Photography rules for ancient ruins and temples in Anuradhapura

Asked about 2 months agoSeen by 1,978 travellers14 found this helpful
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Noah D.8465 rep2
asked about 2 months ago

I want to take photos of the giant stupas in Anuradhapura. Are there restrictions on using tripods or taking photos with monks.

14
asked about 2 months ago
N
Noah D.8465 rep2

8 Answers from travellers

Accepted Answer

Standard photography is fine, but commercial tripod use requires a Central Cultural Fund permit. The absolute golden rule is NEVER pose with your back turned to a Buddha statue or stupa. If you want a photo, stand sideways. Also, do not take photos of monks without respectfully asking them first. Drones are strictly banned without military and CAA clearance.

24
answered about 2 months ago
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Dr. Nimal.17240 rep1

Wear slip-on shoes. You will be taking them off constantly to enter the photo zones.

49
answered about 2 months ago
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Dr. Nimal.24730 rep1

I saw guards force a tourist to delete selfies because their back was to the Ruwanwelisaya stupa.

48
answered about 2 months ago
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Emma L.8640 rep2

Thanks, I will stick to respectful landscape shots and leave the tripod in the hotel.

48
answered about 2 months ago
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Noah D.8465 rep2

Can I use a flash inside the smaller image houses.

42
answered about 2 months ago
N
Noah D.8465 rep2

Make sure you take your hat off when photographing on the sandy compounds around the temples.

17
answered about 2 months ago
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Dr. Nimal.24730 rep1

Also, do not climb onto any ruined brick walls to get a better angle. It is highly illegal.

15
answered about 2 months ago
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Emma L.8640 rep2

Absolutely no flash inside painted image houses. It destroys the ancient natural pigments.

8
answered about 2 months ago
D
Dr. Nimal.17240 rep1

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