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Ancient ruins and temples photography rules and regulations

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Nuwan P.•5905 rep•2

I am visiting Polonnaruwa tomorrow What are the cultural rules for photographing ancient ruins and statues so I do not offend anyone

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3 Answers from travellers

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The most important cultural rule in Sri Lanka is that you must NEVER take a photo posing with your back turned to a Buddha statue, even if it is a ruin. This is considered deeply disrespectful. You must stand sideways or face the statue. Also, remove your hat and shoes when standing on the sandy compounds, and turn off your camera flash.

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Anusha K.•5005 rep•2

The guards are super strict. I saw someone forced to delete selfies because their back was to the statue at Gal Vihara.

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Sarah M.•3930 rep•2

Do not climb onto the ruined brick walls to get a better angle either. That is highly illegal.

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David C.•6635 rep•2

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