I usually approach it like this.
Nattily dressed passers-by or friendly tuk-tuk drivers will speak to you in very fluent English as you wander around the temple. “Where are you going? Oh, the Grand Palace? It’s closed this morning for the King of Thailand’s ceremony (or cleaning).”
“Instead, there is a ‘Lucky Buddha’ temple that is specially open today only. I will give you a ride there and to the government-run jewelry center (or silk shop) very cheaply.” It is said.
If you follow them, they are usually jewelry stores or custom suit shops that are charging exorbitant prices. If you buy something there, the driver receives a kickback (commission).
Why is it so easy to be fooled?
He doesn’t look like a fraudster. When a good-looking uncle or a decent old man pretends to genuinely help, you ask, “Huh? Is this really true?” And I believe it.
Sometimes you can be fooled by showing a fake ID or wearing a uniform similar to that of a police officer.
How to deal with it
Go to the entrance first: Don’t believe anything anyone says until you see it closed with your own eyes. When you get to the entrance, 99% of the time there are tourists waiting in line to get in.
Check Google Maps & Official Website: These days, real-time business hours and reviews are posted very well on Google Maps. If it doesn’t say “Closed”, just move on.
firmly but politely: Just say “No, thank you. I’ll just check it out myself.” and go on your way. Don’t worry, it won’t stick.
Grab rather than tuk-tuk: Grab or Bolt, which are called via apps, are much safer than tuk-tuks negotiated on the street. The driver takes you to your destination without any fraud.