Sri Lanka – wow, what a place! It’s one of those destinations where you’re hit with beauty the moment you step off the plane: lush green hills, palm trees swaying in the breeze, the salty scent of the ocean, and the kind of warmth you feel not just from the sun, but from the people too. However, like any trip, I think there’s a bit of a learning curve.
I definitely made my fair share of mistakes (some cringey, some funny), but I also learned a lot about what to do and what to avoid. So, here’s my guide to the do’s and don’ts of visiting Sri Lanka, sprinkled with a few of my personal experiences to keep things interesting.
The Do’s:
1. Do: Embrace the Friendly Locals
One of the first things I noticed in Sri Lanka? The people are just incredibly warm and friendly. Whether it’s the driver, the shopkeeper, or that random stranger who gives you directions, Sri Lankans are welcoming, helpful, and quick to flash a smile. I learned a little Sinhala (the local language) before I went, and just dropping a simple “Ayubowan” (hello) or “Stuti” (thank you) got me a long way. People appreciate the effort, even if your accent is way off. Trust me, it’s worth it to try!
2. Do: Try the Food (All of It)
Sri Lankan food is an absolute flavor explosion! If you’re a fan of spices, coconut, and fresh seafood, you’re in for a treat. From the rice and curry that’s served on pretty much every corner to the deliciously fluffy hoppers (a type of pancake), there’s no shortage of food adventures. I had some of the best seafood in my life in a tiny beach shack, where the menu was literally whatever the fisherman had caught that morning.
3. Do: Visit the Cultural Sites
Sri Lanka is rich in history and culture. I was blown away by places like Sigiriya (that big rock fortress you’ve probably seen in photos), the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, and the ancient ruins of Anuradhapura. These spots give you such a sense of the island’s deep history and spiritual significance. Plus, they make for great Instagram photos – just saying!
4. Do: Take a Train Ride Through the Hill Country
If there’s one thing you absolutely cannot miss in Sri Lanka, it’s the train ride from Kandy to Ella. This was hands-down one of the most scenic journeys I’ve ever been on. You’ll chug along through misty mountains, tea plantations, and tiny villages. I spent the whole trip leaning out the door (which, by the way, is completely legal here) and just soaking in the views. It’s a bit like being in a movie.
5. Do: Explore the Wildlife
Sri Lanka is a wildlife lover’s dream. I went on a safari in Yala National Park, where I saw elephants, leopards, and all sorts of exotic birds. It felt like I was living out a scene from The Jungle Book. If you love nature, Sri Lanka has some of the most diverse ecosystems around. Whether you’re into hiking, snorkeling, or just chilling on the beach with some monkeys (they’re everywhere), there’s something for you.
6. Do: Enjoy the Beaches
Sri Lanka’s coastline is something out of a postcard. I spent days lounging on the beaches of Mirissa and Unawatuna, where the water is crystal clear, the sand is soft, and the sunsets are unreal. Whether you’re surfing, swimming, or just lying on the sand, Sri Lankan beaches are the perfect spot to unwind.
7. Do: Respect the Wildlife (Especially Elephants)
Elephants are practically national treasures in Sri Lanka. You’ll see them in the wild, in sanctuaries, and sometimes even just walking down the street. It’s a surreal experience, and one of my personal highlights was seeing these majestic creatures up close. However, it’s important to be mindful of where you’re supporting wildlife. Go to ethical sanctuaries and avoid places that exploit elephants for tourism.
The Don’ts:
1. Don’t: Get Offended by the Head Wobble
So, Sri Lankans have this little head wobble thing that confused me at first. It’s not a full-on nod, but also not a shake, and the first time I saw it, I was like, “Wait, are they agreeing or disagreeing with me?” Turns out, the head wobble is a sign of acknowledgment. It can mean “yes,” “I understand,” or “sure, no problem,” depending on the context. Once I got the hang of it, it became kind of fun to wobble my head back. Don’t overthink it!
2. Don’t: Underestimate the Heat of the Curries
Now, I’ve eaten spicy food before, or so I thought. But Sri Lankan curries? They’re on a whole different level. I made the mistake of saying “yes” when asked if I liked spicy food, and the resulting dish had me sweating buckets. My advice: start with mild and work your way up. And always, always have a glass of water nearby!
3. Don’t: Disrespect Religious Customs
Speaking of cultural sites, one of the biggest no-no’s in Sri Lanka is being disrespectful in temples. If you visit a Buddhist temple (and you definitely should), make sure you’re dressed appropriately; meaning shoulders and knees covered. Also, always remove your shoes and hats before entering.
Note: don’t turn your back to a Buddha statue. It’s considered disrespectful, so when you’re snapping that photo, make sure you’re standing to the side.
4. Don’t: Expect Punctuality
Now, let’s talk about Srilankan time. If you’re expecting things to run like clockwork, you’re in for a surprise. Trains and buses don’t exactly operate on a strict schedule. The train that was supposed to arrive at 10 a.m. might roll in at 11:30. Or 12. Or…whenever. At first, this was frustrating, but then I realized that this is part of the charm. Sri Lanka runs on its own time, so just roll with it.
5. Don’t: Feed the Monkeys
Speaking of monkeys – don’t feed them. These little guys may look cute, but they’re bold, mischievous, and will take whatever food you give them (and then some). I made the mistake of letting my guard down for a second, and boom – my bag of chips was gone. Also, keep your belongings close, because they’re not shy about snatching things right out of your hands.
6. Don’t: Ignore the Weather
Now, here’s a little pro tip: Sri Lanka has two monsoon seasons, so depending on when and where you go, you might find yourself caught in some pretty intense rain. It’s easy to get drenched in minutes if you’re not prepared. Plan your beach days wisely, and always check the weather. The island is small enough that if it’s raining on one coast, you can hop over to the other side for sunshine.
7. Don’t: Ride the Elephants
Just don’t. I know it’s tempting to hop on an elephant for a photo, but trust me, it’s not worth it. Many elephants in the tourism industry are mistreated, and by supporting elephant rides, you’re encouraging that cruelty. Stick to watching them in their natural habitat; it’s a far more rewarding experience.
The Final Word: Be Open, Be Curious, and Enjoy the Ride
Visiting Sri Lanka was one of the most eye-opening experiences of my life. There were moments of awe, moments of confusion, and a lot of moments of pure joy. It’s a country that will surprise you, challenge you, and make you fall in love with its quirks and beauty. So, my advice? Go with an open heart, and live the best adventure of your life.
About the Author
Shahraz Ali is a dynamic travel writer with over five years of experience turning destinations into captivating stories. Known for his vivid storytelling and knack for uncovering hidden gems, Shahraz’s work goes beyond standard travel guides—inviting readers to truly experience the essence of every place. When not penning his next adventure, he’s either indulging in his love for cinema or experimenting with new creative hobbies.