According to Cellphoneexplorer.com, India is the cradle of ancient Indian civilization, the birthplace of four religions and the largest country in South Asia. This exotic destination attracts many travelers, but for a great trip, check out travel tips for India. After all, breaking the law threatens with fines, wrong gestures can offend local residents, and a hotel that does not meet your wishes will cause discomfort during the holidays.
Local laws
- On excursions to sacred places, ask your guide if you can take pictures, often in temples this is prohibited. It is forbidden to film government and military institutions, including airports and train stations. And to take a photo of a local resident, ask him for permission.
- In India, it is not customary to show feelings in public places, shake hands with women and put your hand on the shoulder of the interlocutor. It is also considered an offensive gesture to turn the toes of the shoes towards the interlocutor when communicating.
- Swimwear, short dresses and shorts are appropriate only on the beach. For walks around the city and on excursions, wear more closed clothing.
- Religious buildings are usually bypassed on the left side. You should not go inside with leather goods. Women in the shrine are required to have their heads covered.
- The law prohibits smoking in public places, for violation there is a fine of 200 rupees (3 USD).
- Please note that many airports in India can only be entered with an air ticket. Therefore, resolve all issues before leaving the terminal after arrival, be sure to have a return ticket with you.
Local currency and shopping in India
- It is better to go to India with dollars. Change the small amounts of money you expect to spend. The export of the national currency from the country is prohibited, so the remaining rupees will have to be changed back, which is less profitable.
- Keep your receipt when buying souvenirs. It will need to be presented at customs.
- Most often, fabrics, carpets and spices are brought as gifts from India. Silk, cashmere and cotton, which are produced here, are considered among the highest quality in the world. Rajasthani cotton is the most popular. Usually, saris and lungi are sewn from it – traditional Indian outfits.
- The country has cheap silver and a large selection of precious stones. Therefore, pay attention to the tips for vacationers in India about jewelry. You need to buy them only in specialized stores, and when paying, require a quality certificate. It may be needed at the border and, if you want to return the jewelry back.
- Haggle when you buy items that don’t have a fixed price. Often the cost announced by the seller is overestimated by 2-3 times. Check the quality of things immediately at the checkout.
Accommodation in hotels
- There are different categories of hotels in India. Before you make a choice, read the reviews of other travelers about the resorts that you liked. Budget hotels may not have air conditioning or internet in the room, and rats and insects are not uncommon in the cheapest options.
- In addition to information about the infrastructure of the guest complex, it is important to study vacation tips in India about resorts. Families with children choose hotels in South Goa, where there are calm and clean sandy beaches. North Goa is suitable for youth recreation – there are many clubs and budget housing. The resorts of the Himalayas go skiing and climbing. For the purpose of an educational trip, choose the “Golden Triangle” – Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, and to explore the underwater world, book rooms in hotels near the Andaman and Laccadive Islands. In the state of Kerala, where Ayurveda originated, complexes with wellness centers are common.
- Choose hotels with in-room safes. The criminogenic level in the country is high, so leave all valuables and original documents “under lock and key”.
- Before checking into a hotel, pay attention to tips for tourists in India regarding tips. Monetary gratitude in the country is called baksheesh. It is customary to give it everywhere: on excursions – to guides and bus drivers, in temples – to wandering monks and ascetics, as well as in resorts. They leave baksheesh at the reception to speed up the check-in process and get a better room, maids and porters – for excellent service. The tip amount depends on the service – from 10 to 20 rupees (0.15-0.30 USD).
Climatic features
- Tropical climate prevails in the country’s beach resorts. These conditions are ideal for many insects. Therefore, take repellents and antihistamines on a trip, because bites can cause allergies.
- An allergic reaction can also occur with a change in diet. Do not abuse exotic fruits and local cuisine, switch to new foods gradually.
- Do not buy drinks with ice on the street, as it is made from tap water. Before drinking bottled water, pay attention to the tightness of the bottle. Unscrupulous sellers can refill an already used container. Don’t drink tap water either.
- Hot weather contributes to the development of pathogenic microflora in the environment. Therefore, follow basic hygiene rules: always carry wet wipes with you and wash vegetables and fruits with soap. If possible, use a taxi instead of public transport.
