Fake guides demanding money outside Colombo museum ruins
3 Answers from travellers
No, this is not allowed. He is an unauthorized street tout. The official museum guides work inside the building and have badges. These guys prey on tourists lingering near the outdoor exhibits. If they start talking, just say no thank you and walk inside. Do not pay them anything for unsolicited information.
If they get aggressive, tell the security guards at the museum entrance. They will chase them off.
We had a guy do this at Independence Square too. We just walked away while he was talking.
Scam Watch: colombo
Driver claims the meter is broken and quotes an inflated flat rate. Common on arrival at airport or railway stations when tourists are tired and disoriented.
Drivers wearing official-looking uniforms claim to be "government-approved" and charge 3-5x normal rates. They may have fake badges or ID cards.
Women with babies approach asking you to buy milk powder at a nearby shop (not cash). The shop is run by accomplices and charges 5-10x normal price.
You must be logged in to post an answer.
Log In to AnswerRelated questions
- Getting a SIM card in Sri Lanka. Which network, how much data and where to buy?3 answers
- Fake whale watching tour scams sold in Colombo4 answers
- How much time do you need for the Colombo National Museum.2 answers
- Landing in 4 hours Negombo or Colombo for first night4 answers
- Buying food from train vendors and avoiding tourist price scams5 answers
- Avoiding tourist prices for street food in Pettah market6 answers
Join a Crew
Kandy Perahera Live Tonight
Perahera Seats, Hotels & Roads
Dalada & Perahera Culture