India is an eye opener for most first time visitors. All pre-conceived notions that a tourist may have before they come here are more often than not cast aside as she opens her warm arms to you. Those who still believe in the cliché of elephants and snakes dominating the cultural scene are pleasantly surprised to see the technological advancements of Modern India. On the other hand, people who think India has become too commercialized often find themselves wonder-struck by the color and beauty of Indian traditions.
But, as in any other country, there are nuances to India that you should be aware of. Keeping these in mind will ensure that you have a comfortable stay and go back with pleasant memories of India. Some of these have been captured below:
The warmth of Indian hospitality is best felt in the smaller towns in the interiors of the country. If your itinerary allows, do not restrict yourself to bigger towns but do explore the heart of India in cities like Jaisalmer, Aurangabad, Lucknow etc.
Though modern in many ways, Indians still dress more conservatively as compared to people in many western countries. Though, it is a common sight to see foreigners in halter tops and shorts, one should avoid extremes so as not to attract unwarranted attention. Big cities like Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore are less conservative than others. While roaming Indian streets, it is best to be dressed in jeans/ pants/ skirts (knee length and below) with a half sleeve top for women and a t-shirt with pants/ jeans/ shorts (knee length) for men.
Most religious places in India like temples and gurudwaras should be entered barefoot. There is a provision for you to remove your footwear before you enter. Please make sure your head is covered with a scarf. Avoid being scantily dressed as that may hurt people’s religious sentiments.
Climate in India can be extreme for some visitors. Do some research before your travel date on the temperature and climate in the cities that you will be visiting. Summers in North India can be scorchingly hot at 45 degrees Celsius on certain days. The best time to visit most of India is Feb/ March or Sept/ Oct/ Nov.
Though most visitors avoid eating on the streets due to fear of infection, they are missing one of the best experiences of true Indian food. If you are experimental in nature, there are options in most cities where you can enjoy this in hygienic conditions. For example, the famous gol-gappas of Delhi (flavored water filled in fried hollow balls) can be savored in Greater Kailash 1 Market where it is made with mineral water. Find out the local food of the area you are traveling to by talking to locals and make sure you try it.
Public transport in India, though reliable, comes with a disclaimer. Depending on the city you are in, the best form of transport will differ. For example, Mumbai trains are convenient but difficult to use and thus the best way to travel there is by cab which is quite economical. Cities like Bangalore, Pune, Delhi, etc. are best traversed in auto-rickshaws. Private taxis are too expensive and should be used only during odd hours.
Avoid dark streets alone at night. Like any other country, this could land you in a bad situation.
If you are followed or pestered by touts or beggars, the best way to deal with them is ignore them, smile, shake your head and keep walking on.
While shopping on the streets, bargain your heart out. The fun of shopping in Indian streets is that the shopkeepers expect you to bargain and enjoy the game of negotiation with a chuckle. Most things will be quoted as double of what they should actually cost. This however cannot be done at shops and malls.
Try to schedule your visit such that you experience the wonder of an Indian festival. Indians celebrate most festivals like Holi, Diwali, Eid, Navratri etc. with great gusto and these are the best times to see the people shed their inhibitions and have fun without a care.
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