Wearing shorts while walking around Colombo during Poya
3 Answers from travellers
While walking on the street, tourists in shorts are generally tolerated. However, during Vesak, the entire city is essentially an extended religious zone. You will see locals entirely dressed in white. Out of respect, it is highly recommended to wear lightweight, breathable long pants. If you try to enter any temple or sacred zone in shorts, you will be denied entry.
I wore a long linen skirt and it was perfectly cool in the heat, and I did not have to worry about temple rules.
Also, avoid wearing hats or caps while walking past monks or through the pandol viewing areas.
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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