Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Udaipur, Rājasthān, India

1. Rickshaw Ride Scams

Watch for overcharging or misleading routes in rickshaws; bargain before starting the ride.

Know the Fixed Rate: Ask for a fixed rate before getting into a rickshaw
Use Metered Rickshaws: Opt for metered rickshaws whenever available.
Negotiate the Price: Always negotiate and agree on a price before starting your journey.

Bargain and compare prices in souvenir shops to avoid overpaying.

Know the Market Price: Research the typical price of items before shopping.
Bargain with Sellers: Always negotiate for a better price, especially in tourist areas.
Visit Local Markets: Purchase souvenirs from local markets instead of tourist shops for lower prices.

Always verify the credentials of a guide before hiring; official guides wear a badge.

Check for Offical Badge: Ask to see an official guide's badge.
Research Guide Services: Research and book guided tours through reputable agencies.
Verify Credentials: Ask for proof of certification or licensing from a reliable source.

Only use pre-paid taxi services at the airport to avoid being overcharged.

Use Pre-Paid Taxi Services: At the Udaipur Airport, opt for pre-paid taxis which are regulated and have fixed prices.
Negotiate the Fare: Always negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
Avoid Touts: Ignore unofficial taxi touts and go directly to the taxi stand.

Be cautious when hiring boats at Lake Pichola; negotiate prices and check boat's condition.

Negotiate the Boat Fee: Always negotiate the price before boarding a boat.
Check Boat Condition: Inspect the condition of the boat before setting sail.
Stick to Reputable Shops: Rent boats from reputable shops or agencies around Lake Pichola.

Avoid restaurants near tourist areas; opt for local eateries or recommended establishments.

Choose Recommended Restaurants: Research and choose popular restaurants recommended by locals.
Avoid Touristy Areas: Stay away from restaurants in tourist hotspots to avoid being overcharged.
Check the Menu Prices: Compare menu prices with other restaurants in the area before dining out.

Research spas and their services beforehand to avoid overpaying.

Check Prices Online: Look up prices of spa treatments online before visiting.
Ask for Recommendations: Get recommendations from locals or fellow travelers for good-value spas.
Negotiate the Price: Always negotiate the price before booking a treatment.

Avoid shops selling overpriced items inside City Palace; explore local markets instead.

Visit Local Markets: Purchase souvenirs from local markets instead of tourist traps.
Research the Prices: Research typical prices before shopping to avoid overpaying.
Negotiate with Sellers: Always negotiate prices when shopping in tourist areas.

Avoid buying jewelry from street vendors; look for reputable shops instead.

Find Reputable Shops: Research and choose jewelry stores with good reviews.
Check Certificates: Insist on seeing certificates of authenticity for precious stones or jewelry.
Ask for Quality Assurance: Ensure the shop offers quality assurance or a return policy.

Only ride camels from authorized camps near the city; negotiate prices beforehand.

Check for Authorization: Ride camels only from authorized camps near Udaipur.
Negotiate the Price: Always negotiate the price before starting your ride.
Check Animal Welfare: Ensure camels are well-treated and in good health.

Avoid eating street food from unhygienic or questionable vendors.

Choose Hygienic Vendors: Choose street food vendors with good hygiene practices.
Avoid Risky Foods: Avoid eating raw or undercooked foods, especially seafood.
Stick to Popular Dishes: Opt for popular street food dishes that are common in Udaipur.

Avoid donating to unknown collectors; research reputable charities instead.

Research Reputable Charities: Donate to charities that have a good reputation and proven track record.
Ask for Proof of Legitimacy: Insist on seeing proof of legitimacy, such as an ID or documentation.
Stay Away from Pushy Collectors: Be wary of aggressive collectors and donate only to those who appear genuine.

Research carpet shops and their pricing beforehand; bargain for a fair price.

Check Prices Online: Look up prices of carpets online before visiting shops.
Negotiate the Price: Always negotiate the price before buying a carpet.
Visit Local Markets: Purchase carpets from local markets instead of tourist shops for better prices.

Be cautious when hiring boats at Jagmandir Island; negotiate prices and check boat's condition.

Negotiate the Boat Fee: Always negotiate the price before boarding a boat.
Check Boat Condition: Inspect the condition of the boat before setting sail.
Stick to Reputable Shops: Rent boats from reputable shops or agencies around Jagmandir Island.

Bargain and compare prices for transportation services; avoid using unmarked vehicles.

Compare Prices: Always compare prices of different transportation options.
Use Marked Vehicles: Choose vehicles with clear markings and licenses to ensure safety.
Negotiate the Price: Always negotiate the price before starting your journey.