Accessibility Overview of Central Province
Central Province, home to Sri Lanka's hill country, presents challenges for accessible travel. The region's mountainous terrain and limited infrastructure make navigation difficult for those with mobility impairments. Major cities like Kandy offer some accessible facilities, but rural areas have minimal accommodations for disabled travelers.
Accessibility Overview
Overall Accessibility
General accessibility for people with disabilities
Affordability
Cost-effectiveness of accessible travel options
Disability Discounts
Availability of discounts for people with disabilities
Medical Facilities
Quality and accessibility of medical facilities
Inclusive Activities
Variety and quality of activities for people with disabilities
Accessibility Standards and Regulations
Sri Lanka lacks comprehensive accessibility laws. The Protection of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (1996) exists but enforcement is limited. Public buildings in Central Province rarely meet international accessibility standards. Ramps and accessible toilets are uncommon outside major hotels and some tourist attractions in Kandy.
Accessible Transportation Options
Public transportation in Central Province is largely inaccessible. Buses and trains lack wheelchair accessibility. For mobility-impaired travelers, hiring a private vehicle with a driver is the most practical option. Some tour operators in Kandy offer accessible vans, but advance booking is essential. Tuk-tuks, while common, are not suitable for wheelchair users.
Accessible Attractions and Activities
The Temple of the Tooth in Kandy has some accessible areas, including ramps at entrances. The Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya have paved pathways suitable for wheelchairs. Many tea plantations, a key attraction in the region, have limited accessibility due to steep terrain. The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage offers some accessible viewing areas, but paths can be uneven.
Accessible Accommodation Options
Larger hotels in Kandy and Nuwara Eliya are more likely to offer accessible rooms, but availability is limited. The Earl's Regency in Kandy and The Grand Hotel in Nuwara Eliya have some accessible facilities. Smaller guesthouses and rural accommodations rarely cater to mobility-impaired guests. Always contact hotels directly to confirm specific accessibility features.
Tips for Disabled Travelers
Plan extensively and book accommodations and transportation in advance. Hire a local guide familiar with accessibility issues. Bring any necessary mobility aids as equipment rental is scarce. Be prepared for uneven surfaces and limited accessibility in many areas. Consider focusing your trip on Kandy, which offers more accessible options than rural parts of the province.