How to behave in a Temple Sri Lanka

Amongst the most iconic attractions to visit in Sri Lanka are the Buddhist shrines and temples. Many date back centuries and are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. But there are rules to exploring these serene sanctuaries. Where visitors are expected to respect the faith and devotees praying within the shrines. Read on to learn about dress codes and how to behave in a temple in Sri Lanka; simple rules that will help you enjoy an unspoiled trip in paradise.

1. Get Updated About The Dress Code For Entering A Buddhist Temple In Sri Lanka

When planning to visit Sri Lanka, its important to understand the dress code for exploring the Buddhist temples and pack accordingly. You won’t want to miss out on exploring some of the heritage sites simply for the lack of right attire.

Especially places like the Dalada Maligawa or Temple of the Tooth Relic; a top pilgrimage site, housing a sacred tooth of the Buddha. The temple is famous for its ancient artefacts, resident elephant and the annual parade, esala perahera, containing majestically clad elephants. This temple is located in Kandy. A favoured destination for the best hill country hotels in Sri Lanka. No one visits Kandy without a trip to the Temple of The Tooth Relic and Kandy, as the last kingdom of Sri Lanka, is just too beautiful to miss. Especially when you can choose accommodation at places like Hunas Falls Hotel Kandy located in verdant hill framed surroundings.

Make sure to pack long cotton pants, skirts or dresses covering your knees. Cotton clothes will keep you cool in the warm weather and the length will make sure your modestly dressed. Take along a shirt with long sleeves too, as a throw over, since garments revealing arms or cleavage are not permitted within Buddhist temples.

2. Remove Head Gear And Shoes

Before entering the premises take off your hats and footwear. There will be allocated places for storing your shoes or you can carry them in your hand. No headgear can be worn inside a temple, including niqab, burka or scarves.

3. Show Respect To The Monks

Monks will be seen within temple premises; their saffron robes and serene demean our will tempt you to snap up some Instagram worthy pictures. Please look around before you do so, as most shrines in Sri Lanka ask that you do not take photographs. You must also, show respect to the monks; do not touch them or try to take selfies with them. Do not attempt to shake hands with them. Women especially must act modestly beside the monks.

4. Respect The Devotees And Statues

One must not turn their backs to a Buddha statue. Take a few steps backwards before you turn to retreat or take photos. Curtail noisy or boisterous behaviour. The insides of a temple are very silent and you will see many devotees quietly observing religious rites. Respect them and never act in a way that may disturb the people at prayer. Flowers will be kept at small shrines as offerings, never touch them or try to smell the flowers. Likewise, you must not touch any of the paintings or statues displayed within the temples. Each object is considered holy and you must respect this custom.

5. No Smoking Or Consumption Of Alcohol In Temples

Do not walk into a temple and light up a cigarette, its taboo and seen as a sign of disrespect. The same goes for the consumption of alcohol. Do keep in mind that sporting tattoos of the Buddha are seen as a sign of disrespect, and if you do have any, please ensure they are covered up when visiting the temples, villages etc. Most Sri Lankans are old fashioned and your tattoo could cause controversy just about anywhere.

6. Don’t Attempt To Feed The Monkeys

Some temples are homes to hordes of monkeys. As cute as they seem you must not attempt to feed them. Follow these simple rules and enjoy exploring and learning about exotic new customs and traditions!