What are the cultural taboos when giving gifts in Sri Lanka?

To travel to Sri Lanka and prepare some small gifts – that's a fantastic idea! The locals are truly friendly and will be very happy to receive gifts. However, there are indeed a few small details to pay attention to. Knowing these will help your good intentions be better conveyed.

Here are some key points for you to note, just keep them in mind, don't feel too much pressure:

1. The "Sacred Right Hand" Principle

This is the most, most, most important rule, you must remember it! Whether you're handing over a gift, receiving something, eating, or shaking hands, please always use your right hand. If the gift is heavy, you can support it with your right hand and steady it with your left, or simply use both hands to present it. In local culture, the left hand is generally considered "unclean," used for personal hygiene matters, so handing things with the left hand is very impolite.

2. What to pay attention to regarding the gift itself?

Avoid giving alcohol: Sri Lanka is a multi-religious country, and many people are devout Buddhists or Muslims who do not drink alcohol. Unless you are absolutely certain your friend enjoys it, it's best not to give alcoholic beverages.
Be cautious with "cow-related" items: Many Sri Lankans practice Hinduism, and cows are sacred in their culture. Therefore, cowhide products such as belts, wallets, or leather shoes should be avoided as gifts. To be safe, it's better to give items made of other materials. Similarly, pork products should also be avoided due to the Muslim community.
Do not give sharp objects like knives, scissors, or needles: This is similar to some of our traditional beliefs; they also feel that such items carry the negative connotation of "cutting off relationships."
Do not give cash directly: Handing cash directly to someone might be misunderstood as charity or looking down on the other person, which can be very awkward. If it's for an occasion like a wedding, you can place the money in a beautiful envelope.

3. Packaging and color considerations

It's best to wrap the gift: This shows that you value the gift.
Avoid black and white: These two colors are usually associated with funerals, mourning, and other negative things locally. So, try to choose bright, vibrant colors for wrapping paper, such as red, green, or gold, which represent joy and good fortune.

4. Unspoken rules when giving and receiving gifts

They might not open it in front of you: After receiving your gift, they will likely set it aside and open it after the guests have left. Please don't misunderstand; this is absolutely not because they dislike or don't value your gift! On the contrary, it's a form of politeness, to avoid making the giver feel awkward due to the gift's value or personal preferences. So, if they don't open it immediately, you should take it in stride.
Be humble: When presenting the gift, you can say "a small token of my appreciation" (一点小心意) to appear more modest and polite.

So, what gifts are good to give?

Specialties from your hometown: These are the most popular! For example, some small Chinese characteristic handicrafts, tea, silk scarves, or picture albums showcasing your hometown's scenery – these are very thoughtful.
Candies, chocolates, biscuits: Sweets are a universal language, especially suitable for families with children; they will be super happy.
Small gifts for children: If you visit a friend's home, bringing some stationery or small toys for their children will make the parents feel very touched.
High-quality tea: Although Sri Lanka is a major tea-producing country, giving some good Chinese tea as a cultural exchange is also an excellent choice.

All in all, Sri Lankans are very simple and warm-hearted; they value your sincerity more. As long as you bring a sincere smile and observe the basic etiquette mentioned above, your gift will surely touch their hearts. Relax and enjoy your trip!