The Ancient Cities, Sri Lanka
Always agree on fares for tuk-tuks and prices in local markets.
Drink plenty of water and plan strenuous activities for early morning.
Carry a Sarong or scarf to cover shoulders and knees at temples.
Use insect repellent, especially during dawn and dusk.
Explore local eateries for authentic flavors and better prices.
Use your right hand for giving, receiving, and eating.
A gentle side-to-side head wobble often signals "yes" or "okay."
Show respect to Buddhist monks, giving up your seat on public transport.
Avoid public displays of affection; maintain a calm demeanor.
Knowing "Ayubowan" (hello) or "Istuti" (thank you) builds rapport.
Always dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Cover shoulders and knees as a mark of reverence.
A few basic Sinhala phrases open doors to warmer interactions and show genuine respect for local culture.
Engage respectfully with locals. A smile and a polite 'Ayubowan' go a long way in building goodwill.
Sigiriya's summit presents a challenge; focus on the expansive base gardens and museum if mobility is a concern.
Some popular sites can be noisy or crowded. Consider noise-canceling headphones for quieter experiences.
Assess your fitness level for climbs. Pidurangala offers a less strenuous but rewarding alternative to Sigiriya's summit.
Familiarize yourself with emergency contacts for a rapid response when needed. Keep local emergency numbers readily available.
Download offline maps for Sigiriya and Dambulla areas.
Useful for ride-hailing in larger cities like Colombo or Kandy.
Quickly convert LKR to your home currency for budget management.
Download the offline Sinhala language pack for basic communication.
Acquire a local SIM for immediate connectivity and data access.
A VPN like NordVPN for secure browsing on public Wi-Fi.
The official Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau website offers general travel information.
Apply for your Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) via the official government website.
Follow official tourism accounts on social media for visual inspiration and highlights.
Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers before you arrive for immediate connection.
Know the location of nearby clinics and larger hospitals in Dambulla or Kandy for medical needs.
Keep your embassy's contact details readily accessible for any unforeseen events during your stay.
Always prioritize personal safety. In case of emergency, contact the nearest authorities or your embassy without delay.
Search for films on ancient Sri Lankan history.
Discover films set in Sri Lanka for cultural context.
Explore features on traditional Sri Lankan art forms.
Listen to traditional Sri Lankan music, often with drums.
Familiarize yourself with the unique sounds of Kandyan drumming.
Discover folk melodies and contemporary Sri Lankan songs.
Join online travel forums for current advice, recommendations, and to connect with other travelers.
Explore platforms like Skillshare for photography or cultural courses related to Sri Lanka.
Continue your Sinhala language practice to deepen interactions and show respect for the local culture.
Sigiriya offers a journey into the soul of Sri Lanka. Cherish the history, respect the culture, and let its wonder stay with you.
