As a foreigner, your trip to India can be a little overwhelming and daunting at times however, it will be one of the most rewarding experiences you will have. Surrounded by the Great Himalayan Range in the north and it stretches southwards tapering off into the Indian Ocean with the Bay of Bengal on the east and the Arabian Sea on the west. As you travel through the nation, you will see a diverse range of cuisines, religions, arts, music, nature, and history. India has a mesmeric blend of the old and the new making India truly a delight to explore. India is home to several majestic monuments, luxurious heritage hotels, and ancient temples that will only enrich your vacation in India. Over the past few years, India has emerged as one of the most sought after destinations across the world.

Planning a trip to India? Let me help you with 5 secret tips to ensure you have a safe and smooth experience while vacationing in India.

1. Pick your destination based on your interest and the time you have in your hands.

India is a massive nation so it is quite impossible to see India in just one trip. The geographical diversity, as well as the assortment of culture, makes India, truly ‘Incredible India’.

For first-timers, a tour of the Golden Triangle is a great introduction to India. However, you can choose any destination based on where you want to go and the time you have up your sleeve. Or you could visit Rajasthan the land of the Maharajas where you could visit historic palaces and forts. You could get in touch with tour operators who can carefully craft an itinerary suitable just for you, so you could enjoy your sojourn in India.

2. Eating outside in India

Due to India’s heterogeneous diversity, you can’t expect the same type of foods or flavors in different parts of India. India has one of the most varied ranges of cuisines, dishes, and recipes.

India’s culinary history is massive with different types of regional and traditional cuisines native to each of its 29 states. While the Indian cuisine is delicious it could also be too spicy for your palate if you are not accustomed to spicy food, hence it is imperative that you follow discretion on what and from where you are eating food. You must ask for freshly prepared foods, avoid eating raw food like salads and juices and avoid eating street food. You should also keep a stock of probiotics and charcoal handy to avoid stomach issues while you are vacationing in India.

3. Etiquettes to follow at the Hindu Temples

Visiting the temples is the part and parcel of any journey to India. There are certain etiquettes and practices that need to be followed while visiting these temples. Some of these practices are removing shoes while entering temples and wearing conservative clothing that covers your arms and legs.

4. Take travel insurance without fail.

Travel insurance is a necessary tool for any traveler to prevent themselves from any unseen circumstance. Thus, make sure you have valid travel insurance that covers maximum areas concerning your trip to effectively staying on a safer side.

5. Take time to visit each state and the right time

As India is very seasonal with two monsoons that hit different areas at different times, it becomes important that you plan well for your trip to India. Goa is desolate, bare with no parties in the month of May and in June and July during the monsoons, it’s pouring cats and dogs! So get in touch with your travel agent and plan your vacation accordingly to avoid any weather-related snags that could affect your trip.

Please keep these in mind when you are planning your trip to India and enjoy your vacation to India to the fullest.