Planning Your First Trip to India? Read This
A fool-proof guide to visiting the world’s largest democracy.
I recently read an American lady’s comical rant about her pitiful first and possibly last trip to India. Sure, it was an honest journal of her experience in the world’s most populated country, and she stated some obvious facts. What amused me was her utter lack of purpose and preparation, before embarking on a journey halfway across the globe.
If you’re contemplating a first-time trip to India, don’t be blind-sided like her. In this information-rich era, read these tips and back them up with research.
#1 India is not for the faint-hearted traveler
It’s far
A flight from the Western hemisphere to India can take anywhere from 14 to 22 hours depending on the coast you’re traveling from. Plus, it’s expensive. A ticket to India costs anywhere from USD1000 to USD1800+ based on the time of year and the airlines. No one wants to spend that amount of cash and end up disappointed with the destination.
It’s dirty and polluted, in several parts
Yes, it is dirty and polluted simply because it is 1/3rd the land size of America with three times its population. There is a huge economic disparity between the rich and poor with the poor outnumbering the middle class and rich. So, every Indian city has pockets of dirty, trash-filled areas.
It’s not a walker's paradise.
As a first-time visitor, Uber (Yes, they have Uber and Ola) your way around these bad spots and stick to your fancy hotel and sightseeing landmarks.
It’s under major construction
India is the sixth-largest economy in the world with a robust GDP (Gross Domestic Product) of USD 2.7 trillion. Its economy boasts diversity and swift growth in key sectors such as information technology, services, agriculture, and manufacturing.
A booming economy translates to GROWTH.
Growth comes with the side effects of rapid expansion in civic amenities. With new metros, highways, bridges, and roads being built, everywhere. It’s a country buried in chaos and heavy construction.
It’s crowded & noisy
India has the largest population in the world with 1.3+ BILLION people.
It’s naturally crowded. The bustling economy and increased spending power mean most families own vehicles and are on the road, a lot. Traffic is inevitable on its two-lane streets. No matter which city you visit, you have to plan your trips wisely around the rush hours.
As a first-time visitor, it’s best to book a hotel close to the airport or near the landmarks you plan to see.
#2 India is not for the Back-Packing Traveler
With a currency exchange rate of 1 USD equals 88+ Indian Rupees. Your dollars can go far. Avail this exchange rate to your benefit and stay at fancy hotels at a fraction of the cost compared to North America or the EU.
By staying at luxury hotels, you can avoid the unsightly areas of this developing country and live in comfort and style. Something you probably cannot afford in your own country. As a bonus, India is well known for its superior service and hospitality.
But if you’re a backpacking budget traveler, skip India as your destination. Your limited dollars will only expose you to the less appealing and poor parts of this country.
On the other hand, if money is no object, then the palaces converted to 5-Star hotels are the best way to experience the rich Indian culture and be treated like a royal maharaja or maharani.
To enjoy the best parts of India, don’t be a cheap stake, spend money.
#3 India is beautiful depending on where you visit
India has some of the most beautiful cultural monuments, royal palaces, and scenic vistas. Research and plan your trip around the ones you’d like to visit.
The Taj Mahal is the most visited spot by tourists and is a spectacular sight. But remember it's a tomb, not a palace. The main entrance is surrounded by a crowded and unsightly bazaar of street vendors.
However, there are luxury hotels within a mile of this world-wonder. Some hotels boast spectacular views of the Taj Mahal from their room windows.
Choose your hotel wisely and Uber your way to and from the monument.
The Southern Cities of India boast awe-inspiring temples and cultural monuments. These cities are a short flight away from India’s capital, New Delhi. Again, plan your itinerary based on the landmarks you want to see before arriving in India.
The Hotel concierge is the best guide for commuting and rush hour information.
If your budget allows, visit the State of Rajasthan, and live in any of its breathtaking palaces that are converted into 5-star hotels. The hotels will gladly arrange pick-up and drop-off at the nearest airport. They can even plan a day trip to local sightseeing spots in a comfortable chauffeur-driven car.
Most beautiful places in India: https://www.travelandleisureasia.com/in/destinations/india/most-beautiful-places-in-india/
#4 Indian food packs a gut punch. You need an iron-clad stomach to enjoy and digest its spicy cuisine
Indian food with its scrumptious flavors and curries is in one word — SPICY.
If you’re not a fan of Indian food or dislike spices, think twice before taking a flight to India.
Even for those who tolerate and enjoy spices, the level and intensity of authentic Indian food — not the westernized version — can be a shock. As a work around, request milder versions of the dishes at any restaurant you visit.
Most 4 - or 5-star hotels in India have 3 or more restaurants in-house. When you first arrive, test your palate at these in-house restaurants before braving the local city joints.
It’s also advisable to stick to drinking bottled water from well-sealed bottles.
As a first-time visitor, your gut microbiome may not be palpable to Indian street food. So, avoid it. If you absolutely crave eating street food, you may find some dishes being served at your hotel restaurant or in-room service menus.
Also, as a general rule, before traveling to a far-off continent with its unique weather, water, and air quality issues it’s wise to carry common stomach-related medications, antacids, and anti-diarrheal tablets with you.
Although pharmacies are open in every neighborhood, Indian medications may or may not suit your fragile system.
#5 A visit to India must have a solid purpose
India is not your typical “Hawaiian Island” getaway. Don’t go there on a whim.
It’s a developing country best visited for reasons like attending a wedding or work-related trips. Especially as it’s quickly becoming a fast-growing manufacturing partner for many developed countries.
If you’re visiting for work, stick to your hotel and office location and let your local colleagues manage your itinerary.
If you’re attending a wedding, then pick a hotel close to the wedding venue and follow your hosts’ guide on the food to eat and places to visit.
An Indian wedding is a must-see event with its multi-day celebrations, magnificent decorations, extravagant wedding attire, and deliciously rich food. Top that with heart-warming Indian hospitality and you’ll have an unforgettable experience of your lifetime.
#6 Talk to your Indian friend/colleague for travel guidelines
Before traveling halfway across the globe, talk to your Indian friend/colleague and gather travel tips including the best time of the year to visit.
The northern and southern parts of India have completely different weather patterns so research and pack accordingly.
Lastly, numerous US-based influencers have visited India and painstakingly vlogged their experience on their YouTube channels. View these ahead of time and take notes.