Hinduism & Tamil Culture
About 12.5% of the population are Hindus — mainly the Sri Lanka Tamils in the north and east and the Highland Tamils in the tea plantations. Sri Lanka's Hinduism is closely linked to the South Indian tradition: Shiva, Vishnu, Ganesh, and the goddess Parvati are worshipped in colorful Kovils (temples).
Visiting Hindu Temples
- Remove shoes, sometimes also leather belts
- Cover shoulders and knees
- Some sanctuaries (Sanctum Sanctorum) are accessible only to Hindus
- Walk clockwise around the temple
- Photography often allowed, but ask in the innermost area
Tamil Culture
The Tamil culture of Sri Lanka differs significantly from the Sinhalese: different language (Tamil), different script, different cuisine, different festivals. The Pongal Festival (January) and Thai Pongal are the most important holidays. In Jaffna, Tamil is the main language — a few words in Tamil (see language guide) are especially appreciated here.
