1. Drink Safe Water
🚫 Avoid tap water. – However, majority of Sri Lankans drink ‘Tap Water’including this writer, and I never experienced any trouble. The Govt. has a very sound and systemized cleaning program, so its up to you to make the decision.
✅ Stick to bottled, filtered, or boiled water.
Always check if the bottle is sealed before drinking.
2. Be Cautious with Street Food
🍛 While street food is delicious, choose stalls that are busy and clean.
Freshly cooked and hot food is safest. Out of 100 Food stalls, you may find ‘one guy’ trying to play around, so check for ‘Busy’ Stalls and ‘Hot Foods.’
Avoid raw salads unless from trusted restaurants.
3. Stay Hydrated (It’s Hot!)
💧 Sri Lanka has a tropical climate, so you’ll sweat a lot.
Drink plenty of fluids—water, king coconut, and herbal drinks are great choices.
Avoid too many sugary or fizzy drinks.
4. Use Sunscreen & Hats
🌞 Protect yourself from strong UV rays.
Use a quality sunscreen, wear a hat, and stay in the shade during peak hours (11 am to 3 pm).
5. Be Aware of Mosquitoes
🦟 Sri Lanka is mostly safe but dengue fever is present in some areas.
- Use mosquito repellent (especially in the evening)
- Wear long sleeves and pants if in rural or forested areas
- Use a mosquito net if staying in basic accommodation
6. Get Travel Insurance
✅ Always travel with a valid travel health insurance policy.
It can help cover medical expenses in case of emergencies or accidents.
7. Know Where to Find Medical Help
🏥 Major cities like Colombo, Kandy, and Galle have good private hospitals (Asiri, Nawaloka, Lanka Hospitals, etc.) However, all ‘cities’ in the country has ‘Government Hospitals, which will help you at times of ‘trouble.’ Ample Doctors and Nurses.
Carry basic first aid and medication with you when traveling to remote areas.
8. Watch Out for Spicy Food
🌶 Sri Lankan food can be very spicy.
Start with mild dishes and increase spice gradually if you’re not used to it.
9. Travel Smart During the Monsoon
🌧 Wet season can cause slippery roads, waterborne infections, and minor flooding.
Wear suitable footwear, avoid floodwaters, and wash your hands frequently.
10. Stay Active but Rest Well
🚶 Walk, hike, and explore – but get enough sleep.
Sri Lanka’s tropical pace calls for balance between adventure and rest.
🧘 Bonus Tip:
Try a local Ayurvedic massage or herbal steam bath—it’s a natural way to stay relaxed and boost immunity!