Wheelchair Travel in Sri Lanka: An Accessible Adventure of Kindness and Culture

Debbie North
Oct 6
3 min read

Two women outdoors, one smiling and holding a leaf in a tropical print shirt, the other in a blue sari with a red flower, standing beside her. — A warm Sri Lankan welcome

Earlier this year, I had the privilege of visiting Sri Lanka as part of a delegation from the British Guild of Travel Writers (BGTW). It was my first long-haul journey in quite some time—flying from Heathrow to Colombo, the vibrant capital city.

I travelled as a guest of Sri Lanka Tourism, invited to experience the country’s breathtaking nature, adventure, and culture through the lens of accessibility. What I found was a nation bursting with colour, kindness, and possibility.

A group photo at a formal event in Sri Lanka with attendees smiling, colorful attire, and vibrant lighting. Banners display “BGWT” text. — The Delegation from the British Guild of Travel Writers

The Journey to Sri Lanka

Before I even arrived, I had an experience that set the tone for what it means to travel with a disability. At Heathrow Airport, I was told that as a disabled traveller, I couldn’t travel alone.

Imagine that—bags packed, boarding pass in hand, ready for adventure—and suddenly being told no.

Thankfully, fate intervened when I recognised Alicia, a fellow traveller who came to my rescue. She stood by me and ensured I got on that flight. Her act of kindness transformed frustration into hope.

But this moment highlighted something essential about accessible air travel: clarity and respect for disabled passengers must start at the booking stage. Travellers with disabilities deserve to know that their independence will be supported, not questioned.

A Warm Welcome to Colombo

Stepping off the plane in Colombo, I was met by representatives from Sri Lanka Tourism—smiles, garlands, and traditional hats waiting to greet us. That first moment set the tone for the entire trip.

My taxi, arranged by Blue Lanka Tours, wasn’t an accessible vehicle, but my driver—who stayed with me throughout the trip—was kindness itself. He lifted my wheelchair in and out of the boot at every stop, and I managed to transfer into the front seat with relative ease.

There are currently no wheelchair-accessible taxi companies in Sri Lanka, but what the country lacks in infrastructure, it compensates for with its people.

Woman in a green dress lights a traditional brass lamp, assisted by a man in white. She's in a wheelchair, smiling warmly in a cosy room. — Ceremony of lighting the candle

Everywhere I travelled—from bustling city streets to peaceful rural landscapes—I was met with smiles, curiosity, and care.

A stranger would offer directions before I could ask. Someone would help carry my bag without a second thought. Conversations that began politely often ended with laughter and shared stories.

As a wheelchair user, I often wonder how I’ll be perceived abroad: will people see my disability first, or my sense of adventure? In Sri Lanka, I was seen as a traveller—nothing more, nothing less.

This spirit of compassion defines Sri Lankan hospitality. It’s what makes travelling here not only possible, but profoundly moving.

Two women are smiling and talking outdoors. One is seated in a wheelchair wearing orange. The other wears a green apron. Trees and signs in background. — A warm welcome at the tea plantation

Accessibility in Sri Lanka: Challenges and Hope

Sri Lanka’s accessible tourism infrastructure is still developing. Ramps, curb cuts, and accessible toilets can be inconsistent. Many hotels, temples, and attractions are not yet adapted for wheelchair users.

But everywhere I went, there were people who found a way to make it work—lifting, adapting, and welcoming without hesitation.

My advice for other disabled travellers: come with flexibility, an open mind, and the expectation that help will come from the most unexpected places.

Grey monkey sitting on tangled branches, surrounded by dense green foliage. The monkey appears relaxed, holding a small twig. — The safari in Yala National Park

Reflections on the Road

Travelling in Sri Lanka challenged me and inspired me. It reminded me why I travel—not just to see new places, but to connect with people and push boundaries.

This trip reinforced a powerful truth: accessibility isn’t only about infrastructure. It’s about attitude. And in that sense, Sri Lanka is one of the most welcoming countries I’ve ever visited.