India can be a little overwhelming, very busy and somewhat confusing at times. It will take you some time to adjust to the frantic energy of this bewildering place and to learn how to stay healthy, safe and sane.
However, although India is not the easiest place to visit - it is one of the most rewarding. It offers some truly remarkable and amazing sights that are unlike anything else in the world. It also boasts delicious food, incredible nature, warm and charismatic people and a rich cultural heritage that is a delight to explore.
So, in order to help you make the most of your trip to India, here are some clever tips and tricks you should know before you go.
Tips for Travelling in India:Don't Try to Cover Too Much Ground
One of the most important tips I can give you for traveling in India is to only include a few stops on your itinerary and spend more time in each one - rather than trying to cover too much on your trip.
Sometimes just walking around in a busy Indian city can be an onslaught to the senses, so you need to budget time in your itinerary for resting and recovering. If you are trying to do too much in too little time, you will suffer from burnout and fatigue.
Instead, take your time and explore fewer destinations in more depth - you'll have a more enjoyable trip. Also, you'll have more opportunities to connect with the local people and have interesting experiences.
Prepare Yourself for Cultural Shock
When you first arrive in India, it is essentially guaranteed that you will experience cultural shock. There is no use trying to fight it. Instead, prepare yourself and accept that things will not be the same as you are used to back home. Try to open your mind and leave your expectations at home.
Watch Out for Religious Scams
At many religious places such as Temples & Mosques, you may feel pressured to make a donation or to buy a sacred offering such as a religious picture or any religious book and stuff; or for an example, a holy man might put a red dot on your forehead or wrap a string around your wrist, then ask for money.
Many visitors feel pressured into doing this, as they don’t want to disrespect the local religion. However, you don’t need to if you don’t want to. Sometimes they would ask rather a hefty amount of money from tourists so it becomes just a way of getting money from tourists not any kind of spiritual offerings.
Go Beyond the Cities
Although India's bug cities like Delhi and Mumbai can be exciting, it is also worthwhile to go outside of the cities and visit some of India's smaller villages. The pace of life will be slower, the air will be clearer and you'll get a different insight into Indian culture.
Watch Out for Pickpockets
Whenever you are busy in public places especially in crowded markets, always make sure that your personal belongings are safe. Don’t carry Wallet, Money, Passport or Phone in your back pocket rather keep it in a zippered back and always in the front. Don’t wear hefty and fancy Jewelry and Accessories just keep a simple outfit and carry necessary stuffs with you.
Get a SIM Card for Your Phone
Being able to use your phone while traveling around India will make things so much easier. You will be able to look up directions on Google Maps, read Trip Advisor reviews before visiting a restaurant, quickly check out travel websites on go for tips and scam warnings and much more.
When you arrive, getting a SIM card with data for your phone should be one of your top priorities.It can be difficult to find a local SIM card in India, so the best option is to buy an International SIM card. Travel SIM card can be used in a range of countries, which is convenient if you plan on traveling to other places besides India. Travel SIM offers cheap data plans and opportunity to top-up your SIM card during your trip.
Learn How to Eat with Your Hands
In many parts of India cutlery is not used. You eat curry by folding over a bit of naan bread, using it to scoop or pinch some rice and curry and then stuffing it into your mouth. This takes a bit of practice, but it's worth giving it a try! However, never eat with your left hand as traditionally this is the one used to clean yourself after using the toilet and it is seen as rude and unclean.
Count Your Change Very Carefully
This is a tip applies almost anywhere in the world. Whenever you are buying items or paying for something, make sure that you check your change and count it carefully. It happens very often that someone will make a "mistake" and give you back the wrong amount of change.
Don’t Forget travel Insurance
You really shouldn't travel anywhere without travel insurance and India is no exception. If you get ill or injured, any medical treatment you require will be covered by your policies will also cover you for theft, lost luggage, cancellations and anything else that can go wrong during your trip. This will give you peace of mind knowing that no matter what happens you will be taken care of.
Understand that Personal Space Isn't the Same as What You Are Used To
In a country with 1.25 billion people, personal space is not guaranteed. When you are using public transit or walking through the streets, you might find yourself squished and crowded much more than you are used to in your home country. It feels weird at first, but just takes a deep breath and go with it.
The truth is that travelling in India will be much more challenging than travelling in other countries. You might find yourself overwhelmed and exhausted at times, so it is important to take care of your own self and be prepared for this.
However, the experience of going to India is absolutely worth it. You will see some incredible yet beautiful sights, meet some unforgettably welcoming people and get to know a fascinating ancient culture.
Written by; Sanjana Chakraborty
Edited by: Gourav Chowdhury
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