Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Kathmandu, Nepal

1. Taxi Scams

Avoid overpriced or fake taxis at the airport. Always agree on price before getting in.

Prepaid Taxis: Book prepaid taxis from the airport booth.
Metered Taxis: Insist on metered taxis when available.
Trusted Taxi Services: Use trusted taxi services recommended by your hotel or tour operator.

Some rickshaw drivers may overcharge or take longer routes. Negotiate the price before riding.

Some temples may ask for 'donations' that are actually entry fees. Check posted signs before giving.

Entry Fees: Know the standard entry fees for popular temples.
Donation Boxes: Identify donation boxes and avoid paying more than once.
Guidebooks: Refer to guidebooks or online resources for accurate information.

Unlicensed guides may offer inaccurate information or lead you to overpriced shops. Ask for a license.

License Verification: Ask for a tour guide's license number and verify it.
Tour Operators: Book tours through reputable tour operators.
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews on TripAdvisor or other trusted platforms.

Some shops may inflate prices or sell low-quality goods. Bargain and ask for receipts.

Some street food vendors may serve stale or contaminated food. Choose busy and popular spots.

Busy Vendors: Choose busy vendors with a steady stream of customers.
Food Safety: Avoid food that is left out for too long or looks unappetizing.
Recommendations: Ask locals for their favorite street food vendors.

Some money changers may offer unfair exchange rates. Research competitive rates beforehand.

Research Rates: Check the current exchange rate online before changing currency.
Authorized Exchange Centers: Exchange money at authorized centers or banks.
Multiple Transactions: Break large transactions into smaller ones to avoid attracting unwanted attention.

Some sim card vendors may sell expired or faulty sim cards. Buy from reputable stores.

Reputable Stores: Purchase sim cards at authorized mobile network operators' stores.
Ask for Receipts: Always ask for a receipt when purchasing a sim card.
Check Coverage: Ensure the sim card has good coverage in the areas you plan to visit.

Some hotels may overcharge or provide subpar service. Research before booking.

Reputable Booking Platforms: Book through reputable platforms like Booking.com or Agoda.
Online Reviews: Read online reviews on the hotel before booking.
Travel Advisories: Check travel advisories for warnings about hotels.

Unlicensed trekking companies may provide unsafe equipment or poor guides. Choose a reputable company.

Reputable Companies: Choose a trekking company recommended by locals or your hotel.
Licensed Guides: Ensure the guides are licensed and experienced.
Equipment Checks: Check the condition of equipment provided before trekking.

Some tourist buses may overcharge or take longer routes. Research bus companies and routes.

Reputable Companies: Choose a reputable bus company recommended by locals or your hotel.
Route Research: Research the routes taken by different bus companies.
Time-based Pricing: Ask for a time-based price instead of per destination.

Some ATMs may charge high fees or be tampered with. Use ATMs at banks or inside buildings.

Bank ATMs: Use ATMs located inside banks or secure buildings.
Fees Awareness: Know the fees associated with using foreign ATMs.
Card Safety: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN and keep a close eye on your card.

Some beggars may pose as distressed locals or children. Be cautious and donate wisely.

Wise Donations: Donate to reputable charities instead of individual beggars.
Avoid Alone Situations: Avoid donating in secluded or isolated areas.
Trusted Organizations: Research trusted local organizations that support the needy.

Some transport ticket sellers may sell fake or overpriced tickets. Buy from authorized vendors.

Authorized Vendors: Buy bus, train, or flight tickets from authorized vendors.
Check for Holograms: Tickets should have holograms and other security features.
Online Booking: Book transport tickets online to avoid potential scams.

Some street performers may demand a fee or aggressively ask for tips. Enjoy performances but be cautious.

Free Performances: Avoid performances that require a fee or insist on tipping.
Tip Generously: If you enjoy the performance, tip generously but don't feel obligated.
Avoid Confrontations: Avoid confrontations or arguments over tips.