Question 1

What is the "Fake Golden Temple Volunteer" scam in Amritsar?

Accepted Answer

A man dressed in simple clothing approaches tourists near the Golden Temple entrance claiming to be a temple volunteer or sevadaar (volunteer worker). He offers to guide visitors through the complex and explain rituals, then steers them to a commission-paying shop selling religious goods, textiles, or gems. The "tour" ends at the shop, often far from the temple. Decline unsolicited guide offers near the temple. Official temple information is available at the main entrance. Real sevadaars do not solicit tourists or redirect them to shops.

Question 2

What is the "Unofficial Wagah Border Reserved Seating Scam" scam in Amritsar?

Accepted Answer

Touts near the Wagah Border ceremony venue offer "reserved seating" or "VIP viewing" tickets for the evening flag-lowering ceremony for fees of ₹500–2000. There are no reserved seats — all seating at the Wagah Border ceremony is free and first-come, first-served. Touts may also pose as official guides offering to skip queues. Arrive early (1–2 hours before the ceremony) to secure good seating. Do not pay for any "reserved" or "VIP" seating from individuals outside the official venue. The ceremony is managed by the Border Security Force (BSF) and is free to attend.

Tour & Activity Scams in Amritsar

Fake Golden Temple Volunteer

Unofficial Wagah Border Reserved Seating Scam

Experienced a scam here?