Macaque monkeys disrupting open air Ashtanga practice near Sigiriya
3 Answers from travellers
Toque macaques are highly curious and opportunistic. First, ensure there is absolutely no food, sweet drinks, or shiny objects (like phones or jewelry) near your mat. They associate humans with food. If they approach, do not make sudden aggressive movements. You can ask the lodge staff to stand by; they usually carry a slingshot. They never shoot the monkeys, but simply snapping the rubber band creates a sound that instantly scares them away.
If a monkey bares its teeth at you, do not smile back! In primate language, showing teeth is a sign of aggression or fear, and they might take your smile as a threat.
A monkey literally stole my wooden mala beads right off the corner of my mat yesterday. You really have to keep your eyes open during practice.
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