Homosexuality is technically illegal in Sri Lanka. However, this antiquated law (a relic from the colonial laws of 1883) is largely ignored, and gay people are more visible than ever in Sri Lankan society. Sri Lanka’s small but lively scene can largely be found around Negombo, where there are several gay-friendly bars, spas and venues.
As Sri Lanka becomes ever more popular among the LGBT community, more and more services are springing up to cater to this demographic. With venues to drinks, stay and hang out, here are the best places to check out Sri Lanka’s vibrant gay scene.
Gay events in Sri Lanka
Colombo PRIDE
Where? Colombo
When? June
This annual celebration of Sri Lanka’s LGBT community is a well-established event and enters its 15thconsecutive year in 2019. This vibrant festival of acceptance marks itself with a series of local events, including the rainbow kite festival, parades, and musical and dance performances. Join for the Rainbow Bus Ride or attend one of the many local events and gatherings organized by PRIDE around the city each year. Join Colombo PRIDE in June as they celebrate love, open-mindedness and acceptance in Colombo!
Gay-friendly bars and clubs in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka has no exclusively gay clubs or bars. However, the eastern, coastal city of Negombo is the country’s gay hub and has several gay-friendly bars and accommodations. This is the best place in Sri Lanka to hang out and meet other members of the LGBT community!
Rodeo Pub & Restaurant
Where? Negombo
The Rodeo Pub & Restaurant is excellent for dinner and even better for drinks! This energetic bar is open until the early hours and serves a wide array of cocktails and mixers, making it one of the best places in town to meet new people. It’s also one of the most popular gay meeting spots in Negombo and has a friendly and accepting atmosphere that draws people from all over the city. Check it out during your stay to drink, mingle and hang out with an international crowd.
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Serendib Pub & Restaurant
Where? Negombo
The Serendib Pub & Restaurant is not only a great place to grab some dinner in Negombo; it’s also one of the city’s most popular LGBT meeting spots! This beachside bar has a relaxed atmosphere, friendly staff and a wide array of cocktails on offer. The chilled vibe at Serendib attracts a vibrant and varied crowd, making this an awesome place to meet and mingle. The gay scene mainly kicks off after 11 pm on Saturdays and Sundays, so head over at the weekend to get the best of the action!
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Gay-friendly beaches in Sri Lanka
Negombo Beach
Where? Negombo
Negombo beach is known as the most gay-popular in Sri Lanka. Make sure you head on over during your stay to hang out and meet people! This small but sandy stretch of coastline is generally quiet and peaceful, perfect for strolling, sunbathing and relaxing.
The ocean hear is a little rougher than elsewhere, but is still fine for swimming if you like a few waves! If you want to get out on the ocean but don’t feel like braving the current, you can always take a catamaran trip with one of the locals.
Mt Lavinia Beach
Where? Colombo
The gorgeous Mt Lavinia Beach can be found just outside of the city of Colombo and is one of the most popular gay-friendly beaches in Sri Lanka. Sit back and enjoy the sweeping, ocean views, enjoy the sunshine or stroll along the sand. This clean, sandy stretch of coastline is a relaxing place to meet people and draws an international crowd, so it’s a must visit for LGBT travellers in Colombo.
Gay-friendly accommodation in Sri Lanka
Dickman Resort
Where? Negombo
The Dickman Resort is an upmarket, boutique hotel in the heart of Negombo that welcomes LGBT guests with open arms. This small but beautiful hotel has an exclusive vibe and a relaxed atmosphere. Kick back and be yourself by the pool or jacuzzi while taking advantage of their impeccable service! Their on-site spa and wellness centre, massage service, personal trainers, restaurant and bar will cater to your every need during your stay, all bringing a touch of luxury to your trip. If you do want to venture out, however, the beach (and many of Negombo’s other amenities) are just a short walk away.
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Rent your own private villa
Where? Island-wide
Outside of Negombo, finding gay-friendly accommodation in Sri Lanka can be a challenge. One simple way to bypass this problem is to rent a private villa, where you can be guaranteed both seclusion and luxury. These elegant accommodations can be found in stunning locations throughout Sri Lanka, both at the coast and out in the countryside. For pure tranquillity and a touch of class during your stay, check out the villas on offer.
Mahasen by FOOZOO
Where? Colombo
Mahasen by FOOZOO has a policy of complete acceptance and is open to every type of traveller. This gay-friendly hotel in Colombo is welcoming, safe and comfortable, with a relaxed atmosphere, friendly staff and a philosophy of love and open-mindedness. Mahasen is optimally located near several of Colombo’s key attractions and with some exceptional restaurants nearby. Their rooftop area is the perfect place to enjoy breakfast and is stylishly decorated with sweeping views of the city.
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Gomez Place
Where? Negombo
Gomez place is about as gay-friendly as accommodation gets in Sri Lanka, and is an excellent budget alternative to Dickman Resort. This is a fantastic place to meet people and has a policy of complete acceptance, and is a fun place to hang out and be yourself. Their outdoor pool, garden and sun terrace are perfect for soaking up some sunshine, and they even offer an in-house massage service. All staff members are courteous, professional and friendly, making for a comfortable and relaxing stay in Negombo.
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Online meeting places
Check out the following sites to meet members of the LGBT community online in Sri Lanka:
Considerations for gay couples in Sri Lanka
Homosexuality is generally well accepted in Sri Lanka and there is no reason why same-sex couples should avoid visiting the country. Public displays of affection, however, are not recommended. This is considered inappropriate behaviour in Sri Lanka, whoever your partner may be (though hand-holding is usually fine).