Do's
- When you are at a temple, make sure to enter after removing your footwear. You also have to remove your hats.
- Dress in a charming and mature manner (trousers, jeans, shirts, long frocks, long skirts).
- It is not a must, but it would be preferable to wear white clothes when going to a temple.
- Try not to turn your back to statues of Lord Buddha as it is considered a sign of disrespect.
- Walk on the right side of the road.
- Make sure to cross the road at a white crossing.
- Apply sunscreen as it is usually very sunny.
- Be careful when feeding local wildlife.
- Do not drink or smoke in public
- At railway crossings stay aware and careful
- In any sort of emergency please contact a loacal resident or a police officer
- Always try to find a meter taxi
Don'ts
- Do not touch or climb on statues of Lord Buddha — it's considered deeply disrespectful.
- Do not take selfies or group photos with your back turned to religious icons.
- Do not display public affection, especially near religious or sacred sites.
- Do not litter — keep beaches, forests, and streets clean.
- Do not enter temples with revealing or inappropriate clothing.
- Do not point feet at religious objects or people — it's viewed as disrespectful.
- Do not consume alcohol or smoke in public areas.
- Do not feed or touch stray animals — they may carry diseases or act unpredictably.
- Do not bargain aggressively at markets — polite negotiation is appreciated.
- Do not use drones without permission, especially near temples or government buildings.
- Do not photograph people without asking — especially monks, children, or those at prayer.
- Do not bring or use illegal substances — Sri Lanka has strict laws on drugs.