Safety Information & Guidelines

Do not turn your back to a Buddha statue when taking photos or selfies.

Do not pose mockingly next to, touch, or climb on sacred Buddhist monuments.

Do not display visible tattoos of Buddha or dress in clothing/jewelry featuring Buddhist imagery.

Do not enter temples with shoes on or with uncovered shoulders and knees.

Do not expect to buy alcohol on Poya days (monthly full moon public holidays).

Do not take photos of military bases, government buildings, checkpoints, or official personnel.

Do not walk anywhere without your physical photo ID or passport copy, as authorities can legally detain you for validation.

Do not wander off main roads in the Northern or Eastern Provinces due to residual, marked, or unmarked landmine zones.

Do not smoke or consume alcohol in public spaces outside designated bars, hotels, and restaurants.

Do not carry, use, or purchase recreational drugs, as penalties include mandatory long-term imprisonment.

Do not drink tap water under any circumstances; rely strictly on sealed bottles or filtered stations.

Do not swim at unmonitored beaches when red warning flags are flying due to highly unpredictable, dangerous riptides.

Do not swim or wade in rivers or estuaries without checking with locals due to indigenous crocodile populations.

Do not attempt to cross or drive through floodwaters during heavy monsoon rains.

Do not pet or feed stray street animals, monkeys, or bats due to the high risk of rabies transmission.

Do not hail unmetered tuk-tuks off the street without locking in a fixed rate beforehand.

Do not share taxis or ride-hails with strangers or let drivers pick up extra passengers along the route.

Do not leave food or drinks unattended at clubs or bars due to localized reports of drink spiking.

Do not rent or drive a vehicle yourself unless you are highly experienced with aggressive, fast-paced local traffic dynamics.