Delhi scam: "The Main Bazaar is closed"

⚠️ Delhi's Main Bazaar Scam: What Every Israeli Traveler Needs to Know

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By: India Travel Information Team | Updated: July 2025 If you're arriving in India for the first time, especially in Delhi, you'll likely hear about an area called Main Bazaar in Paharganj, a well-known hub for backpackers, particularly Israelis. It's packed with guesthouses, restaurants, stalls, street vendors—and plenty of scammers. The Main Bazaar scam isn't just one scheme, but a series of clever tricks designed to squeeze money out of you or scare you into doing what the scammers want.

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🎭 How does the scam work?

1. "Main Bazaar is closed due to riots / renovations / a festival"

When you arrive at New Delhi railway station and try to reach Main Bazaar, someone "friendly" will approach you. They'll say: "Main Bazaar is closed today" "It's dangerous there right now—there have been riots" "There's a religious festival, and the police have closed the street" They'll offer to take you to "the official tourist office," where someone will help you find another hotel. 🧠 The truth: Main Bazaar is open as usual. This is a classic lie to steer you away.

2. "The official tourist office"

They'll take you by rickshaw (for free!) to a "government office." Inside, a man in a suit speaks perfect English, surrounded by posters of India, government signs and a professional atmosphere. He'll tell you: "There are no guesthouse rooms available" "Main Bazaar is dangerous for foreigners" "We can only book you a safe hotel through the agency" 🧾 You'll end up leaving with: A poor-quality hotel at an inflated price A train ticket costing 2-3 times the normal fare An "organized" tour of northern India that doesn't exist

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🚨 Why is it dangerous?

Losing hundreds or thousands of shekels Stress and distrust of locals from your very first day Sometimes they use emotional intimidation: "If you leave now, you'll get in trouble with the police!"

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🛡️ How to avoid the scam

1. Always go straight to Main Bazaar Ignore anyone who says it's closed. Insist on walking or taking a rickshaw directly to Main Bazaar, Paharganj. 2. Don't trust "official offices" Genuine India Tourism offices won't approach you on the street. 3. Plan ahead If this is your first time in India, it's worth booking your first night online in advance and asking your hotel to arrange an airport pickup. 4. Stay calm As long as you stay calm and don't make decisions under pressure, you can avoid 99% of scams.

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🧭 In summary:

The Main Bazaar scam isn't something to fear—just something to know about and prepare for. India is fascinating, colorful and generous, but it's also full of people who see new tourists as easy targets. Set boundaries and use common sense, and your experience will be amazing.