6 customs travelers should know before visiting India

Pay attention to rituals when visiting places of worship, beware of sexual assault, and accept curious glances as things to remember before traveling to India.

6 customs travelers need to know before traveling to India

India is perceived as a land of mysteries, where various cultures, religions coexist, and intertwine. Therefore, travelers here need to have a certain understanding to avoid unnecessary troubles.

Attention to rituals when visiting places of worship

Indians adhere strictly to religion, so if you wear shorts, remember to use a cloth to wrap your legs and cover your shoulders before entering temples. Also, always leave your shoes outside when entering places of worship.

Prepare mentally for the perplexing

Feeling overwhelmed is often the initial reaction for many travelers. India is a conglomeration of contradictions, not only in politics but also in culture and architecture. So, don't be surprised if you see a bustling modern shopping complex right next to the poorest slum area in the city.

Expressing affection in public spaces

The beauty of landmarks like Kerala's backwaters or the Taj Mahal often leaves couples enchanted. But think twice before displaying affection in public as such actions are often frowned upon in India.

Sexual harassment alert

Caucasian women visiting India need to be cautious and attentive. Due to cultural influences and inherent curiosity, many Indian men have misconceptions about foreign women. Hence, street harassment is not uncommon, easily leading female tourists into panic. Pay attention, dress modestly, and prepare some self-defense measures are things female tourists should remember.

Attention to Hands and Feet

In Indian culture, all body parts are hierarchical, with the head being the highest and the feet the lowest. Since feet are considered unclean, it's customary to remove shoes when entering someone's home and absolutely avoid stepping on anything indoors. Additionally, bowing and touching the feet of elders signify respect. Never use the left hand for eating and refrain from passing anything to others with the left hand.

Curious Gazes

Staring at someone may be deemed impolite in the West but is completely normal in India. Locals are always curious about foreign tourists, unabashedly observing them. A friendly smile will often be met with a reciprocal one. However, never compromise your safety for politeness, especially for female travelers.

As per Hai Thu/Vnexpress

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Reference: Travel Guide from Mytour