Photography rules for visiting ancient temple ruins

Asked about 7 hours agoViewed 815 times
S
Sophia M.2280 rep2
asked about 7 hours ago

I am visiting Polonnaruwa tomorrow. What are the cultural rules for photographing ancient ruins and statues so I do not offend anyone.

5
asked about 7 hours ago
S
Sophia M.2280 rep2

8 Answers

Accepted Answer

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.

10
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answered about 7 hours ago
B
Bhante S.2135 rep2

Do not climb onto the ruined brick walls to get a better angle either. That is highly illegal.

35
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answered about 7 hours ago
D
Dr. Nimal.2480 rep2

Yes, as long as it is a standard tripod and you do not block the path of pilgrims.

20
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answered about 6 hours ago
B
Bhante S.2135 rep2

Also, no drones are allowed over the cultural triangle sites without military clearance.

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answered about 6 hours ago
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Dr. Nimal.2480 rep2

Great list. No backward selfies, no drones, thick socks.

16
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answered about 6 hours ago
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Sophia M.2280 rep2

Can we use a tripod at the ruins.

15
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answered about 7 hours ago
S
Sophia M.2280 rep2

Bring thick socks! That sand gets boiling hot by noon when you have to take your shoes off.

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answered about 6 hours ago
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Noah D.19595 rep2

The guards are super strict. I saw someone forced to delete selfies because their back was to the statue at Gal Vihara.

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answered about 7 hours ago
N
Noah D.19595 rep2

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