Hi Reader,

One of the things we recommend doing on a trip to Sri Lanka is visiting a Buddhist Temple.

We love how tranquil and peaceful these places are. It’s an opportunity to step back and take in the atmosphere.

However, if this is your first visit to a temple, you don’t want to make the same mistakes as many other tourists we often see.

Many of the mistakes we have seen aren’t down to the person being disrespectful; it’s because they simply were not aware of the etiquette that should be followed.

We’ve seen it quite a few times over the years. Travellers turn up with the best intentions, but unknowingly do something that’s considered disrespectful in a Buddhist Temple.

The most common mistake we see is taking a photo with your back to the Buddha statue.

Now it might seem unimportant and harmless, but in Sri Lanka, turning your back to a Buddha statue for photos is seen as disrespectful.

If you want to take a picture with a Buddha statue, then either take it of you standing sideways, or facing the statue. While it might not be the same, at least you are not being disrespectful.

Another common one we see is not covering your shoulders or knees when visiting a temple.

If you turn up in shorts and a sleeveless top, you’ll be asked to cover up your shoulders and knees. This can be done with a scarf or sarong. If you don’t have a scarf or sarong, you can pick this up at the temple, but you’re better off coming prepared.

None of these are difficult or challenging to get right, but it definitely helps to know beforehand, so it doesn’t catch you out.

Our opinion

Visiting temples in Sri Lanka can be one of the most meaningful cultural experiences of your trip. But it’s important to understand the etiquette so you can visit respectfully and confidently.

Which is why we’ve put together a simple guide covering the key temple dos and don’ts.

You can read it here: What not to do in a temple or place of wordship

Inside, we explain:

• What to wear when visiting temples
• The common mistakes travellers make
• Photography etiquette
• Simple things to know before you go So, you can enjoy visiting temples without worrying about accidentally getting it wrong.

Over to you.

Have you ever visited a temple abroad and been unsure about the etiquette? Or is this something you're thinking about for your Sri Lanka trip?

Hit reply and let us know, we’d love to hear from you.

Happy travelling

Bev & Shams

Email: bev@bevandshams.com

Website: www.bevandshams.com​

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