Fake guides demanding money inside Polonnaruwa ancient city

Asked about 9 hours agoViewed 1774 times
J
Jack W.3890 rep2
asked about 9 hours ago

We rented bikes for Polonnaruwa. At the first stupa, a man without a uniform started explaining the history and then aggressively demanded 3000 rupees. Is this a scam.

8
asked about 9 hours ago
J
Jack W.3890 rep2

8 Answers

Accepted Answer

Yes, this is a scam. Only Tourist Board certified guides wearing official identification badges are permitted to guide inside the archaeological site. These men are unauthorized touts. Before they even start talking, politely but firmly say "No thank you, we do not need a guide." Do not let them walk with you, or they will demand payment for their "service."

39
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answered about 9 hours ago
N
Nimali D.2710 rep1

The official guides have set rates, usually around 2000-3000 LKR for the whole complex.

50
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answered about 8 hours ago
R
Ruwan P.4210 rep1

If you actually want a guide, hire one at the main ticketing museum before you enter the park. They are regulated.

47
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answered about 9 hours ago
R
Ruwan P.4210 rep1

Never pay them. It encourages them to harass the next tourist.

46
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answered about 8 hours ago
N
Nimali D.2710 rep1

If they get aggressive, ride your bike toward one of the official ticket checkers.

28
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answered about 8 hours ago
S
Sophie T.2515 rep2

Just wear headphones while you bike around. They stop bothering you if you act like you cannot hear them.

23
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answered about 9 hours ago
S
Sophie T.2515 rep2

We gave him 500 rupees just to leave us alone.

18
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answered about 9 hours ago
J
Jack W.3890 rep2

Good to know. We will be firmer tomorrow at Sigiriya.

14
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answered about 8 hours ago
J
Jack W.3890 rep2

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