Beware of Spice Garden & Ayurvedic Scams in Kerala– Overpriced Products & Fake Promises

The Common Scam Tourists Fall For

Many travelers visiting Munnar, Wayanad, Thekkady, and other popular destinations in Kerala and nearby regions have reported similar scam experiences at so-called herbal gardens, spice plantations, and Ayurveda centers.

Here’s how the scam usually works:

1. Tourist drivers or guides take visitors to a "famous" spice or Ayurvedic garden.

   • Many drivers have tie-ups with these places and may receive commissions for bringing tourists.
   • Tourists are convinced it's a must-visit spot.

2. Entry fees are charged for a short, misleading garden tour.

   • Visitors pay ₹100-₹500 per person for a guided tour, expecting an informative walk through lush plantations.
   • Instead, the "tour" lasts just 5-10 minutes, covering only a handful of plants.

3. Fake Ayurvedic doctors and overpriced herbal medicines.

   • Some places have staff posing as Ayurvedic doctors who claim to diagnose ailments and recommend herbal medicines.
   • These "medicines" are often overpriced and make false health claims.
   • One traveler reported their mother was tricked into spending ₹21,000 on ineffective herbal remedies in Thekkady.

4. Overpriced spices and chocolates.

   • While some tourists find the spices genuine, most report that the products are heavily overpriced compared to local markets.

Tourists Share Their Scam Experiences

• "I visited a spice garden in Munnar. The garden tour lasted only 5 minutes, but we were promised 30 minutes. Then they took us to their shop to buy overpriced spices and medicines."
• "My mother was convinced by an Ayurvedic expert in Thekkady and ended up spending ₹21,000 on herbal treatments that did nothing."
• "They charged money just to show a few plants and talk about their benefits. Total scam!"
• "Many drivers take tourists to these places for commissions. After one scam, I refused to visit any other spice gardens in Munnar."

How to Avoid This Scam

• Do your research – Check online reviews before visiting any spice or Ayurvedic garden.
• Ask locals, not drivers – Some drivers take tourists to places where they get commissions.
• Buy spices from local markets – Prices are often cheaper in government or trusted local stores.
• Don’t fall for fake Ayurveda doctors – If you need Ayurveda treatment, visit licensed and reputed centers.
• Be firm – If you feel pressured into buying something, walk away.