Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Gaya, Bihār, India

All Topics about Gaya All Cities in India

1. Auto-Rickshaw Overcharging

Avoid being overcharged by auto-rickshaw drivers by negotiating the fare before starting your journey. Always ensure the meter is on.

Pre-negotiated Fare: Ensure you agree on the fare before starting the ride
Meter Usage: Insist that the meter is turned on during your journey
Popular Destinations Rates: Learn about common destinations and their standard fares in Gaya

Be wary of individuals asking for donations at temples. Only donate to authorized collections boxes or temple officials.

Authorized Collections Boxes: Look for official donation boxes at the temple
Temple Officials: Seek out temple officials or priests when in doubt about donations
Research Donation Customs: Learn about local customs regarding temple donations before your visit

Avoid unauthorized guide services. Look for registered guides and agree on the fee before starting your tour.

Registered Guides: Find a registered or recommended guide service
Pre-agreed Fee: Agree on the fee before starting your tour with a guide
Official Tourism Offices: Consult official tourism offices for recommended guides

Avoid illegal money changers offering poor exchange rates. Use authorized establishments with visible licenses.

Authorized Money Changers: Find a legal and authorized money-changing establishment
Visible Licenses: Check for visible licenses or permits before exchanging your currency
Competing Rates: Compare rates with other authorized establishments in the area

Avoid purchasing counterfeit products from street vendors. Opt for reputable stores offering genuine items.

Reputable Stores: Choose established shops with a good reputation
Product Quality: Look for product quality and inspect items carefully before purchasing
Local Product Knowledge: Research the local market and ask locals for recommendations

Avoid touts or middlemen offering services at an inflated price. Directly approach businesses to avoid unnecessary commissions.

Direct Approach: Approach the business directly instead of using intermediaries
Local Prices: Ask locals about typical prices for services or goods in the area
Business Reputation: Choose established and reputable businesses to minimize dealings with touts

Avoid sim card scams by purchasing from official stores. Check for damaged or incomplete sim cards before buying.

Official Stores: Buy your SIM card from an authorized carrier's store
Inspection before Purchase: Check the SIM card for any visible damage or incompleteness before buying
Local Prepaid Plans: Research local prepaid plans and choose one that suits your needs

Avoid overpriced food and drinks by choosing established restaurants or street vendors with good reviews.

Established Restaurants: Opt for reputable and popular eateries
Good Reviews: Check online reviews before choosing a restaurant or street vendor
Menu Price Comparison: Compare prices among multiple establishments in the area

Avoid taxi overcharging by using apps or pre-paid taxis. Always agree on a fare before starting your journey.

Be cautious when interacting with street beggars or performers. Don't display valuable items or attract unwanted attention.

Valuables Safety: Keep your valuables safe and out of sight
Discretion: Avoid drawing attention to yourself or your belongings
Charity Organization Recommendations: Donate to recognized charities or social organizations instead of giving money directly

Avoid fraudulent accommodation bookings by using reputable websites or booking directly through the hotel.

Reputable Websites: Book your accommodation through well-known online travel agencies
Direct Hotel Bookings: Consider booking directly with the hotel instead of third-party websites
Room Inspection: Inspect your room for any visible damages or discrepancies before accepting it

Avoid overpriced transport tickets by purchasing them at authorized ticket counters. Be wary of touts offering discounted or fake tickets.

Authorized Ticket Counters: Buy your transportation tickets at official ticket counters
Avoid Touts: Be cautious when approached by touts offering transportation services or discounted tickets
Transportation Company Websites: Research the transportation company's official website for accurate ticket prices

Avoid unlicensed tour operators by booking with registered agencies or through recognized travel companies.

Registered Agencies: Book tours with licensed and reputable travel agencies
Recognized Travel Companies: Choose established travel companies with good reviews and recommendations
Tour Operator License Verification: Verify the tour operator's license and credentials before finalizing your booking

Avoid pickpocketing and theft by keeping a low profile, using secure bags or backpacks, and being aware of your surroundings.

Security Bag or Backpack: Use a bag with lockable compartments or a backpack with hidden pockets
Awareness of Surroundings: Stay alert and aware of your surroundings to minimize the risk of theft
Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers theft and loss of personal belongings

Avoid ATM scams by using well-lit, secure ATMs with the bank's logo. Monitor your account activity regularly for any unusual transactions.

Secure and Well-lit ATMs: Use ATMs located in well-lit areas and near banks or hotels
Bank's Logo on the Machine: Check for the bank's logo on the ATM before using it
Monitor Account Activity: Regularly monitor your account activity for any suspicious transactions