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My tuk-tuk driver insists on taking me to a "special Gem Museum" for free. Is this a trap?

Seen by 154 travellers
M
Miguel•10 rep•2

We are in Kandy and our driver keeps offering to take us to a "Government Approved Gem Museum" or a "Wood Carving Factory" on the way to the Botanical Gardens. He says the entry is free and it's an educational tour.

I feel like there's a catch. Will we be pressured to buy jewelry? Is this a legit museum?

0
kandyScamsTukTukshoppinggems

1 Answer from travellers

Verified Local Expert

You are right to be suspicious, this is the oldest trick in the book!

The Scam: These are not real museums; they are private jewelry showrooms. The "tour" is 5 minutes of looking at a mine replica, followed by 30 minutes of high-pressure sales tactics in the showroom.

The Motivation: Your driver gets a commission (sometimes 10-20% of whatever you buy, or a cash fee just for bringing you in). That is why he is pushing it so hard.

Advice: If you have zero interest in buying expensive jewelry, firmly say "No shopping, direct to the gardens only." If you do want to buy gems, go to a reputable dealer in Colombo or Galle Fort and ask for a National Gem & Jewellery Authority (NGJA) certificate. Do not buy from these roadside "museums", the markups are huge to cover the driver's commission.

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Viraj Perera
Viraj Perera•353 rep•2

Scam Watch: kandy

Gem Museum Commission ScamVerified

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.

👍 38•by virajperera
Unofficial Temple Guide ScamVerified

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).

👍 34•by virajperera
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