Culture & Etiquette

Greetings, temple manners, photography and respect for wildlife: how to be a welcome guest in Sri Lanka.

Greetings and everyday manners

Sri Lankans are warm and hospitable, and a smile and a greeting go a long way: "Ayubowan" in Sinhala and "Vanakkam" in Tamil. Use your right hand to give, receive and eat, and avoid pointing your feet at people or at sacred objects. Service can be slower than you are used to; patience and good humour work far better than raising your voice.

Temples and sacred places

• Dress modestly, with shoulders and knees covered, and remove your shoes and hat before entering.
• Treat images of the Buddha with respect: do not pose with your back to one, climb on a statue or take a selfie facing away from it. Tattoos of the Buddha or Hindu deities can cause offence.
• Women should not touch Buddhist monks or hand them things directly; your guide will explain.
• Keep your voice low during ceremonies and ask before photographing worshippers.

Photography

• Ask permission before photographing people, and accept a refusal with a smile.
• Do not use flash on paintings and frescoes, and note that photography is not allowed in some shrines.
• Drone use is regulated in Sri Lanka and generally needs permission, so check with us before you bring one.

Wildlife and the environment

• Keep your distance from elephants and other wild animals, never feed them, and follow your tracker's instructions in the national parks.
• Never buy or export coral, shells, turtle shell, ivory or other wildlife products; it is illegal and harms endangered species.
• Choose responsible operators for whale watching, boat trips and turtle viewing, and keep well back from reefs and nesting beaches.
• Cut down on single-use plastic, carry a refillable bottle and take your litter with you.

Public behaviour

Public displays of affection are frowned upon, and nudity and topless sunbathing are not allowed. Poya days, which fall on the full moon, are public holidays: alcohol is not sold and some shops close.

This guide is general advice and is not medical, legal or financial advice. Entry rules, health recommendations and prices change, so please check official sources and ask us if you are unsure.