Photography rules for ancient temple ruins and Kandy sites
5 Answers from travellers
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).
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