MileHacker Logo
Environmental Considerations

Environmental Considerations

The Hill Country, Sri Lanka

Udawatta Kele Sanctuary

A protected forest within Kandy, offering an urban example of conservation. Support efforts by adhering to park rules.

Knuckles Mountain Range

This UNESCO World Heritage site, a larger conservation area, emphasizes biodiversity preservation. Respect wildlife habitats.

Waste Management

Waste management and recycling practices, especially outside major cities, face challenges. Minimize your plastic use.

Cultural Sensitivity

Cultural sensitivity marks respectful travel in Kandy.

Cultural Preservation

Support local craftspeople and cultural performances that genuinely preserve traditional arts.

Support & Respect

  • Avoid tourist traps.
  • Respect the integrity of historical sites and artifacts.
  • Do not touch or remove anything.
  • Support eco-friendly accommodation at Ecobnb.

Interaction Guidelines

Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, notably children or those engaged in religious activities.

Polite Engagement

  • A simple gesture or asking 'Photo?' often suffices.
  • Dress modestly, especially outside major tourist areas.
  • Learn basic Sinhala phrases.
  • Be patient, polite, and always smile.

Photography Ethics

Avoid intrusive photography, especially in private moments or vulnerable situations. Do not photograph people without explicit consent.

Privacy & Places

  • Respect 'no photography' signs.
  • Especially in religious spaces or museums.
  • Avoid disrespectful photo poses with religious objects.
  • Consider carbon offsetting your flight. TerraPass makes it simple.

Religious Site Etiquette

Dress appropriately (shoulders and knees covered). Remove shoes and hats before entering temples or any other religious premises.

Sacred Spaces

  • Turn off your mobile phone or set it to silent mode.
  • Do not turn your back to a Buddha statue for photos.
  • Walk clockwise around stupas and shrines as a sign of respect.
  • For sustainable gear, visit Patagonia.

Eco-Friendly Choices

Sustainable Products

Minimize waste by bringing reusable items for your travels, supporting a lighter footprint.

Shop Package Free

Ethical Tours

Choose tour operators with clear environmental policies and certifications for sustainable tourism.

G Adventures

Responsible Visitor

Your conscious efforts conserve local resources. Practice water conservation by taking shorter showers and reusing towels.

Economic Impact

Your travel choices positively affect the local community's economy.

Community-Based Tourism

Choose homestays or guesthouses run by local families. These accommodations directly benefit the community.

Direct Support

  • Participate in tours directly benefiting local communities.
  • Engage in village visits.
  • Attend craft demonstrations.
  • Every choice matters.

Fair Trade & Shopping

Buy souvenirs directly from artisans or from shops that explicitly state fair trade practices.

Ethical Purchases

  • Money reaches producers directly.
  • For tea, select reputable brands that support fair wages.
  • Support sustainable practices.
  • Consider The Rainforest Site for ethical purchases that give back.

Local Business Support

Eat at local restaurants and cafes rather than large international chains. Use local tuk-tuks or ride-hailing services like PickMe.

Local Circulation

  • Buy from local markets for daily needs.
  • Your money circulates within the local economy.
  • Directly patronage local services.
  • Make a tangible difference.

Avoiding Harmful Practices

Be wary of animal tourism that involves cruelty, like elephant rides or performances where animals appear distressed.

Ethical Choices

  • Avoid giving money directly to begging children.
  • Support reputable local charities instead.
  • These address poverty and education systematically.
  • Seek information before engaging.

Charitable Giving

If you wish to donate, do so through established local NGOs, community projects, or registered charities.

Effective Donations

This ensures your contribution reaches those in need effectively.

Sustainable Impact

Donations through organizations make a more lasting difference.

Research First

Research charities before contributing to ensure their authenticity and impact.

Ethical Awareness

Avoid giving money directly to begging children. Instead, support reputable local charities or community projects that address poverty and education systematically.

Responsible Travel Summary

Travel with mindfulness benefits both you and Kandy. These practices contribute to a positive footprint.

Sustainable Choices

Embrace sustainability during your visit. Make choices that respect the environment and local culture.

Everyday Impact

  • Minimize waste.
  • Conserve water.
  • Support eco-friendly initiatives.
  • Choose green accommodations.

Community Engagement

Directly support local communities through your spending. Seek out authentic experiences.

Local Patronage

  • Eat local.
  • Use local transport.
  • Buy local crafts.
  • Engage respectfully.

Ethical Conduct

Maintain ethical conduct in all interactions. Respect local customs and traditions.

Mindful Interactions

  • Observe religious site etiquette.
  • Seek permission for photos.
  • Avoid exploitative tourism.
  • Be an example of responsible tourism.

Awareness & Preparation

Stay informed about local norms and conditions. Preparation makes for a smoother journey.

Smart Travel

  • Research before you go.
  • Understand cultural distinctions.
  • Plan for accessibility needs.
  • Enjoy a truly enriching experience.

Contribution Insights

Your travel choices offer a tangible contribution.

Positive Footprint

Leave a positive environmental and social mark.

Local Benefits

Help local economies thrive.

Cultural Exchange

Contribute to a valuable cultural exchange.

Sustainable Journey

Your mindful travel decisions create a lasting, positive connection with Kandy and its people.