Do's and Don'ts in India for Tourists

India is a diverse country, where the culture, language, food and traditions of every state are different. Traveling to India is exciting for foreign tourists, but not understanding the cultural differences can also lead to uncomfortable situations.

This guide will help you understand the correct behaviour, cultural etiquette, safety rules and legal boundaries during your visit to India, so that your trip is safe, dignified and memorable.

Respect Religious Sites:

• Remove shoes before entering temples, mosques, gurudwaras and homes
• Head coverings are required in Sikh gurudwaras and some mosques
• Cover your shoulders and knees at religious places, take permission before taking photos
• Walk clockwise around the sacred objects in the temples
• Maintain peace at the time of worship or prayer

Use Respectful Greetings:

• The most secure and respectful way is to shake hands by saying 'Namaste'
• Address the elderly with a 'ji', wait for their consent before shaking hands with women

Be Patient and Flexible:

• Do not get disturbed by the crowd and noise, adapt yourself to the local lifestyle

Use the right hand:

• In temples, give and take things with the right hand
• The left hand is considered to be associated with personal hygiene

Be courteous:

• Bargaining is common in local markets and rickshaws
• Offer 50-60% of the price mentioned at the beginning
• Malls and branded shops have fixed prices

Don't show love in public:

• Avoid kissing, hugging, or being too close on the road
• Be especially careful in conservative areas

Don't insult someone's head or feet:

• Don't touch anyone's head
• Don't put your feet towards people or religious objects
• Apologise immediately if you're wrong

Don't use religious symbols:

• Do not touch idols or religious objects without permission
• Avoid religious jokes or comments
• Don't wear pictures of God on your shoes

Don't wear inappropriate clothing:

• Don't wear short dresses in religious places
• Keep the middle clothes limited to the beach only
• Plain and covered clothes stay better

What to do:

• Use Uber / Ola or a registered taxi
• Keep your valuables in the hotel safe
• Carry a photocopy of your passport
• Drink only boiled water
• Choose a hotel with good reviews
• Save the emergency number

What not to do:

• Do not roam alone at night
• Do not show expensive jewelry or gadgets
• Do not take food and drinks from strangers
• Do not sit in a vehicle without a number plate
• Do not keep much cash
• Do not offer a taxi, book a taxi online

What to do:

• Drink bottled water
• Eat fresh and hot food
• Peel your own fruits
• Choose a crowded restaurant

What not to do:

• Don't use ice or water from unknown sources
• Do not eat raw salad in the beginning
• Don't buy cut fruits from the street
• Don't eat a lot of fast food

What to do:

• Ask permission before taking photos of people
• Follow the 'No Photography' sign
• Be respectful in poverty or sensitive situations

What not to do:

• Don't take pictures of women without permission
• Do not take photos of military, airport or government buildings
• Don't take photos during worship

This is a crime in India:

• Taking or possessing drugs
• Public intoxication
• Violation of visa rules
• Photography of restricted areas
• Insulting the national flag or national anthem
• Carrying antiques without permission
• Smoking in public places
• The purchase of wildlife products

What to do:

• Accept hospitality
• Take off your shoes before entering the house
• Bring a small gift when you're invited
• Try to speak a little Hindi

What not to do:

• Don't get angry in public
• Don't criticize politics or religion
• Don't refuse food often
• Don't point your finger

What to do:

• Opt for eco-friendly options

What not to do:

• Don't throw garbage around
• Don't waste water
• Don't disturb the animals