Is it safe to visit now?

Hi, we have a flight booked to arrive in Sri Lanka on Sat 28t Feb. We are planning to go to Kandy, Yala and Galle. How difficult is it to travel in Sri Lanka at the moment, are there alot of security checks, and would it be better to come another time? If not, what is best and easiest way to travel to Kandy from the airport? Thanks for any advice.

Is it safe to visit now?

Hi,

Sri Lanka is as safe as it has been for the last few years. Check recent posts in this forum.

There are security checkpoints, but mostly in Colombo, and vehicles with tourists are usually just waived on, so it will only disturb your travel around the island to a minor degree.

The Irish Department of Foreign Affairs is not warning against travel to Yala, opposed to countries like UK and Australia. When I visited Yala last April the area was peaceful and the people there really need tourists to visit the area. Kandy and Galle are also safe for travel. Just take a few precautions, i.e. stay away from government buildings, government convoys and large gatherings.

I have visited Sri Lanka frequently over the last 30 years. Last visit was in January and I am going back again in 3 weeks. I have never felt unsafe there and never been troubled by security checkpoints.

The best and easiest to get from the airport to Kandy is to hire a car/van with driver. There is a taxi counter with fixed prices at the airport just after the bank counters as you exit from customs. Price should be about LKR 7000.

Don%26#39;t postpone and enjoy your holidays in Sri Lanka.

Hans

Is it safe to visit now?

Hi,

I personally believe that Yala is place not to be missed if you are a wildlife enthusiast. Its high time now to see leopards. Went two weeks ago and saw three leopards. sloth bear tuskers etc. Didn%26#39;t feel unsafe at all.

Nishantha