Dress code for meditation retreats in Kandy temples
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Yes. If you are staying at a temple or an authentic Buddhist meditation center (like Nilambe), wearing pure white clothing is absolutely mandatory. It symbolizes purity and humility. You will need loose, comfortable white trousers (no shorts) and white t-shirts covering your shoulders. You can easily and cheaply buy these in Kandy town at any textile shop before you arrive.
Make sure it is actual cotton! Sitting in polyester in the heat for hours is miserable.
Buy a white shawl too, it helps when the early mornings get chilly during meditation.
You will also be barefoot 90% of the time, so just bring simple flip flops to leave at the door.
Small, discreet logos are usually fine, but totally plain is preferred by the monks.
Scam Watch: kandy
TukTuk or tour drivers take you to "gem museums" or "government-certified" gem shops. They receive huge commissions (up to 40%) on anything you buy. Prices are inflated 3-10x the actual value.
Men approach tourists near Temple of the Tooth offering to be guides. After the tour, they demand large "donations" or guide fees (5000-10000 LKR).
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