Question 1

What is the "Hash and Opium Drug Setup Near the Ghats" scam in Varanasi?

Accepted Answer

In the narrow alleyways of the old city between Dashashwamedh Ghat and Manikarnika Ghat, individuals offer tourists hashish or opium as a cultural or spiritual experience, sometimes framing it as part of a "Shiva ritual." After the substance is consumed or even simply handled, a person posing as an off-duty police officer appears and demands a bribe to avoid arrest. In some cases no drug is involved at all — the "police officer" uses the threat alone to extort cash. The scam is coordinated between the seller and the fake officer. Decline all offers of drugs or substances from strangers regardless of how they are framed culturally or spiritually. Be aware that possession of narcotics in India carries severe legal penalties. If someone claiming to be police approaches you, ask to see official identification and request to be taken to the nearest police station rather than paying any sum on the street.

Question 2

What is the "Fake Priest Blessing Scam" scam in Varanasi?

Accepted Answer

A man dressed as a priest or sadhu approaches tourists at the ghats, places a blessing mark on their forehead, ties a thread on their wrist, and recites a prayer. He then reveals the "price" for the blessing — often thousands of rupees — and becomes aggressive if refused. Never accept blessings, threads, or marks from strangers on the street. Real priests at temples do not solicit tourists for money on the ghats. If someone approaches you without being asked, firmly say no before they touch you and keep walking.

Question 3

What is the "Silk Shop Commission Scam" scam in Varanasi?

Accepted Answer

Friendly locals, often posing as students or teachers, approach tourists and offer to show them "authentic Banarasi silk" at a family shop or factory. The shops are commission arrangements and the prices are massively inflated compared to legitimate silk stores in the city. Decline all offers from strangers to take you to shops. If you want genuine Banarasi silk, go directly to well-reviewed stores in the Vishwanath Gali area or certified UP Handicrafts outlets. Research fair prices before shopping — authentic Banarasi silk sarees start around 2,000–5,000 INR.

Question 4

What is the "Fake Funeral Ceremony Donation Demand" scam in Varanasi?

Accepted Answer

Near Manikarnika Ghat (the main cremation ghat), touts approach tourists and give an unsolicited explanation of the cremation ceremony, then demand large "wood fund" donations as a condition of viewing or as a supposed contribution to families who cannot afford cremation. Photography and viewing at Manikarnika Ghat is a sensitive matter — follow your guide's instructions. Any demand for mandatory donations from someone who approaches you unsolicited is a scam. If you wish to donate, do so through verified organizations rather than street collectors.

Street Scams in Varanasi

Hash and Opium Drug Setup Near the Ghats

Fake Priest Blessing Scam

Silk Shop Commission Scam

Fake Funeral Ceremony Donation Demand

Experienced a scam here?