Question 1

What is the "Spiked drink on a fake 'Old Mysore market' tour" scam in Mysore?

Accepted Answer

A friendly local or rickshaw 'guide' offers to share a ride to a weekly Old Mysore market supposedly full of artisans making incense, saris, oils, and beedis, then leads victims to isolated, remote spots. Once away from town they press milkshakes, coffee, or 'hash' on the traveler; spiked-drink robberies of solo travelers have been reported. This account specifically targeted a solo woman. Do not accept ride-shares or 'special market' invitations from strangers near the palace, and never let a guide take you somewhere isolated. Decline food and drinks offered en route, keep your own route, and leave immediately if you feel pushed farther from town.

Question 2

What is the "Counterfeit Mysore silk saree" scam in Mysore?

Accepted Answer

Private shops sell duplicate sarees as genuine GI-tagged Mysore silk, mimicking KSIC branding as demand outstrips real supply. Tourists pay pure-silk prices for crepe or blended fakes. Local reporting confirms fake Mysore silk floods Mysuru markets and online stores. Buy only from the KSIC factory outlet/showroom and check for the woven hologram, unique ID, and barcode that authentic KSIC sarees carry. Be wary of 'factory outlet' shops on Chamundi Hill Road and opposite the zoo that use government-sounding names.

Question 3

What is the "Shoe-minder tip demand at the palace" scam in Mysore?

Accepted Answer

Footwear must be left before entering the main palace halls, and the deposit is officially free, but attendants routinely pressure every visitor for 'Rs 10 onwards' as if payment is required. Tripadvisor reviewers describe an aggressive 'shoe mafia' at the counters. Storage is free, so politely decline to pay; carry a small bag and take your shoes in yourself, or hand them over and keep your token without tipping. Do not believe attendants who imply a fee is mandatory.

Other Tourist Scams in Mysore

Spiked drink on a fake 'Old Mysore market' tour

Counterfeit Mysore silk saree

Shoe-minder tip demand at the palace

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