Ella Rock trail fake guide scam explained.
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The scam is very simple. As you walk along the railway tracks to start the Ella Rock hike, locals will stand near the turnoff point and confidently point you towards a narrow, overgrown side path, claiming the main route is blocked or dangerous.
Once you wander into the confusing maze of tall tea bushes and lose your bearings, the same person or their friend will magically appear and offer to rescue you and guide you to the top for a steep fee, usually around 2000 to 5000 Rupees.
To bypass this entirely, simply download the Maps.me app on your phone. The correct trail is universally crowd sourced and highly accurate on that specific app. Trust your phone, completely ignore unsolicited directions, and keep walking.
Scam Watch: ella
People outside stations offer to "help" buy tickets but charge large markups. They may buy cheap third-class tickets and sell as more expensive classes.
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