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?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in 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?
U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka
Do I Need Vaccines for Sri Lanka?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Sri Lanka. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Sri Lanka: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, yellow fever, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, COVID-19, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travelers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Required if arriving from a region with polio transmission. Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required if traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. - Japanese Encephalitis –
Mosquito –
Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. May be given to short- and extended-stay travelers, recurrent travelers 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-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travelers to most regions. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Sri Lanka |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Typhoid | Food & Water | Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travelers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Required if arriving from a region with polio transmission. Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. |
| Japanese Encephalitis | Mosquito | Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. May be given to short- and extended-stay travelers, recurrent travelers 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-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travelers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for Sri Lanka |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Meningitis | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Typhoid – Typhoid fever, caused by Salmonella Typhi, is a serious illness transmitted through contaminated food and water. Prevention strategies include vaccination as well as practicing strict hygiene and safe food handling.
- Hepatitis A – Contagious hepatitis A, caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV), spreads through contaminated food, water, or close contact. Prevention involves vaccination and practicing good hygiene, particularly when traveling to high-risk areas.
- Japanese Encephalitis – Japanese encephalitis is a viral brain infection spread by mosquito bites, mainly in rural parts of Asia. It can cause neurological damage and is potentially fatal. The Japanese encephalitis vaccine, given in a series of injections, effectively prevents the disease by stimulating the immune system to produce protective antibodies against the virus.
- Rabies – Rabies is a deadly viral disease affecting mammals, including humans, primarily transmitted through bites or scratches from infected animals. Vaccination is key to preventing rabies, with pre-exposure shots effectively preventing infection.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B prevention relies on vaccination as the most effective measure, recommended for all travelers and critical for healthcare workers. Practicing safe sex and using sterile equipment for body modifications are also key in reducing transmission risks.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) are viral infections with distinct symptoms. They spread through respiratory droplets and close contact. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent MMR infections, with the MMR vaccine offering protection against all three 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.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Sri Lanka
Prevent Bug Bites in Sri Lanka
Safeguard against bug bites by dressing appropriately and using EPA-registered repellents with DEET, picaridin, or OLE. If bitten, cleanse the area, refrain from scratching, and mitigate discomfort with OTC treatments. Seek medical aid for serious reactions.
Food and Water Safety in Sri Lanka
Safeguard your health during international travels by eating fully cooked, hot meals, at reliable dining establishments. To minimize the chances of travelers’ diarrhea, follow these precautions: choose safe foods, avoid untreated water, practice frequent hand-washing, consider probiotics, and exercise caution when indulging in unfamiliar cuisines.
Altitude Sickness in Sri Lanka
Altitude sickness, or acute mountain sickness (AMS), stems from inadequate oxygen at high elevations, causing symptoms like headaches and nausea. Preventing AMS involves gradual ascent, hydration, and potential medication use. Should AMS symptoms develop, swift descent to lower altitudes, rest, and medical evaluation are essential for recovery and safety.
Infections To Be Aware of in Sri Lanka
- Dengue – Aedes mosquitoes spread dengue to millions globally, prevention is the best defense. The disease can strike multiple times due to its four strains, underscoring the need for mosquito bite prevention like netting and repellents.
- Leishmaniasis – Infected sand flies are the primary vectors of leishmaniasis. Preventive measures include the use of insect repellents, protective clothing and staying indoors during sand fly peak hours.
Do I Need a Visa for Sri Lanka?
Yes, a passport and visa are required for visiting Sri Lanka. A visa, or Electronic Travel Authorization, must be obtained before arrival. These are generally granted for up to 30 days.
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 U.S. State Department
You should have a return ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your expenses in Sri Lanka. You will also need a passport with both six months’ validity from your expected departure date from Sri Lanka, and one blank page for the entry stamp.
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?
Traveling 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 travelers 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 traveling in the north, stay on main, heavily traveled roads. Do not wander through forests or fields, and avoid any areas roped off for clearing landmines.
Meeting Elephants in Udawalawe National Park
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travelers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travelers’ diarrhea kit!
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?
When packing for a trip to Sri Lanka, it is important to pack for the warm and humid climate. Pack lightweight and breathable clothes like cotton or linen. You should also pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and insect repellent to protect against the strong sun and mosquitoes.
Comfortable shoes are recommended for trekking and walking on uneven terrain. Pack a rain jacket or umbrella for the heavy rainfall during monsoon season. Bring a travel adapter for charging electronics and medications including over-the-counter and prescription medicines.
Cash and credit cards are widely accepted in Sri Lanka, so it is a good idea to carry both. Finally, bring travel documents such as your passport, visa, and flight tickets in a waterproof bag.
U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka
Before traveling to Sri Lanka, all U.S. citizens are advised to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to share your travel plans with the relevant embassy and to receive updates about any emergencies that may interfere with your travel plans.
The U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka is located in Colombo, the country’s capital. Its address and contact information are as follows:
U.S. Embassy Colombo
210 Galle Road,
Colombo 03,
Sri Lanka
Telephone: +(94) (11) 249-8500
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(94) (011) 249-8686
Fax: +(94) (11) 243-7345
Ready to start your next journey? Call us at or book online now!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Sri Lanka
Overall rating: 5 stars – 5 reviews
★★★★★
“Super efficient service!“
“I called Passport Health to find out what I needed for a trip to Sri Lanka. Right there, they looked at my file and told me my vaccines were fine, and listed the meds I should take with me. They immediately called my pharmacy and 1 hour later I was all set. Fabulous!”
Submitted by: Ana-Maria
★★★★★
“Great Experience“
“I was very impressed with the knowledge of the nurse and the amount of information I was given about traveling to Sri Lanka.”
Submitted by: Scott
★★★★★
“Simple, perfect …“
“Passport Health has an amazing clinic… comprehensive, gracious and thorough. AND, the price was surprisingly reasonable for such a great service, with my personal folder on Sri Lanka (my destination) and the information on what to look out for and how to avoid complications. I’m very satisfied.”
Submitted by: George
★★★★★
“Travel Shots“
“Excellent information given about what is recommended for our upcoming travel plans to Sri Lanka. Very informative, knowledgeable staff.”
Submitted by: Maggie
★★★★★
“Very helpful“
“My daughter and I had a great experience in your clinic. Your nurse was on time and very thoughtful and helpful. She shared her genuine excitement with us about my daughter’s upcoming travels to Sri Lanka. We left feeling prepared and informed and excited about her trip. Thank you!”
Submitted by: Janet
“I called Passport Health to find out what I needed for a trip to Sri Lanka. Right there, they looked at my file and told me my vaccines were fine, and listed the meds I should take with me. They immediately called my pharmacy and 1 hour later I was all set. Fabulous!”
“I was very impressed with the knowledge of the nurse and the amount of information I was given about traveling to Sri Lanka.”
“Passport Health has an amazing clinic… comprehensive, gracious and thorough. AND, the price was surprisingly reasonable for such a great service, with my personal folder on Sri Lanka (my destination) and the information on what to look out for and how to avoid complications. I’m very satisfied.”
“Excellent information given about what is recommended for our upcoming travel plans to Sri Lanka. Very informative, knowledgeable staff.”
“My daughter and I had a great experience in your clinic. Your nurse was on time and very thoughtful and helpful. She shared her genuine excitement with us about my daughter’s upcoming travels to Sri Lanka. We left feeling prepared and informed and excited about her trip. Thank you!”
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