This blog post is co-authored with Nishita Khanwani to help you plan your trip to India! Nishita is an avid blogger who writes engaging blogs on travel, food, adventures, and cultural experiences. She travels to various cultural hotspots worldwide, including India, the UAE, Egypt, and Turkey, to experience their rich history and culture.
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Firstly, before you go anywhere, I always recommend reading the US Travel Advisory for that country so you are aware of anything going on.
India is the most populated country in the world, so most places you go (especially as a tourist) will be crowded and full of other people. It is important to be extra aware of your surroundings in crowded places. Make sure to keep your belongings close to you.
2. Do not drink the tap water
You can either buy bottled water or refill your bottles at filtered water stations available in most public places like airports and malls.
I would also be wary of consuming raw / sliced fruits and vegetables that have been rinsed off with tap water.
3. Pack your medications
You must carry basic medications for allergies, stomach upsets, fever, etc. As always, I would recommend packing your favorite medicines from home, so that you have them with you when you’re abroad.
4. Pack (and wear) a ton of sunscreen
India experiences some of the world’s highest UV levels due to its tropical location near the equator, with the UV Index frequently reaching “extreme” levels of 11+ during peak hours, especially in the summer. It is important to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, and insect repellent when traveling in India.
My go-to recommendation is Blue Lizard sunscreen. I make sure to always bring that along and reapply throughout the day, and have not gotten burnt when doing so!
5. Make sure you have the proper vaccinations
Make sure that you have taken vaccinations for malaria, typhoid, and more before visiting the country.
I recommend checking the CDC website before your trip to make sure you are up to date and have all the proper vaccinations.
6. Dress modestly
While it is ok to wear any kind of clothes in cities, it would be best to pick modest clothing while traveling in smaller cities and towns, especially at night.
7. Be cautious when trying street food
When it comes to food, there is rarely a country that can compete with India. The diversity in the region, languages, and culture can also be seen in the food of the nation. The Indian cuisine is vast and packed with flavors, colors, and textures that come together to give you varied experiences.
Each region and state has its specialties. While the ingredients may be the same or similar, the use of spices and the cooking methods give rise to myriads of dishes. The best part is that India has a wide range of vegetarian dishes, although Indian non- vegetarian dishes are also quite popular across the world.
However, while street food is something you must try in India, it is important to be cautious. Especially if you are not used to eating street food, it may take your stomach a few days (or longer) to acclimate.
8. Bring hand sanitizer
Do carry wet wipes and sanitizers with you and use them whenever necessary. Because of how crowded touristy spots can get, plus the hot, humid climate, you will want to be able to wash your hands and face throughout the day.
9. Bring cash
You can use cards for payment at most stores and restaurants. However, you will need to carry cash while shopping in small stores and street markets.
Let me know what surprised you the most the first time you visited India in the comments below! And be sure to follow me on Instagram for more travel content.
mariss