Visiting India can be a delightful experience. There is so much to learn and various things to explore. However, it can be equally daunting to determine how to behave in India. While there is freedom of expression in India, certain cultural etiquettes are common across the country. Here is a quick list of the do’s and don’ts for tourists in India for your next visit:
A Quick Look At Indian Law For Tourists
If you’re wondering about what not to do in India, you just need to be well-aware of various laws and regulations in India. Here are some common laws you should know that also work as cultural etiquettes to respect the people of India:
Currency Exchange And Regulations
It is illegal to exchange currency or money from other countries with an unauthorized dealer. Make sure to get your currency exchanged as soon as you land in India. There is also a limit on the amount of Indian or foreign currency you can bring or carry in person. Similarly, you shouldn’t damage or try to damage the Indian currency.
Visa Laws & Regulations:
Make sure that you have a proper visa before entering India. You can have a tourist visa, or e-Tourist Visa. Some countries might require you to register with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) if your stay exceeds 180 days.
Drugs & Narcotics
India has strict laws for using, trafficking, or possession of drugs. You can get hefty fines or prison sentences if you are found with illegal substances. It is best to avoid any substance that isn’t legal in India.
Drinking & Smoking In India
Depending on the state, the legal drinking age varies from 18 to 25+ years old in India. Make sure to be aware of the state’s law before indulging in alcohol.
Gujarat and Bihar are also dry states, and it is illegal to consume alcohol in those states.
Smoking in public places is banned in India. You will incur fines. However, there are designated smoking areas in India for anyone to use.
Wildlife & Environmental Protection Laws
It is illegal in India to purchase or carry products made from endangered animals, like Ivory, Tiger Skins, etc.
Littering, damaging, or vandalising monuments and cultural areas in India is also illegal.
Identification As A Necessity
In India, you must have a valid license (International Driving Permit) to drive any vehicle. You also need to follow the traffic rules. A driving license from another country won’t be valid.
Similarly, it is a good idea to carry a valid ID with you. Certain activities have legal age requirements, so various authorities could ask you for identification for different reasons.
The Common Etiquettes In India That You Should Follow
India isn’t too rigid regarding the etiquette of tourists. Most people understand and acknowledge that forigners might not know these social constructs or practices. However, some common moral values could help you have a better experience. If you follow some of these etiquettes or be mindful, you will have a smoother trip. Here is a quick list of do’s and don’ts for tourists in India:
Respecting The Elders
In most parts of India, greeting by joining hands together (palms) and saying ‘Namaste’ is common. It is a sign of respect that you show others. However, you don’t have to say namaste to people younger than you. The culture primarily follows respecting elders or someone you feel deserves respect.
Apart from namaste, it is a common practice to always respect the elders. If you see elders standing, you can offer them a seat. It is also common to address the elders, even if they are complete strangers.
Respecting The Religion
In most religious places, such as Temples, Mosques, and Gurudwaras, you must remove your shoes before entering. It is also disrespectful to point your feet towards religious altars, statues, and other symbols if you’re lying down or resting. Try not to point the bottom of your feet anywhere other than the ground.
It is common for men to cover their heads with a handkerchief and for women, with a scarf, shawl, or traditional chunni.
Photography isn’t allowed in such religious places. You can ask for permission before capturing the pictures. Most Indian folks are warm and welcoming of you taking pictures.
The Eating Etiquettes
Once upon a time, eating using the right hand was the correct and polite practice. Nowadays, people in India no longer care about which hand you use. However, it is ideal to use your right hand to share food.
Similarly, sharing food with guests and other folks is a common practice in India. If someone shares food with you, you can accept a small portion. It is not necessary to eat all the food they offer.
Bargaining In India
Bargaining is a common practice in India. It is important for you to bargain if you want to get the right price for your goods. However, you need to be respectful and smiling while bargaining. Haggling too aggressively is frowned upon.
It is against the law for supermarkets, General Stores, and other shops to sell something above the M.R.P. (Maximum Retail Price). You can report them and take strict action.
Answering Some Common Questions
It is easy to get lost in the delightful experience of India. However, there are some common questions most tourists have regarding Indian etiquette. Here’s a quick overview with proper answers to each of them:
What Not To Do In India?
While India is a great host and respects the guests, it won’t tolerate criticism for the traditions, customs, or culture. You will appear rude if you try to criticise these aspects too much. People might not say anything, but you won’t feel that warm welcome India is known for.
Make sure that the lower part of your body doesn’t touch anyone. If your feet touch someone by mistake, it is polite to apologize. Touching someone with your feet is highly disrespectful in India.
Eating beef isn’t a common practice in India, either. Try not to boast about eating beef or claim to eat beef, especially in Hindu areas and cultures. People won’t crucify you for eating beef, but you might get some frowning looks. It is better to keep such revelations a secret.
How To Behave In Public In India?
Public display of affection (PFA) is frowned upon, and it is against the law in some areas. Be mindful about such activities, especially in religious and rural areas. Moreover, loud and blatant individuals aren’t appreciated. It is important to practice proper hygiene and not litter anywhere you go.Â
How To Dress In India?
There isn’t any rigid dress code for anyone to follow. India celebrates individuality and everyone’s choice of clothing and personalisation. However, dressing modestly is important for religious sites like temples and gurudwaras.
If you’re visiting India as a white woman, it is important to understand that the clothing in such areas should cover at least up to your shoulders and knees. For men, wearing shorts isn’t ideal in such locations. These dressing styles are also important in the country’s rural or less developed areas.