or Electronic Travel Authorization, must be obtained before arrival. These are generally granted for up to 30 days.

Sri Lanka Entry Requirements
Do I Need A…	For My Trip to Sri Lanka?
Passport
Tourist Visa
Business Visa
Vaccinations

Sources: Embassy of Sri Lanka and U.S. State Department

You should have a return ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your expenses in Sri Lanka. You will also need a passport with both six months’ validity from your expected departure date from Sri Lanka, and one blank page for the entry stamp.

Sri Lanka is a tropical country that generally has a warm and humid climate. The coastal areas are often warmer and more humid. Temperatures in the upland middle of the country can be a bit cooler, though still fairly warm.

Sri Lanka experiences monsoon seasons, but different regions are affected at different times. The northern and eastern regions of the country experience monsoons from October to January. The southern and western areas are affected from May to September.

The best time to travel to the country is during a dry season in the area you plan to visit. Because monsoon seasons differ in different areas, Sri Lanka can be visited year-round depending on where you plan to stay.

Traveling to Sri Lanka entails some safety risks. Crime in the country is common. Although most violent crime is not directed at foreigners, reports of assault and harassment are increasing. Travel in pairs or groups whenever possible to reduce the likelihood of harassment. Petty crime is also common, and travelers should always be aware of their belongings.

Protests and demonstrations are common in Sri Lanka, especially in Colombo. While most protests began peacefully, violence is possible. The best course is to avoid demonstrations and other large gatherings of people.

The northern areas of Sri Lanka have a military presence and un-exploded landmines. When traveling in the north, stay on main, heavily traveled roads. Do not wander through forests or fields, and avoid any areas roped off for clearing landmines.

A few hours’ drive upcountry from the southern coast lies the Udawalawe National Park. This sanctuary for wild animals was established in 1972. This park is a haven for dozens of different species, including the Sri Lankan elephant.

The Sri Lankan elephant, one of three subspecies of the Asian elephant, is an endangered elephant native to Sri Lanka. Visitors to the Udawalawe National Park have a chance to see this rare and beautiful animal up close. If you visit the park’s Elephant Orphanage, you may even be able to assist with feeding or bathing one.

Many tour operators offer half-day or full-day safaris. Accommodation are available within the park itself for easy access.

When packing for a trip to Sri Lanka, it is important to pack for the warm and humid climate. Pack lightweight and breathable clothes like cotton or linen. You should also pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and insect repellent to protect against the strong sun and mosquitoes.

Comfortable shoes are recommended for trekking and walking on uneven terrain. Pack a rain jacket or umbrella for the heavy rainfall during monsoon season. Bring a travel adapter for charging electronics and medications including over-the-counter and prescription medicines.

Cash and credit cards are widely accepted in Sri Lanka, so it is a good idea to carry both. Finally, bring travel documents such as your passport, visa, and flight tickets in a waterproof bag.

Before traveling to Sri Lanka, all U.S. citizens are advised to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to share your travel plans with the relevant embassy and to receive updates about any emergencies that may interfere with your travel plans.

The U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka is located in Colombo, the country’s capital. Its address and contact information are as follows:

U.S. Embassy Colombo
210 Galle Road,
Colombo 03,
Sri Lanka
Telephone: +(94) (11) 249-8500
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(94) (011) 249-8686
Fax: +(94) (11) 243-7345

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