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India Travel Guide: Local Tips, Cultural Etiquette & Best Travel eSIM

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Planning a trip to India? Whether you’re exploring the palaces of Jaipur, cruising the backwaters of Kerala, experiencing the chaos and colour of Delhi, or visiting the Taj Mahal in Agra, this practical India travel guide covers local etiquette, cultural tips, what to pack, safety advice, and the easiest way to stay connected with a reliable travel eSIM.


A bustling and densely crowded Indian market street teeming with daily activity. The narrow road is packed with iconic yellow and green auto-rickshaws, motorbikes, and pedestrians, including women in colorful saris. On the right, a "Chai Wala" stall serves tea next to a vendor displaying large, vibrant mounds of traditional spices. To the left, a shopfront is draped with a variety of brightly patterned textiles. The scene is framed by weathered, multi-story buildings with ornate balconies, all captured under the warm, hazy glow of the afternoon sun.

If you’re searching for:

  • India travel tips

  • What to know before visiting India

  • Is India safe for tourists?

  • Best eSIM for India

  • How to get mobile data in India

This guide covers everything you need to know before you go.


India Travel Etiquette & Cultural Tips

India is incredibly diverse. Culturally, linguistically, and religiously. A little awareness goes a long way.

Greetings & manners

  • “Namaste” with palms together is a respectful greeting.

  • Handshakes are common in business settings.

  • Public displays of affection are generally discouraged.

  • Use your right hand when giving or receiving items.

Temple & religious etiquette

India is home to Hindu temples, mosques, Sikh gurdwaras, churches, and Buddhist sites.

  • Remove shoes before entering temples and some homes.

  • Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees) in religious sites.

  • Photography may be restricted. Always check signs.

  • Avoid touching religious statues or rituals unless invited.

Cultural awareness tip

India moves at its own pace. Traffic, crowds, and delays are common. Patience and flexibility will make your trip more enjoyable.


What Do Locals Love? Food & Experiences You Shouldn’t Miss

Food is central to Indian culture and each region has its own specialties.

Must-try Indian dishes

  • Butter Chicken

  • Biryani (Hyderabadi or Lucknowi style)

  • Masala Dosa (South India)

  • Chole Bhature

  • Paneer Tikka

  • Mango Lassi

Street food is delicious but choose busy, reputable vendors.


A lush, top-down "flat lay" view of a variety of traditional Indian dishes spread across a rustic wooden table. The feast features a central clay pot of aromatic Biryani topped with herbs, bowls of creamy Butter Chicken and Palak Paneer (spinach with cheese), and plates of golden-brown Samosas. Surrounding the main dishes are stacks of fluffy Naan bread, thin Papadums, and several small bowls containing colorful chutneys, raita, and ground spices. The table is decorated with scattered fresh cilantro, whole cinnamon sticks, and bright orange marigold flowers, with a hand visible in the upper right corner reaching for a piece of naan.

Popular local experiences

  • Sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal

  • Rickshaw ride through Old Delhi

  • Houseboat stay in Kerala

  • Camel safari in Rajasthan

  • Watching the Ganga Aarti ceremony in Varanasi

  • Exploring tea plantations in Darjeeling


A wide-angle view of the Taj Mahal at sunrise, showing the iconic white marble monument and its four minarets reflected with mirror-like clarity in the central reflecting pool. The sun is a bright orange orb low on the horizon, creating a hazy, golden atmosphere across the grounds. In the foreground, silhouetted visitors stand along the pathways, observing the morning light over the landmark.

India offers spiritual depth, architectural wonders, and sensory overload in the best way.


What to Pack for India

India’s climate varies by region, from Himalayan cold to tropical heat.

Essentials to bring

  • Lightweight, breathable clothing

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Scarf or shawl (useful for temples)

  • Hand sanitiser & tissues

  • Reusable water bottle (for filtered water)

  • Portable power bank

Weather tip

  • Summer (April–June) can be extremely hot.

  • Monsoon season (June–September) brings heavy rain in many areas.

  • Northern India can be cold in winter (December–February).


Health & Safety in India

  • Avoid drinking tap water. Use bottled or filtered water.

  • Be cautious with raw food and ice.

  • Use registered taxis or ride-hailing apps.

  • Keep belongings secure in crowded areas.

Is India safe for tourists?Yes, millions visit every year. Like any large country, use normal travel precautions and stay alert in busy areas.


Getting Around India

Transport options vary by city.

In major cities

  • Uber and local ride apps like Ola are widely available.

  • Metro systems operate in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore.

  • Trains connect major regions (book in advance).

In smaller towns

  • Auto-rickshaws are common.

  • Negotiate fares if no meter is available.

Mobile data is extremely helpful for navigation and ride bookings.


Best Way to Stay Connected in India (Travel eSIM Guide)

If you’re wondering:

  • How to get mobile data in India?

  • Is roaming expensive in India?

  • Should I buy a SIM at the airport?

A travel eSIM for India is one of the easiest solutions.


With an E.Tel Travel eSIM for India, you can:

  • Activate instantly

  • Avoid expensive international roaming fees

  • Skip airport SIM queues

  • Stay connected across Delhi, Mumbai, Goa, Kerala, Rajasthan, and beyond

Having mobile data in India is useful for:

  • Booking Uber or Ola

  • Translating Hindi or regional languages

  • Accessing train tickets and boarding passes

  • Navigating busy streets

  • Staying in touch with drivers and hotels

Install your eSIM before departure or while on WiFi, and it activates when you arrive.


Frequently Asked Questions About Travelling to India

  • Is India safe for solo travellers? Yes, including solo female travellers, but research neighbourhoods, use trusted transport, and avoid isolated areas at night.

  • Is tipping expected in India? Tipping is common in restaurants (5–10%) and for drivers or hotel staff.

  • Can I use my Australian SIM in India? International roaming can be expensive. A travel eSIM is usually more cost-effective.

  • Do I need mobile data in India? Highly recommended. Cities are large and navigation apps are extremely helpful.


Final Thoughts: Travel Smart in India

India is vibrant, chaotic, colourful, spiritual, and unforgettable. From the Himalayas to the beaches of Goa, every region feels like a different world.


With a little preparation, respecting local customs, packing appropriately, staying health-conscious, and using a reliable travel eSIM,your journey through India will be smoother and more enjoyable. If you’re planning your India itinerary, staying connected from the moment you land can make all the difference.

 
 
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