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Things you should do before visiting Sri Lanka that nobody tells you

  • Writer: Salithra Pathirana
    Salithra Pathirana
  • 13 hours ago
  • 4 min read

King coconut seller
Refreshing moments and local connections as the taste of Sri Lanka begins with a king coconut

Sri Lanka isn’t just a destination it’s a soulful experience that unfolds through ancient rituals, warm smiles, and unfiltered natural beauty. But if you want to do it right, it takes more than sunscreen and a train ticket.

Here are 8 things smart travellers should actually do before visiting Sri Lanka thoughtful, cultural, and practical steps that help you travel deeper, better, and more respectfully.


1. Learn the Local Greetings (and When to Use Them)


Sri Lankans are known for their warmth, but a greeting in the local language takes that connection a step further.


Say “Ayubowan” (Sinhala) or “Vanakkam” (Tamil) with your palms pressed together in a gentle bow. It means “may you live long,” and it’s not just polite it’s heartfelt.

Locals light up when they hear it. Whether you’re checking into a hotel or passing someone on a village path, using the local greeting shows cultural respect and opens doors (and hearts).


2. Understand Temple Etiquette Before You Arrive


You’ll visit temples and they’re sacred, not sightseeing attractions.


Before you step inside

  • Cover your shoulders and knees

  • Remove your shoes and hats

  • Step over thresholds, never on them

  • Walk clockwise around shrines

  • Be quiet, humble, and present


Important - Never pose for photos with your back to a Buddha statue. It’s deeply disrespectful, even if it looks good on Instagram.


Temples are moments to reflect not just capture.


3. Plan Less. Experience More.



travellers are enjoying a dip

Sri Lanka is not a country to control, it’s one to surrender to. The most unforgettable moments happen off-script, a last-minute festival, a family inviting you in for tea, a viewpoint nobody marked on the map.

You don’t need to plan every detail. You need to trust the rhythm of the island and the insight of the locals.


Whether you’re wandering through hill country or visiting a rural village, having a guide who knows the culture, the language, and the hidden paths turns your trip from ordinary to extraordinary.


Let go of the guesswork. Let Sri Lanka lead.


4. Familiarize yourself with basic Sinhala or Tamil words


You don’t need a language course. Just a few well-used words can break barriers and build genuine friendships.


Here are a few to remember:

  • Isthuthi – Thank you

  • Kohomada? – How are you?

  • Hari hondai – Very good

  • Koheda? – Where is it?


Bonus: Locals love when you try. Even if your pronunciation is off, your effort will be appreciated more than perfect grammar.


5. Get comfortable with the pace of island time


Sri Lanka doesn’t run on deadlines , it runs on rhythm. Trains may be late. Dinners may take longer. Locals may pause to chat, even mid-task.


And that’s the beauty of it.

Don’t rush the journey. When you slow down, Sri Lanka reveals itself in layers. The best views, flavors, and conversations won’t be scheduled , they’ll arrive when you’re present.



6. Know the basics of eating local (without offending anyone)


Food is love in Sri Lanka and sharing a meal is personal. Many places (especially in rural areas) serve food without cutlery, encouraging you to eat with your hand. Specifically, your right hand.


Why? The left hand is traditionally considered unclean in local custom.


Don’t be afraid to try. Locals will show you how and once you get the hang of it, you’ll understand why it’s the most intimate and satisfying way to eat.


7. Check local holidays and full moon (Poya) days in advance


Sri Lanka celebrates a public holiday every full moon called Poya Day. On these days;

  • Temples overflow with pilgrims

  • Alcohol sales are restricted

  • Some businesses may close unexpectedly


Always check a Sri Lankan calendar before planning beach days, nightlife, or long-distance travel. A little planning helps avoid a lot of frustration.


8. Mentally prepare for a land of contrasts


Sri Lanka is a paradox. Wild yet calm, ancient yet vibrant, humble yet incredibly rich in culture.


Expect the unexpected:

  • An elephant on the main road

  • A 2,000-year-old temple beside a juice bar

  • A crumbling colonial building that houses the best café in town

  • This is where the magic lies, in the tension, the surprise, the softness behind the chaos.


Travel here isn’t about checking off sights. It’s about feeling the pulse of a place unlike any other.


Travel the right way with Art of Lanka Tours


art of Lanka tour guide with the guests

At Art of Lanka Tours, we believe that the best trips aren’t just seen, they’re felt.

Our curated journeys are built around the very principles above.


  • Cultural respect

  • Local immersion

  • Travel with intention

  • Slow, meaningful pacing

  • And, above all, authentic connection


We don’t just take you to Sri Lanka. We guide you through it gently, insightfully, and always with care.


From sunrise temple visits to cooking with village families, from wildlife safaris to lazy afternoons in tea country we make sure every moment is honest, beautiful, and unforgettable.


Ready to experience the real Sri Lanka, the right way?

Visit www.artoflanka.com or message us to start building a journey tailored to your soul.




 

 
 
 
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