Common Scams Around Kandy's Temple of the Tooth

Kandy's Temple of the Tooth, or Sri Dalada Maligawa, is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka, and its popularity means a steady flow of tourists around Kandy Lake. Most visitors have a peaceful, moving experience, but a handful of scams have become common enough to name.

Around the temple gates

The most frequent hustle is the "helpful stranger" who offers to guide you to the entrance, insists on carrying your shoes, or points you toward a specific ticket counter, then demands payment afterward. Buy your ticket directly at the official counter near the entrance and politely decline unsolicited guiding. A second version involves someone claiming the temple is closed for a special ceremony, then offering an alternative tour elsewhere for a fee. The temple's regular hours are reliable; check them yourself rather than trusting a stranger's claim.

Along Kandy Lake and the clock tower

Gem scams are Kandy's specialty. Friendly locals near the lake or clock tower strike up conversation, mention a family gem shop, and offer a "too good to miss" deal on sapphires or moonstones. Prices are inflated and stones are often low quality or synthetic. If you want gems, visit the Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Authority's showroom or a certified dealer instead of following a stranger's tip.

Trishaw drivers around the lake sometimes quote a fixed high price for short hops, banking on tourists not knowing the walk from the train station to the temple takes under fifteen minutes. Dress modestly, cover shoulders and knees, remove shoes and hats before entering, and keep valuables close in the crowded evening puja. A little skepticism and a bit of research go a long way toward keeping this beautiful site enjoyable.