Gay lanka

Each suite is a private haven, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that open onto expansive terraces with stunning views of the Indian Ocean. From here you can indulge in ultimate relaxation, taking to the beaches along the beautiful south-west coastline between Bentota and Tangalle. Rhythm and Blues

From the awesome decorations to the amazing drinks, Rhythm and Blues is a top nightlife spot in Colombo.

It's never a dull moment!

As tourists with a passing interest in history, Colombo satisfied our needs. Even though there are no established gay hangout spots, there are still places for you to visit. As well as myriad temples, the city offers stupas, palaces, Buddha statues and more, all centred on the age-old Quadrangle where the Dalada Maluwa (or ‘Terrace of the Tooth Relic’) is ceremoniously set.

We were also charmed by the hotel's small details like the Grand Piano in the lobby and the vintage bar in the corner (a great spot for a nightcap - our little secret!)

Since you won't be at the hotel much, you probably won't mind if it's not top-notch. Moreover, there is a growing number of hotels in nearby Negombo that cater specifically to gay travelers.

Colombo, the busy capital city of Sri Lanka, is gritty and crowded but really charming.

As gay travelers, we still felt relatively comfortable being ourselves and discovering elements of queerness in the city. The highlight was the eco-friendly pool, with sun loungers and bungalows for relaxing or getting a tan.

Even though Colombo doesn't have any official gay bars, there is still a gay scene.

The cynical among you who don’t succumb to the mystery of the temple may instead opt to visit the Royal Botanical Garden or Pinnewala Elephant Orphanage which lie slightly further afield by car. The tall building looks amazing, especially at night when it's all lit up.

There are lots of great things to do here.

Here at Udawalawe, the density of wildlife is much higher making it near-certain that you’ll spot at least one of the 700 elephants said to roam the park. Despite religious influence, Negombo is one of the country’s most liberal areas and the heart of gay Lanka. Take a swim in the pool or get a relaxing massage at the spa to forget about your worries and feel great.

#2.

We suggest reaching out to local gay individuals on Grindr for the most up-to-date information.

We suggest checking out the LGBTQ group called Chathra, who host movie nights, speed friending, and dance parties. We’d recommend rice crêpes named ‘hoppers’ for brunch, any colourful curry for lunch and the kottu rotty (vegetable flatbread) for dinner.

Its beaches are on par with Thailand’s; its prices pleasingly low and its unique flavours deeper and more beguiling with every meditative breath. Juliana Hotel

The Juliana Hotel is great for LGBTQ solo travelers or budget backpackers.