Question 1

What is the "Fake temple guide and commission steering" scam in Pushkar?

Accepted Answer

Men outside the Brahma Temple or at the bus stand claim to be official temple guides, offer to show you around or to special areas, then either lead you straight into the lake blessing scam or march you through commission-paying shops. Some quote a low guide fee then demand far more, or vanish after collecting an upfront payment. There is no official requirement for a guide to visit the temple or lake. Use only guides arranged through your hotel or licensed via Rajasthan Tourism, and refuse anyone who approaches you unsolicited. State your own destinations and decline any 'special' detours to shops or the ghats.

Question 2

What is the "Camel ride and safari bait-and-switch" scam in Pushkar?

Accepted Answer

Operators near the lake and dunes quote a cheap rate like 200-300 rupees, then reveal it was 'per person,' cut the promised ride short, or refuse to bring you back without a much larger payment of 1,500-3,000 rupees. During the Camel Fair these tactics intensify as demand spikes. Verbal-only deals make disputes hard to win once you are out on the sand. Confirm the total price, duration and route before mounting, and have a non-riding companion witness the deal. Book safaris through a reputable, reviewed operator rather than a tout at the lakeside.

Tour & Activity Scams in Pushkar

Fake temple guide and commission steering

Camel ride and safari bait-and-switch

Experienced a scam here?