How to avoid spicy food in Sri Lanka.

If you have absolutely zero tolerance for chili, you must communicate this very clearly. The most effective phrase to use is Sere Ne, which means No Spice in Sinhala. However, because many traditional local curries are cooked in massive batches early in the morning, the chefs cannot simply remove the spice later. Your safest strategy is to order foods cooked completely fresh on the spot. Order a plain Hopper, mild Coconut Roti, or a Vegetable Kottu, and insist they do not add any chili powder or green chilies while preparing it.