If you’re planning a Meghalaya trip, chances are you’re busy checking reels, saving cafés in Shillong, and comparing Meghalaya trip packages that promise waterfalls, misty roads, and that perfect hill-station vibe. And honestly, Meghalaya is stunning. But between chasing clouds and crystal-clear rivers, there are a few small travel realities no one really talks about.
Tourist scams in Meghalaya aren’t loud or dramatic; they’re subtle, confusing, and often leave you wondering, “Was that normal or did I just get played?” It could be a taxi fare that changes mid-conversation, a hotel booking that feels a little too smooth online, or someone insisting there’s a “local rule” you’ve never heard of.
Most trips go just fine, but a little awareness goes a long way. This blog isn’t here to scare you, it’s here to help you travel smarter, avoid awkward moments, and enjoy Meghalaya without unnecessary stress.
Best-Selling Meghalaya Tour Packages
Most Common Tourist Scams in Meghalaya
1. Taxi Overcharging in Meghalaya
Taxi overcharging is one of the most talked-about Meghalaya travel scams, especially for first-time visitors. Most taxis don’t use meters, so fares are decided verbally. Problems start when prices change after the ride, extra waiting charges are added, or tourists are quoted higher rates than locals.
This is often referred to online as the Shillong taxi scam, though it’s usually more about unclear communication than outright fraud. Peak season, bad weather, and late-night travel can push prices even higher, leaving travellers feeling stuck or pressured to pay.
How to avoid it:
- Finalise the total fare before boarding
- Ask what’s included (waiting, return, parking)
- Prefer hotel-arranged or reputed taxi services
- Avoid last-minute negotiations
Suggested Read: Meghalaya Tour Guide: Best Places to Visit and Useful Tips
2. Forced Switch to Local Taxis
Some tourists travelling in self-drive cars or out-of-state vehicles are told they cannot proceed further and must hire a local taxi instead. This usually happens near popular routes or tourist hubs.
While there is no official rule banning private vehicles, taxi unions and local drivers may pressure tourists, claiming it’s a “local regulation.” Many travellers feel confused or intimidated and end up paying extra to avoid conflict. This practice isn’t everywhere, but it’s reported often enough to catch visitors off guard.
How to avoid it:
- Stay calm and avoid arguments
- Ask politely for written or official proof
- Travel during daytime
- Research routes where private vehicles commonly go
- Use local taxis only where genuinely needed
3. Pressure Tactics at Tourist Spots
At waterfalls, viewpoints, or trekking points, tourists may face sudden demands for guides, parking money, or surprise charges, commonly described as entry fee scams in Meghalaya. Sometimes prices are revealed only after the service is done, making it awkward to refuse.
Locals may insist these charges are mandatory or “government rules,” even when they aren’t clearly displayed. These situations rely more on confusion and hesitation than force, but they can spoil the experience if you’re unprepared.
How to avoid it:
- Ask prices clearly before agreeing
- Look for official rate boards
- Carry small change
- Don’t hesitate to walk away
- Hire registered guides only
Suggested Read: How to Reach Meghalaya: Air, Train, and Road Options
4. Fake or Misleading Hotel Bookings
Fake or misleading hotel bookings are among the most stressful Meghalaya travel scams, especially during peak season. Tourists often come across professional-looking websites, Instagram pages, or WhatsApp contacts offering attractive discounts. After paying an advance, they either can’t reach the property or discover on arrival that no booking exists.
In some cases, photos shown online don’t match the actual place. This scam mostly targets first-time visitors unfamiliar with local accommodation options and last-minute planners.
How to avoid it:
- Book through reputed platforms only
- Avoid deals that seem unusually cheap
- Call the property directly before paying
- Check recent Google reviews and photos
5. Fake Guide Scams in Meghalaya
At popular trekking routes and viewpoints, unregistered individuals may approach tourists claiming to be “official guides,” leading to fake guide scams in Meghalaya.
They often insist guides are compulsory, quote unclear prices, or abandon tourists midway after collecting money. This is one of the common tourist traps in Meghalaya, especially near lesser-known trails and waterfalls. While many local guides are genuine and helpful, the lack of ID verification creates room for misuse, leaving tourists confused or overcharged.
How to avoid it:
- Hire guides through hotels or tourism offices
- Ask for ID or registration proof
- Confirm charges and route beforehand
- Avoid guides who pressure or rush you
Dawki’s crystal-clear Umngot River is a major attraction, but it’s also known for pricing confusion often linked online with the Shillong taxi scam culture of verbal rates. Boatmen may quote one price initially and add extra charges later for time, photos, or “seasonal rates.” During crowds, tourists feel pressured to accept inflated prices to avoid missing out. While boating itself is safe, lack of transparency can spoil the experience if you’re unprepared.
How to avoid it:
- Ask the full price before boarding
- Confirm ride duration clearly
- Look for official rate boards
- Pay only after agreeing on all terms
7. Verbal Rules That Don’t Exist
One of the subtler tourist scams in Meghalaya involves being told about “local” or “government” rules that aren’t clearly displayed anywhere. Tourists may hear claims like private vehicles aren’t allowed ahead, certain spots require compulsory guides, or photography needs special permission.
These verbal rules are often used to confuse visitors or push them into paying extra or hiring services they didn’t plan for. This has become a common Meghalaya travel warning shared by frequent travellers, especially for first-timers unfamiliar with local practices.
How to avoid it:
- Ask politely for written or official proof
- Look for notice boards or government signage
- Stay calm and don’t argue
- Cross-check with locals or hotel staff
Suggested Read: 7 Popular Hill Stations in Meghalaya: Complete Travel Guide
8. Hidden Charges in Meghalaya
Hidden charges in Meghalaya usually show up after you’ve already agreed to something; parking fees, camera charges, maintenance Money, or “local fund” contributions.
These costs may seem small individually but add up quickly. Tourists often pay to avoid awkward situations, making this one of the most common issues reported. While not always intentional scams, lack of transparency can make visitors feel misled and stressed.
How to avoid it:
- Ask for the total cost upfront
- Carry small change
- Pay only after confirming inclusions
- Follow basic Meghalaya safety tips like travelling informed and unhurried
A Quick Alert Before Your Trip
Before you start your journey, here’s a small heads-up. Most tourist scams in Meghalaya aren’t extreme or dangerous, but they can quietly affect your experience, unclear taxi fares, sudden extra charges, or rules that seem to appear out of nowhere. These situations usually happen when plans are rushed or details aren’t confirmed in advance. Think of this as a gentle Meghalaya travel warning, not a reason to worry. A little awareness, asking the right questions, and taking your time can help you avoid unnecessary stress and enjoy the trip fully.
If you prefer a smoother, worry-free experience where stays, transport, and activities are already sorted, travelling with a trusted organiser like WanderOn can help you avoid most of these common hassles and focus purely on enjoying Meghalaya.
