Travel Update for Sri Lanka: Embracing Change and Celebrating Resilience (December 2025)

Last updated: 4 December 2025

This Sri Lanka travel update after the floods follows the challenges caused by Cyclone Ditwah, which brought heavy rains, flooding, and landslides across various regions of the island in late November 2025. Our hearts go out to the families and communities affected during this difficult time.

Yet, there’s incredible news to share. The spirit of recovery is strong, and the tourism sector is bouncing back with surprising speed. Many of the island’s beloved tourist destinations are once again ready to welcome travellers with warmth and hospitality.

In this update, we are excited to share valuable insights about:

• Which attractions and services are currently open
• Areas that are in the process of restoration
• The latest on transportation options
• Why your visit to Sri Lanka right now is crucial for supporting its economic rejuvenation

Your journey enriches not only your own experiences but also significantly contributes to the vibrant revival of this beautiful nation.

Sri Lanka Travel Update After the Floods: Is Sri Lanka Open for Tourists Right Now?

Absolutely. Sri Lanka is excited to welcome international tourists again. Flights are operating as scheduled, and you will find a variety of hotels and guesthouses open in all the popular tourist regions. Immigration and visa services are running smoothly, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Essential services are also fully operational.

Tourist authorities report that visitor numbers are meeting the expected December levels, with low cancellation rates and a steady influx of new bookings. It is an excellent time to explore this beautiful island.

You can also explore our recommended routes on our Sri Lanka self-drive travel page or learn how our system works via our How It Works guide.

Which Tourist Attractions Are Currently Open?

Wildlife & National Parks (Open)

• Yala National Park (Gates 1, 5 & 6)
• Udawalawe
• Bundala
• Horton Plains
• Kumana
• Wilpattu (Hunuwilagama Gate)
• Minneriya
• Kaudulla
• Wasgamuwa (reopening shortly)

Marine & Coastal Tourism (Open)

• Mirissa Whale Watching
• Kalpitiya Whale Watching
• Hikkaduwa Coral National Park
• Pigeon Island

Cultural & Heritage Sites (Fully Open)

• Sigiriya
• Polonnaruwa
• Anuradhapura
• Dambulla Cave Temple
• Galle Fort
• All museums managed by the Central Cultural Fund

Forest Reserves

• All forest reserves are open
• Exception: Knuckles Conservation Area (temporarily closed)

Road Access & Internal Transport in Sri Lanka

Authorities confirm that at least one main access road is now open to all major cities and tourist destinations.

• Colombo to Kandy
• Colombo to Kurunegala and Anuradhapura
• Kitulgala to Hatton and Nuwara Eliya
• Ella to Wellawaya

Electricity supply is stable, food and fuel distribution are functioning normally, and telecommunications have been restored in most areas.

Current Railway Network Status

• Only approximately 478 km of the total 1,593 km network is currently operational
• Several hill-country sections remain affected by landslides
• The Ella–Kandy rail route is still disrupted in parts

Travellers planning scenic rail journeys are advised to confirm services in advance via Sri Lanka Railways or plan road-based alternatives.

South Coast Travel Conditions

• Mirissa
• Tangalle
• Hikkaduwa
• Bentota
• Ahangama
• Galle
• Balapitiya

Hotels across the south coast continue to report normal operations, strong occupancy, calm seas, and stable weather.

Tourist Assistance Measures Currently in Place

• Free visa extensions
• Full waiver of flight cancellation and date-change fees
• 24-hour Tourism Emergency Hotline: 1912
• Tourism services are declared an Essential Public Service under national law

Official updates are published by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority.

Why Tourism Matters More Than Ever Right Now

Sri Lanka is a country where millions of families depend, directly or indirectly, on tourism for their daily income. Drivers, guides, hotel staff, restaurant workers, surf instructors, safari trackers, mechanics, shop owners, and small guesthouses rely on consistent visitor arrivals to survive.

Our Business Is a Social Tourism Business

We do not own the vehicles or assets used by our travellers. Every trip directly supports:

• Independent tuk-tuk and vehicle owners
• Local guides
• Small guesthouses
• Family-run workshops and service providers

When travellers stop coming, these families’ income stops immediately. After the floods, many suppliers had already lost weeks of earnings. Continued travel is what allows recovery to happen in real economic terms, not just in headlines.

Travellers Are Already Moving Across Sri Lanka Right Now

• We currently have over 1,000 customers travelling on the road across Sri Lanka
• Guests are exploring the south coast, wildlife parks, cultural sites, and parts of the hill country

Our Travel App allows travellers to share real-time road conditions, report access changes, suggest safe routes, and update on attractions and weather.

What You Can Still Enjoy in Sri Lanka Right Now

• Beach stays along the south and west coast
• Wildlife safaris in Yala, Udawalawe, and Bundala
• The Cultural Triangle loop
• Road trips through tea country
• Whale watching in Mirissa and Kalpitiya
• Surfing, diving, snorkelling, and coastal food experiences

Visiting Sri Lanka Now Has a Direct Impact

Choosing not to travel now does not pause the situation; it deepens the economic damage by:

• Removing income from families
• Increasing unemployment
• Delaying national recovery
• Weakening thousands of small businesses

Questions About Your Trip? We Will Help You Personally

You can contact our team directly via the WhatsApp or LiveChat icon in the bottom-left corner of this website, and we will personally assist you with accurate, up-to-date information.

Support is also available inside our Travel App for active travellers.

Final Summary

• Sri Lanka is open for tourism
• Roads are open to all major destinations
• National parks and cultural sites are open
• Rail travel is partially restricted
• The south coast is fully operational
• Hill-country travel requires extra planning
• Tourism remains the fastest path to recovery

If you have ever wanted to visit Sri Lanka, this is the moment when your visit truly matters.