🚫 Things You Should Never Do While Travelling in India – 20 Cultural & Safety Mistakes to Avoid (2025)

14/05/2025 / By

🚫 Things You Should Never Do While Travelling in India – 20 Cultural & Safety Mistakes to Avoid (2025)

Planning a trip to India? Learn the things you should never do while travelling in India—from cultural taboos to safety tips. Avoid common mistakes with this expert guide by TheIndiaTourism.in.

🧭 Introduction: Respect the Journey, Respect the Culture

India is warm, spiritual, and culturally rich—but navigating it as a tourist requires more than just a good itinerary. Whether you’re in the temples of Tamil Nadu, the beaches of Bengal, or the ghats of Varanasi, here are 20 things you should never do while travelling in India—to stay safe, show respect, and truly enjoy your trip.

⚠️ 20 Things to Avoid While Travelling in India

🚫 1. Don’t Disrespect Religious Customs

🚫 2. Don’t Rely on Tap Water

  • Avoid drinking from taps or local coolers

  • Stick to bottled or filtered water
    ✅ Carry your own refillable UV water bottle

🚫 3. Don’t Show Public Affection

Holding hands is fine—but kissing or hugging in public is frowned upon in most parts of India, especially rural or spiritual places.

🚫 4. Don’t Dress Inappropriately

Avoid revealing clothes, especially in:

  • Temples

  • Small towns

  • Religious events
    ✅ Loose, full-length cotton clothes are best for both comfort and respect

🚫 5. Don’t Eat With Your Left Hand

In India, the left hand is traditionally seen as unclean. Use your right hand for eating and passing items.

🚫 6. Don’t Assume Everyone Speaks English

Learn basic Hindi or local phrases like:

  • “Namaste” (Hello)

  • “Kitna hua?” (How much?)

  • “Shukriya” (Thank you)

✅ Locals appreciate the effort!

🚫 7. Don’t Take Photos Everywhere

Avoid taking photos:

  • Inside temples

  • At cremation ghats

  • Of locals without asking

✅ Always ask permission before clicking portraits

🚫 8. Don’t Overpack or Bring Valuables

India is safe, but pickpockets exist in crowded markets and stations
✅ Carry only what you need, and use anti-theft bags

🚫 9. Don’t Use Your Feet to Touch Anything

It’s considered disrespectful to touch books, currency, or elders with your feet—even by accident

🚫 10. Don’t Haggle Aggressively

Bargaining is expected in bazaars—but do it politely and with a smile

✅ Learn: How to Bargain Like a Pro in Local Markets

🚫 11. Don’t Give Money to Children or Beggars

Instead, donate to a verified NGO or temple trust

🚫 12. Don’t Disrespect Food (Prasad)

Prasad is considered sacred—accept it with your right hand and don’t throw it away

🚫 13. Don’t Assume Every Auto Rickshaw is Honest

Always:

  • Ask for the meter

  • Negotiate fare in advance
    ✅ Use apps like Ola Auto or get help from locals

🚫 14. Don’t Expect Western-Style Toilets Everywhere

Many places still use squat toilets
✅ Carry toilet paper, wipes, and hand sanitizer

🚫 15. Don’t Book from Unverified Tour Agents

Avoid random agents at train stations or airports
✅ Book tours with trusted platforms like DreamSafar.com

📞 WhatsApp: 9650747276

🚫 16. Don’t Walk Alone Late at Night in Remote Areas

Especially in:

  • Ghats

  • Forest zones

  • Unknown alleys

✅ Take guided tours or travel in groups

🚫 17. Don’t Ignore Local Laws or Rules

  • Respect temple timings

  • Avoid smoking in public zones

  • Follow wildlife sanctuary rules strictly

🚫 18. Don’t Compare Everything to Your Home Country

India is different—and that’s its charm!
✅ Embrace the culture with an open mind

🚫 19. Don’t Travel Without Basic Medical Prep

Bring your own:

  • Medications

  • Mosquito repellent

  • Travel insurance

✅ Read: Managing Health During Travel

🚫 20. Don’t Rush Through Everything

India’s beauty lies in its details and diversity
✅ Slow down, soak in the culture, and talk to locals—they’re your best guide!

🔗 Suggestions

❓FAQs: Things You Should Never Do While Travelling in India

Is it okay to wear shorts in India?

In cities, yes—but avoid them in religious or rural areas. Covering shoulders and knees is respectful.

Is it rude to bargain?

No, but aggressive or sarcastic haggling is. Always smile and stay respectful.

Are solo female travellers safe in India?

Yes—with smart planning, safety awareness, and verified tour services, many women travel across India safely.
✅ Read: Safety Tips for Female Solo Travellers

🌼 Conclusion: Travel With Awareness, Travel With Respect

India welcomes millions of travelers with open arms—but a few missteps can lead to discomfort or offense. Avoid these common mistakes, and you’ll not only stay safe but also gain deeper respect from locals and a richer travel experience. Trust TheIndiaTourism.in and DreamSafar.com to guide you with care, culture, and clarity.

India travel mistakes, Tourist safety India, Cultural etiquette India, Indian travel do’s and don’ts, TheIndiaTourism.in, Things You Should Never Do While Travelling in India

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