With its architectural treasures, ingenious cuisine, and an array of unique cultures, India certainly isn’t your typical beach holiday. However, there’s no denying that your first time visiting the country can be overwhelming. From busy roads to packed tourist hotspots, the experience can cause a sensory overload if you aren’t aware of how to navigate this bewildering place.
To ensure you get the most rewarding experience from your India trip, here are some essential tips you should know before you go.
Respect the country’s culture
When travelling to another country, we can’t just assume they endorse the same rules and beliefs that we do. While India is often warm and humid, walking around in revealing clothing is not acceptable. You’ll likely draw a lot of attention doing so, and it is deemed disrespectful in religious settings.
Likewise, you must remove your footwear before entering any temples. To make things easier, consider wearing sandals or trainers that you can take on and off but keep these in your backpack to avoid them being taken.
Take time to explore
India is a large country and trying to fit lots of activities into just a few days can lead to burnout. It’s not the place for hurried travel, so aim to allocate one region for every two weeks you’re there. You don’t need to worry about missing anything either; wherever you decide to go, you’re sure to have an authentic Indian experience.
It is recommended that you take time out from the city though. Visiting some of the more rural villages means you’re free to explore nature, clear your head, and enjoy the notable hospitality of the Indian urbanites.
Be aware of your surroundings
Yes, India is a welcoming and friendly place but it’s good to keep your wits about you, especially since tourists are often targeted by con men. Particularly in busy places, make sure your personal belongings are safe and avoid keeping expensive items on display.
Similarly, when haggling at markets and with tuk-tuk drivers, remain calm but be firm. You’ll often be given an inflated price that can be reduced with the right bargaining. Haggling is a part of the culture here and it can get some getting used to but remember it’s always a friendly negotiation. If you’re not satisfied, you can always walk away.
Understand the Indian head wobble
As a foreigner, seeing the locals bobbing their heads around can be fairly confusing. But this method of communication is actually quite complex, with different movements and contexts conveying different meanings.
For example, a one-stroke side nod could signal ‘let’s go’ or ‘yes’ while a back-and-forth bobble could be an acknowledgement of understanding. It’s a good idea to try and learn this form of communication before heading to India to better interact with the locals, and it will also act as a sign of respect.
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