🚨 New Delhi Railway Station Scam Alert: Protect Yourself When Booking Cars or Tours
New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) is one of India’s busiest entry points for tourists—and unfortunately, it’s also a known scam hotspot. From fake tourist offices to overpriced car rentals and misleading guides, travelers are often targeted within minutes of arrival. Here's how you can stay safe and make informed choices.
🚫 Common Scams Around New Delhi Railway Station
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Fake Tourist Information Centers
These are often located just outside the station or in narrow lanes nearby. They claim to be "official" but have no government affiliation. Their goal? To redirect you to expensive tours or fake bookings. -
“Station Closed” Lie
Scamsters tell arriving tourists that the station is “closed” or their train is “canceled,” then offer to help you "rebook" through their own agency—at massively inflated rates. -
Overpriced Car & Taxi Bookings
Many tourists get lured into “prepaid” taxi stands or private booths offering car rentals at 2–3x the normal rate, often with no paperwork or accountability. -
Commission-Driven Hotel Transfers
You might be told your hotel is full or unsafe, and redirected to a "better" one—usually a partner hotel with poor facilities and a commission kickback.
✅ How to Stay Safe When Booking Cars & Tours
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Do not follow anyone outside the station gates.
Book taxis only through the official prepaid booth inside the railway station or use trusted services like India Taxi Online, Uber, Ola, or BluSmart. -
Verify Tourist Info Centers.
Legit centers are run by Delhi Tourism or Incredible India. Check for official logos, GST numbers, and proper receipts. -
Avoid Paying in Cash Only.
Demand a printed receipt and insist on digital payment or card swipe to leave a paper trail. -
Double-check your train, hotel, or tour details online.
Use official Indian Railways websites or Google Maps to verify locations and availability. -
Pre-book transfers and tours online before arriving at NDLS through reputable platforms or hotel concierge services.
🛡️ Final Tip:
If you feel pressured, confused, or followed—walk back into the station and seek help from RPF (Railway Protection Force) officers or tourist police who patrol major exits.
