Visiting India is a thrilling experience, with its vibrant culture, delicious food, and diverse shopping opportunities. Here are 14 essential tips that will help you make the most of your time in the country – from getting around to sightseeing to staying safe.
Whether you are planning a trip to India for business or pleasure, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure a safe and successful trip. From getting the proper vaccinations to carrying the right travel documents, there are a number of steps you can take to prepare for your trip.
In addition, it is important to know a few basic tips for staying safe while in India. This includes being aware of your surroundings, dressing appropriately, and avoiding scammers.
Useful Tips for Visiting India for the First Time
By following these 14 tips, you can ensure a safe and successful trip to India.
Research Your Destination
The first step in having a successful trip to India is to research your destination. Start by familiarizing yourself with the people, culture, customs, laws and regulations, safety risks, and the natural environment. Knowing the history of the area will also be beneficial. Additionally, researching where you plan to stay, what transportation methods you will be using, and the sites you plan to visit will help you to plan accordingly. Take the time to learn about India’s local cuisine and customs so that you can be sure to properly prepare yourself for your upcoming trip. By doing your research ahead of time, you will have an easier time navigating throughout your travels.
Get the Proper Vaccinations and Medications
A proper vaccination schedule and/or medications are a must when visiting India. There are several diseases and illnesses that you can catch while visiting the country, such as malaria and typhoid. Make sure to check the Center for Disease Control (CDC) website or consult with a healthcare provider prior to your trip to learn about any possible risks and how to reduce your chances of becoming ill. In addition to vaccinations, it is important to bring medication for the common illnesses you might experience while in India. Traveler’s diarrhea and stomach cramps are two of the most common illnesses encountered in India, so having medicine to help alleviate the symptoms is crucial. Also, be sure to pack insect repellant to help prevent against insect or mosquito carried illnesses.
Pack Light and Carefully
From north to south, India is a country with a wide variety of climates and regions, coming prepared with the right types of clothing is essential. When packing, keep in mind the temperatures you will be experiencing and try to wear clothes that are both lightweight and breathable. Layering your clothing is a great way to stay comfortable while traveling. Also, be aware of India’s conservative dress code and pack accordingly. When it comes to packing, less is more. Try to limit the amount of items you bring, so you don’t find yourself carting around too much essential and unnecessary items. Research the specific airlines you’re using so that you can be sure to follow their baggage regulations. Packing the right items, out of the items you need and want, can help to make your trip stress-free and hassle-free.
Learn Some Key Phrases in the Local Language
India is a large and diverse country, and as a result, has many different languages and dialects. Knowing a few key phrases in the local language is a great way to help you get around and make sure to remain safe during your travels. English is spoken in much of India, but having basic knowledge of Hindi or the regional language of the area will come in handy. It is also important that you have some basic knowledge of the traditional phrase of the Indian culture. If you are visiting a religious site, it is suggested that you learn the customs, such as taking off your shoes or women covering their heads upon entry. Having a basic understanding of both the language and the traditional customs can help to better prepare you for your travels.
One of the easiest ways to get around in India is by learning a few key phrases. Knowing some Hindi or the local language can help you buy groceries, interact with locals, and ask for directions. You can check out some helpful websites to learn some popular words and expressions such as hi, bye, thank you, yes, no, and more. When traveling in India it’s also important to understand that these languages may vary from region to region so do your research before setting off to get the most accurate conversations.
Bring Copies of Your Important Documents
Having copies of important documents such as your passport, visa, and other means of identification are key to having a successful trip to India. Those with visas should also make sure to have a valid visa upon entering India, if is issued as a hard copy. Be sure to make several copies and store them separately, so they are easy to access. It is also advised to leave a set of copies with a family member or friend, as a backup.
Dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas.
The Indian culture is one that is very secular and proud of its strong traditions and heritage. As such, it is important to dress in appropriate clothing in order to avoid offending the locals. Women in particular should dress in conservative clothing such as a salwar kameez, sari, and other modest garments.
In many parts of India, you should dress modestly and cover your arms and legs when visiting religious sites or going to rural areas. Women are especially advised to avoid revealing clothing such as shorts, skirts, dresses, tank tops, or any other clothing that may be considered immodest. Additionally, it’s important to watch your body language: avoid showing affection in public spaces since this is generally looked down upon in Indian culture.
Avoiding clothing that exposes too much of the body is advised. In Bangladesh, shorts are normally not worn outside the home, so it is best to stick with trousers or skirts that reach the ankle.
Maximize Your Travel Experience – Limit the Number of Destinations
One of the most important and useful tips for going to India is to consider making fewer stops and taking more time at each destination. Trying to cover too much ground won’t deliver the best experience; rather, spend some time getting to know a single place, such as exploring its neighborhoods or talking to local people. This way, you’ll have a unique opportunity to connect with the culture and have truly one-of-a-kind experiences. Moreover, you won’t suffer from burnout or fatigue. In other words, less is often more when it comes to travel – so make sure that your itinerary focuses on quality instead of quantity!
Be Aware of Scams
India is known for its con artists and scam artists. In order to stay safe and avoid any financial scams, it is important to research any place you plan to visit. This can include restaurants, taxis, tourist sites, and attractions. Additionally, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and not get too comfortable with the locals or strangers. It is also suggested that you use reputable taxi services, carry a fair bit of small change with you, and learn to recognize the currency and denominations in India.
Use Only Official Taxis
When it comes to traveling around India, it is best to use only official and licensed taxis. This means avoiding drivers on the street corner, random men offering rides, or anyone else who doesn’t have a license. Be sure to check the driver’s credentials and license plate before getting inside a taxi. Additionally, you can ask your hotel or accommodation to provide you with the number of a reputable taxi service.
Drink Only Bottled Water
One of the most important tips for any traveler heading to India is to always drink only bottled water. This includes avoiding ice cubes or anything else that may be contaminated. By doing this, you will help to prevent yourself from getting sick with various gastrointestinal issues. This is also important when brushing your teeth and cleaning contact lenses.
Alternatively, you can also use a portable water filter. This could be a pocket-friendly option, yet taking care of your health.
Bring cash, as many places only accept rupees.
India is a largely cash-reliant society, and not many places accept foreign currency or credit cards. As such, it’s essential that you bring enough rupees to use in Indian markets – both for the duration of your trip and for emergencies. Cash machines are available in most major cities if needed, but keep in mind that fees may apply for using them. This is amongst one of the rare tips for going to India you will rarely find anywhere else.
Choose an acceptable accommodation for your budget and needs
There are plenty of accommodations available in India, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to 5-star hotels. When looking for a place to stay, consider your budget and demands – do you prefer a hotel or would a homestay work better? Would you like basic amenities such as hot water and TV? It’s important to choose the best accommodation that meets all your needs.
Get acquainted with the local laws and regulations before you go
Before traveling to India, it’s important to get acquainted with the local laws and regulations. On your first visit, consider talking to the local police or asking other tourists about what is allowed and what isn’t. It’s also essential to check the visa rules in India when planning your trip and ensure that you meet all the requirements for entering the country. Common restrictions include carrying a certain amount of cash as well as avoiding certain activities such as wildlife trade or any kind of drug-related offenses.
Don’t Forget to Pack Your Sense of Adventure
One last, but one of the most useful tips for going to India. Despite the various safety concerns associated with traveling to India, the country is an incredibly unique and awe-inspiring place to visit. With its storied culture, many different sights and sounds, and the immense culinary and spiritual experiences that await, India offers travelers something incredible. Above all else, it is important to not forget to pack your sense of adventure!
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