Sri Lanka Culture & Etiquette: Temple Rules and Local Customs

Sri Lankans are famously warm and welcoming, and most will forgive a visitor's mistakes. Still, a few customs matter a great deal — especially around religion. About 70% of Sri Lankans are Buddhist, with large Hindu, Muslim and Christian communities, and religious sites of all faiths are active places of worship.

At temples and religious sites

• Cover shoulders and knees. Carry a light scarf or sarong. White or light colours are preferred at Buddhist temples.
• Remove shoes and hats before entering temple grounds (look for where others leave their shoes). Socks are usually fine and help on hot stone.
• Never pose with your back to a Buddha image for photos — this is considered deeply disrespectful. Face the statue, or photograph it without people in the frame.
• Don't touch or climb on statues or stupas, and don't point your feet at a Buddha image or at monks when sitting.
• Be quiet and calm, especially during ceremonies. Avoid public displays of affection.
• At Hindu temples, men may be asked to remove their shirts (for example at Nallur in Jaffna). At mosques, women should cover their hair.

Buddha images and tattoos

Sri Lanka takes the respectful treatment of the Buddha's image very seriously. Visible tattoos of the Buddha have led to tourists being refused entry or deported. Cover any religious tattoos, and don't buy or display Buddha images as decoration in disrespectful ways (for example, on clothing or as bathroom ornaments).

Monks

Monks are highly respected. Women should not touch a monk or hand things to them directly. On buses, certain front seats are reserved for clergy — give them up if asked.

Poya days

Every full moon is a poya day, a public holiday for religious observance. Sales of alcohol and meat are usually banned, and many bars close. Temples are busy and beautiful — a great day to visit one, respectfully. Plan ahead if you were hoping for a beer.

Photography

• Ask before photographing people, especially women, monks and at rituals.
• Some sites (or parts of them) prohibit photography — follow the signs.
• Flying drones requires permission; don't fly near religious sites, military areas or national parks.
• The famous stilt fishermen at Koggala often expect payment for photos — that's their livelihood now.

Everyday etiquette

• Greeting: "Ayubowan" (May you live long) in Sinhala, said with palms together, or "Vanakkam" in Tamil. A smile and a handshake are fine in most settings.
• The head wobble: a sideways shake of the head usually means yes or OK.
• Use your right hand to give and receive things and to eat.
• Dress modestly away from the beach. Nudity and topless sunbathing are not acceptable.
• Tipping is appreciated: around 10% in restaurants without a service charge, plus tips for drivers and guides.
• Bargaining is normal at markets and with tuk-tuks, but keep it friendly.

Responsible travel

• Avoid elephant rides and shows; see elephants in the wild at Udawalawe or Minneriya.
• Use refillable water bottles and reduce plastic.
• Book local guides and drivers directly so more money stays in the community — browse our local guides.