How to avoid the fruit basket scam at Kataragama temple.

To avoid this, absolutely refuse to touch or accept any basket until you have explicitly negotiated and firmly agreed upon the final price. A standard, modest offering basket should realistically cost around 1000 to 1500 LKR maximum.

Never hand them a large bill like a 5000 LKR note, as they will often claim they do not have change and refuse to give your money back. Always carry exact change when visiting the temple stalls.