20 essential tips for your journey to India

India is a destination that captivates your senses like no other—nowhere else offers such a vivid array of sights, sounds, and experiences as this vast country at the heart of Asia.

Experiencing all of India is a lifetime endeavor, and grasping every detail of this nation of 1.4 billion people is nearly impossible. However, with some preparation, you can explore the richness of this land, from its majestic mountains and beautiful beaches to its ancient temples and opulent palaces.

We've gathered the essential insights you need for visiting India, but the adventure truly starts before you embark. Continue reading for 22 more insider tips to ensure your trip is unforgettable.

1. Schedule your visit according to the seasons

India is known for its hot and humid climate, but the country boasts a diverse range of weather due to its beaches, mountains, hills, coastlines, and plains all within a relatively compact area. The southwest monsoon brings rain from June to September, making it the best time to explore the high-altitude deserts of Ladakh, despite the potential for landslides and flooding.

In the southern regions, there is a milder rainy season from October to December. The prime travel period spans from October to May, although temperatures and humidity can become uncomfortably high starting in March, leading up to the monsoon. If you visit India in spring, consider heading to the Himalayan foothills for cooler temperatures and excellent trekking conditions.

2. Schedule your vaccinations well in advance

While there are no mandatory vaccinations for entering India (except for yellow fever if arriving from an endemic country),

it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional at least eight weeks prior to your trip to ensure your vaccinations are current. Recommended vaccinations often include diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis A and B, polio, and typhoid, in addition to standard childhood immunizations for measles, mumps, rubella, and chickenpox.

For extended stays, consider vaccinations for Japanese B encephalitis, meningitis, and rabies. Rabies can be transmitted by monkeys, dogs, and cats, and if left untreated, it can be fatal.

3. Implement malaria prevention strategies

Depending on your travel destination within India, it may be wise to consult your healthcare provider about taking anti-malarial medication. Regions such as northeastern and eastern India, as well as the city of Mangalore, are associated with a higher risk of malaria.

Always take steps to prevent mosquito bites to protect yourself from dengue fever, a viral disease spread by mosquitoes. It's wise to sleep under a mosquito net, wear long-sleeved clothing and light-colored trousers, and apply a repellent or use a plug-in mosquito killer containing a high concentration of DEET (diethyltoluamide).

4. Ensure you have travel insurance

Travel insurance is crucial when visiting India. Public hospitals may be inadequately equipped depending on the area, and most private clinics and hospitals require upfront payment. Make sure your policy covers emergency evacuation and any adventure activities you plan to undertake.

If you fall victim to a crime, report it to the local police station or call 100 or 112, the national emergency numbers. A police report (a 'FIR' – First Information Report) is necessary to file a claim on your travel insurance.

5. Organize your communication plans before traveling

Having a local SIM card can simplify many tasks in India, such as booking trains or ordering food online. Bring an unlocked phone from home or purchase one locally, then visit a phone shop to set up a pay-as-you-go SIM package upon arrival.

Don't forget to bring passport photos and photocopies of your passport ID pages to finalize your application.

6. Plan your bookings in advance for peak seasons and festivals

From November to February, India experiences a surge in travelers, making affordable accommodations hard to come by during peak season. It's wise to secure your bookings in advance, whether directly through the venues or via booking platforms like Agoda and MakeMyTrip.

Additionally, it's advisable to reserve train tickets ahead of time, especially for popular routes. You can book through the government site IRCTC or conveniently through local platforms like 12Go or Cleartrip.

India adheres to the Gregorian calendar officially, but the key festivals for Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Islam, and other religions follow lunar calendars, causing their dates to vary each year. Always verify festival dates before planning your trip; the Indian government provides a helpful online list of public holidays.

7. Familiarize yourself with local customs

English serves as the common language in most urban areas of India, and simple greetings will suffice in smaller towns as well. However, in northern India, you can express respect by saying 'namaste' (I bow to you) while placing your hands together in a prayer-like gesture at your chest.

When greeting Muslims in northern India, you can say 'salaam alaikum' (peace be upon you), to which the proper response is 'alaikum salaam.' Generally, it's your effort that counts more than perfect pronunciation, so feel free to try!

In business settings, a handshake is the customary greeting among men; however, outside urban areas, men and women typically do not shake hands. Always use your right hand for greetings and when passing items, including money.

If you receive an invitation to someone’s home, consider bringing a small gift like flowers or sweets, and remember to remove your shoes before entering. It’s also courteous to accept and consume whatever food or drink is offered, even if it’s not your favorite.

8. Dining etiquette and choices

India's various religions have specific dietary customs. Muslims refrain from eating pork, many Hindus avoid beef, and a significant number of Hindus and Buddhists are either vegetarian or vegan. Jains are particularly strict vegetarians who often exclude certain vegetables like onions, garlic, and potatoes, striving to avoid harm to all living beings. As a result, vegan and vegetarian options are readily available throughout the country.

In many eateries, especially in southern India, dining with your hands is customary. Observe how other diners do it and remember to use your right hand. Form balls of rice and curry with your fingers and use your thumb to guide the food into your mouth. Some thalis (traditional plate meals with several dishes) might even be served on a cleaned and heated banana leaf instead of a regular plate.

9. Be generous while negotiating

Negotiating prices at street stalls and open-air markets is a key aspect of shopping in India. While it can occasionally be frustrating, losing your temper is considered very inappropriate. If you can’t reach a satisfactory price with the vendor, it’s best to politely decline and seek another shop.

Here’s how the haggling process typically works: the vendor will start with a price that's higher than the item's actual value. You'll respond with a lower offer, and together you’ll negotiate until you find a price that works for both of you.

Using the 'walking away' tactic can prompt the vendor to make some last-minute concessions, but eventually, you’ll discover a price they won't budge below. Adding extra items to your purchase may also lead to an overall discount. Many travelers choose not to haggle in situations where the profits go directly to artisans.

10. Wear modest attire

Modesty is highly valued in many parts of India, especially for women. Travelers of any gender will find it beneficial to wear loose-fitting clothes that cover their legs and arms. Swimwear is only suitable at the beach, and it's common to see locals swimming fully dressed. To blend in, consider acquiring a kurta pyjama (a traditional outfit with a long shirt and loose pants for men) or a salwar kameez (a long shirt with loose trousers and a scarf for women).

11. Honor the etiquette at places of worship

Religion holds significant importance in India, making it essential to understand the rules and expectations for visiting temples, mosques, monasteries, gurdwaras (Sikh shrines), synagogues, and churches. Always confirm your entry permissions, as some places are restricted to followers of that faith. Additionally, mosques may be closed during prayer times or on Fridays.

If requested, take off your shoes before entering any religious space, and be ready to cover your head with a scarf or shawl. It's generally advisable to keep your legs and arms covered (a sarong can serve as an emergency cover). Some temples may also prohibit leather items, and photography is often not allowed in many religious sites.

Refrain from pointing the soles of your feet toward a person or deity, as this is viewed as disrespectful. The same applies to touching anyone or any effigy on the head. It’s customary to walk around Buddhist and Hindu shrines in a clockwise manner, known as a parikrama.

Making an offering or leaving a donation is typically anticipated—locals usually contribute something. However, be cautious of individuals showing large receipts for donations. While it's perfectly fine to give, don't feel obliged to part with substantial amounts.

12. Giving alms is customary

The tradition of giving alms has deep roots in India, and visitors can expect frequent requests for money. Whether you choose to give is entirely up to you, but many Indians make small donations daily, especially when visiting temples and mosques. Be mindful that some solicitations may be scams; you might find it more beneficial to support charities or aid organizations that you have researched rather than simply handing out cash.

13. Honor social customs

India has intricate social norms regarding respect for elders. Depending on your location, older individuals are often addressed as “auntie” or “uncle,” and adding the suffix ji to a name is a common sign of respect.

In smaller towns, India tends to be quite traditional regarding interactions between unmarried men and women. Additionally, many regions are conservative concerning same-sex relationships. Regardless of your orientation, it’s advisable to refrain from public displays of affection.

14. Street harassment is regrettably prevalent

While harassment can occur anywhere, certain areas in India frequently make headlines due to inadequate safety for women. This includes unwelcome stares, relentless conversation attempts, and the risk of more severe incidents. Groping often happens in crowded places, especially during festivals.

Stay vigilant, just as you would elsewhere, and be cautious. Avoid entering taxis or auto rickshaws with anyone besides the driver, and steer clear of quiet areas, especially at night. Politely decline food or drink offers from strangers.

When using public transport as a woman, it’s wise to look for train compartments and seats reserved for women. Wearing a wedding ring (even if you’re not married), along with dark sunglasses and headphones, can provide a sense of privacy. If you face harassment, making a scene can attract attention and help from others.

15. Keep an eye on local news for updates

India has experienced serious attacks from separatist, Marxist groups, and Kashmiri insurgents. Stay vigilant by monitoring local news and being aware of any suspicious activities, especially near popular tourist attractions. Before heading to Srinagar or the Kashmir Valley, check the security conditions due to potential unrest. Avoid strikes, protests, and demonstrations as they can escalate into violence. In case of any disturbances, follow local curfews and remain indoors—your hotel is likely the safest option.

Certain regions in India are susceptible to natural disasters, with risk levels varying by season. For example, Himachal Pradesh often experiences flash floods and landslides during the monsoon. Be observant for signs of natural calamities and stay informed through local news to identify areas to avoid. Regularly check the Indian Meteorological Department’s website and social media for updates. If you find yourself in a disaster situation, heed the guidance of emergency personnel and evacuate the area promptly.

16. Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs

India has certain laws and regulations that may be unfamiliar to travelers. For example, taking pictures of bridges, military camp perimeters, or border crossings—along with flying drones in these areas—poses serious security concerns.

When flying within India, you might be required to give up batteries from devices in your carry-on luggage. Smoking is prohibited in many public spaces, and some states have restrictions on beef consumption; even accidental harm to a cow can result in severe consequences.

To steer clear of misunderstandings, research your destination thoroughly and consult with your hotel, hostel staff, or B&B hosts for guidance on any local customs to be mindful of.

17. Take altitude seriously during your hikes

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) poses a risk at elevations above 2500m (8202ft), which encompasses most of the Indian Himalayas. AMS can be life-threatening, so it's crucial to ascend gradually and include rest days to help your body adapt to higher altitudes. If you start feeling unwell while hiking, pause your journey, and if symptoms persist, descend immediately.

18. Avoid drugs

While India may be viewed by some as a place to experiment, its drug laws are very strict. Even small quantities of drugs for personal use can result in imprisonment.

Certain religious groups may be allowed to use marijuana for ceremonial reasons, but this typically does not apply to tourists. However, you can find bhaang, a cannabis mixture made from the leaves rather than the buds, at government-sanctioned bhaang shops.

19. Avoid drinking tap water

Tap water in India is not safe to drink. Consuming it or using it for brushing your teeth can quickly lead to stomach issues, which are among the most frequent ailments for visitors. Opt for purified or bottled water, or purify your own to help reduce plastic waste in India.

This water caution also applies to ice (be careful with ice in beverages and ice cream) and uncooked foods, especially salads and chutneys that may have been rinsed with contaminated water. When enjoying fruit, choose items you can peel or wash thoroughly, and be wary of freshly made juices. Hot beverages are generally safe, so indulge in chai (milky, often spiced and sweet tea).

20. Be aware of scams

India is known for scams aimed at extracting money from tourists, with touts and con artists frequently found in tourist hotspots. Always seek tourist information and make reservations at official offices instead of relying on “tourist offices” recommended by unsolicited helpers.

If someone directs you to a hotel, shop, or establishment without your request, they may be seeking a commission that will inflate your costs. Be skeptical of claims that your desired destination is “closed”—always verify for yourself.

Use common sense and be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true, such as the gem scam, where travelers are deceived into purchasing worthless gems to supposedly resell for a profit back home.