India is a vast and diverse country with a rich culture, incredible history, and vibrant traditions. However, navigating its complexities can be challenging for first-time visitors.
To ensure you respect local customs and have a smooth, enjoyable trip, here’s a guide to things you shouldn’t do in India, along with helpful tips.
India offers a life-changing travel experience, but it requires patience, preparation, and respect for its diverse culture and traditions. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll ensure a smoother and more enjoyable journey.
Read here India sim card for tourist and India Solo Travel.
Read here things to do in Mumbai, things to do in Udaipur, Jodhpur travel guide, things to do in Jaipur, Pushkar travel guide and Kochi Itinerary
BOOK YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE
Two of our favorite travel insurance: Heymondo Vs Safetwing cheapest travel Insurance. You can get for $135 USD your Heymondo Travel Insurance with Heymondo discount code valid for 90 days. Read our full comparison of Genki vs Safetywing Travel Insurance Review and the comparison Heymondo vs Genki
Things Not to Do in India
1. Don’t Disrespect Local Customs and Traditions
Why Not:
India is steeped in tradition, and offending cultural norms can upset locals.
What to Do Instead:
Dress modestly, especially in religious places (cover shoulders, knees, and avoid revealing clothing).
Remove your shoes before entering temples or someone’s home.
2. Don’t Drink Tap Water
Why Not:
Tap water in India is not safe for drinking and may cause stomach issues.
What to Do Instead:
Drink only bottled or filtered water and avoid ice in beverages unless you’re sure of the water source.
Carry a reusable water bottle with a filter if you want to reduce plastic waste.
3. Don’t Ignore Personal Space and Boundaries
Why Not:
Crowded cities can be overwhelming, and personal space may feel limited in public areas.
What to Do Instead:
Stay patient in crowded situations and politely assert your boundaries when needed.
4. Don’t Show Affection Publicly
Why Not:
Public displays of affection (PDA) are considered inappropriate in many parts of India.
What to Do Instead:
Keep affectionate gestures private and limit physical contact in public spaces.
5. Don’t Assume Everyone Speaks English
Why Not:
While English is widely spoken, especially in urban areas, not everyone will be fluent.
What to Do Instead:
Learn a few basic phrases in Hindi or the local language of the region you’re visiting.
Be patient when communicating, and use translation apps if needed.
6. Don’t Use Your Left Hand
Why Not:
The left hand is traditionally considered unclean and is not used for eating, giving, or receiving.
What to Do Instead:
Always use your right hand when handing items to someone, eating, or accepting offerings.
7. Don’t Expect Western-Style Queues
Why Not:
In some areas, lines may not be orderly, and people might push ahead.
What to Do Instead:
Be assertive but polite when standing in lines or waiting for service.
8. Don’t Forget to Bargain in Markets
Why Not:
In many markets, prices are inflated for tourists, and bargaining is expected.
What to Do Instead:
Politely negotiate for a fair price in street markets and shops, but avoid bargaining in fixed-price stores.
9. Don’t Take Photos Without Permission
Why Not:
Taking pictures of people, especially women or religious ceremonies, without permission is considered disrespectful.
What to Do Instead:
Always ask before taking photos, and respect their response if they decline.
10. Don’t Be Offended by Questions
Why Not:
Indians are often curious and may ask personal questions about your life, job, or marital status.
What to Do Instead:
Respond politely or steer the conversation to general topics if you feel uncomfortable.
11. Don’t Rely Solely on Street Food
Why Not:
Street food is delicious but may cause digestive issues if hygiene isn’t ensured.
What to Do Instead:
Eat at busy stalls with high turnover and avoid raw or uncooked items like salads.
12. Don’t Disrespect Religious Practices
Why Not:
India is home to multiple religions, and each has its own sacred customs.
What to Do Instead:
Dress appropriately in temples, mosques, and gurudwaras.
Avoid touching idols or sacred objects unless invited to do so.
13. Don’t Expect Western Punctuality
Why Not:
“Indian Standard Time” (IST) is often more relaxed, and delays are common.
What to Do Instead:
Build flexibility into your schedule and prepare for delays in transportation or appointments.
14. Don’t Be Flashy with Valuables
Why Not:
Wearing expensive jewelry or flashing gadgets can attract unwanted attention or theft.
What to Do Instead:
Keep valuables secure and use anti-theft bags. Be discreet with your belongings.
15. Don’t Overlook Traffic Rules
Why Not:
Traffic in India can be chaotic, and rules are often loosely followed.
What to Do Instead:
Use ride-hailing apps like Ola or Uber for safer transportation.
Avoid driving unless you’re familiar with local traffic norms.
16. Don’t Skip Travel Insurance
Why Not:
Accidents, theft, or medical issues can happen, especially when engaging in adventure activities or navigating crowded areas.
What to Do Instead:
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance to cover medical emergencies, theft, and trip cancellations.
17. Don’t Rely Only on Credit Cards
Why Not:
Smaller shops, markets, and transportation services often accept only cash.
What to Do Instead:
Carry small denominations of Indian Rupees (INR) for daily transactions.
Use ATMs in reputable locations to withdraw cash.
18. Don’t Disregard Women’s Safety Tips
Why Not:
Safety concerns for women travelers are valid in some areas.
What to Do Instead:
Avoid walking alone late at night, dress conservatively, and use trusted transportation options.
19. Don’t Ignore Pollution Levels
Why Not:
Air pollution can be severe in cities like Delhi, especially during winter.
What to Do Instead:
Check air quality apps and wear a mask if necessary. Consider carrying a portable air purifier.
20. Don’t Forget to Tip
Why Not:
Tipping is expected in restaurants, hotels, and for drivers or guides.
What to Do Instead:
Tip 10–15% in restaurants and small amounts (10–50 INR) for hotel staff or taxi drivers.
21. Don’t Disrespect the Cow
Why Not:
Cows are considered sacred in Hinduism, and disrespecting them can cause offense.
What to Do Instead:
Avoid discussing beef consumption or touching cows unless you’re sure it’s acceptable.
22. Don’t Skip Researching Regional Differences
Why Not:
India’s culture, cuisine, and language vary greatly across states.
What to Do Instead:
Tailor your expectations and itinerary based on the specific regions you’re visiting, whether it’s Kerala, Rajasthan, or Himachal Pradesh.
23. Don’t Forget to Ask About Spices
Why Not:
Indian food is known for its spices, and some dishes can be too hot for visitors.
What to Do Instead:
Ask for mild versions if you’re not accustomed to spicy food.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.