Sri Lanka’s New Tourism Safety Measures: Everything You Need to Know About the Post-Cyclone Recovery Efforts

Published on December 8, 2025

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. The cyclone exposed glaring regulatory gaps, especially in the hill country, where unapproved structures have exacerbated the damage. In response, the government is planning a comprehensive review of tourism-related developments to ensure safety standards and enhance the sector’s role in the nation’s recovery. The new policy seeks to identify tourism-approved properties and enforce stricter regulations for future projects, ensuring the sustainability of Sri Lanka’s tourism sector and safeguarding visitors in vulnerable regions. As tourism remains a cornerstone of the country’s economy, officials are determined to balance growth with environmental and safety considerations.

Government Review of Tourism Development in Risk Zones

In the wake of Cyclone Ditwah, Sri Lanka has been prompted to reassess its approach to tourism infrastructure development, particularly in areas prone to natural disasters such as landslides. The government’s focus is on risky zones—regions that have long been popular with tourists but are vulnerable to extreme weather events. The Deputy Minister of Tourism recently outlined the government’s intent to conduct a comprehensive review of all tourism-related developments in these areas, emphasizing the need to balance economic growth with safety.

Landslide-prone slopes in regions like the central hill country are of particular concern, where unauthorized construction in such unstable areas has led to significant damage during the cyclone. The government has vowed to identify and list properties that meet safety standards, providing travelers with clear guidance on which destinations are safe for visits. The initiative aims to build trust among tourists and investors by ensuring that tourism developments are not only economically beneficial but also safe and environmentally responsible.

Enforcing Safety Standards and Regulated Development

The initiative’s central goal is to identify locations suitable for tourism development while safeguarding the natural environment. This includes imposing strict safety standards to prevent further damage to both the local communities and visitors. One potential change under discussion is the removal of commercial and residential structures from areas deemed unsafe by the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO). By enforcing regulations on new developments, Sri Lanka aims to avoid the mistakes of the past and ensure that future tourism growth is sustainable and safe.

Authorities are also considering a shift towards promoting regulated tourism properties. This move comes at a time when Sri Lanka’s economy is heavily dependent on the tourism sector, which has a vital role to play in post-cyclone reconstruction efforts. By ensuring that developments adhere to safety standards, the government aims to safeguard not only the environment but also the future viability of tourism in the country.

Tourism Sector’s Recovery Efforts

While the cyclone’s destruction highlighted the urgent need for regulation, Sri Lanka’s tourism sector is poised for a resilient recovery. Industry leaders have already expressed their support for the government’s initiative, recognizing that the country’s tourism economy is vital for rebuilding efforts. The Hotels Association of Sri Lanka (THASL) and the Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Tour Operators (SLAITO) have confirmed that despite the challenges posed by the cyclone, the formal sector is ready to help restore tourism to its previous growth trajectory.

The tourism sector’s recovery is viewed as a financial lifeline for the country’s broader reconstruction efforts. The revenue generated by tourism will not only help rebuild homes and businesses but will also provide essential funds for schools and other public services. As Sri Lanka faces the dual challenge of recovering from disaster and ensuring the safety of its tourism infrastructure, these steps are crucial in rebuilding a safer, more sustainable future for both locals and visitors.

What Travelers Need to Know

For tourists planning a visit to Sri Lanka, it is important to be aware of the government’s ongoing efforts to make the tourism sector safer. Here are a few key points to keep in mind:

• Check for Approved Properties: Always ensure that the accommodation you choose is tourism-approved and complies with the government’s safety standards.
• Stay Updated on Safety Regulations: Stay informed about potential travel restrictions or advisories related to certain regions, especially those in landslide-prone areas.
• Support the Formal Sector: Consider staying at established hotels or resorts that have been verified by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) to help support the sector’s recovery.
• Follow Local Guidelines: Pay attention to any new regulations or guidelines issued by the government or local authorities regarding travel and accommodation.

By adhering to these tips, travelers can enjoy a safer and more responsible experience in Sri Lanka while contributing to the country’s ongoing recovery from the devastating cyclone.

Moving Forward: Building a Resilient and Safe Tourism Industry

As Sri Lanka moves forward with its recovery and tourism sector reform, the focus will be on balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability. The government’s commitment to regulating tourism developments in risky zones is crucial in ensuring that future infrastructure projects are both safe and beneficial to the local population.

Ultimately, this shift towards safer and more regulated tourism infrastructure will benefit not only the tourists but also the communities that rely on the industry for their livelihoods. By learning from past mistakes and prioritizing safety and sustainability, Sri Lanka has the opportunity to build a more resilient tourism sector that will continue to attract visitors from around the world.