Question 1

What is the "Gem Export Investment Scam" scam in Jaipur?

Accepted Answer

Friendly locals, often near Hawa Mahal or Jantar Mantar, befriend tourists and explain a supposed opportunity to buy genuine Rajasthani gems or jewellery at wholesale prices to resell back home at a profit. The gems turn out to be worthless glass or low-grade stones, and the promised resale contacts are fictitious. Never accept gem investment proposals from strangers, no matter how convincing the story. Genuine investment-grade gemstones are not sold on street referrals. If buying jewellery as a keepsake, use established certified shops with return policies.

Question 2

What is the "Fake Government Handicraft Store" scam in Jaipur?

Accepted Answer

Shops near tourist sites display signs reading "Government Emporium," "State Handicrafts," or "Fixed Price Certified" without any official accreditation. These privately run shops use the official-sounding name to command trust and charge premium prices while misrepresenting item origins or quality. The official Rajasthan Government Emporium is located on MI Road, Jaipur. Any shop not at that specific location using "government" in its name is trading on a misleading impression. Look for the Rajasthan state logo and official receipt.

Question 3

What is the "Holy Man Tikka Blessing Fee" scam in Jaipur?

Accepted Answer

Outside major temples, individuals dressed as Hindu holy men approach tourists, offer a tikka blessing on the forehead, and then demand a large cash payment. Refusal after the tikka has been applied is met with curses, guilt, or aggressive demands. Be aware that any unsolicited religious blessing at a tourist site is almost certainly a setup for payment demands. Politely step away before physical contact is made. If you want a genuine temple experience, enter the temple itself.

Street Scams in Jaipur

Gem Export Investment Scam

Fake Government Handicraft Store

Holy Man Tikka Blessing Fee

Experienced a scam here?