Temple and safari etiquette for visitors
The Lanka Arrivals team · 7 Nov 2026
Two of the highlights of a trip, temples and wildlife parks, come with simple rules. Following them keeps people and animals safe and shows respect for the places you visit.
Temples and sacred sites
- Cover your shoulders and knees. Carry a light shawl or sarong if you are in shorts.
- Remove your shoes, and your hat, before entering. Marble and sand can be hot at midday, so bring socks or go early.
- Do not pose with your back to a Buddha statue or sit with your feet pointing at it.
- Ask before photographing monks, and never touch them if you are a woman.
- Be quiet in prayer areas, and follow signs about photography.
Wildlife safaris
- Choose neutral colours, a hat, sunscreen and a layer for the early morning chill.
- Stay seated in the jeep and keep voices low. Never feed or call to animals, and stay well back from elephants.
- Follow your tracker. Park rules decide where a jeep can go.
- Some parks close for a few weeks each year, so check the dates when you plan. See when to go and our wildlife safaris.
Dressing for the day
Light, loose cotton keeps you comfortable in the heat. Add comfortable shoes for steps and climbs such as Sigiriya or Dambulla, and a rain layer in the wetter months.