Are Sri Lankan temple monkeys aggressive?

Yes, Sri Lankan temple monkeys can be aggressive, mostly if they associate people with food. Macaques are also famous for grabbing bags, sunglasses, and little snacks straight from the hands of unaware tourists, especially at busy places.

To stay safe, do not feed them on purpose and keep everything tucked away in a zipped bag. Try not to carry obvious edibles, water bottles, or crinkling plastic bags near temples like Dambulla or Sigiriya. Also, avoid smiling with your teeth out, because macaques can read exposed teeth as a direct physical threat.