Last updated November 2026. This guide covers widely reported patterns, not every situation. Read how we check facts in our editorial policy.
Arrival and transport scams
- “Your hotel is closed, full or burnt down.” A driver or stranger says your hotel is unavailable and offers another, where he earns commission. Call the hotel yourself and insist on your address.
- Fake tourist information offices. Shops near stations and in central Delhi use official-sounding names and sell overpriced tours. Genuine government tourist offices do not approach you on the street.
- “The ticket office has moved” or “your train is cancelled.” Touts at big stations redirect travellers to private agents. Check your train in the official app or at the station’s own counters. See how to book trains as a foreigner.
- Taxi meter and route tricks. Use Uber, Ola or the prepaid counter, where the fare is fixed in advance. See getting around Indian cities.
Shopping and money scams
- The gem export deal. You are asked to carry or post gems for resale at a profit back home. The stones are close to worthless. Never buy anything as an investment.
- Commission shops. A driver’s “quick stop” at a craft emporium is a commission visit. Say no before the trip starts.
- Wrong change and switched notes. Count your change, and say the value of the note aloud as you hand it over.
- Card and ATM tricks. Keep your card in sight and use ATMs attached to banks. See how to pay in India.
- SIM card overcharging. Buy from an official operator store. See SIM cards for tourists.
Sightseeing scams
- Unofficial guides and “students”. Friendly helpers at monuments expect a large tip or lead you to a shop. Hire licensed guides at the ticket office.
- Fake ticket sellers. Buy monument tickets only at the official counter or website. See Taj Mahal tickets for foreigners.
- Temple donation pressure. Someone gives you a blessing, flowers or a thread, then demands a large donation. Decline politely or give a small amount of your choosing.
- Paid photos. Ask before photographing performers, animals or holy men, and agree any fee first.
What to do if it happens
Stay calm, say no firmly and walk away. Most situations end there. For theft or serious fraud, go to the police and ask for a written report, which you will need for an insurance claim. See our travel insurance guide and is India safe for tourists.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most common scam in India?
Being told your hotel, train or ticket office is closed or cancelled, so that you can be taken to a different hotel or travel agent that pays commission.
Is Delhi bad for tourist scams?
Scams are most common around major arrival points such as New Delhi railway station and the airport. Booking your own transport and ignoring touts avoids most of them.
How do I avoid taxi scams in India?
Use Uber or Ola, or the official prepaid taxi counter at airports and stations, so the fare is fixed before you travel.
