Practical Information: Anuradhapura

Communication

Stay connected with local SIMs and available Wi-Fi.

Connectivity

Local SIM cards: Dialog, Mobitel, Hutch. Purchase at airport (passport needed). Airalo eSIMs and Solis Wi-Fi portable devices are options. Search for SIM cards on Amazon.
Internet access: Widely available in hotels, guesthouses, and many restaurants. Mobile data coverage is generally good.
Postal services: A main post office is available in Anuradhapura New Town for sending postcards or packages.

Language & Business Hours

Navigate local interactions and typical operating schedules.

Language & Operations

Official Languages: Sinhala, Tamil. English understood in tourist areas. Rosetta Stone for learning.
Translation apps: Google Translate with offline language packs proves highly useful.
Shops: Generally open from 9 AM to 7 PM, Monday to Saturday.

Cultural Considerations

Observe local customs and etiquette for respectful interactions.

Etiquette Essentials

Greeting customs: Slight bow with palms pressed together ("Ayubowan") or handshake.
Attire: Shoulders and knees covered at religious sites. Modest dress generally appreciated. Search for Sarong on Amazon.
Photography: Generally allowed, be respectful. Ask permission for people, especially monks. No posing with back to Buddha.

Dining & Taboos

Understand dining practices and cultural sensitivities.

Local Norms

Dining: Tipping appreciated, not mandatory. Traditionally, eat with your right hand.
Taboos: No disrespect to Buddha. Avoid public affection, pointing with feet, showing soles of feet. Use right hand for transactions.
Poya Days (Full Moon): Public holiday, alcohol sales restricted, religious sites crowded.

Essential Phrases

Sinhala Basics

Hello: Ayubowan (ආයුබෝවන්)
Thank you: Istuti (ස්තූතියි)
Yes: Ow (ඔව්)
No: Nehe (නෑ)

Travel Words

How much?: Keeyada? (කීයක්ද?)
Water: Vathura (වතුර)

Accessibility Note

Infrastructure for mobility challenges is limited. Ancient sites feature uneven terrain, stairs, and lack ramps. Direct access to interiors of some dagobas or elevated structures may be difficult.

Travel Services

Information regarding essential services and accessibility for a comfortable journey.

Airport Services

Gain lounge access and flight compensation.

Site Opening Hours

Plan visits to ancient sites.

Public Holidays

Note holiday closures and celebrations.

Accessibility Details

Understand mobility challenges in Anuradhapura.

Mobility Information

Infrastructure for mobility challenges is limited.
Many ancient sites feature uneven terrain and stairs.
Private car with a driver can navigate between sites.

Banking & Money

Manage your finances effectively during your stay.

Financial Tips

ATMs are widely available 24/7 for cash withdrawals.
Banks typically operate from 9 AM to 3 PM, Monday to Friday.
Exchange foreign currency at banks or authorized money changers.

Traveler Services

Airport Convenience

Lounge Access: Priority Pass for airport lounges.
Flight Compensation: Compensair for delays or cancellations.

Communication Support

Local SIM cards are easy to obtain upon arrival.
Wi-Fi is generally available in hotels and guesthouses.
Consider language learning apps like Rosetta Stone.

Timely Tip

Check a local calendar for specific public holiday dates as they influence business hours and transport availability.

Cultural Practices

Navigate local customs, dining, and sensitive topics with respect.

Greeting & Attire

Understand how to greet locals and dress appropriately.

Respectful Presentation

A slight bow with palms pressed together ("Ayubowan") is a traditional greeting.
Shoulders and knees must be covered at religious sites.
Modest dress appreciated in public places. Search for Sarong on Amazon.

Photography & Privacy

Practice ethical photography and respect local privacy.

Ethical Guidelines

Always ask permission before photographing people, especially children and monks.
Be discreet, especially in religious settings; avoid interrupting ceremonies.
Do not photograph military installations or sensitive areas.

Dining & Tipping

Navigate food customs and gratuity expectations.

Meals & Gratuity

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.
Traditionally, eat with your right hand.

Taboos & Sensitivities

Be aware of local taboos to show cultural respect.

Cultural Sensitivities

Do not disrespect Buddha images or Buddhist practices.
Avoid public displays of affection.
Avoid pointing with your feet or showing the soles of your feet.

Important Holiday Notice

Poya Days

Every full moon day is a public holiday.
Alcohol sales are restricted on these days.
Religious sites are very crowded with local devotees.

New Year

Sinhala and Tamil New Year is a major national holiday in April.
Many businesses close during this period.
Transportation can be crowded as people travel home.

Gender & Social Norms

Cultural Context

Sri Lanka is a conservative society.
Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon for all couples.
LGBTQ+ relationships are not widely accepted publicly.

Visitor Guidance

Discretion is advised for LGBTQ+ travelers.
Consult relevant travel advisories.

Seeking Accessibility Information

Contact local tourism boards or specialized tour operators that focus on accessible travel for detailed and current information.

Navigating Your Stay

Practical advice for everyday situations and specific needs in Anuradhapura.

Essential Sinhala Phrases

HelloAyubowan (ආයුබෝවන්)
Thank youIstuti (ස්තූතියි)
YesOw (ඔව්)
NoNehe (නෑ)

How much?Keeyada? (කීයක්ද?)
WaterVathura (වතුර)

Local Etiquette

cultural practices for respectful engagement.

General Conduct

Engage with locals respectfully, a smile is beneficial.
Use your right hand for eating or handing over objects.
Remove shoes and hats before entering temples.
Maintain quiet reverence within active places of worship.

Important Reminder

Sri Lanka is a conservative society; always be mindful of local customs and traditions.

Practical Information