Buying alcohol in Colombo during the Vesak Poya festival
3 Answers from travellers
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No. Vesak is the most sacred Buddhist festival of the year. The government mandates a strict countrywide ban on the sale of alcohol and meat, usually for two days. Even 5-star hotel bars, beach clubs, and hotel minibars are legally required to be locked. Do not attempt to buy alcohol illegally; respect the culture and enjoy the illuminated street lanterns instead.
We brought some duty-free liquor with us, which is fine to drink inside your private hotel room.
Do not take your duty-free drinks onto the street or beach. The police will confiscate it and fine you heavily.
Scam Watch: colombo
Driver claims the meter is broken and quotes an inflated flat rate. Common on arrival at airport or railway stations when tourists are tired and disoriented.
Drivers wearing official-looking uniforms claim to be "government-approved" and charge 3-5x normal rates. They may have fake badges or ID cards.
Women with babies approach asking you to buy milk powder at a nearby shop (not cash). The shop is run by accomplices and charges 5-10x normal price.
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