Last Updated: December 31, 2025
If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka or wondering whether it’s safe to visit after recent news about Cyclone Ditwah, this comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about the current situation, recovery progress, and why Sri Lanka remains an incredible destination to visit in 2025.
The Short Answer: Yes, Sri Lanka is safe to visit and welcomes tourists. While the hill country including Kandy, Nuwara Eliya and Badulla was most affected, the main tourist areas near Colombo and on the south coast remain largely unaffected and many other tourist areas are returning to normal.
This guide cuts through the headlines to give you accurate, up-to-date information about traveling to Sri Lanka, what areas are fully operational, where extra caution is advised, and how your visit directly supports the recovery of communities affected by the cyclone.
Planning your trip? Read our Ultimate Sri Lanka Travel Guide 2026: Everything You Need to Know for comprehensive planning information, check Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka 2025: Complete Month-by-Month Weather Guide to understand seasonal weather patterns, and review our Sri Lanka Travel Cost Breakdown for budget planning.
What Happened: Understanding Cyclone Ditwah
On November 28, 2025, Cyclone Ditwah made landfall on Sri Lanka’s eastern coast, triggering widespread flooding and deadly landslides across all 25 districts. The cyclone brought torrential rains, strong winds, and caused significant infrastructure damage, particularly in the central hill country.
The Impact in Numbers
The scale was significant:
- Nearly 1.8 million people – about 8 percent of the island nation’s population – were affected
- Multiple casualties and hundreds reported missing
- Significant damage to roads, bridges, and rail infrastructure
- 85% of power supply disrupted by the cyclone has been restored as of December 5
- Tourism infrastructure in hill country areas sustained damage
Which Areas Were Most Affected
Severely Impacted (Hill Country):
- Kandy district
- Nuwara Eliya district
- Badulla district (including areas near Ella)
- Polonnaruwa
- Central highlands
Moderately Affected:
- Parts of eastern coast
- Some central areas
- Inland routes
Largely Unaffected:
- Colombo and western coast
- South coast (Galle, Mirissa, Unawatuna)
- Cultural Triangle sites (Sigiriya, Dambulla)
- Most beach destinations
Current Status: What’s Open for Tourists (December 2025)
✅ Fully Operational Tourist Areas
The government and tourism authorities say that most parts of the island are now operating normally. Here’s what’s fully open:
Beach Destinations (100% Operational):
- South Coast: Galle, Mirissa, Unawatuna, Hikkaduwa, Bentota
- West Coast: Negombo, Mount Lavinia beaches near Colombo
- East Coast: Arugam Bay, Trincomalee (mostly operational)
These areas experienced minimal impact and have been welcoming tourists throughout.
Cultural Sites (Fully Accessible):
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress: Open and accessible
- Dambulla Cave Temple: Operating normally
- Colombo: All attractions and infrastructure functioning
- Galle Fort: Completely unaffected, fully operational
- Anuradhapura: Ancient city sites accessible
Wildlife & Safari Parks:
- Yala National Park: Open for safaris
- Udawalawe National Park: Operating normally
- Minneriya National Park: Accessible
Coastal & Lowland Areas:
- All major hotels, resorts, and guesthouses operating
- Restaurants, cafés, and tourist services functioning normally
- Beach activities and water sports available
- Tour operators running regular excursions
⚠️ Areas with Ongoing Recovery (Use Caution)
Hill Country (Partial Operations):
The most affected area is the Hill Country including Kandy, Nuwara Eliya and Badulla. There remains a risk of landslides and localised flooding.
Kandy:
- City center and main attractions accessible
- Temple of the Tooth open
- Some accommodation operational
- Road access restored but some detours required
- Check with hotels before booking
Ella:
- Town accessible via alternate routes
- Some hiking trails temporarily closed for safety assessments
- Accommodations reopening gradually
- Nine Arch Bridge area accessible
- Little Adam’s Peak trails being assessed
Nuwara Eliya:
- Town center functioning
- Some tea plantation tours operational
- Road conditions improving
- Check current status with tour operators
Train Services:
- The famous Kandy-Ella railway line has sustained damage and is undergoing repairs
- Coastal railway line (Colombo-Galle) fully operational
- Northern and eastern rail networks largely restored
- Tourist rail service from Badulla to Ambewela expected from January 1, 2026, subject to safety approval
🛠️ Infrastructure Recovery Status
Positive Progress:
- At least one main access road is open to all major cities and tourist destinations
- International flights operating normally with no disruptions
- Electricity supply is stabilising, food and fuel distribution are functioning normally
- Telecommunications restored in most areas
- Hotels and accommodations in operational areas running at full capacity
Still in Progress:
- Some minor hill country roads require detours
- Rail restoration ongoing (expected early 2026 for full network)
- Some remote hiking trails being assessed for safety
- Infrastructure strengthening in landslide-prone areas
Is It Safe to Visit Sri Lanka Right Now?
The Official Answer: YES
Sri Lanka remains safe and fully open for tourists, with most major travel destinations operating normally.
Multiple official sources confirm safety:
Government Position: Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya urged visitors to stick with their holiday plans, saying tourists should “not cancel their travel plans to Sri Lanka”
UK Government Travel Advisory: The main tourist areas near Colombo and on the south coast of Sri Lanka remain largely unaffected and many other tourist areas are returning to normal
Tourism Industry Status: As of December 11, Sri Lanka had recorded 2.17 million tourist arrivals for 2025, surpassing last year’s total of 2.05 million
What This Means For Your Trip
You CAN safely visit:
- All beach destinations (south, west, east coasts)
- Cultural Triangle (Sigiriya, Dambulla, Polonnaruwa)
- Colombo and surrounding areas
- Wildlife safari parks
- Galle and southern coastal regions
- Most established tourist routes
You SHOULD check ahead for:
- Hill country destinations (Kandy, Ella, Nuwara Eliya)
- Train schedules and availability
- Specific hiking trails in affected areas
- Road conditions for inland travel
You SHOULD NOT worry about:
- General safety in tourist areas
- Availability of services in major destinations
- Airport operations and international travel
- Beach destinations and coastal activities
Current Travel Recommendations & Safety Tips
Before You Go
Plan Your Budget: Understanding costs helps you plan better. Check our detailed Sri Lanka Travel Cost Breakdown to estimate your trip expenses and find money-saving tips.
Check Current Conditions:
- Check conditions with local authorities or your travel provider before you travel. Sri Lanka Tourism has a 24-hour hotline available on 1912
- Contact your hotel or tour operator for area-specific updates
- Monitor Sri Lanka Tourism official channels
- Review weather forecasts for your travel dates
Travel Insurance: Travel with insurance - choose a travel insurance policy that includes coverage for weather-related disruptions
Documentation:
- Ensure visa (ETA) is current and valid
- Keep emergency contact numbers handy
- Download offline maps of your destinations
- Save hotel and tour operator contacts
During Your Trip
Regional Awareness: Stick to stable tourist zones - most coastal areas, wildlife parks, and cultural sites are operating normally and remain safe for visitors
Stay Informed:
- Monitor local weather updates
- Follow guidance from Sri Lanka Tourism and disaster management authorities
- Keep communication with your accommodation
- Heed any local warnings or advisories
Hill Country Specific:
- There remains a risk of landslides and localised flooding in hill country areas
- Use established, well-maintained routes
- Travel during daylight hours
- Hire experienced local drivers or guides
Transportation:
- Major roads to all tourist destinations are accessible
- Some hill-country routes may still require detours due to localised landslides
- Coastal and lowland roads fully operational
- Book train tickets in advance as some routes have limited service
What Support Is Available
Government Measures:
- Enhanced safety monitoring in affected areas
- Government is conducting a comprehensive review of all tourism-related developments in risky zones
- Improved early warning systems
- Rapid response teams on standby
Tourism Sector Support:
- Free visa extensions and flexible booking policies to support affected travelers
- Hotels offering flexible cancellation terms
- Tour operators providing alternate itineraries
- 24/7 tourist helpline: 1912
Why Your Visit Matters: Supporting Recovery
Tourism = Livelihoods
Sri Lanka has a resilient and fast-recovering tourism sector. Travelling responsibly helps families, small businesses, and communities rebuild faster.
Your tourism dollars directly support:
- Local families: Guesthouse owners, restaurant staff, guides
- Small businesses: Tuk-tuk drivers, souvenir shops, tour operators
- Communities: Village homestays, handicraft makers, farmers
- Conservation: National park staff, environmental programs
- Recovery efforts: Infrastructure repair, rebuilding homes
- Economic stability: Tourism is crucial to Sri Lanka’s economy
Responsible Tourism After a Disaster
Do:
- Book accommodations directly with local properties
- Use local guides and drivers
- Eat at local restaurants
- Shop at locally-owned stores
- Be patient with any service disruptions
- Show appreciation for hospitality during challenging times
- Share positive experiences on social media (counter negative narratives)
Don’t:
- Cancel trips unnecessarily based on headlines alone
- Avoid all hill country areas (many parts are operational)
- Expect everything to be perfect (resilience takes time)
- Photograph disaster areas or affected communities without permission
- Complain about minor inconveniences
- Spread misinformation about conditions
Economic Impact of Tourism
Sri Lanka’s economy relies significantly on tourism:
- Tourist arrivals for 2025 surpassed last year’s total, demonstrating strong recovery
- Tourism supports millions of jobs
- Your visit helps families rebuild
- Responsible tourism aids long-term recovery
Sample Itineraries for Current Conditions
Safe & Scenic: South Coast & Cultural Triangle (7-10 Days)
100% Operational Route:
Day 1-2: Colombo
- City tours, shopping, museums
- Beach time at Mount Lavinia
- Colonial architecture walks
Day 3-4: Cultural Triangle
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress
- Dambulla Cave Temple
- Polonnaruwa ruins
- Wildlife safari at Minneriya
Day 5-6: South Coast
- Galle Fort exploration
- Beach time at Unawatuna or Mirissa
- Whale watching (seasonal)
- Surfing or snorkeling
Day 7-8: Beach Relaxation
- Choose from Mirissa, Hikkaduwa, or Bentota
- Water sports and activities
- Spa and wellness
Day 9-10: Return via Colombo
- Last-minute shopping
- Final beach day
This itinerary avoids affected hill country entirely while showcasing Sri Lanka’s best attractions.
Comprehensive Tour Including Hill Country (10-14 Days)
With Some Hill Country (Check Current Conditions):
Day 1-2: Colombo
- Arrival and city exploration
Day 3-5: Cultural Triangle
- Sigiriya, Dambulla, Polonnaruwa
- Safari experiences
Day 6-8: Hill Country (Verify Conditions)
- Kandy: Temple of the Tooth, city center (operational)
- Consider: Check road conditions before proceeding to Ella
- Alternative: Substitute with extended south coast time if conditions not ideal
Day 9-11: South Coast
- Galle, Mirissa, beach destinations
- All activities available
Day 12-14: Final Beach Days
- Relaxation and water activities
- Return via Colombo
Pro Tip: Contact your hotel or tour operator - they can provide updated information on accessibility, road conditions, and any route adjustments needed for safe travel
Beach & Wildlife Focus (7 Days)
Perfect for Current Conditions:
Day 1-2: Negombo/Colombo
- Relax after arrival
- Beach time
Day 3-4: Yala/Udawalawe
- Safari experiences (fully operational)
- Wildlife watching
Day 5-7: South Coast
- Multiple beach destinations
- Water sports
- Coastal exploration
This itinerary focuses entirely on fully operational areas with zero concerns about conditions.
What Travelers Are Saying
Recent visitors confirm the situation on the ground:
Positive Reports:
- Beach areas completely normal and beautiful
- Cultural sites operating without issues
- Warm hospitality from locals
- Hotel services excellent
- Safari experiences unaffected
Occasional Challenges:
- Some hill country routes require detours
- Train schedules adjusted (but alternatives available)
- A few hiking trails temporarily closed
- Minor delays in some areas
Overall Sentiment: Travelers report wonderful experiences, with the understanding that Sri Lanka is recovering and appreciative of tourist support.
Long-Term Outlook & Future Safety
Government Initiatives
Sri Lanka’s government has initiated a significant policy shift aimed at controlling tourism infrastructure in landslide-prone and environmentally sensitive areas following the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah.
New Safety Measures:
- Enhanced building codes for tourist properties
- Stricter regulations in environmentally sensitive zones
- Improved early warning systems
- Better disaster preparedness
- Investment in infrastructure resilience
When Will Everything Be Fully Restored?
Timeline Estimates:
Already Complete (December 2025):
- All beach destinations
- Colombo and western areas
- Cultural Triangle sites
- Major wildlife parks
- Primary road networks
Expected Q1 2026 (January-March):
- Full restoration of railway services, including the famous Kandy-Ella scenic route
- Complete hill country access
- All hiking trails reopened
- Infrastructure fully strengthened
Ongoing:
- Long-term environmental protection measures
- Enhanced safety standards implementation
- Continued monitoring and improvements
Learning from the Experience
By learning from past mistakes and prioritizing safety and sustainability, Sri Lanka has the opportunity to build a more resilient tourism sector.
The cyclone prompted important discussions about:
- Sustainable tourism development
- Climate resilience
- Infrastructure planning
- Environmental protection
- Community preparedness
This means future tourism will be even safer and more sustainable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I cancel my Sri Lanka trip?
No, don’t cancel. The Prime Minister urged visitors to stick with their holiday plans and not cancel their travel plans to Sri Lanka. Most tourist areas are fully operational. If your itinerary includes affected hill country areas, consider adjusting routes rather than canceling entirely.
Are flights to Sri Lanka operating normally?
Yes. International flights are operating on regular schedules with no disruptions. Colombo airport is fully functional and processing passengers normally.
What about the famous Kandy to Ella train journey?
The scenic train route sustained some damage and is undergoing repairs. Tourist rail service from Badulla to Ambewela is expected from January 1, 2026, subject to safety approval. Alternative transport options (buses, private vehicles) are available for hill country travel in the meantime.
Can I still visit Ella and the hill country?
Yes, but with planning. Contact your hotel or tour operator for updated information on accessibility and road conditions. Many hill country locations are accessible, though some require alternate routes. Conditions are improving daily.
Is the south coast affected?
No. The main tourist areas near Colombo and on the south coast remain largely unaffected. Galle, Mirissa, Unawatuna, Hikkaduwa, and other southern beaches are completely operational and unaffected by the cyclone.
What if conditions change while I’m there?
Sri Lanka has robust systems in place:
- Sri Lanka Tourism has a 24-hour hotline available on 1912
- Hotels and tour operators provide real-time updates
- Government issues timely advisories
- Tourist zones have enhanced monitoring
Will I see visible damage in tourist areas?
In beach and lowland tourist areas, no. In hill country regions, some areas show signs of recovery work, but tourist facilities are being prioritized for restoration. The resilience and determination of locals is inspiring.
How can I help Sri Lanka recover?
Visit! Tourism is the most direct way to support recovery. Additionally:
- Book directly with local businesses
- Use local guides and drivers
- Shop at local stores and markets
- Eat at local restaurants
- Leave positive reviews
- Share your positive experiences
- Be patient and understanding
Is cyclone season continuing?
The cyclone occurred during monsoon transition period. Check conditions with local authorities or your travel provider before you travel. The main tourist season (December-March) typically has excellent weather. Read our Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka 2025: Complete Month-by-Month Weather Guide for detailed seasonal information and understand when to visit different regions.
Final Thoughts: Sri Lanka Welcomes You
Despite the challenges brought by Cyclone Ditwah, Sri Lanka continues to welcome travelers. With proper planning, awareness, and updated information, visitors can enjoy a safe, memorable, and rewarding holiday on this incredible island.
Why Visit Sri Lanka Now
You’ll experience:
- 🏖️ Pristine beaches completely unaffected and beautiful
- 🏛️ Ancient wonders fully accessible and awe-inspiring
- 🐘 Wildlife safaris operating normally with incredible sightings
- 🍛 Delicious cuisine available everywhere
- ❤️ Warm hospitality from resilient, appreciative locals
- 🌟 Authentic experiences without excessive crowds
- 💪 Contributing directly to community recovery
You’ll avoid:
- Overcrowding in tourist hotspots
- Peak season price increases in some areas
- The feeling you’re just another tourist (locals genuinely appreciate visitors now)
The Heart of Sri Lanka Remains Strong
Stunning beaches, rich culture, wildlife safaris, and warm hospitality — everything Sri Lanka is famous for — remains intact.
The landscape is still breathtaking. The ancient cities still inspire awe. The wildlife still roams freely. The food still delights. The sunsets still take your breath away. And the people? They’re more welcoming than ever, grateful for your visit and eager to share their beautiful island.
Moving Forward with Confidence
Sri Lanka has faced challenges before and emerged stronger. This resilient nation is already bouncing back, with:
- Infrastructure rapidly being restored
- Safety measures enhanced
- Tourism facilities operating at high standards
- Communities working together
- A determination to welcome the world
Your visit isn’t just a vacation - it’s a vote of confidence in Sri Lanka’s recovery, a direct contribution to rebuilding communities, and an opportunity to experience one of Asia’s most beautiful destinations while making a positive difference.
Ready to Visit Sri Lanka?
Don’t let headlines prevent you from experiencing this incredible destination.
Current situation summary:
- ✅ Safe to visit (official confirmation from multiple sources)
- ✅ Most tourist areas fully operational
- ✅ Beach destinations 100% unaffected
- ✅ Cultural sites accessible
- ✅ Safari parks operating normally
- ✅ Infrastructure restored in tourist zones
- ✅ Your visit directly helps recovery
Practical next steps:
- Choose your itinerary (we recommend south coast and cultural triangle for easiest travel)
- Book accommodations (direct booking supports local businesses)
- Get travel insurance with weather coverage
- Contact hotels for current conditions in your specific destinations
- Read our other guides for comprehensive planning
- Pack your bags with confidence
- Experience the adventure of a lifetime while supporting a nation’s recovery
Helpful resources:
- Ultimate Sri Lanka Travel Guide 2026: Everything You Need to Know - Complete planning information
- Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka 2025: Complete Month-by-Month Weather Guide - Seasonal weather guide
- Sri Lanka Travel Cost 2025: Complete Budget Breakdown & Money-Saving Tips - Budget planning
- Sri Lanka Tourism Hotline: 1912 (24/7 support)
Sri Lanka is open, safe, and ready to create unforgettable memories. Your journey supports recovery, empowers communities, and reminds the world that this beautiful island remains one of Asia’s must-visit destinations.
Welcome to Sri Lanka. We can’t wait to share our island paradise with you. 🇱🇰❤️
This article is updated regularly with the latest information. Last update: December 31, 2025. For real-time conditions, contact Sri Lanka Tourism at 1912 or check official government travel advisories.