
Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Agartala, Tripura, India
1. Auto-Rickshaw Scam
Avoid overcharging or getting directed to non-essential destinations by auto-rickshaw drivers. Always negotiate fares beforehand and use reputed rickshaws.
- Know the Fare: Always know the standard fare for your destination
- Reputable Rickshaws: Choose rickshaws with clear identification and good reviews
- Negotiate Fare: Always negotiate the fare before starting your journey
2. Fake Guide Scam
Avoid fraudulent tour guides who may overcharge or lead you to scams. Stick with licensed and reputed tour operators.
- Licensed Tour Operators: Ensure your guide is a licensed and registered tour operator
- Reputation: Check online reviews and testimonials before hiring a guide
- Prebook Tours: Prebook your tours to avoid last-minute hassles and scams
3. Temple Donation Scam
Avoid pressure to donate excessively at temples. Respect cultural customs while not being forced into unnecessary expenses.
- Know Customary Donations: Research the acceptable donation amount before visiting temples
- Decline Harassment: Politely decline if you feel pressured to donate excessively
- Avoid Obligatory Donations: Do not feel obligated to donate at every temple visit
4. Shopping Scam
Avoid overpricing or fake products by researching prices and shopping in trusted shops.
- Know the Price: Research local market prices before shopping
- Trusted Shops: Shop at well-established, reputable shops with good reviews
- Bargain Skillfully: Skillfully bargain to get a fair price for your purchase
5. Sim Card Scam
Avoid illegal SIM card vendors. Buy SIM cards only from authorized stores or official outlets.
- Authorized Stores: Buy your SIM card from the operator's authorized store
- Official Outlets: Consider buying a SIM card at the airport or a BSNL outlet
- Check Registration: Register your SIM card and ensure it is properly activated
6. Taxi Scam
Avoid overcharging or getting directed to non-essential destinations by taxi drivers. Use reputed taxi services.
- Know the Fare: Always know the standard fare for your destination
- Reputable Taxis: Choose taxis with clear identification and good reviews
- Negotiate Fare: Always negotiate the fare before starting your journey
7. Food Poisoning Scam
Avoid food poisoning from unhygienic food vendors. Stick with recommended restaurants and street food stalls.
- Recommended Restaurants: Choose restaurants recommended by locals or travel guides
- Street Food Stalls: Opt for busy, well-known street food stalls with good reviews
- Avoid Unusual Offers: Be wary of unusual food offers and avoid eating from street vendors who use questionable practices
8. Currency Exchange Scam
Avoid being overcharged in currency exchange. Use authorized exchange booths or banks.
- Authorized Booths: Exchange your money at authorized booths run by banks or financial institutions
- Avoid Street Exchanges: Do not exchange currency on the street or with unknown individuals
- Check Rates: Compare rates at multiple booths before exchanging your money
9. Hotel Scam
Avoid overpaying or staying in low-quality hotels. Research and book hotels with good reviews.
- Good Reviews: Book hotels that have good reviews from previous guests
- Avoid Street Bookings: Do not book hotels on the street or with unknown hotel agents
- Check Facilities: Ensure the hotel offers essential facilities and services
10. Gold Jewelry Scam
Avoid buying low-quality or overpriced gold jewelry. Research local gold prices and visit reputable jewelers.
- Know Gold Prices: Research the current price of gold in Agartala
- Reputable Jewelers: Choose jewelers with good reviews, certifications, and proper licenses
- Check Quality: Inspect the jewelry thoroughly and request a quality assurance certificate
11. Transport Ticket Scam
Avoid overpaying for transport tickets. Buy tickets from authorized ticket vendors.
- Authorized Vendors: Buy your transport tickets from authorized ticket booths or agents
- Avoid Street Sales: Do not buy transport tickets from street vendors or unknown individuals
- Check Ticket Prices: Know the standard ticket price for your destination and transportation type
12. ATM Skimming Scam
Avoid ATM skimming by using ATMs at banks or in secure locations.
- Banks and Secure Locations: Use ATMs located inside banks, hotels, or other secure areas
- Cover the Keypad: Always cover the keypad while entering your PIN to prevent shoulder-surfing
- Monitor Your Account: Regularly monitor your account for unauthorized transactions
13. Internet Café Scam
Avoid identity theft at internet cafés. Use secure and reputable internet providers.
- Secure Providers: Choose reputable and secure internet providers
- Protect Your Device: Avoid using sensitive accounts or saving passwords on public devices
- Use a VPN: Consider using a VPN to protect your online activity
14. Local Tourist Spots Scam
Avoid being overcharged or directed to scams at local tourist spots. Research and plan your visit.
- Research Your Destination: Learn about the entrance fees, opening hours, and recommended itineraries
- Avoid Street Vendors: Do not purchase tickets from street vendors or unauthorized agents
- Follow Itinerary: Stick to your planned itinerary and avoid unnecessary detours
15. Car Rental Scam
Avoid overpaying or getting misled by car rental services. Research and book reputable car rental companies.
- Reputable Companies: Choose car rental companies with good reviews, proper licenses, and insurance coverage
- Check Rental Conditions: Understand the rental conditions, including fuel policies, mileage limits, and penalties
- Inspect the Vehicle: Thoroughly inspect the vehicle before renting to identify any damages or issues