If you’re thinking of traveling to India, be sure to read up on the dos and don’ts first. Whilst India is an amazing country with a rich culture, there are some things you should avoid doing if you want to have a trouble-free trip. From dodging beggars and touts to steering clear of religious tensions, here are the top things not to do in India.
- Don’t drink the tap water – it is not safe to drink and can make you sick
- Don’t eat street food – there is a high risk of getting sick from eating unhygienic food
- Don’t go out at night – there are areas in India that are unsafe for foreigners to travel to after dark
- Don’t take public transportation – it’s often overcrowded and can be dangerous
- Don’t wear revealing clothing – women should dress modestly when traveling in India
- Don’t be disrespectful of Indian culture and customs – always be respectful when visiting different parts of India
- Avoid public displays of affection. Indian culture is quite conservative, so it’s best not to kiss or hug in public. Save your PDA for behind closed doors.
- Don’t be too critical of India – It’s one of the most diverse countries in the world
- Don’t leave your belongings unattended or on display – it’s a poor country with high crime-rate
- Avoid traveling alone in remote areas, and always let someone know where you are going
- Be cautious when accepting food or drink from strangers, as it may be spiked with drugs
Don’t drink tap water when traveling to India
India is a land of rich culture and history, and there are many things to see and do while you’re in the country. However, there are also some things that you should avoid doing, and one of them is drinking tap water. Tap water in India is not safe to drink, and it can make you very sick.
There are many different contaminants present in the water, such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites. These contaminants can cause severe gastrointestinal illnesses, such as diarrhea and vomiting. If you’re traveling to India, be sure to only drink bottled water or water that has been boiled for at least two minutes.
Don’t eat street food when you are in India
India is a land of contrasts, a place where the modern world collides with ancient traditions. And while there are many things to love about India, there are also some things that visitors should be aware of. One of these things is street food. While the street food in India can look incredibly delicious, it’s also very unhygienic and there is a high risk of getting sick from eating it.
The best way to avoid getting sick in India is to avoid street food altogether. Stick to restaurants where you can be sure that the food is safe to eat. And if you do choose to eat street food, make sure to only eat from vendors who are cooking the food fresh in front of you. With strict caution, you might be able to visit India without vomiting your guts out.
Don’t go out at night when you are in India
If you’re traveling to India, it’s important to be aware of the safety risks involved in going out at night. There are parts of the country where it’s simply not safe for foreigners to travel after dark. This is due to a number of factors, including the high crime rate in some areas and the fact that many local police officers may not speak English.
Additionally, there have been instances of sexual assaults taking place in India, so it’s important to exercise caution if you do decide to go out at night. If you’re not comfortable with the idea of going out at night, there are plenty of other activities that you can enjoy during the day. India is a beautiful country with a lot to offer.
Try to avoid public transportation in India
India is a country of over 1.3 billion people, and its population is continuing to grow at a rapid pace. As a result, the country’s public transportation system is often overwhelmed, leading to overcrowding and delays. In addition, safety can be a concern, as accidents are not uncommon.
For these reasons, try to avoid taking public transport in India if possible. If you must use it, try to travel during off-peak hours and be aware of your surroundings. If you do take public transport, avoid wearing flashy jewelry or carrying large amounts of cash, as this can make you a target for thieves.
Don’t wear revealing clothing in India
One of the things not to do in India, especially for women, is to wear revealing clothing. While Western dress codes are becoming increasingly casual, Indian culture remains fairly conservative when it comes to matters of dress. In general, it is best to err on the side of caution and avoid any clothing that could be considered revealing. This includes short skirts, shorts, tank tops, and low-cut tops.
In addition, avoid wearing tight-fitting clothing that hugs your curves. Instead, opt for loose-fitting fabrics that are not too sheer. India is a very religious country, so show respect for the locals by dressing modestly and refraining from actions that could be seen as offensive. By following these simple guidelines, you can avoid offending local sensibilities and help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to India.
Don’t be disrespectful of Indian culture and customs
One thing that you shouldn’t do when in India is to be disrespectful of Indian culture and customs. India is a country with a rich and diverse culture, and it’s important to show respect for this when visiting different parts of the country.
There are many things that you can do to show respect, such as dress modestly, avoid taking photos of people without their permission and speak quietly in public places. By showing respect for Indian culture, you’ll make your visit to India all the more enjoyable.
Make sure you read our article on how to spend 4 perfect days in Delhi.
Avoid public displays of affection
India is a land of contrasts, where ancient traditions rub shoulders with modernity. As a result, travelers can experience a wide range of cultures and customs, from the hustle and bustle of Mumbai to the serenity of the Himalayas. However, there are also certain things to avoid when traveling to India, in order to respect local customs and avoid offending anyone.
One of these things is public displays of affection. In India, kissing or hugging in public is considered highly inappropriate, and can even lead to arrest in some cases. So if you’re planning a trip to India, it’s best to keep your hands to yourself in public places.
Don’t be too critical of India or its traditions
There is no denying that India is a country with a plethora of problems. From poverty and pollution to casteism and gender inequality, the list goes on. However, it is important to remember that India is also one of the most diverse countries in the world. With over 1.3 billion people, it is home to people of all religions, ethnicities, and languages. It is this diversity that makes India so special.
When you are in India, don’t be too critical. Instead, take the time to appreciate all that this country has to offer. From the Taj Mahal to the Himalayas, there is much to see and admire. So don’t let the problems overshadow the beauty of this incredible country.
Don’t leave your belongings unattended
Valuables and sensitive documents should never be left on display or unattended no matter where you are. This is especially important when traveling in India, where there is a high risk of theft. If you must leave your belongings unattended, make sure they are hidden from view and securely locked away. Never leave valuables or sensitive documents in plain sight and avoid leaving them in hotel rooms or other public areas.
If you are carrying valuable belongings such as expensive phones, cameras, and laptops with you, keep them close to you at all times and be aware of your surroundings. Even for short trips to the printer, or toilets, take your things with you or have a friend sitting next to you watch them while you’re gone. By taking these precautions, you can help to protect yourself from becoming a victim of crime.
Make sure you don’t miss our tips on what to pack for India.
Avoid traveling alone in remote areas
As I said many times, India is an amazing country with a rich history and culture. There are many things to see and do, but there are also some things to avoid. One of the most important things to avoid is traveling alone in remote areas, especially if you are a female traveler. It’s always best to travel with someone else and to let someone know where you are going.
If you do find yourself in a remote area, make sure to stay aware of your surroundings and be cautious of strangers. India is a vast country, and it’s easy to get lost in its beauty. But by following these simple safety precautions, you can ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable trip to India.
Don’t accept food or drink from strangers
Indians are friendly people. However, there are some things that visitors should be cautious of, one of which is accepting food or drink from strangers. Just because an Indian can eat something, it doesn’t mean you can eat or drink it too. Our immune systems react differently to certain bacteria. Also, unfortunately, there have been reports of people spiking drugs into food and drinks in order to rob tourists.
So, it’s best to be safe and only accept food and drink from people you know and trust. If you do accept food or drink from a stranger, be sure to watch it being prepared in front of you, and take small sips at first to be sure it’s safe. It’s simple precautions like this that can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to India.
Essential Travel Safety Tips For India
India is a vast and wonderful country with a rich culture. It is a land of incredible diversity, with a rich history that is waiting to be explored. However, India can also be a dangerous place for travelers, and it is important to take precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some essential India travel safety tips.
Visit India in Winter instead of summer and Monsoon seasons
In general India’s climate can also be extreme, particularly during the monsoon and summer seasons. Monsoon season (June to September) brings lots of mosquitos, heavy rains and often floods and, making travel difficult and dangerous with higher chance to catch dengue fever.
Summer (April to June) is also extremely hot and humid, with temperatures often rising above 40 degrees Celsius. But it’s not just the temperature that makes it unbearable, it’s the country’s extremely poor hygienic standard that can make you sick.
Traveling during these times can be uncomfortable and even dangerous, so it’s best to avoid visiting India during monsoon and summer if possible. Instead, plan your trip for India the winter months (Mid-November to February), when the weather is more moderate and pleasant.
Do plenty of research prior to going to India
First and foremost, do your research before you travel. India is a vast country, and each region has its own unique dangers. Learn about the areas you will be visiting and what safety concerns you should be aware of.
Update your family with your whereabouts
India is a land of contrasts. From the snow-capped mountains of the north to the sunny beaches of the south, India has something to offer everyone. However, India is also a country with a high crime rate, and travelers need to be aware of the risks before they embark on their journey. When traveling in India, it is important to keep your family updated on your whereabouts.
This way, if something happens, they will know where to find you. It is also a good idea to travel in groups and to avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuable items with you. By taking some simple precautions, you can ensure that your safety in India is not compromised.
Be cautious of public Wi-Fi in India
When traveling in India, it’s essential to be aware of the dangers of public Wi-Fi. While these hotspots can be convenient, they are also prime targets for hackers. This is because public Wi-Fi is often unencrypted, making it easy for criminals to access your personal data.
Additionally, many people use public Wi-Fi without taking basic precautions, such as ensuring their firewall is turned on or using a VPN. This makes it even easier for hackers to steal your information. So, if you’re planning to use public Wi-Fi while in India, be sure to take extra care to protect your data. Install a VPN, use a trusted password manager, and only connect to networks that you trust.
Make sure you read our tips on planning a perfect trip to Delhi, India.
Safeguard your hotel room
It is also important to be aware of the potential dangers that can be present when you are traveling in India. One of the tips to help you stay safe when you are in India is not to leave your hotel room door unlocked, even if you are just going down the hall to the elevator.
Always use the deadbolt and lock to secure the door. And do not open the door to your hotel room if you do not know who is on the other side. If someone claims to be from housekeeping or maintenance, call the front desk to verify their identity before letting them in.
Only use registered taxis or auto-rickshaws
It’s important to stay safe while traveling in India, and one of the best ways to do this is to take registered taxis or auto-rickshaws. Not only are these vehicles regulated by the government, but they also have meters that ensure you’re charged a fair price for your journey.
Unregistered taxis are often unlicensed and uninsured, which can leave you at risk if something goes wrong. In addition, drivers of unlicensed taxis may not know the area well, which could lead to you becoming lost or stranded in an unfamiliar place.
Be wary of giving personal information
It’s important to be careful about giving out personal information, as scams are all too common. In India, for example, there have been numerous cases of people being scammed after sharing their personal details with someone they met online.
The best way to avoid becoming a victim of such a scam is to be wary of giving out too much information to anyone you meet, regardless of whether you know them in person or not. If you’re ever in doubt, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and keep your personal information to yourself.
Be aware of your surroundings
When traveling to India, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings at all times. This is a country with a diverse range of cultures and traditions, and it’s easy to inadvertently offend someone if you’re not careful. For example, dress modestly to avoid attracting unwanted attention, and be respectful when visiting religious sites.
It’s also a good idea to learn some basic phrases in Hindi or another local language, as this will help you to navigate the country more easily. With a little cultural awareness, you can ensure that your trip to India is both enjoyable and safe.
Make copies of important documents
When visiting India, it is essential to make copies of your important documents. Your passport, visa, and other identification should be copied and kept in a safe place in case you lose the originals. In addition, you should make copies of your travel insurance policy and any other documents that may be useful in an emergency.
It is also a good idea to leave copies of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member so that they can reach you if necessary. By taking these simple precautions, you can ensure that your trip to India goes smoothly and that you are able to enjoy your holiday without any stressful surprises.
Conclusion
So there you have it – a few things to avoid doing when traveling in India. With a little bit of common sense and some knowledge of the cultural norms, you should be able to stay safe and enjoy your time in this amazing country. Have you been to India before? If so, what are your tips for staying safe and avoiding culture shock? Leave us a comment below!
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