Kolkata Safety Guide
Is Kolkata Safe?
Learn how locals scam tourists in Kolkata and how to avoid becoming a victim. Below you'll find Kolkata crime statistics — the probability of being robbed or attacked, information about corruption in Kolkata, safety tips and precautions.
Daytime Safety:
Nighttime Safety:
Comfort Rating
In terms of safety, you'll find Kolkata quite secure during the day. Still, take a moment to review our guide on common tourist traps. Evenings require increased attention, though main tourist areas remain generally secure.
Robberies and Theft: moderate
Armed Robberies: low
Assaults: low
Corruption: high
Drug Issues: low
Beggars: low
Vandalism: moderate
Theft from Cars: moderate
Car Theft: moderate
Local Scam Alert: What to Watch For
Taxi Meter Trick (Medium Risk) - Unofficial taxi drivers may claim their meter is broken and ask for a significantly inflated flat fare, especially near the airport or Howrah Station. Always use pre-paid taxi services or app-based rides like Uber and Ola, and ensure you request the meter is used.
Money Exchange Hustle (High Risk) - At popular locations like Park Street or tourist markets, you might encounter individuals offering to exchange money at tempting rates but then hand you counterfeit currency or shortchange you. Only exchange money at authorized currency exchange centers or banks, and be cautious of anyone approaching you directly.
Restaurant Bill Discrepancy (Medium Risk) - In tourist-heavy areas such as New Market, some restaurants may add extra charges or over-inflate the prices after you order. Always check the menu prices beforehand and ask for a detailed bill before paying to avoid any surprise costs.
Street Card Games (Medium Risk) - You may encounter groups of individuals playing card games on the street, especially in areas like Victoria Memorial. They will invite you to bet, but it’s a setup to distract you while others may attempt to pickpocket or scam you out of money. Politely decline to engage and avoid lingering.
Fake Guides (Medium Risk) - Scammers posing as official tour guides may approach you at tourist spots like Howrah Bridge, offering unsolicited tours or assistance for a fee, then demand exorbitant prices. Always seek licensed guides through hotel recommendations or official tourism offices.
Shopping Market Overcharging (Low Risk) - In places like New Market or Gariahat, shopkeepers may try to overcharge tourists for local handicrafts and souvenirs. It’s advisable to bargain hard and know the approximate market value of items to avoid being charged excessively.
Train Ticket Scam (Medium Risk) - At railway stations such as Howrah or Sealdah, unauthorized ticket sellers or guides might offer assistance but will either sell fake tickets or charge inflated prices. Always purchase tickets from official counters or trusted online platforms to ensure authenticity.
Money Exchange Hustle (High Risk) - At popular locations like Park Street or tourist markets, you might encounter individuals offering to exchange money at tempting rates but then hand you counterfeit currency or shortchange you. Only exchange money at authorized currency exchange centers or banks, and be cautious of anyone approaching you directly.
Restaurant Bill Discrepancy (Medium Risk) - In tourist-heavy areas such as New Market, some restaurants may add extra charges or over-inflate the prices after you order. Always check the menu prices beforehand and ask for a detailed bill before paying to avoid any surprise costs.
Street Card Games (Medium Risk) - You may encounter groups of individuals playing card games on the street, especially in areas like Victoria Memorial. They will invite you to bet, but it’s a setup to distract you while others may attempt to pickpocket or scam you out of money. Politely decline to engage and avoid lingering.
Fake Guides (Medium Risk) - Scammers posing as official tour guides may approach you at tourist spots like Howrah Bridge, offering unsolicited tours or assistance for a fee, then demand exorbitant prices. Always seek licensed guides through hotel recommendations or official tourism offices.
Shopping Market Overcharging (Low Risk) - In places like New Market or Gariahat, shopkeepers may try to overcharge tourists for local handicrafts and souvenirs. It’s advisable to bargain hard and know the approximate market value of items to avoid being charged excessively.
Train Ticket Scam (Medium Risk) - At railway stations such as Howrah or Sealdah, unauthorized ticket sellers or guides might offer assistance but will either sell fake tickets or charge inflated prices. Always purchase tickets from official counters or trusted online platforms to ensure authenticity.
Scam Types and General Tips
Complete Guide to Scam Types