New Delhi Safety Guide
Is New Delhi Safe?
Learn how locals scam tourists in New Delhi and how to avoid becoming a victim. Below you'll find New Delhi crime statistics — the probability of being robbed or attacked, information about corruption in New Delhi, safety tips and precautions.
Daytime Safety:
Nighttime Safety:
Comfort Rating
In terms of safety, New Delhi requires standard precautions during daytime exploration. After dark, the situation becomes more challenging – stay within well-lit, populated areas and avoid solo trips.
Robberies and Theft: moderate
Armed Robberies: moderate
Assaults: moderate
Corruption: high
Drug Issues: low
Beggars: moderate
Vandalism: moderate
Theft from Cars: moderate
Car Theft: moderate
Local Scam Alert: What to Watch For
Taxi Meter Trick (High Risk) - Unofficial taxis at Indira Gandhi International Airport often claim that their meters are broken and instead offer inflated flat rates to tourists. Always opt for official taxi services from designated stands and insist on using the meter.
Auto Rickshaw Overcharge (High Risk) - In busy tourist areas like Connaught Place, auto rickshaw drivers may refuse to use the meter or manipulate fares for long distances, especially in the evenings. Agree on a fare beforehand or protect yourself by insisting on the meter for short rides.
Fake Tour Guides (Medium Risk) - Various tourist attractions, including the Red Fort and Humayun's Tomb, attract individuals posing as official guides who charge hefty fees for subpar tours. Always secure guides through reputable agencies or verified platforms; avoid unsolicited offers.
Street Vendor Overcharging (Medium Risk) - On markets like Chandni Chowk, street vendors might significantly overcharge tourists for food and souvenirs, especially during peak shopping seasons or festivals. Familiarize yourself with average prices and negotiate firmly before purchasing.
Counterfeit Currency (Medium Risk) - Some money changers in areas like Paharganj may offer counterfeit banknotes during transactions. Only use authorized currency exchange services or banks for currency exchange to reduce the risk of receiving fake notes.
Restaurant Bill Tricks (Low Risk) - In certain tourist-heavy neighborhoods, restaurants may add extra charges or a "service fee" without clear communication, especially near India Gate. Always ask for a detailed bill and check for any added fees before paying.
Shopkeeper Manipulation (Low Risk) - At popular markets such as Dilli Haat, shopkeepers might persuade tourists to buy fake or low-quality handicrafts by exaggerating their authenticity. Research products before buying and ensure you’re purchasing from trusted sellers to avoid counterfeit items.
Auto Rickshaw Overcharge (High Risk) - In busy tourist areas like Connaught Place, auto rickshaw drivers may refuse to use the meter or manipulate fares for long distances, especially in the evenings. Agree on a fare beforehand or protect yourself by insisting on the meter for short rides.
Fake Tour Guides (Medium Risk) - Various tourist attractions, including the Red Fort and Humayun's Tomb, attract individuals posing as official guides who charge hefty fees for subpar tours. Always secure guides through reputable agencies or verified platforms; avoid unsolicited offers.
Street Vendor Overcharging (Medium Risk) - On markets like Chandni Chowk, street vendors might significantly overcharge tourists for food and souvenirs, especially during peak shopping seasons or festivals. Familiarize yourself with average prices and negotiate firmly before purchasing.
Counterfeit Currency (Medium Risk) - Some money changers in areas like Paharganj may offer counterfeit banknotes during transactions. Only use authorized currency exchange services or banks for currency exchange to reduce the risk of receiving fake notes.
Restaurant Bill Tricks (Low Risk) - In certain tourist-heavy neighborhoods, restaurants may add extra charges or a "service fee" without clear communication, especially near India Gate. Always ask for a detailed bill and check for any added fees before paying.
Shopkeeper Manipulation (Low Risk) - At popular markets such as Dilli Haat, shopkeepers might persuade tourists to buy fake or low-quality handicrafts by exaggerating their authenticity. Research products before buying and ensure you’re purchasing from trusted sellers to avoid counterfeit items.
Scam Types and General Tips
Complete Guide to Scam Types
Tourist Reviews
All photos and texts belong to their authors
He took off my shoes and started cleaning them. Soon, a helper joined him. They ripped out my insoles and replaced them with new ones. Probably to make it softer. Then they polished the shoes until they shone and put them back on my feet. Throughout the process, I kept thinking, "Is this really just for 10 rupees?" And then the boy hit me with, "That'll be 600 rupees!" I started to protest, and both street workers insisted that the glue was expensive, the insoles were costly, and so on. There was no way I was paying 600 rupees, of course. With that money, you could have a great meal for two at a restaurant or book a hotel for a night. In the end, I said they could take 50 rupees or I would be leaving. The boy initially refused, and I dramatically put the fifty back in my pocket.
At that moment, some local guys approached and asked what the argument was about. I explained that they were asking me for 600 rupees for shoe cleaning. They started conversing in Hindi with the cleaners, who began to lower their eyes and heads. It was clear they were trying to pull a fast one. The guys asked what they had done to the shoes, I showed them that they cleaned and glued them, and they replied that a price of 100 rupees was more than enough. I handed over the 100 rupees and haven’t seen those little tricksters since.
Unfortunately, that kind of thing happens all over India. You let your guard down for just a second, and someone tries to pull a fast one on you. »