India Travel Guide

India, made easier to navigate

Practical context on the everyday side of travelling in India.

Connectivity

Staying online in India is straightforward once you know what to arrange before you land.

SIM vs eSIM

Local SIM cards are widely available and usually need your passport and visa details. Many international travellers prefer an eSIM activated before arrival so they are connected the moment they land.

Mobile data expectations

Mobile data in India is generally fast and inexpensive in cities and along major travel routes.

Cities vs remote areas

Coverage can become patchy in mountain valleys, desert stretches and inside national parks. Plan for offline maps and downloaded documents on those days.

Before arrival

Keep a digital and printed copy of your itinerary, accommodation details and key contacts so you are never dependent on a single device.

Money & Payments

India is largely digital, but small amounts of cash still make everyday travel easier.

Cash vs cards

Hotels, established restaurants and organised transport accept cards. Small shops, local transport and markets are more comfortable with cash or local digital payments.

ATM access

ATMs are common in cities and towns. Withdraw before travelling into remote regions and carry small denominations where possible.

Digital payments

Local UPI-based payment apps are used everywhere, though access can be limited for visitors. Cash remains the simple fallback.

Currency and safety

The currency is the Indian Rupee. Exchange at banks, airports or authorised counters, keep receipts, and avoid informal street exchange.

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated rather than compulsory. Small rounded amounts for drivers, guides and restaurant staff are the norm.

Food & Dining

Indian food changes completely from one region to the next — that is part of the journey.

Regional variety

North Indian, Rajasthani, Bengali, Awadhi, Goan and South Indian cuisines are genuinely different traditions with different staples, spices and dining rhythms.

Vegetarian and non-vegetarian

Vegetarian food is easy to find everywhere and is often the local default. Jain, vegan and other dietary needs can usually be accommodated with a little planning.

Street food

Street food is a highlight when approached sensibly — choose busy stalls with high turnover and freshly cooked items.

Choosing restaurants

Ask about spice levels, start gently and build up. Bottled or filtered water is the usual choice for visitors.

Culture & Etiquette

A little cultural context turns everyday interactions into some of the best parts of your trip.

Clothing

Modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees is appreciated, particularly in smaller towns and religious places.

Religious places

Shoes are removed before entering temples, mosques, gurudwaras and many homes. Some places also ask you to cover your head.

Photography

Ask before photographing people, ceremonies and interiors. Some sites restrict photography entirely.

Greetings and personal space

A simple 'namaste' is always welcome. Public spaces can be busy; a calm, patient approach goes a long way.

Dining etiquette

Eating with the right hand is customary in many settings, and sharing dishes is normal.

Safety & Tourist Awareness

India is very travellable. Knowing a few common situations in advance keeps things calm and simple.

Overcharging

Agree fares and prices before starting a ride or a purchase, or use metered and app-based options.

Unofficial guides

At major monuments, prefer official or pre-arranged guides rather than someone approaching you at the entrance.

Transport

Use pre-booked transfers, recognised taxi apps or hotel-arranged drivers, especially for late arrivals.

Tourist traps

Be cautious with unsolicited shopping detours and 'closed today, come with me instead' suggestions.

Everyday practices

Keep valuables discreet, share your itinerary with someone at home and keep emergency contacts accessible.