Published on May 10, 2025 | by Haven Lanka Tours & Holidays
Sri Lanka’s ancient temples are spiritual treasures – but visiting them requires cultural awareness. Follow these sacred guidelines to show respect while enjoying their beauty.
🙏 Essential Temple Etiquette
✅ DO
✔ Cover shoulders & knees (sarongs available to rent)
✔ Remove shoes & hats before entering (bring socks for hot floors)
✔ Walk clockwise around stupas (follow devotees’ lead)
✔ Photograph respectfully – no flash on murals, no selfies with statues
✔ Sit lower than monks if interacting
❌ DON’T
✖ Turn your back to Buddha statues (exit walking backward)
✖ Point feet at statues/people (feet are considered unclean)
✖ Touch monks (especially women avoid physical contact)
✖ Disturb worshipers during prayers/meditation
📿 Special Sites, Special Rules
1. Temple of the Sacred Tooth (Kandy)
- Silence is golden – no loud talking in relic chamber
- Flower offerings allowed (sold outside)
2. Dambulla Cave Temple
- No bare shoulders – scarves provided for cover-ups
- Watch your head – low cave doorways
3. Anuradhapura Sacred Bodhi Tree
- White attire preferred (not mandatory)
- No tying prayer threads on branches
👗 What to Wear
| For Men | For Women |
|---|---|
| • T-shirt + long pants/sarong | • Modest top (covered shoulders) |
| • Remove tank tops | • Long skirt/pants (no leggings as outerwear) |
| • No hats indoors | • Shawl to cover head when offering prayers |
Pro Tip: Carry a foldable sarong – doubles as beach cover-up!
📸 Photography Rules
- Ask before photographing worshipers
- No filming puja ceremonies unless permitted
- Drones prohibited at all sacred sites
Best Shot: The golden hour at Kandy Temple’s outer courtyard
🕒 Best Visiting Times
- Mornings (6-10 AM): Cooler, fewer crowds
- Poya Days: Special ceremonies but more crowded
- Avoid Noon: Scorching stone floors
🌟 Why Follow These Rules?
“Temples are living places of worship, not museums. When visitors show respect, locals warmly share their traditions.” – Our Local Guide, Kusal
🗨️ FAQ
1. Can I enter during menstruation?
Yes, despite old beliefs. Modern temples don’t restrict access.
2. Are kids allowed?
Absolutely! Teach them quiet observation.
3. What if I accidentally break a rule?
A simple “Samavenna” (සමාවෙන්න / “excuse me” in Sinhala) suffices.
📌 Pro Tips
- Carry small change for donation boxes
- Learn basic phrases:
- “Ayubowan” (Hello with palms together)
- “Istuti” (Thank you)
- Sit cross-legged – never stretch legs toward altars
🛕 Ready to explore sacred sites respectfully? Book Our Culture Tour
