Travel Vaccines and Advice for Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a gorgeous tropical island full of exotic flora and fauna. Its mountainous inner country has stunning vistas and panoramic views.
Its popularity in tourism is due to its versatility. For the outdoor adventurer, Sri Lanka offers endless natural beauty. For the cultural tourist, there are delicious local dishes and historical sites to explore.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Sri Lanka?
Do I Need a Visa for Sri Lanka?
What is the Climate Like in Sri Lanka?
How Safe is Sri Lanka?
Meeting Elephants in Udawalawe National Park
What Should I Pack for Sri Lanka?
Embassy of the United Kingdom in Sri Lanka
Do I Need Vaccines for Sri Lanka?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Sri Lanka. The National Travel Health Network and Centre and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Sri Lanka: COVID-19, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, yellow fever, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, polio and tetanus.
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunisations:
- COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for all travellers - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers to the region, especially if unvaccinated. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travellers to most regions. - Tetanus –
Wounds or Breaks in Skin –
Recommended for travelers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated. - Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Jab lasts 3 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. - Japanese Encephalitis –
Mosquito –
Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. Recommended for extended travel, recurrent travellers and travel to rural areas. Throughout country, except mountainous regions. Peaks with monsoon rains. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Required if arriving from a region with polio transmission. Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended.
See the tables below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Sri Lanka |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for all travellers |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers to the region, especially if unvaccinated. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Accelerated schedule available |
| Tetanus | Wounds or Breaks in Skin | Recommended for travelers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated. |
| Typhoid | Food & Water | Jab lasts 3 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. |
| Japanese Encephalitis | Mosquito | Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. Recommended for extended travel, recurrent travellers and travel to rural areas. Throughout country, except mountainous regions. Peaks with monsoon rains. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Required if arriving from a region with polio transmission. Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. |
Mosquito-borne diseases, such as dengue fever and chikungunya, are present in Sri Lanka. Travellers 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.
Do I Need a Visa for Sri Lanka?
A visa is required for all travel to Sri Lanka. These can be applied for online via an Evisa. Duration is normally for a maximum period of 30 days. Passports must have at least six months validity. Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required if you are travelling from a region where yellow fever is present.
Sri Lanka Entry Requirements |
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| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Sri Lanka? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | |
|
| Business Visa | |
|
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Sri Lanka and GOV.UK
What is the Climate Like in Sri Lanka?
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.
How Safe is Sri Lanka?
Travelling 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 travellers 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 travelling in the north, stay on main, heavily travelled roads. Do not wander through forests or fields, and avoid any areas roped off for clearing landmines.
Meeting Elephants in Udawalawe National Park
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.
What Should I Pack for Sri Lanka?
For the best experience in Sri Lanka, you should pack the following:
- Lightweight, light-colored cotton clothing is best to avoid mosquitoes and heat. If you’re visiting temples, you should also bring modest attire.
- Warm layers for travel into the colder highlands in the middle of the country.
- Mosquito repellent for extra protection against insects, which can be hard to find in much of Sri Lanka.
- Sun cream to guard your skin against the strong sun.
Embassy of the United Kingdom in Sri Lanka
If you are in Sri Lanka and have an emergency (for example, been attacked, arrested or someone has died) contact the nearest consular services. Contact the embassy before arrival if you have additional questions on entry requirements, safety concerns or are in need of assistance.
British High Commission in Sri Lanka
389, Bauddhaloka Mw, Colombo 7
Sri Lanka
Telephone: +94 11 5390639
Emergency Phone: +94 11 5390639
Fax: +94 11 5390694
Contact Form: Click Here
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