Buddhism is integral to who the Sinhalese are as a people, they take it very seriously indeed and it's important to show some respect when visiting a temple, but don’t let this put you off. The locals will not be looking to catch you out and honest mistakes are politely overlooked. In large temples, which you may visit as part of an organised tour simply follow the crowd and you should be fine, but one of the pleasures of your Sri Lankan holiday is a visit to a small local temple. Here you will be a point of interest so it’s useful to learn a little etiquette:

Don’t enter a temple in beach wear (would you go into a church with your backside hanging out?)
Remove your shoes and hat.
Walk round the central features in a clockwise direction.
Images of the Buddha and monks should be given the respect that would be shown to the Buddha himself, so it is important not to deliberately turn your back on either and you should ask before taking photographs.
If you are approached by, or introduced to a Buddhist monk, you aren’t expected to know the intricate ritual and particular terms of address applied by the Sinhalese, should you address the Monk I find ‘reverend’ usually does the trick. Don’t attempt to shake hands unless one is offered.
If you’re well impressed and/or the monk is particularly distinguished you can bend down and touch his toes before coming up with your hands together.
Off the beaten track you probably won’t be asked for a donation outright but one will be appreciated and will earn you merit so ask if there is somewhere you can make the donation, there’s usually a box, if there isn’t offer your notes to an attendant (in front of the monk) or directly to the monk with both hands to show that it is freely given.
Evangelical organisations are currently attempting to convert the people to Christianity and this doesn’t go down too well in the Buddhist community.
Any respect you pay to Sinhalese culture during your visit will be genuinely appreciated and this is as true in the temple as anywhere.

There will be a temple in every Sinhalese Buddhist town and village.

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