Visiting India? Here Are 15 Things To Keep In Mind Before You Take That Trip

Visiting India? Here are 15 things to keep in mind before you take that trip.

Located in South Asia, India is the seventh-largest country by area and the largest democracy in the world.
Because of its rich heritage and myriad of attractions that the country has to offer, India is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. India offers diverse attractions, and experiences to explore- be it waterfront destinations, breathtaking mountainous terrain, or pilgrim destinations.

Here are some things to keep in mind while visiting India, especially when you are travelling for the first time:

1) Do not shake hands with everyone; doing a namaste with folded hands is a better option to greet someone or even bid goodbyes.

2) Do not smile or initiate a conversation with everyone you meet. Make a judgement and then do.

3) Do not step inside a temple or house while wearing your footwear. Also, do not touch anyone or anything with your feet. If it happens by mistake, apologize immediately by saying ‘maaf karna’ or sorry.

4) When travelling in villages and small towns, limit venturing outside beyond 8 pm. Most public places close down by 8 and may not be favourable. Although, it is different for metropolitan cities and bigger towns.

5) Do not change clothes openly in public places. Also, try not to wear revealing clothes. If you are wearing at least knee-length clothing, it is good enough.

6) Be open to bargaining. Bargaining is common in India, and you can grab good deals by doing so, but then, again, do not overdo it.

7) Be open to exploring street food. Stick to hot items and items that do not use ice as you may not be well adjusted to the water quality in India.

8) Carry enough cash with you as you may not always find ATMs or credit cards options around you.

9) You must avoid over-crowded places, or travelling in public places at odd hours. You can guard yourself using the elbow as a shield- a common safety method used to save oneself from unnecessary harassment in public places.

10) Public displays of affection such as hugging, kissing, etc, are frowned upon in most places in India. Be wary of that.

11) Indians eat food with their right hand, and you might like to try it out.

12) Do not be surprised if not everyone understands your accent or the English language. Most Indians speak local languages, and it changes with the region you are visiting. Knowing ‘Hindi’ might help you get through most places.

13) Be open and warm and do not get into unnecessary sensitive discussions of religion, politics, racism, language, culture, economy etc. India is a diverse land, and you will be surprised to see such vast diversity in one country.

14) Avoid drinking water from everywhere. Opting for bottled water or carrying your own would be the safest option.

15) Do not hand over or receive things with the left hand. Instead, use your right hand. Using both hands is even better.

A Bonus Tip: Let go of your inhibitions and explore the country with an open mind. You will be amazed at the beauty of India and the people. You will make some beautiful memories to cherish for a lifetime.

P.S. Please check COVID norms and guidelines before making your travel plans.

Did you enjoy reading this blog?

How has your experience been travelling in India? Feel free to share them in the comments below.