Mysuru: Tourists visiting Mysuru are reportedly being misled by groups of touts who allegedly spread false information about the closure of major attractions and then divert visitors to selected saree and handicraft shops for hefty commissions.
Visitors have reportedly been told fabricated reasons for the closure of popular destinations, including Mysuru Palace, Mysuru Zoo and Chamundi Hill.
Tourists allegedly targeted outside major attractions
According to reports, touts have been telling tourists that the Palace is closed for Maharaja’s Jayanti celebrations, that the Zoo has temporarily stopped entry during animal feeding time, or that Chamundi Hill has been closed because of a visit by the Chief Minister.
The issue came to light after a young woman from Mumbai reportedly shared her experience on Instagram. On July 26, she was allegedly approached outside Mysuru Palace by a man who claimed that all major tourist attractions had been closed due to Maharaja’s Jayanti celebrations.
He then reportedly offered to take her to a ‘famous shop’ selling authentic silk and sandalwood products.
Palace Board starts multilingual announcements
Following complaints, the Mysore Palace Board has begun making regular announcements through loudspeakers at the Varaha Gate ticket counter.
The announcements are being made in Kannada, Hindi and English, informing tourists that the Palace remains open to visitors.
The measure is aimed at preventing visitors from falling prey to misleading claims made outside the tourist attraction.
Tourism Department looks at tourist patrolling
The reported tout menace has also attracted the attention of the Tourism Department. Officials are considering introducing dedicated tourist patrolling at key tourist destinations in Mysuru.
Such a system could help identify and deter people allegedly approaching tourists with false information and protect visitors from being diverted to commercial establishments through misleading claims.
With Mysuru attracting tourists throughout the year, authorities are expected to strengthen measures to ensure that visitors receive accurate information and can explore the city’s heritage and tourist attractions without interference.