India is vast, diverse, and full of contrasts—snowy Himalayas, tropical beaches, bustling megacities, and quiet villages. With over 1.4 billion people and countless traditions, preparation is essential.
🛂 Entry & Documentation
- Do: Apply for an e-visa or tourist visa before arrival. India requires most foreign nationals to have valid documentation.
- Don’t: Assume visa-on-arrival is available—it’s limited to certain countries only.
🚆 Transportation
- Do: Use trains for long-distance travel—they’re affordable and iconic. Domestic flights are also efficient.
- Don’t: Expect punctuality everywhere. Trains and buses can be delayed, so plan buffer time.
đź’µ Money & Payments
- Do: Carry cash for small purchases, especially in rural areas.
- Don’t: Rely only on cards—digital payments are growing but not universal.
🏨 Accommodation
- Do: Book hotels or guesthouses in advance, especially in tourist hotspots like Goa or Jaipur.
- Don’t: Assume budget stays are always clean—check reviews before booking.
🍲 Food & Dining
- Do: Try local dishes—masala dosa, biryani, thali, street snacks.
- Don’t: Drink tap water. Stick to bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach issues.
🛡️ Safety & Health
- Do: Get travel insurance and carry basic medicines.
- Don’t: Ignore scams—be cautious of overpriced taxis, fake guides, or “free” offers.
🎠Culture & Etiquette
- Do: Dress modestly, especially at temples and rural areas.
- Don’t: Touch religious idols or enter restricted areas without permission.
- Do: Respect local customs—remove shoes before entering homes or temples.
📱 Connectivity
- Do: Buy a local SIM card for affordable data and calls.
- Don’t: Depend only on hotel Wi-Fi—it’s often slow or unreliable.
✅ Dos and ❌ Don’ts Summary Table
| ✅ Dos | ❌ Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Apply for visa in advance | Assume visa-on-arrival |
| Use trains & flights | Expect punctuality everywhere |
| Carry cash | Rely only on cards |
| Book accommodation early | Assume budget stays are clean |
| Try local food | Drink tap water |
| Get travel insurance | Ignore scams |
| Dress modestly | Touch idols without permission |
| Buy local SIM | Depend only on hotel Wi-Fi |
⚠️ Risks & Challenges
- Health risks: Waterborne illnesses are common—carry purification tablets.
- Scams: Tourists are often targeted—negotiate prices and avoid unsolicited offers.
- Crowds & traffic: India’s cities can be overwhelming—allow extra travel time.
- Weather extremes: Monsoons, heatwaves, and cold winters vary by region—pack accordingly.
✨ Final Thoughts
Travelling across India is about embracing contrasts—chaotic streets and serene temples, spicy food and sweet hospitality. Preparation, respect for local customs, and awareness of practical dos and don’ts will make your journey unforgettable.
