Did you know that in Sri Lanka, folks consider a smile as something way more meaningful than just being polite? It’s pretty much their way of showing you’re welcome here, anytime.
Imagine stepping into a place where every smile you get is like a warm hug from an old friend. That’s Sri Lanka for you!
Ancient drums setting the rhythm of the land, quiet moments in front of a giant Buddha statue, and the air filled with the scent of spices that’ll make you hungry in seconds. Sri Lanka isn’t just about the pretty postcard views (though, trust me, it’s got plenty of those). It’s about the stories, the people, and, of course, the food!
So, let’s dive into what makes Sri Lanka tick. From its ancient heart in Polonnaruwa to the bustling streets of Colombo, we’re about to peel back the layers of this incredibly welcoming and utterly fascinating culture. Let’s get going!
Cultural Concepts in Sri Lanka
Atithi Devo Bhava
Parapura
The cultural concept of Parapura centers around the deep respect for one’s lineage and the importance of preserving family heritage, traditions, and values over generations. It’s about understanding and honoring where one comes from, recognizing the sacrifices and achievements of ancestors, and carrying forward their legacy into the future.
Parapura is not just about knowing your family tree; it’s about the active transmission of knowledge, skills, and cultural practices from elders to the younger generation. It encompasses the stories told by grandparents, the traditional crafts taught by parents, and the collective memory of a family’s journey through history.
Sanhida
Sanhinda translates to a sense of community among people, where neighbors, friends, and family come together to help each other in times of need. This could be during celebrations, such as weddings and religious festivals, or in facing life’s challenges, such as illness or loss.
Sanhinda is manifested in various ways, from the “Goviya” (farming community) working together during planting and harvesting seasons, to “Atithi Devo Bhava” hospitality shown to visitors, and in the “Dana” (act of giving), where people share what they have with monks and the less fortunate.
In a way, Sanhinda encourages people to contribute their time, resources, and skills to support communal activities, strengthening social ties and ensuring that no one is left to face life’s challenges alone.
What is the Religion in Sri Lanka?
The predominant religion in Sri Lanka is Buddhism, specifically Theravada Buddhism, which is followed by about 70.2% of the population.
Hinduism is the second most practiced religion, accounting for around 12.6% of the population. It is primarily followed by the Tamil ethnic minority and has a significant presence in the Northern and Eastern provinces of the island.
Islam is practiced by about 9.7% of the population, with Muslims constituting a significant minority group. The Muslim community in Sri Lanka is diverse, including Moors, Malays, and smaller groups of Indian Muslims, and is mainly concentrated in the Eastern Province, along the coastal areas, and in urban centers.
Christianity accounts for approximately 7.4% of the population. The Christian community is divided between Roman Catholics and various Protestant denominations. The presence of Christianity dates back to the arrival of the Portuguese in the 16th century, followed by the Dutch and the British, each leaving their mark on the religious landscape of the island.
What are the Traditions in Sri Lanka?
Ceylon Tea
In Sri Lanka, tea is more than a drink; it’s a gesture of welcome, a pause in the day to gather, converse, and share moments. The day begins with tea, often a strong brew served with milk and sugar, accompanying the morning’s first light and quiet contemplation.
The act of preparing tea is considered an art form, from selecting the right blend to brewing it to perfection. Each region boasts its unique variations, from the robust flavors of high-grown teas to the milder tones of the low country.
The tea break, typically in the mid-morning and late afternoon, is a cherished pause in the workday or at home, a communal moment shared among friends, family, or colleagues. It’s accompanied by light snacks, sweet or savory, but the focus remains on the tea and the company.
Ayurveda
Grama Sabha
The Grama Sabha is a community assembly that harks back to ancient times when villagers would gather under the shade of a large tree to discuss matters of local importance.
The Grama Sabha meetings are typically held under a Banyan tree, known locally as the “Nuga” tree, which serves not just as a natural shelter but also as a symbol of life and sustainability. The choice of a tree as the meeting point is significant, embodying the community’s connection to nature and the environment. The Nuga tree, with its vast canopy and extensive root system, provides a cool, shaded area for people to come together, reflecting the interconnectedness of the community it hosts.
These assemblies are an integral part of rural life in Sri Lanka, serving as a platform for villagers to voice their opinions, share information, resolve disputes, and make decisions on matters affecting their community. From discussions on water management and agricultural practices to initiatives for local development and social welfare, the Grama Sabha encapsulates the democratic ethos of collective decision-making and mutual support.
Angampora
Sri Lankan Traditional Dance
Among the various Sri Lankan styles, three main forms stand out: Kandyan, Low Country, and Sabaragamuwa:
- Kandyan Dance, also known as Uda Rata Natum, hails from the central hills around Kandy, the last stronghold of Sri Lankan kings. It’s perhaps the most iconic of Sri Lankan dances, recognized by its dynamic movements, high jumps, and pirouettes. The dancers, adorned in elaborate costumes including headdresses, silver regalia, and vibrant cloths, perform to the rhythm of traditional drums.
- Low Country Dance or Pahatha Rata Natum originates from the southern coastal areas of Sri Lanka. It is closely tied to rituals and exorcism ceremonies, known as “tovil,” aimed at healing illnesses and warding off evil spirits. The dance is characterized by masks, each depicting different characters from Sri Lankan folklore, and by its more subdued and controlled movements compared to Kandyan dance.
- Sabaragamuwa Dance is named after the Sabaragamuwa region and is often performed in devotion to the deity Saman, considered the guardian of the Sri Pada mountain, a sacred pilgrimage site. The dance incorporates slower, graceful movements and is known for its use of vibrant costumes and jewelry.
Sri Lankan Traditional Music
One of the most iconic Sri Lankan instruments is the “Geta Beraya”, a drum that is essential to the Kandyan dance. It’s recognized by its cylindrical shape and is played with the hands. The Geta Beraya is traditionally used to keep the rhythm during dance performances and is considered sacred.
The “Davula” is another significant drum, larger than the Geta Beraya and played with sticks. It has a distinctive sound that commands attention and is often used in combination with the Geta Beraya in traditional performances. The Davula’s sound is believed to evoke the spirit of the island’s ancient kings and warriors.
Aside from drums, the “Horanewa”, a traditional oboe-like instrument, adds melody to the rhythmic foundation laid by the drums. Its piercing, vibrant tone is unmistakable and often leads the musical ensemble.
What to Eat in Sri Lanka
Sri Lankan food is a feast of colors, tastes, and textures, drawing influence from its history, geography, and the various communities that make up the fabric of the nation. Here’s a taste of what to savor in Sri Lanka:
- Appa: These bowl-shaped pancakes are made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often with an egg cooked in the center. Crispy on the edges and soft in the middle, appa (hoppers) are a beloved breakfast dish and street food snack, usually served with spicy sambols or curry.
- Idiyappam: Made from pressed rice flour dough and then steamed, these delicate noodle-like creations are a favorite for breakfast or dinner, often paired with curry and coconut sambol.
- Kottu Roti: A hearty and delicious street food favorite, Kottu Roti is made by stir-frying chopped roti (flatbread) with vegetables, egg, meat, and spices. It’s known for its distinct clanking sound during preparation, as the chefs chop and mix the ingredients on a flat griddle.
- Pol Sambol: This coconut relish is a staple in Sri Lankan cuisine, made from grated coconut, red onions, dried chili flakes, lime juice, and Maldive fish. It adds a burst of flavor to any meal, commonly accompanying rice, hoppers, and bread.
- Fish Ambul Thiyal: A southern Sri Lankan specialty, this dish features fish cut into cubes, then sauteed in a blend of spices and dried goraka, giving it a tangy, sour flavor. The curry is slow-cooked, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Watalappan: A rich dessert of Malay origin, Watalappan is a steamed custard made from coconut milk, jaggery (palm sugar), eggs, and spices like cardamom and nutmeg. It’s a sweet end to a Sri Lankan meal.
- Polos: Young, green jackfruit is cooked with spices and coconut milk to create a curry that’s so meaty, it’s often mistaken for chicken or beef.
What is Sri Lankan Language like?
The main languages spoken in Sri Lanka are Sinhala and Tamil, each with its own distinct script, history, and cultural significance.
Sinhala, an Indo-Aryan language, is spoken by the Sinhalese, who constitute the majority of the population. It’s the language of government and public life in most parts of the island. Sinhala has its own script, derived from the ancient Brahmi script, and boasts a vast literature that ranges from highly ornate classical poetry to modern prose and poetry. The language is rich in Pali and Sanskrit loanwords, reflecting the influence of Buddhism in the region.
Tamil, a Dravidian language, is spoken by the Tamil minority, particularly in the Northern and Eastern provinces, and has equal status with Sinhala in the constitution. Tamil in Sri Lanka has developed its own regional characteristics, differing slightly from the Tamil spoken in Tamil Nadu, India. It’s a language with a rich literary tradition, contributing significantly to the shared cultural heritage of the Tamil-speaking world.
Useful Sinhalese Phrases for Travel
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Sinhalese
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English
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Ayubowan
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Hello / Goodbye
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Kohomada?
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How are you?
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Karunakara
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Please
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Isthuthi
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Thank you
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Ow
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Yes
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Nae
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No
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Samawenna
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Excuse me
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Meka kiyada?
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How much is this?
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Mata therenne na
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I don't understand
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Traditional Festivals in Sri Lanka
Kandy Esala Perahera
The Kandy Esala Perahera is a spellbinding festival that lights up the historic city of Kandy with its grandeur, devotion, and cultural spectacle. Taking place annually during the Esala full moon Poya day, typically in July or August, this event is a dynamic celebration rooted in the lunar calendar. It honors the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha, housed in the Sri Dalada Maligawa or the Temple of the Tooth.
Originating from rituals dating back to the 3rd century BC, the modern form of the Perahera owes much to the traditions shaped by the Kandyan kings. Over ten nights, the festival escalates from the Kumbal Perahera to the Randoli Perahera, culminating in a magnificent procession on the final night that showcases the pinnacle of Sri Lankan heritage.
Central to the Perahera is the representation of the Sacred Tooth Relic, carried on the back of a richly adorned elephant, known as the Maligawa Tusker, through the streets of Kandy. Accompanying this sacred symbol are dozens of elephants, their vibrant costumes reflecting the flickering lights of traditional torches.
Vesak Poya
Vesak Poya is one of the most revered and widely celebrated festivals in Sri Lanka, marking the most significant events in the life of Gautama Buddha: his birth, enlightenment, and Parinirvana (passing away). It falls on the full moon day of the month of Vesak, usually in May, according to the Buddhist lunar calendar. The exact date varies each year but typically falls in late April or early May.
Homes, streets, and public spaces are adorned with lanterns and handcrafted pandals (thoranas) that depict various events from the Buddha’s life through intricate artworks and electric lights. These pandals are often accompanied by recorded narrations of the stories they represent, allowing onlookers to reflect on the teachings of the Buddha.
Vesak is also characterized by the practice of “Dansal,” where people set up stalls on the roadside to give away free food and drinks to anyone passing by, embodying the spirit of generosity and sharing that is central to Buddhism.
Deepavali
Aluth Avurudda
Aluth Avurudda marks one of the most important and joyous occasions in Sri Lanka, symbolizing the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the new year. Celebrated in April, this festival transcends ethnic boundaries, bringing together the Sinhalese and Tamil communities in a shared celebration.
The New Year is closely tied to astronomical calculations, marking the sun’s movement from the Pisces to the Aries constellation. The transition, known as the “Sankranthi” moment, determines the auspicious times for various New Year rituals.
One of the most significant moments is the first transaction of the year, or the “ganu denu.” This ritual involves giving and receiving money within the family, symbolizing prosperity and the continuation of transactions throughout the year.
Customs in Sri Lanka
- The tradition of offering betel leaves, known as “Bulath Vita,” is a sign of respect and hospitality. Presenting a sheaf of betel leaves to elders or guests is a ceremonial gesture used in traditional welcome ceremonies, weddings, and when seeking forgiveness. The betel leaf is symbolic of prosperity, health, and longevity.
- A unique custom following a wedding is the “Gam Maduwa,” which translates to “village gathering.” It’s essentially a homecoming ceremony conducted when the newlyweds visit the bride’s parental home for the first time after the wedding.
- While almsgiving is common in many Buddhist cultures, in Sri Lanka, it’s a highly elaborate and frequent practice, especially on significant life milestones like birthdays and death anniversaries. “Dana” involves preparing food and offering it to Buddhist monks in a ritual that reaffirms one’s commitment to Buddhist precepts and spreads merit to loved ones and the community.
- The practice of tying a white or saffron-colored thread around one’s wrist, blessed by monks during a “Pirith” chanting ceremony, is common in Sri Lanka. This thread, believed to offer protection and blessings, is worn until it naturally falls off.
- A custom observed during the Sinhala and Tamil New Year, and also when moving into a new home or starting a new venture, involves boiling milk in a new pot until it overflows. This act is symbolic of prosperity, abundance, and the hope that the home or endeavor will flourish.
- During the Sinhala and Tamil New Year celebrations, there’s a specific auspicious time for anointing oil, a ritual performed for health and longevity. A respected elder or family member will anoint the heads of family members with herbal oil while chanting blessings, followed by a bath using herbal leaves.
Plan Your Trip to Sri Lanka | Best Travel Resources
Book Your Accommodations
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Don’t Forget Insurance
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- Kiwi.com – my go-to for booking and finding the cheapest flights and it’s helped me save tons of money. They do virtual interlining which is connecting flights from airlines that do not codeshare, so you can find routes that you wouldn’t be able to find normally.
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- GetYourGuide – is one of the best places to find unique tours and activities. I found that it’s an excellent way to meet fellow travelers and create fond memories. They are not only limited to tours as they also offer niche services such as skip-the-line tickets or private transfers.
Catch a Ride
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