Scam in NepalFood and drink
Watered-down two-for-one drinks in Nepal
How it works
A two-for-one cocktail offer may provide watered-down drinks. The apparent saving can be poor value.
Warning signs
- A two-for-one promotion does not clearly describe the drinks.
- The drinks seem much weaker than expected.
How to avoid it
- Ask what the offer includes before ordering.
- Check the total price.
- Avoid buying more rounds if the first drinks disappoint.
If it happens to you
Raise the issue with staff before ordering anything else. Ask for a replacement or refund.
- Move to a safe, public place. Do not chase a thief or confront someone who threatens you.
- Stop further payments. Freeze missing cards and tell your card issuer about any unauthorised transaction.
- Save receipts, bills, messages and booking details. Write down the time, location and what happened.
- If it is safe, ask the business to correct the bill or refund a misrepresented purchase.
- Report theft, threats or suspected fraud to police. Ask for a report reference or a copy for insurance.
- Contact your insurer. If your passport was stolen, contact your embassy or consulate. Secure accounts linked to a stolen phone.
Questions
What is the watered-down two-for-one drinks scam in Nepal?
A two-for-one cocktail offer may provide watered-down drinks. The apparent saving can be poor value.
How can I spot it early?
A two-for-one promotion does not clearly describe the drinks. The drinks seem much weaker than expected.
How do I avoid watered-down two-for-one drinks in Nepal?
Ask what the offer includes before ordering. Check the total price. Avoid buying more rounds if the first drinks disappoint.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Raise the issue with staff before ordering anything else. Ask for a replacement or refund.
Where in Nepal does this happen?
Pubs, restaurants and sports bars in the tourist areas of Kathmandu and Pokhara. It has been reported in Kathmandu, Pokhara.
How common is this scam in Nepal?
Occasional. Nepal has several scam and overcharging risks for visitors, especially when shopping, arranging transport or going out. Watch for fake goods, pickpockets, unclear fares and street offers to visit dance bars; some poor-value deals are ordinary charges rather than fraud.
Are there similar scams in Nepal?
Yes: expensive highway meal stops.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, threats or suspected fraud at a police station. Bring available receipts, payment records and a short account of what happened. Ask for a report reference. Card issuer or bank: use the official banking app or a verified contact number. Freeze missing cards and report payments you did not authorise. Ask whether a disputed payment can be challenged. Business or venue management: if safe, show the agreed price and receipt. Ask for a corrected bill or refund, and keep a record of the response. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through its official claims channel. Keep police paperwork, receipts and evidence of the loss. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if your passport is stolen or you need consular help.
What number do I call in an emergency in Nepal?
Flood-response toll-free emergency line in Nepali, announced in August 2026: 1234, Dedicated flood-response hotline accessible within Nepal, announced in August 2026: 1144.
Reviewed by @snuck