Sri Lanka

Yes, eating with your hands is common, especially for rice and curry dishes. Use your right hand only, as the left is considered unclean.

Wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Remove shoes and hats before entering, and avoid turning your back to Buddha statues.

Tuk-tuks are a common mode of transport, but always agree on a fare before starting your journey. Trains are scenic but often delayed, so plan for extra time.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. A 10% tip in restaurants and rounding up fares for tuk-tuks or taxis is generally sufficient.

Visit during the dry season (January to April) for the best weather. Monsoon rains (May to September) can make travel to hill country plantations challenging.

Sri Lankans often share dishes family-style. It’s polite to try a bit of everything offered, even if you’re not familiar with it.

Public displays of affection are frowned upon, and it’s illegal to disrespect religious symbols or deface currency featuring national icons.

Eat at local 'rice and curry' buffets, use public transport, and stay in guesthouses or homestays for affordable and authentic experiences.

Always ask for permission before photographing people, especially monks. Some temples and sacred sites may charge a fee for photography.

Try 'hoppers' (bowl-shaped pancakes) with sambol and curry for breakfast, or 'kottu roti' (chopped flatbread stir-fry) for a hearty street food experience.

Support local businesses, avoid single-use plastics, and respect wildlife by not feeding or disturbing animals, especially in national parks.

Sri Lankans often nod or shake their heads in a way that may seem ambiguous. A slight head wobble usually means 'yes' or agreement, but context matters.

Yes, most nationalities need an ETA online before travel. It costs about $35-50 and is valid for 30 days.

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). ATMs are common in cities; carry cash for rural areas.

No, drink bottled or boiled water. Avoid ice in street stalls.

Sinhala and Tamil are official; English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Yes, in hotels and larger restaurants, but cash is preferred for small purchases.

Generally yes, but take precautions: dress modestly, avoid isolated areas at night, and use reputable transport.

Light cotton clothes, a rain jacket, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and a power adapter (Type G).

Hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus are recommended. Check with your doctor 4-6 weeks before travel.

Yes, with an International Driving Permit, but roads are chaotic. Hiring a driver is safer.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. 10% in restaurants, small tips for guides and drivers.

Don't touch Buddha images disrespectfully, don't point feet at people or statues, and avoid public anger.

Ceylon tea, spices, gemstones, batik textiles, and handcrafted masks.