Bus conductor luggage fee rules in Kandy Scam or real
7 Answers from travellers
This is actually NOT a scam. It is standard CTB public bus policy. Red government buses and local blue buses do not have undercarriage luggage compartments. If your bag is massive and takes up a physical seat or blocks the narrow standing aisle, the conductor is legally allowed to charge you for an extra passenger seat. Just pay it so you do not have to hold 20kg on your lap.
Always ask for the printed machine ticket to ensure the extra seat price is legit.
If you keep your bag on your lap the entire ride, they cannot charge you anything.
If it is rush hour (like 2 PM), the conductor will simply refuse to let you on the bus at all with giant bags.
Try to sit near the front driver cabin. You can sometimes rest the bag on the hot engine cover for free.
Scam Watch: kandy
TukTuk or tour drivers take you to "gem museums" or "government-certified" gem shops. They receive huge commissions (up to 40%) on anything you buy. Prices are inflated 3-10x the actual value.
Men approach tourists near Temple of the Tooth offering to be guides. After the tour, they demand large "donations" or guide fees (5000-10000 LKR).
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