I’ve gone as far as travel.gov. can anyone speak from experience, on prudent travel practice in Sri Lanka?
I've been to Sri Lanka twice and felt extremely safe both times. Just like anywhere else, don't flash any valuables, keep your money and passport secure (if taking out a large sum of money, keep some separate from the rest), and enjoy. Sri Lanka is a beautiful country and the locals are extremely kind.

Maybe more details about you: how you intend to travel; where; etc.
I agree with above that SL is pretty safe as long as you are careful. Like most places there are a few scams to be aware of. Transport (taxi and tuk tuk overcharging) and buying gems probably top the list.

Ya I figured it probably would not be much different than backpacking Nepal. I buy a lot into travel warnings like not traveling alone on public transport etc where you could be targeted or hearing about a kidnapping of a foreigner in a country that looked safe to me and getting freaked out.
Hi, Sri Lanka is very safe, we have been there last month for 3.5 weeks. Solo backpacking would be just fine. You will love the nice beaches (we went to the south beaches). Besides the beaches here are the things that you definitely should see:
Sigiriya lion rock: http://planet2see.com/2017/10/31/getting-dizzy-of-the-sigiriya-lion-rock-fortress-heights/
Dambulla cave temples: http://planet2see.com/2017/10/23/rock-cave-temples-of-dambulla/
Kandy (especially for the tooth temple): http://planet2see.com/2017/10/21/what-to-do-in-kandy-sri-lanka/
General link for your first days: http://planet2see.com/2017/10/09/first-days-in-sri-lanka/
I also felt very safe in Sri Lanka. Just watch out for pickpockets in the bigger cities like Colombo and beware of taxis/drivers overcharging.
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