India has become a sought-after tourist destination, whether it’s because of the festivals, the food, the culture, or movies like Eat, Pray, Love. It also hasn’t received the best press lately with the abundance of rape and assault cases that beget international headlines or the policies of the Indian government. But every counter has those problems so India is no exception. It is massive and home to almost one and a half billion people (and increasing rapidly). And if you know where to go, it is beautiful. I am obviously partial to the state of Punjab but I have a few other places on my list (Goa, Hyderabad, and Leh/Ladakh). Wherever you’re going, you’ll likely fly into the country via Delhi and there are some things you should know before you travel. Here are my top eight tips for visiting India.
1. Wear A Mask
India’s pollution, especially in and around Delhi, is atrocious. It consistently ranks at the top of the list for the most polluted cities on the planet. If you’re visiting on or after Diwali (late October/November), forget it. This past year, Diwali happened to coincide with Halloween and I landed in Delhi late at night on November 7th. The air pollution was so bad, we couldn’t see the runway when we were landing and I had to wear a face mask when exiting the airport. I hadn’t been in 15 years and the air quality was a major shock. For reference, around 1:30 AM that night, the AQI was still hovering around 360 and remained close to 400 throughout our trip. My best tip for you is to bring face masks and wear them (you won’t be the only one). If you’re asthmatic like me, you also need to bring your inhaler.
2. Bring A Power Adapter
This one shouldn’t be a surprise but you’ll need a power adapter. In India, you’ll find three main plug types: C, D, and M with M being the one I saw the most frequently. These are easy to find so ensure you bring at least two in case one doesn’t work (or enough for all of your devices).
3. Avoid Certain Foods Early On
If you’ve done even a modicum of research or mentioned your visit to India to anyone, chances are you’ve been warned about dining. The food is incredibly delicious (and may convince you to eat more plant-based) but your stomach may pay a hefty price. It will take time for your stomach to adjust the first few days you’re there. Avoid any street food, meat, raw fruits and vegetables, and dairy products early on, and eat fried foods in moderation (or abstain completely). You don’t know what oil is being used to cook and the same oil will get used over and over again to fry. You’ll also have an easier time if you’re vegan like me but it’s not essential. For more things to avoid, read here.
4. Boil Water Before Drinking or Only Drink Bottled Water
You should also avoid water that isn’t bottled by a popular name brand. The tap water in India is notoriously unsafe to drink and is another reason why you should avoid things like raI like this w fruits and vegetables because you don’t know what water was used to clean them if any was used at all. Only drink water from a source you trust (bottled water from a company like Poland Spring or Dasani) or boil any water before you consume it. I would bring a reusable water bottle (or two) to fill at whatever airport you’re flying from and then I would stock up at the Delhi Airport after customs and immigration. I also wouldn’t go so far as to say you can’t brush your teeth with tap water (I’ve never had an issue) but you should exercise reasonable precaution. Your stomach will thank you.
5. Bring Insect Repellent
There are a lot of bugs in India, including mosquitoes and other pesky little flies. You will get bitten even if you take precautions. Bring insect repellent at the very minimum and spare it on yourself twice a day and around your accommodation. I like to spray windowsills, beneath doorways, and myself before going to bed or going out. You can also bring mosquito armbands or patches if you don’t want the hassle/stickiness of a spray but you must bring something. I like this Repel plant-based, deet-free insect repellent. I got bitten on my right foot in November and it’s still healing. Don’t take a chance!
6. Avoid Speaking English in Tourist Areas
This one applies to many countries and may seem self-explanatory but don’t speak in English in areas that are frequented by tourists or in markets. You will have people come up to you to buy things from them and if you’re approaching a vendor, they may upcharge you. They will be able to tell if you’re a foreigner or not. I speak Punjabi when I’m in India and little kids will call me Didi (the Punjabi and Hindi word for “older sister”) to get me to buy from them but they can tell I’m not from India because of how I look. Take extra care when you’re in public. If you only speak English, then you can’t avoid it but be prepared and interact with the locals in good faith.
7. Pack Clothes/Shoes You Don’t Mind Getting Dirty
This is a habit my family and I got into early on and it’s another one of my more useful tips on this list. Typically when you go on vacation, you’re looking forward to buying new clothes, wearing different outfits every day, and taking fit pics for Instagram. However, India is one place where I would recommend the opposite. Because of the abysmal air quality, the dirt roads, and the dust, your clothes will reflect that. Wear shoes that might be a bit older and not clean so if you step in mud or there’s a layer of dirt on the bottom, you’re not worried about it. Do NOT wear those brand-new Jordans. The same rule applies to clothes. Bring older clothes that may be a bit worn and get as much use as you can out of them. You’ll thank me later.
8. Bring Toilet Paper
As mentioned in my India packing essentials blog post, toilet paper isn’t necessary to pack and will take up valuable space in your luggage but if you’re accustomed to using toilet paper, it is scarce. Even if it is available, the quality isn’t the best. Most hotels and accommodations will have some but more often than not, you’ll find bidets (which are more sanitary and hygienic anyway). If you like toilet paper, bring a roll or two with you.
Do you have any other tips that would be helpful for travelers to India? Let me know in the comments below!
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