Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Solāpur, India

1. Auto-rickshaw Scam

Unfair pricing and unwanted stops by auto-rickshaws drivers in Solāpur.

Know the Fixed Rates: Be aware of the fixed rates for common destinations.
Use Pre-paid Auto-rickshaws: Consider using pre-paid auto-rickshaws at the station.
Negotiate Prices Beforehand: Always negotiate prices before starting your journey.

Fraudulent practices by temple priests for financial gains in Solāpur.

Check Official Temples: Ensure the temple is officially recognized.
Don't Trust Overzealous Guides: Avoid guides who seem overly eager for donations.
Research Beforehand: Research about common scams in the temples before your visit.

Overcharging tourists for goods and services in Solāpur's markets.

Negotiate Prices: Always negotiate prices before making a purchase.
Shop Around: Consider shopping around for the best price.
Learn Basic Hindi: Knowing some basic Hindi can help you in negotiation and understanding prices.

Serving less or poor quality food at popular eating spots.

Avoid Eating Late Night: Try to avoid eating late at night in unknown places.
Check Reviews Online: Read reviews online before choosing a food stall.
Ask the Locals: Ask locals about recommended eating spots.

Offering fake tours and guides in Solāpur.

Book Services Ahead: Book your services through reputable travel agencies.
Avoid Overeager Offers: Be wary of overly eager offers from touts on the streets.
Check Online Reviews: Read online reviews before trusting any tour or guide service.

Exchanging money at unfavorable rates or counterfeit currency.

Only Use Licensed Money Changers: Always use licensed money changers.
Check Exchange Rates Online: Compare exchange rates with those available online.
Exchange Money at Banks or ATMs: Consider exchanging money at banks or ATMs if possible.

Selling fake or malfunctioning SIM cards.

Only Buy from Official Stores: Buy your SIM card only at authorized stores.
Check for Proper Activation: Ensure the SIM card is activated and functioning properly.
Ask for a Receipt: Always ask for a receipt to avoid disputes.

Overcharging or taking longer routes by taxi drivers in Solāpur.

Use Pre-paid Services: Consider using pre-paid transportation services.
Negotiate Prices Beforehand: Always negotiate prices before starting your journey.
Avoid Late Night Travels: Try to avoid traveling late at night to avoid potential scams.

Charging excessive prices for low-quality accommodations.

Check Reviews Online: Read reviews online before booking a hotel.
Negotiate Room Rates: Always negotiate room rates before checking in.
Ask for Recommendations: Ask locals or fellow travelers for hotel recommendations.

Fraudulent practices by tuk-tuks drivers in Solāpur.

Know the Fixed Rates: Be aware of the fixed rates for common destinations.
Use Pre-paid Tuk-tuks: Consider using pre-paid tuk-tuks at the station.
Negotiate Prices Beforehand: Always negotiate prices before starting your journey.

Fraudulent beggars trying to pickpocket or mislead tourists.

Stay Aware of Surroundings: Always be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.
Avoid Alleyways: Try to avoid walking through narrow or poorly lit alleyways.
Keep Valuables Safe: Keep your valuables safe and secure, preferably in a locked bag or pocket.

Overcharging for bicycle rentals or not providing proper bikes.

Check the Bike Before Riding: Always check the bike before riding to make sure it's in good working condition.
Negotiate Prices Beforehand: Always negotiate prices before renting a bicycle.
Check for Reviews: Read reviews online about the bike rental places.

Providing vehicles in poor condition or charging excessive prices.

Check the Car Before Driving: Always check the car before driving to make sure it's in good working condition.
Negotiate Prices Beforehand: Always negotiate prices before renting a car.
Check for Reviews: Read reviews online about the car rental places.

Skimming devices installed on ATMs to steal your card information.

Use ATMs at Banks or in Well-lit Areas: Use ATMs located inside banks or well-lit areas when possible.
Cover the Keypad: Cover the keypad with your hand while entering your PIN to prevent potential skimmers from seeing it.
Monitor Your Account Regularly: Regularly monitor your account for any unauthorized transactions.

Selling fake or malfunctioning electronic devices.

Buy from Reputable Stores: Always buy your electronics from reputable stores.
Check for Proper Functioning: Ensure the device is functioning properly before making a purchase.
Check Reviews Online: Read reviews online about the store before making a purchase.