India Travel Advices
Discover essential advice on gear, clothing, and gadgets for unforgettable family travel experiences
India Travel Advices
Expert tips for gear, clothing, and gadgets to enhance your travel experience.
As an experienced traveler to India, here are some key pieces of advice to make the most of your journey through this vibrant and diverse country:
1. Be Ready for Sensory Overload
India can be an intense experience, especially for first-time visitors. The colors, smells, sounds, and crowds can be overwhelming. Embrace the energy and the chaos—it’s part of what makes India unique. Start slow, give yourself time to adjust, and take breaks when you need to recharge.
2. Plan Your Travel Based on Seasons
India has diverse climates, and the best time to visit depends on the region:
North India (Rajasthan, Delhi, Agra, Varanasi): Best between October and March when the weather is cooler.
South India (Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka): Visit between November and February to avoid the intense summer heat and monsoon rains.
Himalayan Region (Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand): Ideal during summer (June to September) when the weather is pleasant.
3. Use a Mix of Transportation
India offers a variety of transportation options:
Trains: The train network is vast and a great way to see the country. Opt for air-conditioned sleeper classes (AC2 or AC3) for longer journeys.
Domestic Flights: Affordable and time-saving, especially when covering large distances.
Taxis and Auto-Rickshaws: Negotiate the fare before you start the ride, or use ride-hailing apps like Ola or Uber in major cities.
Buses: For budget travel, buses (both government and private) are a popular option, especially for shorter routes.
4. Mind the Cultural Differences
India is culturally rich and diverse, with different traditions, customs, and etiquette in every region:
Respect religious customs: When visiting temples or religious sites, dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees) and remove shoes before entering.
Greetings: The traditional greeting in India is Namaste (pressing your palms together in a prayer-like position).
Public affection: Avoid public displays of affection, as they are frowned upon in many parts of India.
5. Take Care of Your Health
Stay hydrated: Carry bottled water, and avoid drinking tap water. Most travelers prefer using water purifiers or buying sealed bottled water.
Food hygiene: Stick to freshly cooked food and eat at busy places where the food turnover is high. Be cautious with street food unless you see it being freshly prepared.
Travel insurance and vaccinations: Make sure you have travel insurance and get the necessary vaccinations (such as for typhoid, hepatitis A, and tetanus). Also, carry basic medicines like anti-diarrheals and electrolytes for any stomach upsets.
6. Pace Yourself
India is a vast and diverse country, and trying to see everything in one trip is overwhelming. Choose a few regions or states and explore them in depth rather than rushing from one place to another. For example:
Golden Triangle (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur): For first-time visitors looking for a taste of history and culture.
Kerala and Goa: For a relaxing beach and backwaters experience.
Rajasthan: For palaces, forts, and the desert.
Himalayas (Ladakh, Dharamshala, Rishikesh): For adventure and spiritual retreats.
7. Understand the Importance of Local Etiquette
Bargaining: Bargaining is common in markets and street shops, so don’t hesitate to negotiate.
Right hand rule: In India, the left hand is considered impure for certain tasks, so use your right hand when handing over money, eating, or passing items.
Personal space: Be aware that the concept of personal space can be different from Western norms, especially in crowded areas like markets and trains.
8. Prepare for Cultural and Religious Festivals
India celebrates countless festivals, and your trip may coincide with one. While it can add excitement and cultural richness to your visit, it’s good to be prepared for increased crowds and higher prices. Some notable festivals include:
Holi: The festival of colors (usually in March) is celebrated with vibrant color throwing and joyous gatherings.
Diwali: The festival of lights (usually in October or November) is celebrated with fireworks, sweets, and lighting oil lamps.
Durga Puja: In West Bengal, this celebration (around September/October) is marked by massive community gatherings and artistic displays.
9. Respect Sacred Cows
Cows are sacred in India, particularly in Hindu culture. You’ll often see them roaming freely, even in big cities. Always respect their presence, and don’t harm or provoke them.
10. Be Prepared for Varied Accommodation
From luxury hotels to budget hostels and guesthouses, India offers a wide range of accommodation. Heritage hotels in Rajasthan, houseboats in Kerala, and ashrams (spiritual retreats) in places like Rishikesh offer unique stays. For budget travelers, hostels and homestays can provide more local and personal experiences.
11. Be Aware of Scams
While India is generally safe for travelers, be cautious of common scams, especially in touristy areas:
Touts: Be wary of overly friendly locals offering unsolicited help or claiming tourist attractions are closed.
Overpriced taxis: Always use official taxi stands, or insist on the driver using a meter. Alternatively, use ride-hailing apps to avoid negotiation.
12. Experience India's Spiritual Side
India is home to diverse spiritual practices. You can explore yoga and meditation retreats, visit sacred sites like Varanasi (on the Ganges), or attend a spiritual workshop in Rishikesh (the yoga capital of the world). Embrace India’s spiritual atmosphere to gain a deeper understanding of its culture.