Essential Tips for First-Time Travelers to India

Tips for First-Time Travelers to India

Now, let’s get started.

Please fasten your seatbelts, because a journey to India is not like any other backpacking vacation to Europe. The experience is one that engages all of the senses, stirs the soul, can be frustrating at times, and eventually has a transforming effect.

Have you ever experienced the sensation of a place having an electric hum, to the point where you could feel an unseen current vibrating beneath the surface of normal life? Right from the time you walk off the plane, you are in India itself. My very first whiff? In addition to diesel fumes and incense, there is a sweet and indefinably spicy aroma that permeates the air. Despite the fact that it was alive, it was not necessarily pleasant. And that, right there, is the core of this country, which is gorgeous, chaotic, and completely devoid of any sense of direction.

Let go of the things you believe you know. Although the Taj Mahal and Bollywood dance numbers are certainly a part of the equation, India is actually much more than just those two things. It is a tapestry that is stitched with strands of ancient history, vibrant spirituality, mind-boggling diversity, and a degree of humanity that is so obvious that you won’t find it anyplace else. When you visit this kind of location, your preconceived notions will be called into question, your limits will be tested, and you will find yourself doubting nearly everything.

I don’t understand why I am so obsessed. To put it simply, India does not want to be classified. It’s a place where the contrasts are striking. Where the holy and the profane dance a waltz that is both disorienting and seductive, where sparkling skyscrapers loom over ancient temples, where cows graze freely through streets that are congested with traffic, and where cows roam freely through both. India is the home of a thousand epics, each one unfolding before your own eyes, and if Paris is the city of romance, then India is the land of adventure.

Curry and cricket aren’t the only things you need to know about the Subcontinent.

Simply put, India is a very large country. It is not merely a nation; rather, it is equivalent to an entire continent in its own right. At this point, we are talking about twenty-eight states, eight union territories, and twenty-two languages that are legally recognized, in addition to hundreds of dialects. Making an attempt to comprehend “India” as a singular entity is analogous to making an attempt to comprehend “Europe” in a single sitting; it is simply not possible.

From the north to the south and from the east to the west, the cultural nuances change drastically. From the coconut-laced cuisine of Kerala to the hot curries of the Punjab, there is a world of difference between the two. The gorgeous Himalayas are not even close to being comparable to the beaches of Goa, which are soaked in sunlight. In addition, the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey appear to be a world away from the busy metropolis of Mumbai.

What is it that binds this vast landscape together? Actually, there are a couple things. For one thing, a spirituality that is deeply rooted. Religion is not merely a Sunday morning phenomenon in this region; rather, it is deeply ingrained in the fabric of everyday life. You will be able to observe it in the lively temples, the shrines that are located along the side of the road, the continuous chanting of mantras, and the continuous aroma of incense.

What else brings people together? The Indian people are known for their extraordinary warmth and sense of friendliness. In spite of the fact that many people are living in poverty and experiencing suffering, there is a sense of generosity here that is incredibly humbling. Even if you have only recently interacted with someone, you should not be startled if they welcome you into their home for a dinner or chai, which is a sweet, milky drink. I have discovered that people all around the country have a natural tendency to be friendly to one another and a real interest in forming connections with other people.

The “jugaad” attitude is another mentality that exists. Jugaad is a Hindi word that loosely translates to “resourcefulness” or “making do.” It is the art of finding innovative solutions to difficulties, frequently making use of whatever materials are available despite the fact that they may not be ideal. You’ll notice it everywhere, from the cars that have been meticulously repaired to the innovative food carts that are set up on the street. It is a demonstration of the tenacity and inventiveness that characterizes the Indian spirit. Perhaps more importantly, it is a key to survival.

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Important Travel Items: Visa, Money, and Safety (The Things That Are Not Glamorous But Are Necessary)

So, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of the situation. You need to figure out the logistics of the situation before you can even begin to imagine yourself bargaining in a bazaar in Delhi.

The Visas That Will Open the Door to Your Adventure

Many nations are required to seek a visa in advance in order to enter India. Don’t wait until the last minute to get things done! Begin the process as soon as possible because it can be somewhat bureaucratic.

The majority of passengers will find that the e-Visa option is the most convenient choice. You are able to submit your application online using the official website of the Indian government (be sure to use the official website, as there are many websites that are designed to defraud people). We offer a variety of categories, including tourist, business, and others; therefore, you should select the one that best suits your trip.

In the event that you intend to remain in India for an extended period of time or if your nationality does not qualify for an electronic visa, you will be required to submit an application through the Indian embassy or consulate in your country. In most cases, this requires additional paperwork and a longer period of time for processing.

A helpful hint is to carefully examine and recheck the validity term provided by your visa. In the event that you overstay your visa, even by a single day, you may face severe repercussions.

The Importance of Money: The Art of Bargaining, Automated Teller Machines, and Rupees

India is still mostly a cash-based society, particularly in rural areas that are not located in big cities. Credit cards are allowed in hotels and other larger places; nonetheless, you will require rupees for day-to-day spending throughout your stay.

We use the Indian Rupee (INR) as our currency.

Although automated teller machines are widely available in cities and larger towns, they are not always dependable. You should always have some cash on hand as a backup. There are automated teller machines (ATMs) that are linked with large multinational banks such as Citibank, HSBC, and others.

You can exchange money at authorized money changers, banks, and airports. Airports are also popular places to exchange money. Only a limited amount should be exchanged at the airport because the rates there are typically the worst. Do some comparison shopping to find the greatest deals, and before you leave, make sure to count your money very carefully.

Paytm and Google Pay are two examples of mobile payment applications that are gaining popularity in India, particularly in urban areas. When it comes to paying for items like rickshaws, street food, and even some shops, they are a convenient method of payment. On the other hand, in order to make effective use of them, you would require either an Indian bank account or a linked foreign wallet.

The practice of bargaining is not merely tolerated; it is anticipated! In India, haggling is a way of life, particularly in markets and during transactions involving items like rickshaw rides. To negotiate, you should not be frightened to do so, but you should do so with a smile and a sense of humor. It is a decent rule of thumb to begin at approximately half of the price that is being asked for and work your way up.

The Art of Street Smarts: How to Stay Safe and Avoid Being Scammed

The majority of the time, India is a safe country; nevertheless, just like any other country, it has its fair share of cons and minor crimes. Being aware of your environment and making use of common sense are the keys to success.

Common Scams in India & How to Avoid Them

Scam Type	Description	How to Avoid
Overly Helpful Stranger	Strangers offering unsolicited help, often directing you to specific shops/hotels	Be cautious of unsolicited help; verify information independently
Fake Ticket Scam	Purchasing tickets from unofficial street vendors	Buy tickets only from authorized sources
Gem Scam	Being pressured to buy “precious” gems at low prices, promised high resale value	Be highly skeptical of deals that seem too good to be true
Taxi/Rickshaw Meter Scam	Drivers refusing to use meters or demanding inflated fares	Insist on using the meter or agree on a price beforehand

Transportation: [and]

• Train travel is a fantastic way to see the nation, but it is important to make reservations in advance, particularly for lines that are in high demand. Especially when traveling on nocturnal trains, you should be mindful of your things.
• The bus is a more affordable choice, but it is frequently crowded and hectic.
• Rickshaws, also known as auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws, are a fun and convenient mode of transportation; however, it is important to carefully negotiate the price before using them.
• When compared to rickshaws, taxis are more expensive, but they are typically more comfortable. Wherever it is possible, make use of app-based services such as Ola and Uber.

Transportation Options in India: A Quick Comparison

Transportation	Cost	Comfort	Booking	Safety (General)
Train	Moderate	Varies	Advance Needed	Generally Safe
Bus	Low	Low	Can be Crowded	Moderate
Rickshaw	Low	Low	Negotiate Price	Moderate
Taxi/App-based	High	High	App-based Ease	Generally Safe

How to Blend in:

• When visiting places of worship, it is especially important to dress modestly. In most cases, it is a good idea to cover your knees and shoulders for protection.
• Get familiar with a few fundamental Hindi phrases, such as “Namaste” (which means “hello”) or “Dhanyavaad” (which means “thank you”), which can go a long way.
• Due to the fact that India is a historically conservative nation, it is important to refrain from making public shows of devotion.

Addressing the Particular Obstacles Facing Female Travelers Who Are Traveling Alone

India presents lone female travelers with the opportunity to have an unforgettable experience; yet, it is essential to exercise heightened caution.

• A person will look at you, particularly if you are a foreigner. This is a common occurrence. Most of the time, it is not intended to be menacing, yet it can be unsettling nonetheless. If you want to deal with it effectively, you should ignore it and avoid establishing eye contact with it.
• When traveling at night, it is best to avoid traveling alone, especially in places that are foreign to you.
• To find a place to stay, select hotels or guesthouses that have a good reputation, and study reviews thoroughly. If you are on a tight budget, you might want to think about staying in a dorm that is reserved only for females.
• What you should wear: Dress in a manner that is even more subdued than you would in other regions of the world. The most suitable choice is to wear clothes that is loose-fitting and covers both your shoulders and legs.
• Put your faith in your gut instincts: if you are in a situation that makes you feel uneasy, remove yourself from it immediately. Be confident in your ability to assert yourself and say “no.”
• Establish connections with other travelers by participating in online discussion groups or by asking for advice from other ladies who have previously visited India.

Advice and Suggestions Regarding Aspects

• Create an online application for an e-Visa well in advance of time. Verify the validity periods one more time.
• ATMs that are associated with international banks are available for use. At recognized locations, you should exchange currency. Trade goods and services for a better price. Paytm and Google Pay are two examples of mobile payment systems.
• Take precautions and be aware of common cons. Make use of services that are reputable. Observe a modest dress code. Believe in your gut impulses.
• When traveling alone as a woman, exercise extreme caution, particularly at night. Pick a property that has a good reputation. Observe a conservative look. Meet other female travelers and make connections.

In light of the fact that we are discussing food and health, let us go into the vibrant, hectic, and occasionally difficult side of traveling in India.

The Survival Guide to Food and Health: Spice, Street Food, and Keeping Yourselves (Relatively) Sane

It is a revelation to eat Indian food. A symphony of flavors, textures, and smells that will tickle your taste buds and leave you wanting more is what you can expect from this experience. For those who are not familiar with it, however, it can be a minefield.

Dishes That You Absolutely Have to Try (and Where to Look for the Real Deal)

Don’t bother with the tasteless butter chicken that you receive from your neighborhood Indian takeaway. Food that is really Indian is an entirely new ballgame.

• Thali: Rice, dal (lentils), veggies, roti (flatbread), and yogurt are the typical components of a thali, which is a platter that contains a variety of delicious meals. This is an excellent method for trying out a variety of flavors. You can find it pretty much anywhere, but if you want the most genuine experience, stop by one of the local dhabas, which are restaurants located by the side of the road.
• Biryani: Known as a fragrant rice dish, biryani is prepared by cooking rice with meat or vegetables and a mixture of spices. Where to locate it: Although Hyderabad is well-known for its biryani, you can find superb variations of the dish virtually anywhere in the country.
• Dosa masala: Dosa masala is a type of crepe that is created from fermented rice and lentil batter and is filled with a spicy potato combination. It is a thin and crispy crepe. South India, and more specifically the states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, is the place where you can discover the perfect dosa.
• Chaat: The term “chaat” refers to a category of appetizers that are often sold on the street. Pani puri, which are hollow balls filled with spiced water, and aloo tikki, which are potato patties, are just two examples of the numerous combinations that are available. There are street food vendors all around India, but Delhi and Mumbai are especially well-known for their chaat. You can find it in these cities.
• Lassi: The pleasant drink known as lassi is made with yogurt and is typically flavored with fruit or spices. Where to locate it: Anywhere, but give the mango lassi a try during the summer months; it is absolutely delicious.

Must-Try Indian Dishes and Regional Specialties

Dish Name	Description	Where to Find (Best)	Region(s) Associated
Thali	Platter with rice, dal, veggies, roti, yogurt	Local Dhabas (roadside restaurants)	Pan-India
Biryani	Fragrant rice dish with meat/vegetables & spices	Hyderabad (renowned), across India	Pan-India
Dosa Masala	Crepe from rice & lentil batter, potato filling	Tamil Nadu, Karnataka (South India)	South India
Chaat	Savory street food snacks (e.g., Pani Puri, Aloo Tikki)	Delhi, Mumbai (street vendors)	North India
Lassi	Yogurt-based drink (sweet or savory)	Widely available, Mango Lassi in summer	Pan-India
Dal Baati Churma	Lentils, baked wheat balls, sweet crumbled bread	Rajasthan	Rajasthan
Fish Curry Rice	Seafood curry with Goan spices	Goa	Goa
Mishti Doi	Sweet fermented yogurt	Kolkata	Kolkata
Kathi Rolls	Paratha bread wraps with fillings	Kolkata	Kolkata
Chole Bhature	Spicy chickpeas and fried bread	Punjab	Punjab
Dhokla	Savory steamed cake	Gujarat	Gujarat
Thepla	Flavored flatbread	Gujarat	Gujarat

Particularities of the Region: I cannot emphasize this point enough. In every region, there is a distinct culinary culture.

• Rajasthan: Dal Baati Churma is a dish known in Rajasthan that consists of lentils, baked wheat balls, and a sweet crumbled bread combination.
• Goa: Using the abundant local seafood and the distinctive Goan spices, Goa’s Fish Curry Rice is a specialty dish.
• Kolkata: Mishti Doi, which is delicious fermented yogurt, and Kathi Rolls, which are paratha bread wrapped around a variety of fillings, are found in Kolkata.
• Punjab: Chole Bhature, a dish consisting of spicy chickpeas and fried bread, is a Punjabi dish.
• Gujarat: Dhokla, a savory cake that is steamed, and Thepla, a flatbread that is flavored.

Learn how to eat street food without getting sick by reading this article.

The experience of eating Indian cuisine is not complete without the inclusion of street food. Not only is it inexpensive, but it is also a wonderful way to become more familiar with the culture of the area. If, on the other hand, you do not exercise caution, it might also be a prescription for disaster.

Street Food Safety Checklist

• ✅ Choose stalls bustling with locals and activity
• ✅ Watch your food being freshly prepared
• ✅ Ensure food is served piping hot
• ✅ Prefer vegetarian options (often safer)
• 🚫 Avoid raw salads and unpeeled fruits
• ✅ Drink only bottled water from reputable brands
• Be discerning and look for stalls that are bustling with activity and are well-liked by the people. Generally speaking, this is a good sign that the food is fresh and that there is a high turnover rate.
• Watch the meal Being Prepared: Ensure that the meal is prepared in front of you and served at a high temperature. Steer clear of anything that appears to have been lying around for a considerable amount of time.
• Steer clear of meat, especially when the temperature is high, and choose instead for vegetarian options. Dishes that are vegetarian are typically safer to eat.
• Salads that are raw and fruit that has not been peeled should be avoided since they may contain bacteria.
• Consume Bottled Water: In India, you should never drink water from the tap. Use only water that comes in bottles from renowned companies, and check to see that the seal is still intact.
• Beginning with a Slow Pace: On your first day, you shouldn’t go overboard with the street food. Allocate some time for your stomach to adjust.

How to Maintain Your Health While Traveling: Some Useful Health Advice

Even if you take precautions, India can be a challenging environment for your digestive system. Some suggestions to assist you maintain your health are as follows:

• As was said earlier, it is important to always drink water that has been bottled. Please stay away from ice, and exercise caution when brushing your teeth with water from the tap.
• It is important to have a basic first-aid kit that contains items such as the following:

Essential Items for Your First-Aid Kit in India

• ✅ Antidiarrheal medication (like Imodium)
• ✅ Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS)
• ✅ Hand Sanitizer
• ✅ Antiseptic Wipes
• ✅ Pain Relievers (Ibuprofen or Paracetamol)
• ✅ Bandages and Band-aids
• ✅ Motion Sickness Medication (if needed)
• Imodium, an antidiarrheal medicine, is essential in this situation.
• The use of rehydration salts (to replenish electrolytes that have been lost due to diarrhea)
• Hand sanitizer and antiseptic wipes are available.
• Ibuprofen or paracetamol are examples of pain relievers.
• The use of bandages and bandos
• Medication for motion sickness (if you are prone to experiencing it)
• Native Indians have a strong belief in the efficacy of some home remedies for treating common diseases. Just one example:
  • Ginger is beneficial for nausea and stomach upset patients.
  • There are anti-inflammatory and antiseptic qualities associated with turmeric.
  • Yogurt is beneficial if you want to calm your digestive system.
• In many regions of India, particularly during the monsoon season, mosquitoes can be a menace. This is especially true during the summer months. In the nights, wear long sleeves and pants, and if necessary, sleep under a mosquito net. Use mosquito repellent to protect yourself from mosquito bites. When traveling to a region with a high risk of malaria, you should think about taking malaria prophylaxis.
• Vaccinations: Before you travel, even six to eight months before your trip, you should consult a physician about the vaccinations that are appropriate for you. Among the most common recommendations are:

Recommended Vaccinations for India Travel

• ✅ Hepatitis A & B
• ✅ Typhoid
• ✅ Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
• ✅ MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
• ✅ Polio
• ☐ Consider Malaria Prophylaxis (region-dependent)
• Viral hepatitis A and B
• Typhoid fever
• T. b. tetanus, diphtheria, and influenza
• MMR stands for measles, mumps, and rubella.
• Polioma
• And additional options, depending on your schedule and previous medical history

Out of the Way of the Tourists: The Best Experiences and Undiscovered Treasures

There is no doubt that you will want to visit the Taj Mahal. It has a motive for being so famous. However, India has a great deal more to offer than merely the tourist track that is most commonly traveled.

Beyond the Tourist Trail: Undiscovered Gems of India

Location	State	Description	Best Time to Visit	Key Activities
Varanasi	Uttar Pradesh	Spiritual city on the Ganges River	Sunrise/Evening	Boat ride at dawn, Ghat rituals, Old City walks
Hampi	Karnataka	Ancient ruins, temples amidst boulder landscape	Sunset	Bicycle exploration, Matanga Hill sunset view
Alleppey	Kerala	Tranquil backwaters, houseboats	Day/Overnight	Houseboat ride, Backwater scenery
McLeod Ganj	Himachal Pradesh	Himalayan foothills, Tibetan culture	Morning/Evening	Monasteries, Sunset views, Tibetan culture
Pushkar	Rajasthan	Desert village, sacred lake, camel fair	November (Fair)/Morning	Camel Fair, Lake stroll, Temple visits
Old Goa	Goa	Portuguese colonial architecture	Any	Churches, Spice farms, Waterfalls
Meghalaya	Meghalaya	“Abode of the Clouds,” waterfalls, root bridges	Any	Waterfalls, Living root bridges, Khasi culture

• Varanasi, located in Uttar Pradesh, is a city that is unlike any other. It is considered to be the spiritual centers of India. Take a boat trip at daybreak, get lost in the winding alleyways of the old city, and witness the ancient rites that are conducted on the ghats, which are stairs that slope down to the Ganges River. Early in the morning for the boat ride to watch the sunrise, and in the evening for the Ganga Aarti ceremony, are the best times to visit.
• Hampi (Karnataka) is a bizarre environment consisting of enormous rocks, old temples, and crumbling palaces. Hampi is located in the state of Karnataka. If you rent a bicycle, you can go at your own pace while exploring the large grounds. At sunset, Matanga Hill offers breathtaking vistas, making it the ideal time to come.
• Alleppey (Kerala): It is possible to take a traditional houseboat ride across the quiet backwaters of Kerala, which are surrounded by verdant vegetation and peaceful villages. Alleppey is located in Kerala. It is recommended that you go during the day for peaceful vistas, and that you stay overnight for a one-of-a-kind experience.
• McLeod Ganj (Himachal Pradesh) is a refuge of calm and spirituality in the foothills of the Himalayas, McLeod Ganj (Himachal Pradesh) is home to the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government-in-exile. McLeod Ganj is located in the state of Himachal Pradesh. The best time to go is in the morning to see the monasteries, and in the evening to see pictures of the sunset.
• Pushkar, located in Rajasthan, is a picturesque desert hamlet that is renowned for its annual camel fair. It also features a sacred lake and beautiful temples. For a truly one-of-a-kind experience, the best time to visit is during the camel fair, which typically takes place in November. Alternatively, any early morning is a good time to take a calm stroll around the lake.
• Goa (Beyond the Beaches). To answer your question, yes, there are beaches in Goa. Exploring Old Goa is a must. The architecture is reminiscent of Portuguese colonial times, and there are spice farms and hidden waterfalls.
• Meghalaya “Abode of the Clouds” is the name of Meghalaya, where visitors can discover waterfalls, living root bridges (bridges built from the roots of trees), and the distinctive Khasi culture.

The Things That They Don’t Tell You in the Guidebooks: Frequently Asked Questions, Myths, and Final Tips

Inquiry:

• “Is it safe to drink the water?” The answer is no. Certainly not at all. If you want to brush your teeth, you should only drink water from a bottle.
• “How should I get around?” Trains are an excellent mode of transportation for traveling vast distances; nevertheless, it is important to make reservations in advance. For shorter journeys, rickshaws and cabs are both acceptable options. Wherever it is possible, make use of app-based services such as Ola and Uber.
• “How much should I tip?” Although tipping is not as customary in India as it is in certain Western nations, it is always appreciated. The question that people ask is, “How much should I tip?” In restaurants and for services such as cabs and rickshaws, it is usual to leave a small tip of ten to fifteen percent.

Quick Tip: Tipping Etiquette in India

While not mandatory, a 10-15% tip is appreciated in restaurants and for services like taxis and rickshaws.

• “What’s the deal with the ‘head wobble’?” That sideways head bobble might represent a variety of things, ranging from “yes” and “okay” to “maybe” or simply acknowledging you. Get used to it! It takes some time!
• “How do I deal with the crowds and chaos?” welcome it! The country of India is a sensory overload, yet that is why it is so appealing. Remember that you are on an adventure despite the fact that you are taking deep breaths and going with the flow.

Debunking Common Myths About Traveling in India

Myth	Reality
India is dangerous for solo travelers	Common sense and trusting instincts are key; many travel safely.
All Indian food is spicy	Many non-spicy options exist; you can always request “no chili” or “less spicy.”
Everyone in India speaks Hindi	22 official languages; English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.

• “India is dangerous for solo travelers.” Despite the fact that it is essential to exercise caution, India is not fundamentally more dangerous than other nations. All you need to do is make use of common sense and put your faith in your instincts. Every single year, India is visited by millions of lone tourists, including women, who do not experience any incidents.
• “All Indian food is spicy.” There are a lot of foods that are spicy, but there are also a lot of options that are not as spicy. You always have the option to choose “no chili” or “less spicy.”
• “Everyone in India speaks Hindi.” Hindi is the second mostwidely spoken language in India, however it is not the only language spoken there. There are 22 languages that are officially recognized in India, and a significant number of people speak English, particularly in tourist locations.

Tips on Packing and Changing Your Mindset:

• Packing: If you are going to be doing a lot of walking and carrying your bags, then you should only bring the things that are really necessary.
• Footwear: As you will be doing a lot of walking, frequently on uneven surfaces, you should bring shoes that are comfortable.
• Scarf/Shawl: For the purpose of protecting yourself from the sun and dust, as well as covering your head and shoulders when you are visiting religious sites, you should bring a scarf or shawl with you.
• Reusable Water Bottle: If you bring a water bottle that can be reused, you can contribute to the reduction of waste caused by plastic by refilling it with filtered water.
• Sense of Humor: In India, things won’t always go according to plan, so make sure you have a sense of humor with you. Always be ready to laugh at yourself and be open to experiencing something unexpected.
• Open Mind: The country of India will force you to challenge your preconceived notions and force you out of your comfort zone, so have an open mind. Be willing to try new things and enjoy the chaos that you encounter.
• Learn to Say “No”: You will come across people who are trying to sell you goods, including touts, beggars, and others. Learn to say “no” to them. At times, the most effective reaction is a “no” that is forceful but polite. You shouldn’t feel compelled to participate.

Before I went on my first vacation, what advice would I have given to myself?

• Make sure you are prepared to feel uneasy.
• Just be ready to be blown away.
• Preparing to fall in love is a given.

Given that this is the way India operates. It penetrates your skin, penetrates your heart, and remains with you for a very long time after you exit the room. You will be put to the test in this location, that much is certain; nevertheless, it is also a location that will reward you in ways that you could never have imagined.