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Drinking & Smoking
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In the large cities and in the higher end hotels and restaurants, the attitudes about smoking and drinking are very similar to the West. However in most of India, there are different standards for men and women when it comes to these activities and in the more conservative areas of India, a woman indulging in these activities would attract negative attention.
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| Restrooms |
It is best to avoid public restrooms in India, to always carry toilet paper or tissues and hand sanitizer with you, and to visit five-star hotels to use their facilities even if you are not staying there.
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Clothing & Dress
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As a rule of thumb, visitors to the larger cities like Delhi, Mumbai, or Bangalore will find that Western clothing is acceptable and is worn by many young Indians. However, in many popular tourist destinations like Rajasthan modesty in dress is strongly encouraged. Long skirts, long sleeves, a shawl/scarf to cover the head in holy places, higher necklines, and pants for men are all recommended items to pack.
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Faith & Religion
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Although India is the largest secular democracy in the world, the spiritual life of her residents permeates both public and private spaces. Respect for others beliefs - whether Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, Christian, Buddhist or other - is shown by speaking with tact and sensitivity on these subjects and by observing codes of dress and behaviour such as removing shoes and covering the head in places of worship.
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Do's & Don'ts
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DO carry small bills and change as much as possible
DON'T give to street beggars, no matter how hard it might be. Criminal mafias who profit from their misery enslave most beggars. If you want to give, a registered charity is the best choice.
DO take your shoes off when entering someone's house or any place of worship
DON'T touch people's heads, point your feet at holy objects or honoured people while sitting, or use your left hand to give gifts, food, or other important items.
DO be prepared to answer a lot of personal questions and be stared at - Indians are naturally curious people, and it is not considered rude to ask what might be thought of as nosy questions.
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