3 Answers from travellers
If you want to purchase genuine traditional Kandyan dancing costumes, the absolute best place is the Kandyan Art Association and Cultural Centre located right next to Kandy Lake.
They sell incredibly high quality, artisan crafted metallic headdresses, brass jewelry, and the intricate beaded chest pieces exactly like the ones worn by the professional performers in the evening shows.
You can also find specialized tailor shops in the small streets behind the Temple of the Tooth. These shops supply the local dance academies and can custom make the white and red ruffled garments to fit you perfectly.
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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