Question 1

What is the "Milk and Baby Formula Scam" scam in Pokhara?

Accepted Answer

Women carrying infants approach tourists near Lakeside and ask for money for milk. They then take the tourist to a nearby store to "buy" expensive baby formula. After the tourist leaves, the formula is returned to the shop and the woman receives cash back. The same formula is resold repeatedly. If you want to help a mother with a young child, offer cash directly rather than allowing them to take you to a specific shop. Be aware that this scam operates as an organized circuit and the baby formula never reaches the child.

Question 2

What is the "Commission Shop Street Guide" scam in Pokhara?

Accepted Answer

Friendly locals approach tourists in Lakeside and offer to show them around Pokhara or take them to a "good shop." The "guide" is actually a commission agent earning a cut from whatever the tourist spends at the shop they are taken to. Politely decline all unsolicited street offers to show you around. If you want to browse shops, go independently to Lakeside's main street and compare prices across multiple stores. Any guide who approaches you without being asked has a financial agenda.

Street Scams in Pokhara

Milk and Baby Formula Scam

Commission Shop Street Guide

Experienced a scam here?