
When visiting Kashmir, there are a few common scams and tourist traps to be aware of. Here’s a list of potential scams and tips to avoid them: 1. Houseboat Scams Some houseboats charge excessively high prices or promise luxury services that don’t match the reality. Tip: I would personally just skip staying in a houseboat, i experienced it once and it was really a very average experience for us, if at all you choose to stay ,Book houseboats through reputed platforms or trusted travel agents, and read reviews beforehand. 2. Overpriced Shikara Rides: Shikara (boat) owners might initially quote a reasonable price, but add unexpected charges mid-ride for "extra stops" or sightseeing. Tip: Negotiate and finalize the price, duration, and itinerary of the ride before starting the trip and be very firm while doing this. We paid 650rs for 1 hour of shikara ride. ( 4 adults can sit in shikara) The best time to enjoy a shikara ride is either sunrise or sunset. 3. Snow essential Rental: Rental equipment prices can be inflated, with additional hidden costs. Tip: Compare prices from multiple vendors and ask locals for the standard rates. We paid 100rs per head for snow boots and 100 rs per head for jackets. Wearing the correct size of snow boots/gum boots is a must to enjoy uninterrupted snow fun. 4. "Friendly Locals" Offering Free Tours Some individuals may pose as friendly locals offering free tours but lead you to shops or services where they earn commissions. Tip: Politely decline such offers and stick to your planned itinerary. Overall you really need good bargaining skills to survive in kashmir failing which you will end up paying twice or sometimes even triple the actual price. Apart from Pahalgam taxi union( fixed price here ) you will need to put ur bargaining skills to test everywhere. Let me know if you need help planning your visit or tips for specific locations. Stay tuned @diariesofts for more updates [Kashmir diaries, mustdothingsinkashmir, Pahalgam diaries, chandanwarivalley Pahalgam, winter vacation, snow vacation]
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