12 Common Taxi Scams To Avoid in Darjeeling & Gangtok
It is definitely a delightful experience to travel to Darjeeling and Gangtok but regrettably, some taxi scams might ruin your holiday. Even while these hill stations have serene settings and stunning scenery, some dishonest drivers might try to take advantage of visitors. The 12 most common taxi scams in Darjeeling and Gangtok are mentioned here, along with advice on how to stay safe. Along with following the tips, it is also vital to contact a reputed agency for car rental in Siliguri and get a reliable car with transparent pricing.
Explore the Most Common Scams You Must Avoid
1. Fake hikes in fare and overcharging
Inflated fares are one of the most common frauds, particularly for visitors who are unfamiliar with the area. Because passengers won't be aware of the true fee, drivers may quote a considerably higher price than the going rate.
How to Avoid: Always check the regular fare with several people, such as your hotel or locals. Because they display the fee up front, pre-booked cabs and online travel agencies are excellent ways to prevent overpaying.
2. Meters that are rigged or not used
Instead of charging you a fixed amount that is significantly higher than what is appropriate, some drivers may claim that their meter is damaged or not functioning.
How to avoid: Before the trip begins, insist on using the meter or settle on a reasonable price. Find another taxi and leave if they say no. GPS can also be used to trace the journey and calculate the trip's cost.
3. Unnecessary change in the route
When a driver purposefully chooses a longer route in order to raise the charge, this fraud happens. You might not be aware that the additional kilometers have been added, and the cost will increase.
How to Avoid: One excellent tool for tracking your route is Google Maps. Don't be afraid to speak up if you think the driver is deviating from the usual path, and politely request that they take the most direct or advised route. At Suvidhaa Aapki, we provide you with experienced and honest drivers who can take you to the destination through the shortest route.
4. Unlicensed operators or fraudulent taxi services
Unregistered taxis might not adhere to fundamental safety regulations and might not be trustworthy. Unlicensed drivers often pick up passengers and charge them outrageous prices.
How to Avoid: Always make reservations via authorized web platforms, respectable travel firms, or regulated taxi services to get affordable car fares from Siliguri to Darjeeling or Gangtok. Verify that the driver is properly identified and that the vehicle is registered.
5. The Common Scam of "No Availability"
This fraud occurs when a driver tries to direct you toward more costly options while claiming that there are no cheap taxis available.
How to Avoid: To prevent last-minute price increases, reserve your ride in advance with reliable services. A better price and availability can be guaranteed when you book in advance.
6. Extra Charges for Carrying Bags
Even if carrying luggage is not included in the mentioned rate, some drivers may charge an additional fee. This is particularly prevalent in mountainous regions, where drivers can offer to assist you with your luggage.
How to Avoid: Make sure you are aware of any additional fees, and confirm the baggage rules in advance.
7. Forced Stopovers with False Tour Guides
Some drivers might recommend stops at particular stores, or accommodation facilities, or meet tour guides in exchange for a commission. These needless stops could cause your trip to be delayed and also charge you extra.
How to Avoid: Refuse any unnecessary excursions politely. Follow your timetable exactly, and don't feel compelled to go to a store or tour unless you really want to.
8. Payment Issues & Fake Currency Tricks
Scammers may demand that the money you gave them is fake and may ask for the exact change while avoiding returning the remaining amount.
How to Avoid: Before getting out of the taxi, double-check transactions and have modest sums of local currency on hand. When the driver requests payment in larger amounts or foreign currencies, proceed with caution.
9. Scam of Fake Ride Cancellations
Some dishonest drivers might abruptly cancel your reservation and then offer to take you somewhere considerably more expensive for the same trip.
How to Avoid: Make a reservation with a reputable taxi company to get an affordable Siliguri to Gangtok taxi price that also offers replacements in the event of cancellation. To prevent unpleasant surprises at the last minute, always confirm your reservation well in advance.
10. Sharing a Ride with Unknown People
In order to raise their charge, taxi drivers may pick up more passengers without your permission, converting your private ride into a shared one.
How to Avoid: When you reserve your taxi, be sure it is a private ride. Ask the driver to cancel the extra passengers if you didn't agree to a shared ride.
11. Taxis claiming that the hotels are full
Some drivers might transport you to another hotel where they get paid by making up the story that yours is unsafe, overbooked, or closed.
How to Avoid: Always confirm the reservation by giving your hotel a call. Follow your instinct and seek out alternative modes of transportation if the driver insists about transporting you somewhere else.
12. Fake Taxi Drivers at Stations and Airports
At airports and train stations, scammers may impersonate legitimate taxi services and offer rides in unsafe cars at inflated rates.
How to Avoid: Make reservations in advance with a reputed agency or use designated taxi stations. Verify the taxi's driver identification and make sure the car is licensed at all times.
How Can You Protect Yourself From These Taxi Scams?
- Make Your Reservation in Advance: To guarantee reasonable and flexible travel, use reputable taxi services or online booking platforms.
- Know the Approximate Fare: To get a sense of what to expect, research about approx. car fare from Siliguri to Gangtok or Darjeeling before your journey.
- Verify Information before Starting: To prevent misunderstandings, always go over the fare, the route, and any additional fees upfront.
- Have Emergency Contacts on Hand: In the event of a disagreement, keep the phone numbers of your local authorities and your taxi company handy.
- Verify the Taxi's License and Registration: Before boarding a taxi, be sure the driver is licensed and the car is correctly registered. Don't be afraid to select a different ride if something appears strange.
- Don't Share Personal Information: Be aware of drivers that request excessive personal information, such as your lodging location or your itinerary. Only give information that is essential for the trip because scammers can use it against you later.
Additional Safety Tips To Ensure A Scam-Free Journey
- Click a picture of the driver's information and number plate: To be extra careful, take a picture of the license plate and the driver's information and send it to a friend or relative.
- Make Use of Official Apps: Reliable taxi services lower your risk of frauds and provide a secure ride.
- Avoid Overly-Friendly or Pushy Drivers: Be cautious if a driver offers you unnecessary advice or insists on taking you somewhere extra.
- Have Faith in Your Instincts: Don't be afraid to select a different taxi or service if something seems strange or uncomfortable.
- Be Aware of the Driver's Behaviour: Take note of the driver's actions. It is advisable to cancel the ride and get another one if they pressure you to take needless detours.
- Avoid Carrying Large Amounts of Cash: Try to carry minimal amounts of cash on hand. For extra protection, try to pay with credit cards or digital wallets.
- Verify Payment Methods Ahead of Time: Before beginning your ride, confirm the payment methods. Make sure the driver has a functional payment terminal.
Traveling through the stunning hills of Darjeeling and Gangtok can be made easy and scam-free by being aware and following the above-mentioned advice. Have a safe trip with Suvidhaa Aapki!
