India is a land of wonders, culture, colors, and chaos. While the majority of travel experiences are filled with joy, beauty, and kindness, there’s a small percentage where things can go wrong. Travel scams are real, especially in tourist-heavy spots.
But don’t worry, awareness is your best protection. Here’s a guide to the most common scams in India — and how to avoid falling for them.
1. 🎫 The Fake Ticket Seller Scam
At places like railway stations or monuments, some people pretend to be official ticket vendors.
How it works:
They offer you “express entry” or “last-minute” tickets and vanish after taking your money.
How to avoid:
➡️ Buy tickets from official counters or government portals like IRCTC or ASI.
➡️ Avoid anyone who approaches you first.
2. 🚖 The Rigged Taxi Meter or Overcharging Drivers
How it works:
Taxi or auto drivers say “meter is broken” or take longer routes to increase fares.
How to avoid:
➡️ Use apps like Uber or Ola.
➡️ If using an offline taxi/auto, negotiate before the ride.
3. 🛕 The “Temple Donation” Trap
How it works:
You’re led into a temple and asked to make an “urgent donation for blessings” — sometimes forcefully.
How to avoid:
➡️ Visit well-known temples.
➡️ Politely decline and walk away if pressured.
4. 🧙♂️ The Fake Monk or Sadhu Scam
How it works:
Someone in holy attire blesses you and then demands a large donation or threatens bad luck.
How to avoid:
➡️ Don’t hand over money to anyone unless you truly wish to.
➡️ Blessings should never come with a price.
5. 🏨 The “Your Hotel is Closed” Trick
How it works:
A driver or guide tells you that your pre-booked hotel is “closed” or “full,” and takes you to a more expensive hotel where they get commission.
How to avoid:
➡️ Always call your hotel in advance.
➡️ Stick to your booking — don’t trust strangers.
6. 👜 The Luggage Help Scam
How it works:
At stations or airports, someone offers to help with your bag and demands a large tip later, sometimes creating a scene.
How to avoid:
➡️ Politely decline any help.
➡️ Keep your luggage close and carry your own.
7. 💸 The Currency Exchange Scam
How it works:
Unlicensed exchangers give you fake notes or bad rates.
How to avoid:
➡️ Exchange money only at official banks or ATMs.
➡️ Always count your money before leaving the counter.
8. 💊 The “Spiked Food or Drink” Trick
How it works:
In some rare but serious cases, friendly strangers offer food or drink, which might be laced to rob you.
How to avoid:
➡️ Never accept food or drinks from strangers.
➡️ Stick to packaged or verified sources.
✅ Final Tips to Stay Safe:
- 📲 Keep a local SIM and share your live location with a friend or family.
- 📷 Don’t flash expensive gadgets in crowded areas.
- 🚶 Stick to trusted transport and avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar places.
- 💳 Carry minimum cash, and use cards or UPI where possible.
🙌 Conclusion
India is one of the most incredible places on Earth — and with a little awareness, your journey will be smooth, safe, and unforgettable.
Just remember: if it feels too good to be true, it probably is. Stay alert, stay kind, and enjoy the ride!
