15 Interesting Facts about India That Every Traveller Should Know

Jan 30, 2020

Last Updated on: Nov 18, 2024

India

If you are traveling to India for the first time, you’ll for sure feel a little bit overwhelmed, confused and excited at the same time. Adjusting to the culture shock, frenetic energy and diversity will take some time. But worry not, once you get used to the Indian ways, you’ll develop a special bond with this place that will urge you to come back again and again.

If you are travelling to India, here are a few facts about India to keep in mind before and while you are on your trip:

Craziest Things To Know If You Are Traveling To India For The First Time

Craziest Things To Know If You Are Traveling To India For The First Time

Indian travel reaches a new high in the first quarter of 2024. Indian airports have enjoyed the footfall of around 376 million passengers. Further, 69.6 million in this traffic were international passengers. 

Moreover, the numbers show a massive improvement compared to 2019. Also, there is a 15% growth from the records in 2023. These numbers show why traveling in India is so huge this year.

So, it is no surprise that you are planning a trip to India this year. Is this the first time for you to visit this land of spirituality? Keep some smart tips handy to avoid travel hassles.

1. EXPLORE A PLACE AND TAKE YOUR TIME

 EXPLORE A PLACE AND TAKE YOUR TIME

When you are traveling to India for the first time, don’t hop from one place to another too soon because then you won’t really get a feel of the real India and experience the place deeply.

Take your time with a place. Stay there for a few days. Also, visit different sites in that place, get to know the local people and traditions of the place, and relish the experience.

For example, if you go to Kerala in South India, then stay there for at least 9 -10 days, exploring the local food and culture and different festivals.Many top-notch yoga retreats in India are also held in Kerala. If you want to experience the true spiritual gift of India, that is, yoga and meditation, you can attend a yoga and meditation retreat or a yoga teacher training course in one of the best yoga schools in Kerala.

2. EXPLORE MORE THAN JUST THE CITIES

EXPLORE MORE THAN JUST THE CITIES

The real beauty of India lies not only in the cities of India but also in the cities in the natural world.

The forests, the majestic mountains, the motherly rivers, the gorgeous oceans, the pristine beaches, and the divine landscapes will surely give you the experience of a lifetime.

Travel to the Himalayas in north India, the beaches of south India, the Western Ghats, and the Mangrove forests in the east and experience a deeper connection with Mother Nature.

3. DRESS ACCORDINGLY

DRESS ACCORDINGLY

In most parts of India, the dress code is Indian sarees and traditional Indian clothes though many people in the cities wear western clothing as well.

Please wear clothes that cover your body appropriately, especially when you are visiting the rural parts of India, temples, mosques, etc.

It is also a custom in India to open your shoes outside while visiting a temple or a religious site.

4. RESPECT THE INDIAN PEOPLE AND THE INDIAN CULTURE

RESPECT THE INDIAN PEOPLE AND THE INDIAN CULTURE

Most Indians are very warm-hearted, which is truly one of the best qualities of Indian people. They are welcoming and love it when people from around the world visit the country.

Be respectful to the Indian people and Indian culture.

The Indian people will greet you with warmth and acceptance. Make sure you can be humble and return the same.

5. BE PREPARED TO EXPLORE DEEP SPIRITUALITY

BE PREPARED TO EXPLORE DEEP SPIRITUALITY

One of the most well-known facts about India is that it is the origin of yoga and meditation. Many top-level yoga and meditation schools offer yoga retreats in India.

If you genuinely want to feel the deep spiritual connection of India and want to learn the ancient art of yoga and meditation, then you can enroll yourself in one of the best yoga schools in India.

Some of the best yoga schools of India are in Kerala in South India and Rishikesh in North Indian at the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains.

6. KEEP AN OPEN MIND

KEEP AN OPEN MIND

Keeping an open mind is a great way to travel the land of India as you will see things that you did not expect to, like children asking for food while you are stuck in traffic.

In the 2023 Global Hunger Index, India ranks 111th out of the 125 countries with sufficient data to calculate 2023 GHI scores. With a score of 28.7 in the 2023 Global Hunger Index, India has a level of hunger that is serious.

7. AVOID PDA

Avoid public displays of affection towards your partners, as this is not a common thing in the culture of India. Avoid kissing and excess public display of affection as a respect for the Indian culture

8. TRY OUT THE INDIAN FOOD

TRY OUT THE INDIAN FOOD

You will find all kinds of foods, dishes, and cuisines in India that will relish your taste buds. You can try out the North Indian dishes, the south Indian dishes, and the local food of whichever place you travel to.

Be mindful of the water you are consuming and make sure it is purified. Most places have clean water to drink, but it is advised to be mindful.

9. GET A SIM CARD

Getting a sim card would be helpful as you can use the internet to have easy navigation through the landscapes of India. A sim card will allow you to navigate google maps, best restaurants, and make calls to your home country.

Though only Indians can buy a SIM card in India, you can ask your trusted Indian friend to buy you a SIM card. There are also special provisions for sim cards for foreigners.

10. UNDERSTAND THE UNSPOKEN INDIAN LANGUAGE

Indians communicate a lot without words and just simple hand gestures or head nods. The classic Indian head nod is one of the most common communication methods in India. Usually, it means yes or no, depending on the context.

Understanding the unspoken Indian language can make your trip interesting and can be helpful too.

11. BEWARE OF PICKPOCKETS

While this advice applies to many places around the globe, it is always a good idea to keep your cash, cards, and belongings safe, especially in the populated cities of India.

12. FIND A TRUSTWORTHY INDIAN FRIEND WHO CAN GUIDE YOU

It is also wise to have a trustworthy Indian friend who can help you out in a foreign country and guide you in case you are confused about something.

Knowing someone trustworthy and intelligent in India who can help out is also an advantage.

13. DO YOUR RESEARCH

DO YOUR RESEARCH

Do a good in-depth research of India and the places that call out to you the most in India. India is a vast country, and it is not advised to cover the whole country in one short trip.

Do your research and see which places you feel the most drawn to and then make a detailed itinerary of your trip.

14. KEEP YOUR CALM

Scamsters, touts, etc. often target foreigners to make some quick bucks by simply luring them with good deals which are not in fact, good deals. You’ll come across different people (agents, cab drivers, etc.) who’ll insist on giving you the best deals (maybe hotel charges, tour packages). But don’t lose your head over these things. Simply keep your calm and try to show them that you know better. Slowly you’ll learn the tricks to handle such people.

15. DON’T HESITATE TO BARGAIN

Indian markets are colorful and have some beautiful things like leather bags, clothes, artifacts, and so much more that you can buy. However, some shop keepers give a higher price to those traveling from another country.

Don’t be afraid to bargain and get a reasonable price for your purchase. Sharpen your bargaining skills and have fun with it.

Is India Safe To Travel For Women? (Most) Important Things To Know Before Traveling To India For The First Time

Is India Safe To Travel For Women? (Most) Important Things To Know Before Traveling To India For The First Time

As I write this article, the cry of #JusticeforRGKar becomes more prominent to me. A month has passed since the rape and murder of a lady PG doctor of the Pulmonology department in the R G Kar Medical College and Hospital. Kolkata is the capital city of West Bengal, a state in the eastern part of India. 

There is still a protest going on, and people from all walks of life are participating in it with a suspicion of state machinery’s involvement in the case. Further, it aches my heart, but I have to mention that Delhi experienced one of the heinous acts of rape and murder a few years back in the form of the Nirbhaya case. 

People across borders are aware of these incidents today. So, the question of women’s safety while traveling to India is obvious. Further, if we look at the Booking.com travel predictions for 2024, we can see that 54% of women will likely embrace solo travel instead of a couple or group trip. 

Nevertheless, let’s get back to the question here, and allow me to assure you that India is fairly safe for women travelers. 

The data from the “National Commission for Women” and “National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB)” are not-so-pleasing. I don’t want to share the figures, either! However, the women-only travel groups are making it easier for every woman traveling to India for the first time or even for the 100th time. 

The WOW Club, or Women on Wanderlust, and Women On Clouds Club, or WOC, are two of the most popular women-only travel groups in India. So, as Hannah goes for a girl trip with her mother in “Girls,” get ready for traveling to India for the first time! 

Read Also:

Share on Social Media

Abdul Aziz Mondol is a professional blogger who is having a colossal interest in writing blogs and other jones of calligraphies. In terms of his professional commitments, he loves to share content related to business, finance, technology, and the gaming niche.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

title-img Related

READ MORE Cafe Creme

Cafe Creme – Best Review By Users In 2022 [Genuine Information]

BY  Barsha Mar 2, 2022

As we entered 2022, more and more people opted to work remotely and began craving coffee and similar beverages from premium brands like Starbucks and Cafe Creme. So it’s no wonder that the brands selling coffee witnessed unprecedented growth in the last three years. But, with 2021 coming out as the year of resignation, is 2022 going to be the year for a premium beverage? Every other brand in the hospitality market is ready to convince consumers to expand the cafe and coffee experience. But the question is, are they? And if they are, what about the quality? Unfortunately, while most brands successfully introduce a cafe experience, they fail to maintain the quality like the cafe creme franchise. So what is it about the Cafe Creme brand that seems to attract several consumers every other day? Is it the delectable taste or the beautiful French location? There could be several reasons behind this sudden growth. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about this famous brand! About Cafe Creme: The Brand Although the Cafe Creme brand was launched several years ago, it was only a few years ago that the brand really started putting in efforts for expansion. The managing director of the cafe creme franchise, Kunal Kashikar, is responsible for consistently marketing the brand by visiting various places in the country and doing adequate research on the whole cold coffee revolution. If you are wondering what is cafe creme, instead of learning about the brand on Google, why don’t you try out the brand’s signature drunk, Kuka? The chocolate-colored website of Cafe Creme mentions with pride that the brand is currently serving a whopping six lakhs (and more on some days) Kuka glasses on average every month in more than 20 cities in the country. A paradise for chocolate connoisseurs, every outlet offers calm, modern interiors with a relaxing atmosphere for consumers. The best part about the brand is that it constantly evolves with consumers' tastes. They are always busy researching and coming up with more ways to improve the holistic cafe experience. Products The residents of Maharastra will love the fact that we recommend the cafe creme Vashi at Navi Mumbai and cafe creme Kalyan at Thane for their mouth-watering menu. But we are asking you to visit the one in Paris! If you have not checked out the Cafe Creme menu, here’s what you will find! Kuka Kuka Exclusive Creme Shakes Creme Mastani Fresh Cream Shakes Junket (Sundae) Thunders (Ice Creams) Chocolate Exclusive Choco Cremes Snacks Hot Beverages Sandwiches Cafe Creme - Best Reviews (https://www.tripadvisor.co.nz/ShowUserReviews-g187147-d812150-r688576480-Cafe_Creme-Paris_Ile_de_France.html) - Reference for four reviews. As a brand that has survived the tough chocolate and premium coffee industry in Paris for many years, Cafe Creme has earned its fair share of reviews on Google from consumers across the world. Check out a few of our favorite reviews! Review By Tomer Y From Paris “Great food! I was with a friend, we took Avocado toast and salad Hallumi - both delicious! The service was fast and good. Just a long waiting line to get in on weekends.” Review By Mitch D From Bordeaux “This is a typical bistro/cafe in the Marais area. Good food, just not spectacular. The staff is really helpful. Outdoor seating and the place are always crowded for lunch and dinner. Many young people are so interested in watching the crowd and other diners. We always have lunch here when in the area.” Review By Thomas V From Oakland “Well, this is a fine cafe and a great place to sip a cup of coffee and enjoy the terrific Marais atmosphere. But we like the lunch menu and the hamburgers. Great location.” While Cafe Creme earned some stellar reviews globally, there are a few bad reviews that we could not help but notice! Here’s our favorite negative review that the cafe received. Review By Alex M From Singapore “I went there with a friend for an afternoon drink. When we arrived, the staff was not very welcoming, a bit rude. I ordered a fresh juice (cucumber, pineapple, and celery) and my friend a chai latte. I got a cucumber + water mixed drink, there was no pineapple at all for sure, no taste. My friend got a cup of hot milk with a teabag! I order chai latte very often, I have never seen this. When I asked if there was missing some ingredients in my juice, the waiter told me they could not make me a new one because the "fresh" juices were made in the morning (it was 6 pm). I changed for tea, but I had to pay the price of the juice, which was more expensive.” Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): 1. How Many Cafes In Paris? There are over 5000 (and increasing at the moment) cafes in Paris at the moment. Although Cafe Creme is one of many aesthetic locations to sip coffee in Paris yet, there’s no other place where you will find cafe creme cigars! 2. What Is French Coffee? Of course, French coffee refers to the way French people have coffee. This coffee does not have to be made with French coffee beans, and in most cases, the coffee is not even obtained from the French press. Simply put, French coffee is the espresso-type coffee drank by French people at outdoor places. 3. Do French Cafés Serve Alcohol? French cafes are not actual cafes. Instead, these are actual cafe spaces with restaurant-quality food that you can eat at any time, a complete bar, and even a fine selection of wines. The sky is the limit when it comes to Paris, and you must visit the city! Conclusion There’s no denying that Cafe Creme has managed to stay relevant over the last several years and even now continues to evolve at a fast pace. So if you are planning to visit this famous coffee shop on the beautiful streets of Paris, what are you waiting for? Visit today! Read Also: Nordstorm Cafe - Reviews, Special menu and Price 90 miles cuban cafe - Reviews, Special menu and Price The Speciality Of Barnaby's Cafe - Reviews, Special menu and Price

READ MORE

Eternal Magnificence: Why The Taj Mahal Reigns As The World’s Most Popular Monument

BY  Abdul Aziz Sep 29, 2023

In the heart of India, amidst the city of Agra, stands an architectural wonder that has captured the imaginations of tens of millions around the world. The Taj Mahal, regularly dubbed the "Crown Jewel of India," isn't just a monument; it's a symbol of everlasting love, architectural brilliance, as well as cultural importance.  With its mesmerizing splendor, the Taj Mahal has earned its reputation as the maximum popular monument in the international. In this article, we will discover the motives at the back of its iconic repute as well as provide insights into planning a taj mahal tour package to this breathtaking masterpiece. 1. A Monument Of Love The Taj Mahal's profound reputation begins with its compelling love tale. Built by emperor Shah Jahan in remembrance of his spouse, Mumtaz Mahal, the monument is a testimony to enduring love. This romantic narrative has frequent attraction and attracts site visitors from all walks of life who are moved by the tale of love and loss. 2. Architectural Grandeur One look at the Taj Mahal becomes obtrusive as to why it reigns as a worldwide architectural icon. Its lovely symmetry, tricky marble inlays, and ethereal white domes make it a masterpiece of Mughal structure. The Taj's unheard-of splendor and meticulous craftsmanship leave site visitors in awe, earning its rightful vicinity as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 3. Cultural Significance The Taj Mahal is deeply ingrained in India's rich cultural heritage. It represents the Mughal structure's zenith and symbolizes the kingdom's artistic as well as cultural prowess. Its inclusion within the "Seven Wonders of the World" list has also elevated its status and made it a must-visit vacation worldwide. 4. Spectacular Setting Situated on the banks of the Yamuna River, the Taj Mahal is ready against a picturesque backdrop that complements its allure. The mirrored image of the monument within the river's tranquil waters creates a mesmerizing scene that photographers and artists discover impossible to resist. 5. Timeless Beauty The Taj Mahal's splendor transcends time as well as seasons. It captivates visitors at some point of dawn, while the tender colors of the sunrise shower it with a gentle, rose-tinted glow, and at sunset, the placing sun lends it a warm, golden charisma. Its ethereal allure is equally enthralling beneath the moon's light, supplying traffic with a unique nocturnal enjoyment. 6. Icon of Peace and Harmony Beyond its architectural splendor, the Taj Mahal includes a team spirit as well as a concord message. Its production involved artisans and craftsmen from numerous cultural backgrounds, reflecting India's age-antique way of life of inclusivity. The monument serves as a symbol of religious tolerance as well as multicultural coexistence. 7. Planning Your Visit Now that we've explored why the Taj Mahal is the world's maximum famous monument, here are some practical guidelines for making plans for your visit: 8. Timing Matters The Taj Mahal can get crowded, so plan to reach early in the morning to conquer the crowds and revel in the tranquil environment. Sunrise is a super time to witness its mesmerizing splendor. 9. Tickets And Entry Purchase your tickets in advance to avoid lengthy queues at the price ticket counters. There are exclusive ticket options, together with dawn and sunset visits, so pick the one that fits your desire. Conclusion The Taj Mahal's enduring popularity is due to its beautiful love tale, architectural elegance, cultural importance, as well as picturesque putting. It is a monument that transcends time, serving as a symbol of affection, splendor, as well as concord. Planning a Taj Mahal tour from Delhi is a journey into the coronary heart of India's wealthy history and the risk of witnessing a real marvel of the sector.  So, pack your luggage, put it together to be enchanted, immerse yourself in the royal charm of the Taj Mahal, and enjoy it so that it will live with you for your entire life. If you have thoughts to share, then please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: 6 Best Family Holiday Destinations In India Which Is The Best Time To Visit Auli? – Travel Guide Top 7 Best Places To Visit In Darjeeling – Travel Guide

READ MORE Five Tips For First Time Traveler To India

Five Tips For First Time Traveler To India

BY  Abdul Aziz May 7, 2017

Visiting India is akin to taking a dive into the unknown. Most travelers to India will tell you that the chaos and unceasing hullabaloo is an intrinsic part of it. Others, however, seem to successfully capture the “mystical and harmonious” spirit that apparently, is to be found everywhere in India.  Not only the land of snake charmers but more ethnic wonders, India travel should be on the top of your list for various reasons. However, regardless of what India is, or is not, there are certain tips which must be followed by every visitor to India. This ensures the best of everything while allowing one to discover all that India has to offer. Here are the five tips for first-time travelers to India. Five Tips For First Time Traveler To India: 1. Choosing The Best Route: Among the many tips for first-time visitors to India, this is one of the most important. Plan your India trip according to your interests, priorities, and fascinations. If exploring the fabulous monuments is what you desire, visit the cities of Agra, Delhi and Jaipur. From Taj Mahal and Fatehpur Sikri to Red Fort and Humayun’s Tomb, you’ll find it all here for India travel. If spiritual discovery is what you’re after, then visit the innumerable temples in North and South India, the beautiful mosques, monasteries, and churches scattered all over India. India also offers abundant opportunities for engaging in adventure sports and natured oriented pursuits like trekking, skiing, rafting, etc. To get a glimpse of the exotic flora and fauna of India, visit the several nature parks or wildlife sanctuaries, which house an exotic variety of flora and fauna. 2. Go Slow – Patience Is The Key! Too many visitors to India make the mistake of trying to discover and explore everything in one go. The geographical enormity of India renders such a task not just impossible but rather foolish. Once you are in India, slow down and absorb the surroundings around you, while appreciating the uniqueness brought by every experience. Rather than stressing yourself over completing the things-to-do list, focus on doing one thing or visiting one place and exploring it in detail. Not only will this make your trip pleasant, but also give you a glimpse of the local culture and customs. If you want to understand India, this is the way to go about it. If you are complaining about the traffic in your country, then it is nothing less than the traffic in India which makes India travel no less than a hectic journey. So, always keep the assistance of Google Maps, so that you can easily find out short cuts and lanes for a quick escape. Also, drivers tend to ask for more money if they see that you are a tourist. It is better if you do thorough research on the cab rates and bus rates to save some money. 3. Look For Solitude Amid Unceasing Chaos! Any useful guide for first-time visitors to India will tell you that despite being a land inhabited by billions, India still offers plentiful avenues for escaping the maddening crowd and ensuing chaos. This is not to say that you should avoid soaking in the cultural and social atmosphere. However, there will come a point where you would seek moments of tranquility and solitude. Fortunately, India has plenty of hill stations, quiet retreats, isolated beaches, serene backwaters, etc. It’s always a good idea to head to these places when the crowds and the hassle seem overbearing. Doing this will help you relax and rejuvenate before continuing with the rest of your journey. If you are a nature lover, then it is best to start from the north. There are mainly five travel holidays destinations you should be starting on. Now the call is completely yours: Leh-Ladakh Shimla-Manali Dehradun-Mussoorie Nainital-Ranikhet Jammu-Kashmir 4. Prioritize Your Health: Any ultimate guide for the first timer to India will mention the words “health, well-being, safety, etc.” In India, you can never be too cautious regarding your health. Never make the mistake of drinking tap water or consuming food which has been lying around for a long time. Indian food is very spicy. So, be careful in the matter of food choices. Do not drink water from random shops. Instead, keep a bottle of mineral water with you all the time. While street-side snacks are utterly tempting, it’s always advised to assess the cleanliness around you before gorging on them. One of the best ways of determining whether the food is safe is to watch whether it’s being consumed by locals. If yes, then go ahead! Also, do not miss the famous food places to visit in India. You will see that diversity is not only in cultures but in food too. However, each food item is different in taste and in health. Another way of ensuring your health is always carrying an anti-bacterial gel or anti-bacterial wipes. This is because most Indians eat with their fingers, and if you want to emulate them, these are the best tools for the last minute clean-up. 5. Be Calm At All Times: One of the most useful things to know for the first timers to India is maintaining your cool at all times. Certain parts of India, and especially the North, may seem brash, undisciplined and rude, with all sorts of touts out to get your money for more travel holidays. However, it’s important to be extremely alert while politely refusing any unwanted advances or moves made upon you. One of the easiest ways of avoiding being conned is refusing any deal that sounds too good to be true. Conclusion: At the same time, when the situation demands, learn to be assertive without sounding angry. This is the best way of displaying your confidence without appearing to be weak. There are numerous places to visit in India, and you cannot finish it in one month. Therefore, if you are at all planning for an India tour, make sure that your getaway last for more than a month, maybe two. The vast country awaits to mesmerize you with its meandering rivers and lofty mountains and timeless monuments and spiritual hubs of different religions. Read also: Top 10 Famous Wonders Of India 5 Must-Visit Offbeat Destinations Near Delhi. Experience Udaipur through Deccan Odyssey.