Is it safe to drink tap water in Sri Lanka? 💧
When traveling in a foreign country, one of the essential questions to ask concerns the safety of drinking water. In Sri Lanka, a country with magnificent landscapes and a rich culture, this question deserves particular attention. So, is it safe to drink tap water in Sri Lanka? Here’s everything you need to know before filling your flask!
🚫 Tap water in Sri Lanka: not recommended!
As a general rule, it is not advisable to drink tap water in Sri Lanka. Although the water distributed in major cities such as Colombo, Kandy or Galle is treated by the local authorities, water quality can vary considerably depending on infrastructure and local conditions. Older pipes, leaks and occasional contamination can make water unfit for consumption.
What’s more, tap water can contain bacteria, parasites or viruses that can lead to digestive disorders or more serious illnesses. To avoid any risk, it’s best to opt for safer alternatives.
🥤 What are the alternatives for drinking water safely?
To stay well hydrated while avoiding inconvenience, here are a few safe options:
1. 💧 S ealed bottled water
The simplest option is bottled water. Sealed bottles of mineral water are readily available in supermarkets, grocery stores and small local shops. Before buying, always check that the cap is properly sealed to avoid unpleasant surprises.
2. 🚿 Use a water filter
For more adventurous travelers or those wishing to limit their ecological footprint, investing in a water bottle with a built-in filter can be an excellent solution. These devices filter tap water or even river water to make it drinkable.
3. 🔥 Boiling water
If you’re staying in accommodation equipped with a kettle or kitchen, boiling the water for at least 5 minutes will eliminate the majority of pathogens. Water treated in this way can be used for drinking, cooking or even brushing your teeth.
4. 💊 Use purifying tablets
Water-purifying tablets or drops (chlorine- or iodine-based) are another practical alternative, especially when hiking or staying in rural areas.
🚿 Can you brush your teeth with tap water?
Even when brushing your teeth, we recommend using bottled water or previously filtered/boiled water. In fact, even a small amount of contaminated water can be enough to cause stomach upsets or infections.
🍹 Be careful with drinks and ice cubes
When ordering drinks in restaurants or bars, be careful with ice cubes. They may be made from unpurified tap water. Choose bottled drinks or ask whether the ice cubes are made from drinking water.
Fresh fruit juices are very popular in Sri Lanka, but beware of the ice cubes that are sometimes added. Even if the juice itself is healthy, ice cubes made from unfiltered water can cause digestive problems. If in doubt, opt for drinks without ice cubes, or ask the staff about the source of the water used.
🚻 Additional precautions
- Washing fruit and vegetables: always wash your fruit and vegetables with bottled or purified water, especially if you’re eating them raw.
- Beware of fresh fruit juices: they can sometimes be diluted with non-potable water.
- Remain vigilant in rural areas, where access to drinking water is often more limited than in major cities.
🌍 Responsible travel: reduce plastic
To limit plastic waste while staying safe, remember to pack:
- A filtering gourd or LifeStraw
- Purifying tablets
- A small stove or travel kettle for boiling water
🧳 Conclusion: stay safe!
Drinking tap water in Sri Lanka is not recommended due to health risks. Prefer sealed bottled water, use filters or boil water to avoid any health concerns. With a few simple precautions, you’ll be able to enjoy your stay on this wonderful island while staying well hydrated!
Feel free to ask any questions you may have in the comments or share your experiences on the subject! 😊
