I was lucky enough to spend some time working in Sri Lanka as a youth, and therefore soaked up some indiginous culture, that being the co-exhistence of Christian, Muslim, Buddhist and Hindu traditions.
I found the differences to be quite striking. Hindu festivals which were lively and carnival like, similar to Christian mas festivals, whith food offerings to deities; Muslim devotion, which was dignified and devoted; and the introspective observances of Buddhism
Apparently the the country observes an orthodox version of Buddhism called Hinayana, which differs from the sects that have developed over time in other coutnries like Tibet & Japan. It has a long history/connection with the sources of Buddhism. I 've been to visit the Bo tree in the ancient city of Anuradapura which is supposed to be grown from a cutting of the tree that Gautama achieved enlightenment under.
This tree is so big, and spread out that there are iron crutches supporting the weight of it's limbs. It's supposed to be over 2,000 years old. Interestingly, its leaf (the Bo Leaf) is a symbol which is utilized as a decoration on the national flag, and is sold as a charm to wear on a chain around your neck, much like a Christian wears a crucifix.
Interesting reading is found at:
http://www.country-studies.com/sri-lanka/buddhism.html from which I grabbed this quote:
In Sri Lanka, people do not officially worship the Buddha, but show reverence to his memory.
I found that the meditative reflection on Buddha, especially during the full moon evenings (Poya days) at the local temples, to be quite serene and attractive.
Check out these items too if you want to read more:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinayana
http://buddhism.kalachakranet.org/vehicles.html