Social Etiquette

PDAs, such kissing and/or hugging in public, are sometimes frowned upon. PDA is viewed as a private habit in Sri Lanka. It is acceptable for parents and their kids to hold hands and show affection.

Since public nudity is prohibited in Sri Lanka, it's best to avoid engaging in naked or topless sunbathing or skinny dipping outside of exclusive beach resorts. Although tourists are allowed a lot of leeway, it is still considered more courteous to shake someone's hand with your right hand, to hand them money, small objects, etc. Of sure, you can lift something large or heavy with both hands.

In Sri Lanka, public nudity is forbidden. So, if you wanted to skinny dip and sunbathe topless or innards, stick to the resorts with private beaches that permit that (but ask first to avoid embarrassment). Those who identify as LGBTQ should be informed that Sri Lanka still forbids same-sex relationships. Checkpoints for security are typical. You must always have a valid form of government-issued picture identification on you, but keep them hidden from possible pickpockets.