Packing & cultural etiquette in Sri Lanka

• Essential documents including travel insurance, itinerary, visa and passport
• Money and debit/credit cards
• Travel adapter - for UK plugs and European/Sri Lankan sockets (multi-purpose adapter recommended)
• Sun protection including a hat, sunglasses and suncream (factor 30+ minimum)
• Waterproof jacket and umbrella (for monsoon seasons)
• Comfortable shoes - including walking shoes and sandals
• Lightweight, breathable clothing that covers shoulders and knees for religious sites - cotton and linen are ideal
• A shawl or scarf and socks for visiting religious sites (you'll remove shoes)
• Light sweater or cardigan for hill country evenings and air-conditioned transport
• Swimwear
• Essential toiletries including mosquito repellent and personal medicine
• A basic first-aid kit including anti-diarrheal medication
• Camera
• Personal entertainment such as books, tablets and music players

Linen, cotton and loose clothes. Have plenty of clothes that cover shoulders and legs to help avoid mosquito bites. Please cover shoulders and knees in temples.

Absolutely, here’s a simple guide about cultural etiquette in Sri Lanka and whilst Sri Lanka is not a strict country, politeness and etiquette should be strongly considered:

• Cover shoulders and knees in temples and mosques – modest dress is always recommended in areas of worship
• Please don’t turn your back to Buddha
• Avoid touching or sitting on statues
• Take shoes off when entering a home and following guidance at temples
• There’s no need to raise your voice in Sri Lanka, be quiet and respectful
• Avoid touching people’s heads
• Sri Lankan’s traditionally eat with their right hand
• Swimwear is for the beach and pool only and being shirtless isn’t appropriate away from the beach or pool either
• Please don’t give out money if requested, and avoid just handing out sweets or pens to children – let us know if you would like to get involved or donate to a legitimate NGO
• There’s no need for over the top physical displays of affection

Tipping isn’t mandatory but it’s appreciated. Tipping your chauffeur guide and local guides is warmly welcome

• Your chauffeur driver(s): $15+ per day (total, not per person)
• Local or regional guides: $10-15 full day, $5-10 half day
• Porters: $2-3 per bag (if you have money easily accessible)
• Restaurant staff: 10% of the total cost of your meal (often service charge is included)
• Hotel staff: $2-5 per day for housekeeping, often given in a tip box at the end