New Delhi India Travel Tips

Key Travel & Cultural Etiquette Tips for Tourists in New Delhi:

Respectful Dress:

  • Modesty is key: Cover shoulders and knees, especially when visiting religious sites. Loose-fitting clothing is ideal for the hot climate.
  • Consider local customs: Avoid revealing or tight clothing. Opt for neutral colors rather than bright ones.
  • Shoes off indoors: Remove your shoes before entering homes, temples, and mosques.

Greetings & Interactions:

  • Namaste: The traditional Indian greeting involves pressing palms together in front of your chest with a slight bow.
  • Right hand rule: Use your right hand for eating, shaking hands, giving and receiving objects. The left hand is considered unclean.
  • Addressing people: Use formal titles like “Mr.”, “Ms.”, or “Sir” and “Madam”.

Dining Etiquette:

  • Eating with hands: Traditionally, meals are eaten with the right hand. Practice beforehand!
  • Sharing is caring: Dishes are often served family-style, meant to be shared among everyone.
  • Leftovers are welcome: It’s considered polite to leave a small amount of food on your plate to show appreciation for the meal.

Transportation & Public Spaces:

  • Negotiate fares: Auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers often negotiate prices. Agree on a fare before starting your journey.
  • Crowds and queues: Be prepared for crowds, especially during rush hour. Maintain personal space and be patient in lines.
  • Public restrooms: Restrooms may not always be available or hygienic. Carry hand sanitizer and toilet paper with you.

Bargaining & Shopping:

  • Haggling is expected: Bargaining is a common practice in markets and street stalls. Start with a lower offer and work your way up.
  • Respect vendors: Be polite and avoid getting aggressive during negotiations.

Photography:

  • Ask for permission: Always ask before taking photographs of people, especially religious figures or monks.
  • Be mindful of sacred spaces: Avoid photographing religious ceremonies or rituals unless explicitly permitted.

General Tips:

  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to combat the heat and humidity.
  • Carry cash: Smaller vendors and markets may not accept cards.
  • Learn basic Hindi phrases: Even a few words like “Namaste” (Hello), “Dhanyavad” (Thank you), and “Kripya” (Please) can go a long way.

Safety Precautions:

  • Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
  • Avoid walking alone at night: Opt for taxis or rickshaws after dark.
  • Register with your embassy: Inform your embassy of your travel plans in case of emergencies.