India, with its verdant landscapes and diverse cultural beauty, attracts millions of travelers yearly. But India is commonly thought of as a highly unsafe place to travel to. While being an Indian I feel truly disheartened about this notion, I cannot deem it untrue. So, here are 5 tips and tricks that all of you travel geeks must have up your sleeve to make the most of your next Indian trip!
1. Choose Your Destination Wisely!
India has a lot to offer. From the mighty Himalayas in the North to the Western Ghats in the South, the beauty of the Indian landscape knows no bounds. However, it is very important to choose the right destination, and that too in the right season!
Kashmir, often called the “Paradise On Earth” due to its breathtaking pristine, is usually on top of the list of people who want to visit India. But, one simply cannot visit Kashmir in any season. It would truly be an injustice to its unnatural beauty. Always plan your trips in the time frame of March to August and I promise that you will not be disappointed.
If you love beaches and love to party with strangers, Goa is the place for you. With its phenomenal backwaters and so many unexplored beaches, Goa is perfect for anyone who wants to experience the unconventional India. The best time to visit Goa is definitely from February to August.
A lot of people avoid going to Goa in monsoons but listen up, DO NOT MAKE THIS MISTAKE! I repeat, do not make this mistake.
Photo Credit: Raja Sen from Unsplash
Refer to this article to know how to Travel by Season in India.
2. Always Hire a Tour Guide
No matter where you go, ALWAYS hire a tour guide. Over the years, the tourism industry in India has become corrupt. A lot of local vendors, ticket sellers, and businessmen only try to extract as much profit as possible, especially from people who have come from outside the country.
In this case, it is smart to hire a local tour guide. Guides are usually hospitable and kind and take their job very seriously. Not only this, but they are also quite familiar with the city or the place in general.
Photo credit: Samson Katt from Pexels
Even if you decide to shop locally from the regional markets, it cannot be emphasized enough to have a tour guide alongside. They help you crack the best deals and bridge the communication gap with the locals.
3. Book Your Accommodation Way in Advance
I know this goes unsaid and nobody would wait till the last minute to make the bookings. But if you ever find yourself considering something like that, give your head a big shake and come back to your senses. India, with a population of a whopping 1.4 billion, is a host for innumerable travelers.
The Indians, too, keep traveling whenever they can. So you will always be welcomed by a big crowd of tourists. Be wise and book your hotels in advance.
Photo credit: Barun Ghosh from Unsplash
Many properties, which belong to the locals, can also be rented. Make sure to do your research well and then select a hotel that suits your needs perfectly.
4. Dress Accordingly
Oh yes! I know it is the 21st century and nobody tells anybody how to dress, but, it is crucial to respect the sentiments of people around you. India, no doubt, is constantly developing but it largely depends on what state you are in.
Mumbai, for instance, houses people from almost all parts of the country as well as the world. Uttar Pradesh, on the other hand, is still deeply culturally rooted. Hence, one has to be very mindful of what one decides to wear. It is for two reasons:
- It makes you feel different and good! Adorning the traditional outfits from various parts of the country is just so much fun. It is undoubtedly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
- It is important for your safety. If stares from creepy old men make you uncomfortable, please stick to decent clothing.
5. Watch What You Eat and Drink
Please make sure that whatever you are consuming is safe for you. India has, if not the best, some of the best cuisines out there. Indian food is truly delectable and NO it is not just butter chicken and naan!
But be very thoughtful of what you choose to eat and drink. Try to avoid tap water because here in India tap water is normally not fit to drink. Stick to mineral bottled water!
Photo credit: Chan Walrus from Pexels
The truest essence of India can be found in its mosaic of cultures. Go Ahead! and plan your first trip to this beautiful diverse land and make sure to keep these few tips and tricks in mind.
Happy traveling!!
