Author : Pallavi Pundir
For an intrepid traveller seeking calm and peace, there’s nothing that Sri Lanka can’t offer. From architecture and food, to beaches and nature, the South Asian island nation dishes out enriching experiences that can fulfill any form of travel wishlist. But a big part of the travel experience is also safety. As millions of tourists descend upon the country every year (2024 recorded over 2 million international visitors), the country ensures exceptional hospitality as part of its cultural experience. However, if you’re travelling as an LGBTQAI+ person, do you need to be careful?
Like most Asian nations, Sri Lanka is a conservative nation where the British colonial past brought with it anti-LGBTQAI+ laws as part of its Victorian Christian puritanical concept of intimacy and relationships. Many South Asian nations, who share the colonial-era law, have been freeing themselves of the shackles of this imperialist past, by successfully passing laws to decriminalise and legitimise LGBTQAI+ relationships. While Sri Lanka still hasn’t decriminalised Article 365A – which prohibits same-sex intercourse – the law has been challenged in the Supreme Court through a reform bill, which will soon make its way to a Parliamentary debate and vote. It may be a game of wait-and-watch but for now, the country largely remains hospitable and safe for travellers across the world.
There’s a reason why Sri Lanka is often known as the “treasure island”. Not only does it surprise you with visual treats, but it can also tug at your heartstrings with how it makes you feel. If you’re curious to learn more about how to navigate Sri Lanka’s stunning offerings as an LGBTQAI+ traveller, read this comprehensive guide to put your mind – and travel plans – at ease.
Sri Lanka Doesn’t Recognise Queer Rights. Should you Still Travel There?
TLDR: Yes! But why?
There’s been some bad news in the last few years. Among rare arrests Sri Lanka has seen recently includes that of a same-sex couple in 2022 where two women were eventually sent for “psychiatric evaluation”. However, Sri Lanka has a vibrant LGBTQAI+ community that leads annual marches to demand an end to discrimination. It’s rare for individuals with different sexual orientation to voice their demands in public, but given the economic weight the tourism industry has for the country, citizens and institutions ensure that hospitality is paramount across all industries. And so, despite the law, Sri Lanka is liberal minded about welcoming LGBTQAI+ travellers.
Things to Keep in Mind as an LGBTQAI+ Traveller in Sri Lanka
As in any country not known to you: Do as the Romans do. Most Asian countries have conservative attitudes towards public displays of affection. Respecting social customs in Sri Lanka, hence, demands that travellers maintain decorum in public spaces. In spots such as the country’s stunning beaches or surf towns, night clubs or heritage places, travellers should be mindful that while local communities are generally warm and eager to entertain your requests, certain behaviours – such as PDAs or aggression – might not go down well with people. That said, you needn’t worry about conservatism in the dress code. Keep it relaxed although covering up in small villages would be a better idea to avoid unwanted attention.
Tips to Book LGBTQAI+ Friendly Stays in Sri Lanka
Whether you’re travelling solo or with your partner, there’s a plethora of accommodation options for an enjoyable stay in Sri Lanka. Many AirBnb properties offer LGBTQAI+ friendly accommodations, ensuring privacy and tranquility at some of the most scenic spots across the country. There’s also a great selection of luxury resorts that can add a touch of glamour to your travels.
Out and About as an LGBTQAI+ Traveller
Sri Lanka has a vibrant nightlife but if you wish to check out some hidden gems in main cities such as Colombo, you can try spaces such as Love Bar Colombo and The Love Shack. You can also choose adventure in the country by booking a safari at the Yala National Park, which is replete with Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife. If nature is what you seek, you may give the scenic hill country a chance. A cursory Google search will show you that Sri Lanka is one of the biggest producers of tea in the world. Book a visit to Ella, a small town at the elevation of 1,041 metres above sea level, where you can explore breathtaking landscapes – including waterfalls – while also learning about how the country produces its famous tea. If you’re a train enthusiast, then book the Colombo to Badulla train ride, considered one of the most beautiful in the world, which will give you a taste of not just the natural beauty but also the quintessential experience of travelling by train, replete with street culinary choices and local interactions. Lastly, if you’re ever visiting Sri Lanka in June, then catch – or even join – their annual pride marches in Colombo city!
FAQs
Sri Lanka offers a plethora of experiences based on all kinds of budgets. As long as you are mindful of local customs and are respectful of the communities there, Sri Lankans are mostly hospitable and warm.
It’s usually advisable to choose a trusted transport service. While you can cover long distances via trains, you can travel locally more efficiently if you book a reliable service (such as TukTukRental, where you can utilise its self-driven transport service in addition to the quintessential Sri Lankan tuktuk experience!)
It’s peninsula weather so you’d want to be in comfortable – preferably cotton – clothes. If you are planning to be constantly on the move, choose comfortable shoes or sandals to ensure ease of movements. Carry a mosquito repellent at all times – a non negotiable accessory in any tropical country!
Take TukTuk Rental for complete privacy and agency over your travel plans in Sri Lanka.
You might also consider downloading the Tuktukrental Travel App. It features offline maps, offbeat recommendations and even helps fellow tuktuk-ers on the road connect for information or just a few post drive beers – or the local Sri Lankan arrack if you are feeling adventurous!
