A land of varied and rich traditions, India is known for its eternal heritage. Home to billions of people, various languages and diverse festivities, each state of the country has a vibe of its own. If you are visiting India for the first time, there are few basic etiquettes that you should be aware of to have a better understanding and an enhanced travel experience. This allows you to connect with the localities and have an impactful journey.
Here are a few cultural norms that you must be aware of:
1. Greetings and Respect
With its vast number of regions, India has various types of greetings but one universal way to greet someone in the most respectful way would be ‘Namaste’. Done with your palms pressed together, Namaste depicts a gesture of humility.
Although handshakes are also common in urban settings across India, not everyone would be comfortable with a physical touch unless you’re here for business or in similar environs.
2. Modest Dressing Sense
India is conventional when it comes to dressing up. While metropolitan cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru and others are liberal and under an urban setting, the majority are rural areas where dressing up in modest attire is preferred. If you are visiting during the summer months, pack light and breathable clothing only.
3. Hotel Etiquette and Stay Tips
Hotel etiquette in India is an aspect when visiting different places across the country. Whether you choose to stay in a luxury hotel or a budget guesthouse, make sure to treat everyone with respect including the staff and follow basic decorum. While most hotels maintain good standards of cleanliness and hospitality, it is always better to check the reviews before booking your stay.
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4. Temple Etiquette and Religious Accuracy
India is a country with religious diversity and is home to a wide array of faiths. When visiting temples or any religious site: If you are planning to visit temples, mosques or gurudwaras, ensure wearing clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. Always make sure that you remove your footwear before entering any of these sites. Also, some of these places require you to cover your head, so tread accordingly.
Don’t point your feet towards deities or touch the religious books. Avoid taking pictures where it is prohibited.
5. Public Behaviour
While the culture around India focusses on community, it also esteems modesty and personal appropriateness. Public display of affection might be frowned upon in various parts of the country and should be avoided based on the environment or the setting you are a part of.
Also, be patient while queuing up at places to visit or eat because they may not always be orderly.
Bargaining is a great part of all local markets around here but maintain politeness while wanting to bag a good deal.
6. Tipping and Hospitality
Tipping is a great way to show appreciation and can be customary but necessarily mandatory. While it is common to tip at restaurants, you can totally avoid it if service charge is already included in your bill. Giving tips to the hotel staff or cab drivers can be a great way to show respect.
India is popular for its hospitality especially if you are around locals. You might be offered tea and snacks, and it is okay to accept even if you wish to have a sip to show respect.
7. Etiquette During Dining
Relishing Indian food is an enlightening experience in itself. Although, there are a few things you would want to keep in mind. In more traditional settings, eating with your right hand is considered respectful. The left hand is known to be unclean and should be avoided for eating or passing food to others. Always wash your hands before consuming your meal and avoid wasting food as it is considered disrespectful.
In many homes and restaurants, the food is served on banana leaves or thalis and proper cutlery might not be available. So be prepared.
