{"id":19885,"date":"2025-01-04T10:00:11","date_gmt":"2025-01-04T02:00:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/magazine-proxy.elitehavens.com\/?p=19885"},"modified":"2025-02-27T14:17:08","modified_gmt":"2025-02-27T06:17:08","slug":"dos-and-donts-in-india","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/magazine-proxy.elitehavens.com\/dos-and-donts-in-india\/","title":{"rendered":"Travel Safely in India – Locals Share Dos and Don\u2019ts"},"content":{"rendered":"

India<\/a> offers a diversity of experiences that is unrivalled by most places. It invites you with a magical array of sights and sounds, striking colours and ancient cultures<\/a>. Explore extraordinary Mughal palaces, magnificent Hindu temples, vibrant cityscapes and glistening sun-kissed beaches. Read these tips to ensure your safety in India as you travel. Luxuriate in private pools of tropical villas, unwind with a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage<\/a> and savour aromatic herbal teas while you take it all in.<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re undecided on taking the plunge to travel to India, these safety and cultural tips will help you have a wonderful, hassle-free vacation<\/a> in this stunning land. Keep these cultural nuances and safety tips in mind when you visit Incredible India.<\/p>\n

Safety and Cultural Nuances in India<\/h2>\n

Do<\/span><\/h2>\n

1. Stand<\/h4>\n

If you\u2019re going for a Bollywood movie<\/a>, stand up during the national anthem.<\/p>\n

2. Greet<\/h4>\n

When you meet new people, do so with hands folded in a namaste.<\/em> A short nod of the head with folded hands will also do.<\/p>\n

3. Be polite<\/h4>\n

When speaking to someone older than you, even staff, it\u2019s considered polite to add the suffix, ji<\/em>, after their names. For instance, if an elder\u2019s name is Ashok, you can call him Ashokji.<\/p>\n

4. Dress appropriately<\/h4>\n

When you\u2019re visiting a temple or any holy site, it\u2019s wise to dress appropriately. Avoid skimpy clothes as a mark of respect. If visiting a Sikh gurudwara or a mosque<\/a>, cover your head with a scarf or handkerchief. Take off your footwear outside the place of worship.<\/p>\n

5. Show respect<\/h4>\n

Also, when you\u2019re visiting a temple, you might be given an offering or prasad<\/em> (usually some flowers and a piece of sweets). Make sure you receive it with your right hand or both hands cupped together. Do not throw or discard the blessed food in front of others. It is seen as a sign of disrespect.<\/p>\n

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6. Speak local<\/h4>\n

While English is spoken widely in India, it\u2019s always nice to learn a few phrases in the local language of the region. Some useful phrases in Hindi include dhanyawad<\/em> (thank you), theek hai<\/em> (okay), haan<\/em> (yes) and nahi<\/em> (no) and bahut achha hai<\/em> (it\u2019s very good). People will delight in your attempt.<\/p>\n

7. Eat local<\/h4>\n

Be adventurous and try local cuisines. Indian food<\/a> is rich in flavour and very unique. It is not always spicy as is the perception. Let your server know your spice tolerance in advance and they can alter dishes to suit your palate.<\/p>\n

8. Use the concierge<\/h4>\n

Always book your travels with accredited, properly vetted travel agencies and car services. Our concierge<\/a> team will be more than happy to take care of your requirements. Do not pay heed to touts on the street.<\/p>\n