Stay Safe with Hopscotch Travels
This Sri Lanka emergency guide for travelers is your go-to resource for staying safe while exploring the island’s lush landscapes and vibrant culture. At Hopscotch Travels, we care about your well-being and have put together this essential emergency guide for all travelers visiting Sri Lanka. Whether you’re trekking through the hill country, relaxing on the southern beaches, or discovering Colombo’s energy, it’s crucial to be informed and prepared for any unexpected situation.This comprehensive emergency guide covers everything a traveler needs to know to handle unexpected situations confidently.
Important Emergency Numbers in Sri Lanka
Keep these contacts handy throughout your trip, this Sri Lanka emergency guide for travelers helps ensure you’re always prepared.
- 1990 – Suwa Seriya Ambulance Service (24/7, free island-wide service)
- 119 – Police Emergency Hotline
- 1912 – Sri Lanka Tourism Hotline
Hospitals in Major Cities
Sri Lanka offers quality emergency medical care through both public and private hospitals.
Colombo
- National Hospital of Sri Lanka (Government)
- Asiri Surgical Hospital (Private)
- Lanka Hospitals (Private)
Kandy
- The National Hospital – Kandy (Government)
- Suwasevana Hospital (Private)
Galle
- Karapitiya Teaching Hospital (Government)
- Co-operative Hospital – Galle (Private)
Jaffna
- Jaffna Teaching Hospital (Government)
- Northern Central Hospital (Private)
Negombo
- Negombo General Hospital (Government)
- Nawaloka Hospital – Negombo (Private)
Most private hospitals have English-speaking staff and 24/7 emergency units.
What to Do in Common Emergency Scenarios
Lost Passport
- Contact your embassy/high commission immediately.
- File a report at the nearest Tourist Police Station.
- Visit the Department of Immigration in Colombo for temporary travel documentation.
Theft or Lost Belongings
- Report the incident to Tourist Police or local police (dial 119).
- Obtain a police report for insurance claims.
- Contact your hotel or tour operator for immediate assistance.
Illness or Medical Emergency
- Dial 1990 for ambulance.
- Visit the nearest hospital (refer to list above).
- Contact your travel insurance provider.
Natural Disasters (Floods, Tsunamis, Landslides)
- Follow alerts from SLTDA and local authorities.
- Stay in contact with your hotel or guide.
- Evacuate if instructed and move to higher ground in coastal regions.
Physical Confrontation or Fights
- Do not escalate the situation.
- Contact local police (119) or Tourist Police.
- File an official statement with your guide’s help if needed.
Getting Lost
- Always keep your hotel’s business card and local SIM card with data.
- Use apps like Google Maps or speak to local vendors.
- Call your tour guide or the Tourism Hotline (1912) for guidance.
Accommodation Issues
- Contact your hotel manager directly.
- If unresolved, report to Sri Lanka Tourism Authority (SLTDA) or contact Hopscotch Travels.
Tourist Police: Your Travel Ally
As part of our detailed Sri Lanka emergency guide for travelers, we recommend always knowing where the Tourist Police are located.
The Tourist Police Division is trained to help international visitors. They assist with:
- Lost documents
- Scams
- Cultural misunderstandings
- Safety support
Tourist Police Locations:
- Colombo Fort
- Negombo
- Kandy
- Galle
- Bentota
- Hikkaduwa
- Ella
- Sigiriya
- Arugam Bay
Travel Smart Tips
- Always carry a copy of your passport and visa.
- Use registered guides and vehicles.
- Register your stay with your country’s embassy.
- Save emergency numbers and your hotel’s contact info.
- Pack a basic first-aid kit and motion sickness tablets.
- Buy comprehensive travel insurance before your trip.
Stay Connected with Hopscotch Travels
At Hopscotch Travels, your safety is our priority. Our guides are trained in first aid and emergency protocols, and we are available 24/7 to support you. If you’re unsure or in trouble, call or email us immediately.
Email: [email protected]
Emergency Helpline (Local): (+94) 717 87 87 87
Explore confidently. We’ve got your back.
