Current Situation in Sri Lanka: Travel Update January 2026

Sri Lanka Weather Update - January, 2026

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If you are planning a trip to Sri Lanka, it is important to stay informed about the current situation following recent havey rains. This approach will define the result of your holiday, and avoid any inconvenience while you are touring around the island. As of 13 January 2026, the country remains open to tourism, but the travel conditions vary by region, especially between coastal areas adn the central highlands.

This article provides an up to date travel overviewm highlighting which areas are safe to visit and which should be avoided or visited with caution due to weather related impacts.

Overview of the Current Situation in Sri Lanka

In recent weeks, intense seasonal rainfall has affected several inland regions of Sri Lanka, leading to localized flooding, landslides and temporary infrastructure disruptions.

While condition are gradually stabilizing, some areas, particulary hilly and mountainous zones, remane vulnerable.

Costal regions and major tourist hubs, on the other hand, are largerly operational and welcoming visitors.

If you are looking for a safe and beautiful place where to stay in the South coast, check Sri Lanka Surf Villa Domus Graziella, which offers four stunnig private rooms for solo travelleres, couples and families with an exclusive jacuzzi for the guests.

Safe Areas to Visit in Sri Lanka

These areas are currently considered safest and more reliable four tourist:

• Ahangama

• Galle

• Unawatuna

• Hikkaduwa

• Mirissa

• Bentota

  
  

Touris infrastructure is fully operational, including hotels, transport services, and excursion. These areas have not experienced heavy rains and remain idealfor beach holidays, surfing, cultural visit and relaxation.

Cultural Triangle (Generally Safe)

The Cultural Triangle remains accessible and is a strong option for traveles even if some secondary streets and smal bridges still suffer the flooding effect. So we invite to drive very carefully and avoid the road during night time:

• Sigiriya

• Dambulla

• Anuradhapura

• Polonnaruwa

Central Highlands & Hill Country

Travel is possible, but extra caution is strongly advise in;

• Kandy

• Nuwara Eliya

• Hatton

• Ella

Possible issues include temporary road closure, slower travel times on moutain roads and delays on scenic train routes. Visitors should check local condition daily and avoid unnecessary movement during or after heavy rain.

Area to Avoid

Due to saturated soil, landslides, road closure, and past incidents, the following areas are not reccomended for tourism at this time:

• Badulla District

• Remote parts of Matale District

• Rural hillside areas surrounding Kandy

Adam's Peal (Sri Pada) and other altitude trekking routes should be avoided unless officially declared safe.

We suggest to plan properly your next trip and in case you will need any kind of assistance do not hesitate to contact us!