Visiting a kovil near Pettah in shorts — will they lend a wrap at the gate or should I buy a sarong first?

For many urban kovils and mosques, modest dress means covered shoulders and knees, shoes off, and quiet phones. Some places keep loaner wraps or stalls sell inexpensive sarongs near the entrance — do not treat that as guaranteed everywhere. If you arrive in shorts, ask at the gate before walking in; buying a simple wrap beforehand removes the awkwardness. Hats off indoors where required, photography only if staff or signs allow, and never enter inner sanctums if asked to stay back. Mosque visits often expect women to cover hair as well — carry a light scarf. You are a guest; following the gatekeeper beats arguing fashion.