Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Kottayam, Kerala, India

1. Kottayam Bus Stand

Main bus terminal in Kottayam; watch for overcharging by auto-rickshaw drivers. Stay vigilant against pickpocketing.

Bus Fares: Know the standard bus fares to avoid being overcharged
Local Transport: Use prepaid auto-rickshaw booths or negotiate fares in advance
Safety: Stay aware of your surroundings and keep belongings secure

Popular bird watching spot; beware of tour operators offering overpriced packages.

Tour Packages: Research and compare tour package prices before booking
Reputable Operators: Choose operators with good reviews and recommendations
Time Management: Plan your visit during the best bird-watching hours to make the most of your experience

Tranquil mountain monastery; scammers may pose as monks asking for donations.

Donation Scams: Know the standard donation amounts and be cautious when asked to contribute
Authenticity: Verify the authenticity of monks before donating
Respectful Interaction: Interact with monks respectfully and never pressure them for money

Scenic boat rides through the backwaters; beware of fake guides and inflated prices.

Guided Tours: Book guided tours with reputable operators or local authorities
Price Negotiation: Negotiate prices for boat rides before starting the journey
Safety Equipment: Ensure safety equipment is provided and in good condition

Historic Christian church; watch out for unofficial guides or fake ticket sellers.

Official Guides: Use official guides provided by the church
Ticket Purchase: Purchase tickets at the official ticket counter only
Respectful Behavior: Show respect for the church and its artifacts during your visit

Ancient Hindu temple; beware of fake priests or fortune tellers.

Authentic Priests: Identify authentic priests based on their attire and behavior
Temple Donations: Donate only at the temple's official donation box or counter
Respectful Prayer: Perform prayers respectfully and follow temple etiquette

Largest freshwater lake in India; watch out for overcharging by boat operators.

Ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva; beware of pickpockets or fake priests.

Authentic Priests: Identify authentic priests based on their attire and behavior
Temple Donations: Donate only at the temple's official donation box or counter
Respectful Behavior: Show respect for the temple and its artifacts during your visit

Local authority governing Kumarakom; visit for information on safe and authentic experiences.

Tourism Information: Get accurate tourism-related information from the council
Reputable Operators: Learn about reputable operators and tour packages offered
Safety Tips: Receive safety tips and advice for exploring the region

Local law enforcement agency; report any incidents of scams or theft.

Report Incidents: Report any incidents of scams, theft, or harassment
Safety Advice: Get safety advice and tips for staying safe during your visit
Emergency Assistance: Receive emergency assistance in case of an incident

Official tourist information centre; seek advice on safe and authentic experiences.

Tourism Information: Get accurate tourism-related information from the center
Reputable Operators: Learn about reputable operators and tour packages offered
Safety Tips: Receive safety tips and advice for exploring the region

Shopping destinations for spices, handicrafts, and textiles; beware of overpricing or counterfeit goods.

Price Negotiation: Negotiate prices before making a purchase
Authentic Goods: Identify reputable sellers and avoid counterfeit goods
Bargaining Etiquette: Understand local bargaining etiquette and be respectful during negotiations

Main taxi stand in Kottayam; watch for overcharging or fake drivers.

Fare Quotes: Get fare quotes from multiple drivers before choosing a taxi
Reputable Drivers: Choose reputable drivers based on their vehicle and driving license
Safety Measures: Ensure the taxi has safety measures like seat belts in place

Cash machines for withdrawing money; beware of skimming or card trapping devices.

Secure ATMs: Use secure and well-lit ATMs in reputable locations
Card Safety: Cover your PIN and avoid using ATMs with suspicious devices
Transaction Limits: Plan your cash needs and limit your transactions to avoid running out of money