How to understand local etiquette and customs in Sri Lanka: A Traveller’s Guide

This land, Sri Lanka, the pearl of the Indian Ocean, has a lot to boast about concerning its cultural heritage, tradition, and customs. In such a beautiful island nation, while traveling, knowledge and respect for local etiquette play a leading role in fulfilling and harmonious experiences. With that in mind, an attempt is made here to help travelers toward such a holiday by providing the key customs and etiquette practices in Sri Lanka so that you, too, will be able to move with elegance and no hassle through situations.

Greeting and Social Etiquette

• Greetings

Greetings are warm and friendly in Sri Lanka. The traditional greeting is the “Ayubowan,” placing hands together in a prayer-like fashion and saying “Ayubowan,” meaning “may you live long.” While shaking hands is quite common, especially in business circles, the use of this action shows respect for the local culture.

• Names and Titles

Sri Lankans generally use titles and surnames rather than first names. Write as above, when addressing elders or in formal settings. It’s polite to use “Mr.,” “Mrs.,” or “Miss” followed by the surname. When someone introduces himself to you, wait until he has indicated how he wants you to address him.

Dress Code

• Modesty

Well, Sri Lanka is a rather conservative country, and thus, modest attire is considered quite an important factor in life. Visitors should always be modestly dressed, especially while visiting religious places. It normally entails keeping the shoulders and knees well covered while also avoiding overly revealing clothing.

• Religious Sites

Dress: One must be adequately dressed during visits to any of the temples or any other places that hold great religious significance. Shoes and hats are removed prior to entry, and ends are kept peacefully silent with no steep animations or noises. As well, women avoid using sleeveless T-shirts, and men do not wear shorts.

Respect to Religious and Cultural Sensitivities

• Buddhism

Buddhism is the overwhelming majority of religions in Sri Lanka, with many customs from the country spinning from it. The visiting to temples should be attended with reverence. Do not touch or pose for photos against statues of Buddha, and refrain from turning your back on them.

• Other Religions

Hindu, Muslim, and Christian communities also inhabit Sri Lanka. All religious customs should be respected. Remove your shoes and wash your feet before entering Hindu shrines. Keep the head covered in mosques and both women and men must dress modestly.

Dining Etiquette

• Eat with Hands

Using your hands to eat is quite common in Sri Lanka, and it is also the norm when having traditional rice and curry. If you are eating with your hands, remember to use only your right hand as the left hand is considered polluted. Wash your hands before and after the meal.

• Table Manners

When a person is invited to dinner in someone’s home, it is considered impolite to decline offers of food. A little of everything is recommended so one can appreciate all of the work that went into the preparation of the meal. Complimenting the host on the food is appreciated. Leaving a small amount of food on one’s plate is also considered polite to let the host know that you have had enough and are not still hungry.

Gifts and Tipping

• Gift Giving

When giving a gift, in Sri Lanka, it is always good to give the items with both hands in front of you as a sign of respect. Opening the gift in front of the giver is usually not required. If you are invited to people’s homes, bringing something—sweets or some flowers—is certainly not going to go unnoticed.

• Tipping

Tipping is not expected in Sri Lanka but is welcomed in return for good service. In restaurants, the tipping tip is around 10%. Commonly, one also tips the hotel staff, tour guides, and drivers.

Public Behaviour

• Personal space

Sri Lankans, as a whole are very warm and welcoming. However, personal space should not be encroached upon. Evidence of love in the form of hugging and kissing is unwarranted in public. It is quite all right to hold hands, but anything more than that is not to be done in the open.

• Feet and Head:

The feet are the most inferior part of the body, while the head is the most superior. One observes restraint in pointing his feet at people or religious objects, while he never touches anyone on the head, especially a Buddhist monk.

Respect for the Environment

• Waste Management

Sri Lanka believes in cleanliness and environmental conservation. Always, proper waste disposal with no littering should be done. Join the locals involved in activities like clean-up exercises on beaches.

• Wildlife and Nature

Sri Lanka hosts numerous wildlife and natural attractions. Every time one visits national parks and wildlife reserves, abide by the instructions given by the officials. Do not harass the wildlife, and do not destroy plants and their natural habitats.

Transport Etiquette

• Public Transport

While traveling in public transport, be mindful of the local culture. Offer a seat to elderly passengers, pregnant women, or those carrying young children. Refrain from talking loudly and respect the personal space of other fellow commuters.

• Taxis and Tuk-Tuks

Taxis and tuk-tuks usually negotiate for the amount to be charged before embarking on a Journey. In metered taxis ensure that the meter is on. It is always best to tip your driver at the end of a journey if he provides good service to you.

Conclusion
Any traveler seeking to absorb the rich culture that Sri Lanka has in store for them needs to understand and respect local etiquette and customs. These guidelines will help you in the pursuit of a respectful and enjoyable experience, building positive links with people and their culture.

BH Lanka Tours makes sure that our guests leave with not only unforgettable travel experiences but also knowledge and awareness to glide effortlessly and take in the best of the cultural landscapes in Sri Lanka. Whether you’re taking in ancient temples, sampling a home-cooked meal with locals, or absorbing the beauty of this teardrop island, respect for the customs adds to your journey and leaves one with memories forever.