It is advisable to avail pre-paid taxis/autorikshaws (three-wheeler taxis), wherever available at the airports and railway stations. For metered taxis insist on paying by meter or ask for a fare chart.
Shop at Government emporia/fixed price shops as far as possible. This ensures good quality products at reasonable prices. Insist on proper receipts and bills of purchase.
Keep your valuables in hotel lockers / safe deposit vaults.
India Tourism has a system of approving travel agents/tour operators who confirm to prescribe standards of service and quality. Always book your tours through such agencies.
A list of approved travel agents/tour operators is available at the local India Tourism.
For guiding services, hire a Government approved tourist guide who always carries an identity card issued by India Tourism and Archaeological survey of India.
Change money only at authorised foreign exchange outlets/banks/hotels and insist on a proper receipt.
Contact the nearest India Tourism office/State Government Tourist Office for authentic information. All these offices supply guide maps/brochures free of charge/or at a nominal cost.
Confirm/reconfirm hotel bookings yourself
Buy train tickets from the Railway Booking Counters or through authorised travel agents.
DON’TS
Don’t fall for tempting exchange rates offered by unauthorised people
Don’t allow any unauthorised person to act on your behalf
Don’t purchase air/bus/train tickets through strangers, touts and unauthorised travel agencies
Don’t accept lavish hospitality extended by strangers/unknown persons especially while shopping for jewellery and expensive items
Don’t travel in a taxi carrying any person other than the driver
Don’t deal with unauthorised persons. Stay away from touts