Current drone rules and photography permits for tourists in Sri Lanka 2026?

Drone use is heavily restricted in Sri Lanka. Most tourist areas, national parks, and near airports or military sites are prohibited. Permits are required for any commercial or professional use, and even recreational use has limitations. Many popular photography spots do not allow drones. The rules can change, so checking with the Civil Aviation Authority or recent traveler experiences is important before bringing one. Some hotels or private land may allow drones with prior permission, but national parks and protected areas generally do not. For most travelers, it's easier to leave the drone at home and focus on ground-based photography, which is unrestricted in most public areas.