Tourist scams in Delhi (and how to avoid them)
Going to Delhi? These are the 4 scams travelers report the most, in plain words, with the quick move that gets you out of each one.
Part of 21,000+ scam warnings and traveler tips from travelers worldwide, growing every day.
Delhi · most reported
“Your hotel is closed/full”
A prepaid-taxi or auto driver diverts you to a hotel that pays him commission.
Call your hotel to confirm. Don’t let a driver rebook you.
Fake tourist office
A shop posing as “government tourism” sells overpriced tours and “train help.”
Book trains on IRCTC; the real office is at Connaught Place / stations only.
“Train is cancelled” at the station
A tout at New Delhi station says your train’s cancelled and walks you to a travel agent.
Check the board or the official app. Ignore anyone who approaches you.
Free bracelet / tikka
Someone ties a thread or marks your forehead “for blessing,” then demands a donation.
Don’t accept anything placed on you. Keep your hands and walk on.
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