Top 10 Travel Scams in India & How to Avoid Them in 2025

10 Major Travel Scams in india to Avoid in 2025

When I first landed in India, I was full of excitement. The colors, the culture, the chaos — everything felt like an adventure waiting to happen. I had my itinerary packed with iconic places like the Taj Mahal, Jaipur’s palaces, and the spiritual ghats of Varanasi. But what I didn’t prepare for were the travel scams in India — the kind no guidebook talks about in detail.

It started with a taxi at the airport. The driver seemed friendly, but took me on a long detour and then demanded double the fare. A day later, a “tour guide” at a monument tried to charge me five times the regular rate — and he wasn’t even official. Another time, someone swapped my ₹500 note, claimed it was fake, and walked off with my money.

That’s when I realized: as a traveler, being aware of common tourist scams in India isn’t just helpful — it’s essential.

India is truly one of the most beautiful and enriching places I’ve visited. But to enjoy it fully, you need to stay alert and informed. In this guide, I’ll Walk you through the top 10 travel scams in India that I either faced myself or learned about from fellow travelers — and more importantly, I’ll show you how to avoid them in 2025.

Because no one should miss out on India’s magic just because of a few scams.

What are common tourist scams in India?

1. Taxi Scams in India

How They Work

I learned this one the hard way. After arriving at the airport in Delhi, I was exhausted and just wanted to get to my hotel. A man approached me offering a taxi — he looked legit. But halfway through the ride, I noticed he was taking strange backroads. By the time I reached the hotel, the fare was triple what I’d expected. Worse? He claimed I gave him a ₹100 note instead of ₹500 and refused to give the correct change.

This is one of the most common taxi travel scams in India. Some drivers purposely take longer routes, quote arbitrary fares, or pretend you didn’t give them the right amount. Others might say your hotel is closed and take you to a “friend’s” place that pays them commission.

– How to Avoid Taxi Scams in India

Use prepaid or app-based taxis like Uber, Ola, or Meru at airports and railway stations.
Avoid touts inside or outside terminals. Go directly to official taxi booths or book from your phone.
Always insist on using the meter or fix the price before you get in.
Carry small change and new currency notes to avoid fake note swap tricks.
If something feels off, don’t hesitate to get out early in a safe area and call for another cab.

Also Check this post: – Taj Mahal Travel Scams & Tips

2. Counterfeit Money Scams in India

What Tourists Should Watch Out For

This one hit me when I thought I was being smart by using a big note to pay a street vendor in Jaipur. I handed him a ₹500 bill, and with a straight face, he handed it back saying, “Sir, fake note.” At first, I panicked — had I been carrying counterfeit money? Only later did I realize that many scammers keep fake notes ready and swap the real one you gave them — making you think you’re at fault.

This scam is particularly common at local markets, taxi rides, food stalls, or small shops where there’s no receipt or camera to prove what actually happened.

– Tips to Avoid Fake Currency Issues in India

Familiarize yourself with Indian currency notes before your trip — learn to spot the watermark, security thread, and color-changing ink.
Avoid using ₹500 or ₹2000 notes in small local transactions. Instead, keep plenty of ₹100 and ₹50 notes handy.
Only exchange currency at official outlets like banks, ATMs, or authorized forex counters — never on the street.
If someone claims your note is fake, ask them to show the issue clearly or walk away and pay elsewhere.

Must Read:-  Latest Tourist Scams in Kashmir You Must Know

3. Fake Donation Scams at Temples and Tourist Spots

– How They Exploit Tourists

During my visit to a well-known temple in Varanasi, I was approached by a man in religious attire holding a large donation book and asking for a “mandatory offering” of ₹1000 for temple maintenance. Being new to the culture and surroundings, I felt pressured and paid up — only to realize later that it was a fake register, and he wasn’t even affiliated with the temple.

This kind of scam thrives on your lack of familiarity and the emotional guilt of saying no in a sacred or historic place. Tourists are often targeted at famous temples, ghats, monuments, and religious events, where scammers blend in as volunteers or priests.

– How to Verify Legitimate Donations

Look for official donation counters or boxes with proper signage, ideally located inside the temple premises.
Always ask for an official receipt if you’re donating more than a small amount. Legitimate organizations will always provide one.
Don’t feel forced to donate if someone approaches you directly — most real places of worship never demand donations in public.
When in doubt, politely decline and walk away. You can always donate online or at the official office later.

4. Pickpocketing in Crowded Areas

– Common Tactics Used

While exploring Chandni Chowk in Delhi during peak hours, I was surrounded by a bustling crowd, colorful stalls, and the scent of street food. Amidst the chaos, a man accidentally bumped into me and dropped his bag. I bent down instinctively to help him. Within seconds, I realized my wallet was gone from my back pocket. I had just fallen for one of the oldest and most effective distraction tricks.

Pickpockets in India are highly skilled and usually work in teams. Common tactics include:

• Bumping into you intentionally to distract.
• Someone “accidentally” spilling something on you while another lifts your belongings.
• Creating a commotion or argument to divert your attention.
• Children begging while slyly reaching into your bags or pockets.

These scams are especially common at railway stations, markets, festivals, metro stations, and tourist hotspots.

– Prevention Tips

Avoid keeping valuables in back pockets or easily accessible bags.
Use a money belt or an anti-theft backpack with hidden zippers.
Divide your cash and cards into separate places (wallet, shoe, inner pocket).
Stay alert in crowded spaces and keep your bag zipped up at all times.
Trust your gut—if someone seems too close or odd, take a step back.

5. Fake Tour Guides at Monuments and Forts

– How to Identify Real Guides

When I visited the Red Fort in Delhi, a friendly man approached me saying he was a guide and could show me “hidden secrets” not in any book. He sounded convincing, but something felt off. I asked for his ID card — he didn’t have one. I quickly realized he was just pretending.

In many tourist places like forts, palaces, and historical spots, some people pretend to be guides. They approach tourists, offer cheap rates, and promise exciting stories. But often, they don’t know much or may even give you wrong information. Some might even overcharge or ask for more money later.

– Safer Alternatives

Always look for official tour guides — they wear ID badges and are registered.
Buy a ticket that includes a guide or ask at the ticket counter for an approved one.
Use trusted audio guides or apps that provide real facts and stories.
You can also join a group tour by a known travel company. It’s safe and informative.

Check this out– Latest Tourist Scams in Varanasi You Must Know Before Visiting

6. Beggar Gangs and Child Exploitation Scams

– How It Works

While walking around tourist spots in cities like Mumbai, Jaipur, Varanasi, and even Goa, you’ll likely be approached by young children or women holding babies, asking for money. It might seem like an act of kindness to give them a few coins — but sadly, many of these are organized begging rackets.

In many cases, the children don’t keep the money. They are part of a larger network run by gang leaders who force them to beg. You’ll also notice that some of them wear fake bandages, carry borrowed infants, or repeat the same sad story to every tourist. These acts are designed to make you feel sympathy.

Giving money, unfortunately, encourages the system and keeps these children trapped.

– What to Do Instead of Giving Money

If you want to help, offer food or water instead of cash.
Support a local charity or NGO that works with street children or women in need.
Avoid encouraging begging — even if it feels harsh. It helps break the cycle.
Keep small essentials like packaged biscuits or fruit in your bag to give, if needed.

7. Fake Doctors and Medical Scams

– Dangers of Unlicensed Practitioners

Getting sick or needing medical help while traveling is stressful — and unfortunately, some scammers take advantage of this. In many cities across India, especially near railway stations, bus stands, and tourist hubs, you may find unqualified people pretending to be doctors.

These fake doctors often wear white coats, sit in small clinics with no proper setup, and promise quick cures. But in reality, they may give wrong medicines, expired drugs, or even injections that can harm you. In rural areas or roadside “medical shops,” the chances of falling into this trap are even higher.

Visiting such places puts your health at serious risk, and it can cost you a lot more later if things go wrong.

– How to Find Verified Medical Help

Use Google Maps, Practo, or Justdial to find verified clinics and hospitals with good reviews.
Go to big-name hospitals or government hospitals, especially in larger cities like Delhi, Bangalore, or Chennai.
Always ask to see the doctor’s ID or medical registration number.
If you’re unsure, contact your embassy or hotel reception — they often have lists of trusted hospitals for tourists.

8. Flag Pin Scam by Street Vendors

– What Happens and Where

This scam usually happens near metro stations, tourist sites, and public bridges. You may see women or street vendors holding small Indian flag pins or stickers. They walk up to you, quickly pin a flag on your shirt — often without asking — and then demand a “donation” in return.

They might say it’s for a patriotic cause, a festival, or helping soldiers — but in reality, this is just a trick to get money. Some tourists feel pressured, especially when a small crowd forms or when the vendor becomes aggressive.

This can happen in cities like Mumbai, Jaipur, Varanasi, and Delhi, but it’s not limited to just one location — it’s common across many parts of India.

– How to Handle the Situation

If someone approaches you with a pin, walk away confidently.
Use headphones, act like you’re on a phone call, or avoid eye contact.
Do not hand over money, even if they pinned the flag — you didn’t agree to it.
If things get uncomfortable, walk toward a police officer or crowded area.
Remember: real donation drives never force people or work this way.

9. Fake Police or Road Fee Scam

– When to Demand a Receipt

When you’re traveling in India — especially by taxi or auto from an airport, railway station, or even while entering a new city — you might suddenly be stopped by someone dressed like a police officer. They might say things like:

• “You need to pay a road entry fee here.”
• “There’s a special tax for out-of-state vehicles.”
• “Your driver has violated a rule; pay the fine to continue.”

In most cases, the person will act very confidently and seem official. But if they don’t give you a proper receipt, that’s a major warning sign. Many travelers, especially first-timers, believe them and end up paying ₹100 to ₹500 without knowing it’s a scam.

Always remember: if it’s a real fine or toll, the officer or official will issue a printed receipt or challan. You can even ask for their ID card or badge number — honest officers won’t hesitate to show it.

– How to Differentiate Real from Fake

Here are some simple ways to tell if the person stopping you is genuine or a scammer:

Uniform Check: Real police uniforms are clean, have proper name tags, and match local police colors. Fake ones may look messy, incomplete, or odd.

Ask for ID: All government officers must carry an official ID. You have the right to ask for it before giving any money.

Official Receipt: No matter what they ask for — tax, fine, toll — if they can’t give you an official bill or printed receipt, don’t pay.

Behaviour: Real officers won’t shout, threaten, or force you to pay instantly. Scammers try to scare you or pressure you to pay fast.

Driver Knows Best: If you’re in a cab or rickshaw, ask your driver. Local drivers often know where real checkposts are and will warn you if it’s fake.

10. Checkpost Luggage Theft Scam

– Where it Happens

One of the most frustrating scams in India involves luggage theft at busy locations like railway stations, bus terminals, and airport entrances. These areas are often crowded with people rushing to get to their destinations, making them perfect targets for thieves.

Here’s how it works:
When you pass through security or scanning areas (checkposts), there are often people nearby who seem like they are also waiting in line or minding their own business. But when you put your bag through the scanner, someone may quickly grab your luggage and disappear into the crowd. By the time you realize it, it’s too late.

Such thefts are common at places like:

• Major railway stations (especially during peak hours).
• Bus terminals in big cities.
• Airports when you’re in busy areas like luggage belts or entry points.

– How to Keep Your Belongings Safe

Here are some helpful tips to keep your belongings safe and avoid falling victim to this scam:

Always Keep an Eye on Your Luggage: If you’re going through a scanner or checkpost, stay close to your belongings. Never let them out of your sight.

Use Locks or Anti-Theft Bags: Invest in a lock for your suitcase or bag to make it harder for thieves to steal. Anti-theft backpacks with hidden zippers are also a great option.

Go Through Checkpoints with a Friend: If possible, have someone else go through the scanner while you stay with the bags. This way, you can make sure no one else grabs them.

Stay Alert in Crowded Areas: Thieves often rely on crowds to hide their actions. Try to stay calm and be aware of people moving around you. If someone bumps into you or makes sudden movements, hold on tight to your things.

Avoid Carrying Valuables in Easily Accessible Areas: Keep your important items like passports, money, and electronics in secure pockets or money belts that are hard for anyone to reach.

Report Immediately: If your luggage is stolen, immediately report it to the nearest police station or the security desk at the station/airport. Quick action can sometimes help recover your belongings.

Bonus Tips: General Safety Advice for Tourists in India

Conclusion: Stay Informed, Stay Safe While Traveling in India

Traveling in India offers an incredible adventure, with its rich culture, diverse landscapes, and vibrant cities. However, as with any popular tourist destination, there are certain risks to be aware of. By staying informed about the common travel scams and adopting simple safety practices, you can ensure that your experience is both enjoyable and secure.

Remember, scams like taxi frauds, pickpocketing, and counterfeit money can happen anywhere, but with a little caution and vigilance, you can easily avoid falling victim. Always trust authorized services, stay alert in crowded places, and respect local customs to navigate India safely.

By following the tips and strategies outlined in this guide, you’ll be better prepared to protect yourself, your belongings, and your well-being while exploring the wonders of India. Safe travels!

FAQs: India Travel Scams

1. Will I get my money back after being scammed in India?

Getting your money back depends on the scam type and how quickly you report it. You can file complaints with the police or consumer protection authorities for possible recovery.

2. What are common travel scams?

Travel scams in India include fake taxis, overpriced hotel rooms, fraudulent ticket sales, and unlicensed guides. These scams typically target tourists and can lead to financial loss.

3. What are the latest scams in India?

Recent scams in India include online shopping frauds, fake job offers, ATM skimming, and phishing emails. Scammers are also targeting travelers through fake travel agencies offering unreal deals.

4. How do you know if a travel agent is scamming you?

Red flags include too-good-to-be-true offers, lack of transparency, pressure to book quickly, and no customer reviews or official website. Scammers often ask for payment through untraceable methods.

5. What should I do if I get scammed in India?

Stay calm, document the incident, report to local authorities, notify your bank, and share your experience to warn others. Prompt action can help mitigate further loss.

6. Are these scams common in all Indian cities?

While scams can happen anywhere, tourist-heavy cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Goa see more frequent scams due to a higher influx of visitors. However, caution is needed in all locations.

7. How to not get scammed in India?

Use reputable services, avoid deals that seem too good to be true, and ensure you’re exchanging currency through authorized channels. Trust your instincts and stay aware of common scams.

David Hoper

Meet David Hoper, a passionate travel Blog writer with 7+ years of experience in travel content. Through his exemplary storytelling and engaging narratives, he shares his experiences and brings destinations to life. With a keen eye for detail and a love for exploration, he has cultivated a diverse portfolio of travel blogs that inspire and inform readers worldwide.