10 not to do in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a beautiful island country but like every country in the world even this island country has its own set of unsaid rules. So make sure you read up well before you head out to this Indian Ocean jewel.
Table of Contents
Never take pictures of locals without asking
Clicking pictures of anyone without permission is kind of rude. You would not like anyone clicking a picture of you without permission so likewise, ask before you click.
Never turn your back to a statue of Lord Buddha
This is a golden rule in Sri Lanka, even by mistake don’t let this happen. The monks will freak out, so before they reach that stage avoid it.
Don’t discuss the Civil war with the locals
For the civil war that raged havoc all through Sri Lanka and ended in the year 2009. Every local in Sri Lanka has a bitter memory of life during the civil war and asking them questions about the same will lead to unwanted friction. So it’s best to just avoid this topic and enjoy your holiday.
Never ever drink the local tap water
Regardless of where you are staying from a home stay to a five star the water that runs through he taps isn’t fit for drinking. The packaged water is the only way around keeping yourself hydrated while in Sri Lanka
Don’t compare Sri Lanka to South Indian
No one likes comparison and Sri Lanka’s hate being compared to people back in India. Reason being they like having their own identity like how all of us do. No matter what comes up while in conversation with a Sri Lankan make sure you never ever compare their country to south India, it’s something which will definitely result in you offending your new Sri Lankan friend.
Don’t walk around the town in your swimwear
The sum options up, you walk around the beach in your swimwear and no one will care. But you come walking out of the beach to the main town road in your swimwear and you will attract unwanted attention. There are sign boards all over beach towns in a Sri Lanka, telling travellers not to do the above.
Avoid visiting Sri Lanka during the monsoon
You’ll find a lot of blogs which tell you that monsoon is a good time to visit Sri Lanka but with all due respect if your looking to actually explore and experience Sri Lanka then don’t even consider traveling during the rains. The rains are so heavy that you won’t get to venture out of your room. The monsoon is a good time to travel for those who are looking to just sit in their resort and enjoy the weather.
Never carry INR always bring USD or Euro
No matter what before you leave India be 500% sure that you have carried enough USD with you. If you don’t then you’re in for a rough time with the conversion rate what you will get for INR.
Strictly no PDA in public
Being a developing nation and deep rooted in religion, any kind of PDA (public display of affection) isn’t cool and will only generate a lot of hate from the locals. Hold hands in the market place and leave all the kisses for when you get back to the room.
Dress decently while going to a religious place
If you plan on visiting any Buddhist temple, make sure you wear full pants Or you will be giving a cover up before you enter the temple.
