Thailand is one of the most loved international destinations for Indian travellers. It is affordable, welcoming, and packed with beaches, nightlife, shopping, temples, and amazing street food. Like any popular tourist country, Thailand also has a few well-known tourist scams that target first-time visitors.

This blog will help Indian tourists understand the most common scams in Thailand, how they work, and simple ways to avoid losing money or getting into unnecessary trouble.

1) “The Temple Is Closed” Scam (Bangkok)

How it happens:
You arrive near famous places like the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, or other temples, and someone (usually very confident and friendly) tells you the temple is “closed today” due to a holiday, prayer timing, or VIP visit. They then offer to take you to “another place” using a tuk-tuk.

What’s the real trick:
The tuk-tuk takes you to certain shops (tailor, jewellery, gem, souvenir store) where the driver earns commission. You end up wasting time and possibly buying overpriced items.

How to avoid:

• Don’t believe strangers about closures. Walk to the entrance and check the official gate timings.

• Use Google Maps reviews or ask at the ticket counter only.

• If you want a tuk-tuk ride, set a fixed route yourself.

2) Overpriced Tuk-Tuk and Taxi Tricks

How it happens:
Some tuk-tuk/taxi drivers quote a price that is far above normal, especially around tourist hotspots. Others may refuse to use the meter or take longer routes.

How to avoid:

• For taxis: insist on the meter (“meter, please”). If they refuse, take another taxi.

• Use ride-hailing apps (when available in your area) to avoid negotiation stress.

• Ask your hotel for approximate local fares before heading out.

• For tuk-tuks: agree on the exact price before you sit.

3) “Gem Shop” and “Tailor Deal” Trap

How it happens:
Drivers or “helpful locals” promise a “special discount today only” at a gem store or tailor. You are told you can resell the gem in India for profit or that the suit is “export quality.”

What’s the risk:

• Fake or low-quality gems sold at inflated prices.

• Tailor shops may deliver poor quality or rush stitching, and refunds are difficult.

How to avoid:

• Do not buy gems as an “investment.”

• If you want custom suits, choose reputed tailors with strong reviews and enough days for fittings.

• Avoid any shop suggested by strangers or drivers as a “special deal.”

4) Jet Ski and Scooter Rental Damage Scam (Phuket, Pattaya, Krabi)

How it happens:
You rent a jet ski or bike, and after returning it, the owner claims you caused scratches or damage and demands a very high repair cost. Sometimes your passport is held as “security.”

How to avoid (very important):

• Do not hand over your passport as deposit. Offer cash deposit instead, or choose another vendor.

• Take clear photos and videos (all sides) before you start and after you return.

• Rent from established vendors recommended by your hotel or with good ratings.

• For scooters: wear a helmet and only ride if you are confident. Accidents create bigger legal and medical problems than scams.

5) Fake Tour Agents and Unofficial Booking Counters

How it happens:
You book island tours, show tickets, or attraction packages from small street counters or random agents who offer “super cheap” prices. Later, the tour is cancelled, the pickup never comes, or the inclusions are not honoured.

How to avoid:

• Book through your hotel desk, reputed agencies, or verified online platforms.

• Get everything in writing: pickup timing, inclusions, entry fees, meals, cancellation policy.

• Be cautious of prices that are far below the market rate.

6) Bar and Club Bill Shock (Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket)

How it happens:
You enter a bar or club and are encouraged to buy drinks. Sometimes “company drinks” for staff are added. Later, the bill is unexpectedly huge, and pressure is applied to pay immediately.

How to avoid:

• Choose reputed venues with visible menus.

• Confirm drink prices before ordering.

• Avoid places where staff aggressively pull you inside.

• Keep your alcohol intake controlled so you can make clear decisions.

7) Street “Friendly” Help That Turns into Money Demand

How it happens:
Someone starts helping you without asking: giving directions, taking photos, putting something on your wrist, offering a “free” item, or showing you a shortcut. After a minute, they demand money and create an awkward scene.

How to avoid:

• Politely say “No, thank you” and keep walking.

• Don’t accept “free” bracelets, flowers, or gifts from strangers.

• Keep your valuables safe and avoid crowded arguments.

8) Fake Police and “Fine” Collection

How it happens:
Rare, but it can happen around nightlife areas: someone claims to be police or works with police and asks to check your wallet or documents, then claims you have violated a rule and asks for a fine on the spot.

How to avoid:

• Carry a copy of your passport (photo + visa stamp) and keep the original safe in your hotel unless needed.

• If stopped, remain calm and ask to go to the police station for any formal process.

• Do not hand over your wallet or phone.

9) Currency Exchange and Card Skimming Risks

How it happens:
Unlicensed exchange counters may offer attractive rates but cheat with commission or give fewer notes. In some places, card skimming can happen if you hand over your card.

How to avoid:

• Exchange money only at authorised counters or banks.

• Count the cash immediately before leaving the counter.

• Prefer tap-to-pay and keep your card in your sight.

• Use ATMs inside bank branches when possible.

10) “Free Boat Ride / Free Photos / Free Entry” Promises

How it happens:
Someone offers free entry to an event, free photos, or a “free boat” but later charges for mandatory add-ons.

How to avoid:

• Ask clearly: “Is there any charge later?”

• If the deal is unclear, skip it.

Safety Checklist for Indian Tourists in Thailand

Here is a simple checklist you can follow to stay safe:

• Keep photocopies of passport, visa stamp, and insurance on your phone and email.

• Use a crossbody bag; avoid keeping cash in one place.

• Do not hand over your passport to rental vendors.

• Take photos/videos before renting any vehicle or equipment.

• Use official counters, reputed tour operators, and verified reviews.

• If a stranger is pushing you hard for a deal, walk away.

• Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it usually is.

Final Note

Thailand is generally safe and tourist-friendly, and most people are genuinely helpful. These scams are usually avoidable when you stay alert, book services from trusted sources, and do not agree to anything under pressure.

If you are planning Thailand (Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Krabi) and want a safe, well-organised itinerary with verified tours and support, WiseTrips can help you plan the trip end-to-end.

Need help with your Thailand package?
Contact WiseTrips for itinerary, hotel + transfer planning, island tours, and visa guidance.