Culture

The Tamil and the Sinhalese are the two main traditional cultures in Sri Lanka. The Tamils are mainly based in Jaffna city while the Sinhalese are based centering on the ancient kingdoms of Anuradhapura and Kandy. In the past the culture of Sri Lanka came under the influence of Portuguese, Dutch and British colonialism. From the ancient times rituals and different customs are observed in Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka comprises multi ethnic groups. The main groups are the Sinhalese and Tamils. The Tamil people are again divided into Sri Lankan Tamils and Indian Tamils. Two other ethnic groups of Sri Lanka are the Moors and the Burghers. People of different religion have settled in Sri Lanka. Buddhism is considered to be the major creed of the Sinhalese people. It has influenced the art, literature, architecture and cultural of Sri Lanka. Among other religions of Sri Lanka, Hinduism, Islam and Christianity are prevalent.
The main languages of Sri Lanka are Sinhala and the Tamil language. Both of these languages originated from different sources but they have influenced each other in their linguistic evolution. Most part of the literature of Sri Lanka is composed in Sinhala. English is also spoken in Sri Lanka though by a minority of people in comparison to Sinhala and Tamil.

Sri Lanka’s Culture: A Journey Through Heritage, Spirituality, and Traditions

Sri Lanka’s culture is a fascinating blend of influences shaped by centuries of history, trade, and religious practices. Known as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” this small island has a rich cultural heritage that reflects its Buddhist roots, colonial history, and traditional arts. For tourists, Sri Lanka offers an array of experiences that allow you to delve into its vibrant culture at a ground level — from attending colorful festivals and exploring ancient temples to participating in traditional rituals and savoring unique local cuisine.

In this guide, we’ll journey through Sri Lanka’s culture, exploring its most iconic attractions, cultural hotspots, and recommended itineraries that provide a full immersion into this diverse island’s way of life.

1. The Roots of Sri Lankan Culture: A Historical Overview

Sri Lanka’s history dates back more than 2,500 years, with records of early kingdoms, Buddhist teachings, and periods of colonial influence. The arrival of Buddhism in the 3rd century BCE marked a turning point, deeply influencing Sri Lankan culture, art, and architecture. Later, European colonizers, including the Portuguese, Dutch, and British, left their mark on the island, introducing new customs, architecture, and language. These influences, combined with the island's indigenous traditions, created a unique cultural mosaic that endures today.

2. Religious and Spiritual Sites to Experience

Religion plays a central role in Sri Lankan culture, with Buddhism being the primary faith. Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity are also practiced, making Sri Lanka a country rich in religious diversity. Here are some of the must-visit religious and spiritual sites.

a) Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), Kandy

One of the most revered Buddhist sites in the world, the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy houses a tooth relic of Lord Buddha. This temple is not only a place of worship but also a cultural hub, with daily rituals, traditional music, and annual celebrations during the Kandy Esala Perahera, a grand festival featuring parades, traditional dancers, and decorated elephants.

b) Anuradhapura’s Sacred City

Anuradhapura, an ancient city and UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to stupas, ancient ruins, and the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, said to be a sapling of the tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment. Exploring Anuradhapura allows visitors to experience the heart of Sri Lanka’s early Buddhist civilization and witness devout rituals and offerings made by locals.

c) Dambulla Cave Temple

Also known as the Golden Temple, this UNESCO site comprises a series of caves filled with Buddha statues and murals that date back to the 1st century BCE. The Dambulla Cave Temple’s intricate frescoes and Buddha images make it one of the best-preserved ancient temple complexes in Sri Lanka.

d) Hindu Temples of Jaffna

Sri Lanka’s northern region, especially Jaffna, is a hub for Hindu culture and heritage. The colorful Nallur Kandaswamy Temple is one of the most prominent Hindu temples in the country. Travelers visiting Jaffna can experience Hindu festivals, rituals, and the influence of Tamil culture, which adds a unique dimension to Sri Lanka’s cultural landscape.

3. Traditional Festivals and Celebrations

Sri Lanka’s festivals are lively and colorful, each one representing a unique aspect of the island’s cultural diversity. Here are some of the most popular celebrations where tourists can experience Sri Lanka’s traditions and hospitality.

a) Kandy Esala Perahera

This grand Buddhist festival, held in July or August in Kandy, is one of the oldest and most elaborate in Sri Lanka. The Perahera procession is a spectacular event with beautifully adorned elephants, traditional dancers, fire performers, and drummers. The festival commemorates the sacred Tooth Relic and offers a mesmerizing experience for visitors interested in Sri Lanka’s Buddhist traditions.

b) Sinhala and Tamil New Year (Avurudu)

Celebrated in April, the Sinhala and Tamil New Year marks the beginning of the new harvest season and is a family-oriented festival. The festivities include traditional games, feasting, and rituals. Tourists can join local families to celebrate this holiday, enjoy authentic Sri Lankan sweets like kokis and kavum, and witness cultural performances that reflect the island’s rural life.

c) Vesak Festival

Celebrated in May, Vesak commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and passing of the Buddha. During this time, temples are adorned with lights and lanterns, and colorful Vesak decorations fill the streets. The festival creates a serene yet festive atmosphere, and travelers can participate in acts of generosity by sharing food and gifts with those in need, a traditional Vesak custom.

d) Deepavali (Diwali)

Known as the Festival of Lights, Deepavali is celebrated by the Hindu community in Sri Lanka. Hindu temples are decorated with lights, and homes are filled with oil lamps to symbolize the victory of light over darkness. In places like Jaffna and Colombo, tourists can join in the festivities and learn more about Hindu customs and cuisine.

4. Sri Lankan Arts, Crafts, and Dance

Sri Lanka boasts a rich artistic heritage that is reflected in its traditional dance, music, and crafts. These cultural elements are often showcased in festivals, workshops, and heritage centers.

a) Kandyan Dance

Kandyan Dance, originating from the hill capital of Kandy, is the national dance form of Sri Lanka. Known for its energetic movements, vibrant costumes, and rhythmic drumming, Kandyan Dance often depicts stories from ancient legends and Buddhist history. Many hotels and cultural centers in Kandy and Colombo offer evening performances where tourists can witness these captivating dances.

b) Mask Carving in Ambalangoda

The coastal town of Ambalangoda is renowned for its traditional mask carving. These colorful masks, used in folk dances and rituals, represent different deities, demons, and animals. Visitors can tour workshops to see artisans at work and even purchase handcrafted masks as unique souvenirs.

c) Batiks and Handloom Textiles

Sri Lankan batiks and handloom textiles are known for their vibrant colors and intricate designs. Many artisans in areas like Kandy, Galle, and Colombo specialize in these crafts, and visitors can buy batik sarongs, handwoven scarves, and other items. Tours of batik workshops allow travelers to learn about this traditional art form and try their hand at creating batik patterns.

5. Culinary Culture: Flavors of Sri Lanka

Sri Lankan cuisine is a delightful fusion of spices, flavors, and textures, influenced by local ingredients and foreign traders over centuries. Some must-try Sri Lankan dishes include:

Rice and Curry: The staple meal consisting of steamed rice served with a variety of curries made from vegetables, meat, or fish.
Hoppers: These bowl-shaped pancakes are made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often enjoyed with lunu miris (spicy onion sambal) or a fried egg.
Kottu Roti: A popular street food made by stir-frying chopped flatbread with vegetables, eggs, and meat.
Pol Sambol: A spicy condiment made from grated coconut, chili, and lime that complements many Sri Lankan dishes.

Participating in a cooking class is an excellent way to learn about Sri Lanka’s culinary culture. Many hotels and local families offer cooking classes where tourists can learn to make traditional dishes using local spices and ingredients.