Back to the discussion

in Autres › Divers

Ganesh Tattoo in Sri Lanka

Discussion started by Maetya on 2025-09-13

3 replies

This thread has been translated into English.


Ganesh Tattoo in Sri Lanka

Maetya · 2025-09-13

hi, I’m planning to go to Sri Lanka in October. I have a Ganesh tattoo on my forearm—is this an issue in Sri Lanka the same way Buddha tattoos are? Thanks for your feedback!

Ganesh Tattoo in Sri Lanka

Djalma · 2025-09-13

Hi,

I have a Ganesh tattoo on my forearm

In Sri Lanka, Hindus are a minority (12%), mainly in the north and east of the island, and in my opinion, it won’t shock them!

Ganesh Tattoo in Sri Lanka

Mathews · 2025-09-13

hello, I’m planning to go to Sri Lanka in October. I have a Ganesh tattoo on my forearm,

good evening, I don’t think anything will happen to you. However, if you can wear a long-sleeved shirt, it’s not a bad idea. Now, you might argue that it’s not in Sri Lanka but in India where Prime Minister Modi went to Manipur state to calm inter-religious tensions. So, it doesn’t cost much to dress in a "standard" way.

Ganesh Tattoo in Sri Lanka

FabSriLanka · 2025-09-14

Hi, no problem at that level, it’s the depictions of Buddha that are forbidden (clothing/tattoos) and they really take it seriously. Same goes for selfies or photos with your back turned to a Buddha statue, which are strictly forbidden.

If you’re planning to visit the Jaffna peninsula, then cover your arms—since in that region, the locals are mainly Hindu, but to be honest, I’ve never heard of any issues like that even there.

Have a great trip!

Fabien

VoyageForum — the largest community of French-speaking travellers.