City in Western Province, Sri Lanka
Healthcare in Colombo: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Colombo
Best care in the country, at far lower prices than the West. Public hospitals are free but crowded; most visitors use private ones.
Hospitals for foreigners in Colombo
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Asiri Central Hospital | Private hospital; good emergency and specialists |
| Lanka Hospitals | Large private hospital in Narahenpitiya |
| Nawaloka Hospital | Private hospital in central Colombo |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: Rs3,000–8,000 ($9–24) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In Sri Lanka: Free public hospitals are busy; private hospitals in Colombo (Asiri, Lanka Hospitals, Nawaloka) are good and affordable. Rural care is basic; serious cases go to Colombo.
- Pharmacies: Pharmacies in every town, including state-run Osu Sala; many common medicines need no prescription.
- Health spending: US$134 per person a year (2023); 1.1 doctors per 1,000 people (2023), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 119 · Ambulance 1990 · Fire 110 · Tourist police 1912.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter Sri Lanka, but treatment for visitors is paid upfront.
| Insurer | Good for |
|---|---|
| SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | Monthly subscription for nomads and long trips; cancel anytime. |
| Genki | Health insurance for nomads, from a European insurer. |
| World Nomads | Trip insurance that covers many adventure activities. |
| Heymondo | Single-trip, annual and long-stay plans with a medical app. |
| IMG Global | Travel medical and long-term international health plans. |
Quick answers
What is the best hospital in Colombo for foreigners?
Asiri Central Hospital: Private hospital; good emergency and specialists
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Colombo?
About Rs3,000–8,000 ($9–24) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for Sri Lanka?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in Sri Lanka expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about Colombo
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Sri Lanka
- Bandaranaike International Airport
- Sri Lanka Railways
- PickMe
- Asiri Health
SoloSquare has no commercial relationship with the insurers listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.