Sri Lanka, also known as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” is a beautiful island nation located in South Asia. With its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty, Sri Lanka has become a popular destination for Muslim travellers from around the world. The country is home to a significant Muslim population, and visitors can explore a range of Islamic landmarks, including mosques, shrines, and tombs. See our halal food guides for dining options. Explore halal food in Sri Lanka for more information. Explore Muslim travelers for more information.

Additionally, Sri Lanka offers halal food options, prayer facilities, and other amenities that cater to the needs of Muslim travellers. Whether you’re interested in exploring the country’s ancient ruins, relaxing on its pristine beaches, or immersing yourself in its vibrant culture, Sri Lanka is a must-visit destination for Muslim travellers.

Is Sri Lanka Muslim-Friendly?

Sri Lanka is moderately Muslim-friendly with an established native Muslim community:

  • 2 million Muslims: About 9.7% of population
  • Native Sri Lankan Moors: Established for 1,000+ years
  • Mosques throughout: Major cities and towns
  • Halal food available: Especially in Muslim areas
  • Beautiful destination: Beaches, temples, wildlife
  • Post-2019 considerations: Some sensitivity after Easter attacks

Sri Lanka offers good Muslim infrastructure in areas with Muslim communities.

Does Sri Lanka Have Halal Food?

Halal food is available throughout Sri Lanka:

Colombo:

  • Pettah: Muslim commercial area with halal food
  • Maradana: Near main mosque area
  • Wellawatte: Some halal restaurants
  • Hotel restaurants: Many accommodate halal requests

Kandy:

  • Some halal restaurants near lake
  • Muslim community presence

East Coast (Batticaloa, Ampara):

  • Significant Muslim population
  • Halal widely available

Galle and South Coast:

  • Tourist areas with some halal options
  • Beach restaurants serve fresh seafood

Sri Lankan halal dishes:

  • Rice and curry: National dish (verify meat source)
  • Kottu roti: Chopped roti with meat and vegetables
  • Lamprais: Dutch-influenced rice dish
  • Hoppers: Bowl-shaped pancakes
  • Fresh seafood: Abundant on coast

Tip: Look for Muslim-owned restaurants, often identified by Arabic script or green signage.

What Is the Largest Mosque in Sri Lanka?

Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque (Red Mosque) is the most famous:

  • Built 1908-1909
  • Iconic red and white striped architecture
  • Located in Pettah, Colombo
  • Major tourist attraction
  • Also known as the Red Mosque

Other significant mosques:

  • Dewatagaha Mosque (Colombo): Major community mosque
  • Meera Mosque (Kandy): Serves hill country Muslims
  • Ketchimalai Mosque (Beruwala): Historic, possibly oldest
  • Many regional mosques: Throughout Muslim areas

Are There Many Muslims in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka has approximately 2 million Muslims (9.7% of population):

  • Sri Lankan Moors: Largest group, Arab and local ancestry
  • Malay Muslims: Descended from Malaysian traders and soldiers
  • Indian Muslims: Some Tamil-speaking Muslims
  • Concentrated areas: Eastern Province, Colombo, Kandy

Sri Lankan Muslims have been present for over 1,000 years and are a recognized ethnic group with cultural and political representation.

Is Sri Lanka Safe for Muslims?

Sri Lanka requires awareness of the current situation:

Positives:

  • Generally welcoming to tourists
  • Established Muslim community
  • Beautiful destinations
  • Improving security

Considerations:

  • 2019 Easter attacks caused anti-Muslim sentiment in some areas
  • Some community tensions have occurred
  • Political discourse can affect Muslim community
  • Tourist areas generally safe

For Muslim tourists, Sri Lanka is generally safe. Exercise normal caution and be aware of local news.

Top Muslim-Friendly Destinations

Colombo

  • Red Mosque (Jami-Ul-Alfar): Must-visit landmark
  • Pettah Market: Vibrant Muslim commercial area
  • Galle Face Green: Seaside promenade
  • Best halal options: In the country

Kandy

  • Temple of the Tooth: Sacred Buddhist site
  • Kandy Lake: Scenic walks
  • Some halal options: Near mosque areas
  • Hill country beauty: Tea plantations nearby

East Coast

  • Trincomalee: Beautiful beaches
  • Batticaloa: Lagoon and Muslim heritage
  • Significant Muslim presence: Good halal availability
  • Less touristy: Authentic experience

Wildlife and Nature

  • Yala National Park: Leopards and elephants
  • Sigiriya: Ancient rock fortress
  • Tea country: Scenic train journeys
  • Pack provisions: Limited halal in rural areas

Practical Tips for Muslim Travelers

  1. Visit Red Mosque: Iconic Colombo landmark
  2. Pettah for halal: Best food area in Colombo
  3. East Coast: Significant Muslim presence
  4. Fresh seafood: Safe halal option on coast
  5. Stay informed: Check local situation before travel
  6. Rainy seasons: May-September (southwest), October-January (northeast)
  7. Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
  8. Language: Sinhala and Tamil; English widely understood in tourist areas