From golden palm-fringed stretches to lush tea plantations and various cultural delights, Sri Lanka certainly offers a tapestry of experiences. However, in the midst of this, internet freedom and data privacy feel like luxury goods — and this makes it imperative for citizens and residents to use a VPN for Sri Lanka.
The government has blocked social media and other websites at different points, and monitoring online activities isn’t uncommon. What’s more, thanks to geo-blocks, you’ll be restricted from accessing the full range of content on some streaming platforms from within and outside the country. Plus, when you’re away, transactions on your local banking app may raise red flags.
With so many VPN services out there, picking one that hits the mark isn’t the most straightforward task. But don’t worry; we did the hard work. This article highlights the best VPN services in Sri Lanka.
Top 5 best VPNs for Sri Lanka
- ExpressVPN – Best VPN for Sri Lanka in 2024
- CyberGhost – Cheap Sri Lanka VPN
- Surfshark – Extensive features at a great price
- Private Internet Access – Transparent and fast VPN
- NordVPN – Secure VPN for Sri Lanka
Why You Need a VPN for Sri Lanka
According to Freedom House, Sri Lanka has a long way to go in terms of guaranteeing online freedom and protecting residents’ privacy.
The Sri Lankan constitution doesn’t recognize the right to online privacy. In fact, there have been concerns that government agencies have gone as far as using the infamous Pegasus spyware, among other surveillance tactics, to spy on citizens. Moreover, it’s been known to block access to websites and online services for various reasons.
For instance, in 2022, the government issued a social media ban on major platforms like Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Twitter. Interestingly, it was forced to reverse that decision after only 16 hours, after a 17,000+% soar in VPN service downloads rendered the ban “completely useless.”
That’s a remarkable testament to the efficacy of VPNs for bypassing censorship and monitoring in Sri Lanka and other restrictive countries.
There’s also the online security angle. In Sri Lanka, as in most other countries, cyber threats are a significant issue. Hackers, identity thieves, and other cybercriminals are constantly searching for loopholes to help them hijack devices and steal sensitive information.
Browsing the internet while unprotected may provide that way in, especially if you frequently use unsecured public Wi-Fi. Thankfully, while a VPN isn’t a one-stop tool, it offers lots of features to shield your identity and personal information from shady internet operators.
In addition, you may need a VPN for Sri Lanka to stream content online. When you’re in the country, an excellent streaming-friendly provider unlocks foreign libraries on international services. And when you’re away and looking to catch up with local content on platforms like Dialog VIO and PEOTVGO, you can turn to your VPN for help if it has servers based in Sri Lanka.
The Best VPNs for Sri Lanka — Our Top Picks
The best Sri Lankan VPN is one that keeps no identifying logs, offers top-notch privacy functionality, is speedy, and provides unrestricted access to websites and online services.
With so many providers on the market, you’d think it’s easy to find one that ticks all the right boxes. In reality, many VPNs offer much less than promised.
Following extensive testing, here’s our list of the best VPN providers for Sri Lanka.
1. ExpressVPN
- Jurisdiction: British Virgin Islands.
- Server count: 3,000+ in 105 countries, including Sri Lanka.
- Standout feature: TrustedServer technology.
- Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, ChromeOS, routers, browsers, gaming consoles, and more.
- Simultaneous connections: Up to 8 devices.
- Money-back guarantee: 30 days.
ExpressVPN prides itself as the best VPN for Sri Lanka, and we’re inclined to agree. After all, the provider is commonly recognized as perhaps the best overall, and for good reason.
With more than 3,000+ servers across 105 countries, you’re spoiled for choice. You can also get a Sri Lankan IP address, thanks to its servers in the country.
What’s more, ExpressVPN is arguably the fastest VPN on the market. High-performance 10 Gbps servers, speedy protocols, and constant optimization mean there’s barely a dent in your original connection speed. It’s one of the factors that makes the provider so good for streaming.
That, and its excellent unblocking capabilities. Looking to stream your favorite shows on Netflix US, Hulu, Prime Video, or BBC iPlayer? No problem.
ExpressVPN brushes past geo-restrictions on international services at your convenience. It reflects that ability on local TV and streaming platforms, which can come in handy on your trip abroad.
The VPN service’s British Virgin Islands headquarters is a privacy-friendly base. Building on that, it has a strict no-logs policy, which an independent audit has since verified.
ExpressVPN implements AES 256-bit encryption that turns your data into unreadable code. Even if Sri Lankan government agencies manage to intercept your traffic, the military-grade cipher means it would be extremely difficult to monitor your online activities.
The provider offers several other standard and advanced privacy features, like a kill switch, leak protection, and obfuscation.
ExpressVPN works with a long line of platforms and devices. A single subscription lets you use the provider on up to eight devices simultaneously.
If you’re looking to give this Sri Lanka VPN a spin, you can take advantage of its 7-day trial on Android and iOS. Plus, a 30-day money-back guarantee backs your purchase, so you’d be using it risk-free.
To find out more, check out our full ExpressVPN review.
2. CyberGhost
- Jurisdiction: Romania.
- Server count: 10,500+ servers in 100 countries, including 44 in Sri Lanka.
- Standout feature: In-house managed NoSpy servers.
- Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, routers, browsers, and more.
- Simultaneous connections: Up to 7 devices.
- Money-back guarantee: Up to 45 days.
CyberGhost has made a name for itself not only for its user-friendly interface and budget-friendly pricing but also for the wealth of features that lie under the hood. It is currently one of the best VPN services in Sri Lanka.
For instance, it comes with a massive network comprising over ten thousand servers across 100 countries worldwide. That includes 44 in Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital city. With so many options to choose from, you can enjoy optimal connection speeds and a seamless online experience.
In addition, the VPN offers optimized servers for various categories of online activities — streaming, torrenting, and gaming. You can easily save the servers you’ve found to work best for any task, and with SmartRules, you can automatically connect to it when you log into the app.
CyberGhost’s dedicated streaming servers are fully compatible with Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer, so you can enjoy movies and shows curated for other audiences right from Sri Lanka. However, you don’t need that special category when you’re abroad. Simply connect to a regular CyberGhost server, and you’re good to go.
The VPN’s speeds are more than decent, so you can stream videos in high-quality resolution without having to deal with pesky buffering.
CyberGhost’s dedication to your online privacy and security is unwavering. Armed with bank-level encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and several advanced features, it provides a robust shield against cyber threats, censorship, and surveillance.
The VPN provider supports computers, smartphones, routers, gaming consoles, and more. At any given point in time, you can use up to 7 devices on one subscription.
If you need more time than the available free trials allow, you’ll be pleased to know CyberGhost’s subscription comes along with a generous 45-day refund policy.
Read our in-depth CyberGhost review for more details.
3. Surfshark
- Jurisdiction: The Netherlands.
- Server count: 3,200+ in 100 countries, including 4 in Sri Lanka.
- Standout feature: Nexus with SDN technology for multiple server connections.
- Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, routers, browsers, and more.
- Simultaneous connections: Unlimited devices.
- Money-back guarantee: 30 days.
Surfshark hasn’t been around for very long. Still, in that time, it has quickly made its way up the ranks and is now easily one of the best VPN providers around, and in Sri Lanka in particular.
The Dutch-based VPN has a collection of 3,200+ servers distributed across 100 countries. Sri Lanka happens to be one of those locations, with four servers in Colombo.
Connect to one of those servers on your travels, and you can browse as if at home, with unfettered access to all your favorite content and websites. Surfshark effortlessly unblocks Netflix Sri Lanka, TV Derana, Sirasa TV, and other local platforms. What’s more, the geo-blocks on international services don’t fare much better.
You can expect fast speeds while streaming, too — even in HD and above, your videos won’t freeze. Well, most of the time, at least. Surfshark is upgrading its infrastructure to 10 Gbps, so even better performance is on the way.
Pocket-friendly pricing notwithstanding, this VPN makes no compromises on online privacy and your right to use the internet freely.
Its obfuscated servers help you bypass censorship by disguising your VPN use. Like any top provider, Surfshark implements the airtight AES 256-bit encryption cipher to protect your data. As if that’s not enough, there’s even a Double VPN feature that places an extra layer of encryption over your online traffic.
In addition, Surfshark was one of the first providers to upgrade to RAM-only servers, illustrating its commitment to enforcing a strict no-logs policy. A third-party audit has found that the policy is airtight; clearly, you won’t leave any digital footprints behind with this VPN.
There’s much to like about Surfshark. Here’s one more: one subscription covers all your devices, no matter how many they are. The VPN has a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re unimpressed, you can request and receive a full refund within that window.
For more information, read our full Surfshark review.
4. Private Internet Access
- Jurisdiction: The United States.
- Server count: Servers in 91 countries, including Sri Lanka.
- Standout feature: Choice between AES 128-bit and AES 256-bit encryption.
- Compatibility: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, routers, gaming consoles, and more.
- Simultaneous connections: Unlimited devices.
- Money-back guarantee: 30 days.
PIA is another affordable Sri Lanka VPN that has a lot to offer, especially when it comes to ensuring your data is for your eyes only.
By far the most extensive server network on this list of the best VPNs for Sri Lanka, the provider offers upwards of 30,000 servers in 91 countries. While it’s pretty US-centric, there’s enough to go around, and Sri Lanka makes the location count.
There are faster options, but Private Internet Access provides decent enough performance. You’ll get the best results when connected to nearby server options and using the speed-focused WireGuard protocol.
If you’re interested in streaming, the VPN offers a handy category with specially optimized servers for the activity. We can’t promise they will unblock every international streaming service, however, as PIA is iffy in that area. Still, Sri Lankan platforms won’t put up as good a fight as BBC iPlayer, and you can follow your favorite content without hassle when you’re on trips outside the country.
Your online privacy is protected with AES 256-bit encryption, a customizable kill switch, and capable leak protection. Private Internet Access packs other relevant tools like obfuscation, multi-hop, and more. There’s no doubt about it — unauthorized bodies will not enjoy trying to break through to your personal information.
PIA is a no-logs VPN with a third-party–audited policy. On top of that, it’s the only provider on this list with open-source apps. If you know how to, you’re free to check what’s under the hood.
Like Surfshark, Private Internet Access has no cap on simultaneous connections, so you can hook up all your devices under one connection. As for that, the VPN works with many various platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Windows, Android, iOS, routers, streaming devices, and more.
As noted in our Private Internet Access review, you have the option to request and receive your money back within 30 days.
How We Ranked the Best VPN Services for Sri Lanka — Our Methodology
The VPN market is a crowded space. There’s a full spectrum of options ranging from highly reputable services to those that linger in the shadows and yet somehow sustain their presence.
Consequently, choosing the right VPN for Sri Lanka requires careful consideration to sift through the noise.
We regularly test scores of VPN services and assess them based on several factors, so it’s less of a daunting task for you. In no particular order, these are some of the main points we look out for:
Privacy and Security
A VPN must create a safe cocoon for its users, which is why we meticulously examined each provider’s privacy and security toolbox. This includes a deep dive into encryption standards, the robustness of no-logs policies, and an overall commitment to user confidentiality.
Server Network
The more, the merrier when it comes to VPN networks. The distribution and quantity of servers play a vital role in ensuring optimal performance — a well-distributed network minimizes latency and ultimately translates to faster connection speeds.
Each VPN on this list for Sri Lanka offers thousands of servers, rising from 3,000+ to over 30,000+ options. Plus, we prioritized providers that can give you a Sri Lankan IP address.
Speed and Performance
Encrypting and decrypting your data takes processing power and adds an extra step to the connection process. This can slow down your connection, but the extent depends on the VPN. We’re satisfied that the providers on this list are some of the fastest VPNs around.
Whether you’re using them for streaming, gaming, downloading, or just browsing, you’ll not experience frequent buffering or lagging.
Government Censorship and Surveillance
Government policies constantly threaten internet freedom in Sri Lanka. In addition, some residents worry about the “chilling effect” of the monitoring of their online activities.
Fortunately, the best VPNs for Sri Lanka are packed with features to resist these measures.
Features like excellent unblocking capabilities, high-level encryption, obfuscation, and no-logs policies ensure you can access the content you want and stay under the government’s radar.
Bypassing Geo-Restrictions
Ideally, your Sri Lankan VPN should unblock access to restricted online content, whether you’re home or abroad.
We tested each provider to determine their ability to let you enjoy exclusive libraries on Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Disney+, and more from within Sri Lanka. Plus, when you’re away, they should have no issues handling Sirasa TV, Rupavahini, and other local platforms.
User Experience
We evaluated the overall user experience to confirm that each VPN is not only secure but also accessible and easy to use. We prefer providers that cater to users of varying technical expertise, so there’s no steep learning curve for newbies.
Customer Service
We believe that if you have a question or an issue, you should be able to reach a customer service representative for clarification or help around the clock. So, responsive and knowledgeable customer support is non-negotiable. Consequently, we prioritized VPNs with various support channels available 24/7.
Money-Back Guarantee
A VPN’s willingness to stand behind its service is reflected in its money-back guarantee.
We considered refund policies to ensure users have the flexibility and assurance they need when selecting their Sri Lankan VPN. Most providers have a 30-day policy, while CyberGhost does even better with its 45 days.
How to Use a VPN in Sri Lanka – In-Depth Tutorial
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to connecting to your Sri Lankan VPN:
- Choose your VPN. Consider speed, security, and Sri Lanka server availability. We recommend ExpressVPN.
- Subscribe. Create an account and activate your plan, or use a trial period.
- Download & Install. Follow instructions for your device.
- Connect to Sri Lanka. Launch the app and choose a Sri Lankan server location from the list of servers. Click to connect.
- Verify your IP address. Use an online tool to confirm your new Sri Lankan IP address.
- Enjoy secure access. Explore the internet with anonymity & access unblocked content.
Can You Use a Free VPN for Sri Lanka?
We don’t recommend using a free VPN for Sri Lanka. Sure, we co-sign a handful of free providers, but they are the exception to the rule. In general, you want to stay away from that category unless you’re only interested in light browsing or in a pinch. Here’s why.
To begin with, they are largely unreliable. You’ll find many free VPNs incredibly slow and more likely to leave you frustrated than offer smooth connection speeds. That’s down to their limited infrastructure, weaker protocols, targeted throttling, and other reasons.
Besides, limiting data caps means you can only use a free VPN for a fraction of the time you’re online anyway.
There’s more. Free VPNs might promise privacy, but be wary of the fine print. Some use weaker encryption and collect and sell your browsing data to generate revenue, essentially turning you into the product instead of the protected customer. This defeats the entire purpose of using a VPN in the first place.
You’ll get much better bang for your buck from using an affordable VPN for Sri Lanka like CyberGhost instead.
Conclusion
Surfing the internet without protection in Sri Lanka exposes you to cyber threats, surveillance, censorship, and restricted content access, both locally and globally. While there are a few workarounds on this issue, a quality VPN service is undoubtedly the most reliable approach to take.
Planning a stay in Sri Lanka or already calling it home? This guide offers a lineup of trustworthy solutions. Of them all, we recommend ExpressVPN as the best VPN for Sri Lanka.
Boasting an impeccable mix of functionality and performance, the provider ensures seamless and unhindered access to content across all server locations.
You can snag a generous 49% discount on ExpressVPN’s annual plan and score an extra three months for free.
FAQs
Which VPN is best for Sri Lanka?
Several VPN services offer Sri Lankan servers and work within the country. This article highlights four of the best options: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, Surfshark, and Private Internet Access. We consider ExpressVPN the top option of the lot.
Are VPNs legal in Sri Lanka?
Yes, as in most other places, VPN services are legal in Sri Lanka. The country currently doesn’t have any legislation blocking its use, and there’s none on the horizon.
However, what you do using a VPN may potentially land you in legal trouble, so it’s essential that you don’t break any laws under a VPN’s cover.
Does NordVPN work for Sri Lanka?
You can use NordVPN in Sri Lanka for online privacy and to access foreign content. However, the VPN currently has no servers in Sri Lanka.
