Photography rules for ancient temple ruins and Kandy sites
5 Answers from travellers
Outdated Information: This answer is over 6 months old. Prices, schedules, or availability may have changed. Please verify current information before making travel plans.
The most important cultural rule in Sri Lanka is that you must NEVER take a photo posing with your back turned to a Buddha statue, even if it is a ruin. This is considered deeply disrespectful. You must stand sideways or face the statue. Also, remove your hat and shoes when standing on the sandy compounds, and turn off your camera flash to protect ancient pigments.
Yes, as long as it is a standard tripod and you do not block the path of pilgrims.
The guards are super strict. I saw someone forced to delete selfies because their back was to the statue at Gal Vihara.
Do not climb onto the ruined brick walls to get a better angle either. That is highly illegal.
Scam Watch: kandy
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.
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).
You must be logged in to post an answer.
Log in to answerRelated questions
- Photography rules inside Kandy culture temples3 answers
- Photography rules for ancient temple ruins and Kandy sites5 answers
- Sri Lankan wedding ceremony etiquette as tourist guest invited4 answers
- Temple and religious site etiquette in Sri Lanka — what do I need to know to avoid offending anyone?2 answers
- Visiting ancient temples in Kandy and respectful culture rules6 answers
- Photography rules and dress codes for visiting ancient temple ruins3 answers
Join a Crew
Kandy Perahera Live Tonight
Perahera Seats, Hotels & Roads
Dalada & Perahera Culture