Driving in India: Traffic Rules & Tips for Tourists

• Driver’s License: An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required alongside your valid license; car rentals cost $20-$50 per day; fuel averages $4-$5 per gallon.
• Traffic Rules: Drive on the left. Speed limits are typically 50 km/h in cities, 80 km/h on highways. Seatbelts are mandatory; the legal blood alcohol limit is 0.03%—fines start at $150.
• Road Conditions: Major highways like the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway are improving, but rural roads can be narrow and chaotic—drive cautiously. Avoid driving at night due to poor lighting.
• Transport Options: Trains like the Shatabdi Express cost $10-$30; auto-rickshaws in cities cost $1-$3 per ride; taxis start at $2-$5.
• Emergency Number: Call 112 for all emergencies; response times vary, especially in rural areas.

Currency in India: Using the Rupee for Your Trip

• Indian Rupee (₹): The official currency. Exchange rates fluctuate—1 USD ≈ 83 INR (May 2025).
• Money Exchange: Exchange money at banks or ATMs in cities like Delhi—avoid street vendors due to scams. ATMs are widely available; withdrawal fees may apply ($1-$3 per transaction).
• Payment Methods: Digital payments like UPI are popular in cities; rural areas prefer cash. Carry small denominations for street vendors.
• Costs: A meal at a local restaurant costs $3-$10, a local beer $1-$3, and a souvenir like a silk scarf costs $5-$15.

Legal Guide for India: Laws Travelers Should Know

• Local Laws: Drug offenses carry severe penalties—fines start at $500, with possible imprisonment. Public drinking is banned in many states like Gujarat—fines start at $50.
• Cultural Sensitivities: Dress modestly at religious sites like the Golden Temple; remove shoes before entering. More details in the Culture & Etiquette tab.
• Photography Restrictions: Photography at military sites, airports, or some temples may be restricted—check signs. Always ask before photographing people, especially in rural areas.
• Public Behavior: Public displays of affection are frowned upon—avoid them. Smoking in public places is banned in many cities—fines start at $3.
• Customs Rules: You can bring up to $5,000 in cash without declaration; goods over $500 must be declared.
• Emergency Contact: Call 112 for emergencies. The US Embassy in New Delhi can be reached at +91 11-2419-8000.

Travel Safety in India: Staying Safe During Your Trip

• Crime: Delhi and Mumbai are generally safe, but petty theft like pickpocketing occurs in crowded markets like Chandni Chowk. Use a money belt and avoid isolated areas at night.
• Scams: Be cautious of fake tour guides and overcharging by auto-rickshaw drivers—negotiate fares upfront. Use licensed operators for tours to sites like the Taj Mahal.
• Road Safety: Traffic in Delhi can be chaotic—watch for erratic drivers. Pedestrians should use overpasses where available; cycling in cities is risky due to traffic.
• Health Risks: Tap water is not safe—use bottled water. Vaccinations for hepatitis A and typhoid are recommended; bring mosquito repellent for areas like Kerala.
• Natural Hazards: Monsoon season (June to September) can cause flooding in Mumbai; northern regions like Uttarakhand may face landslides.
• Outdoor Safety: Trekking in the Himalayas requires a guide—altitude sickness is a risk above 3,000 meters. Avoid traveling alone in remote areas.
• Medical Facilities: Cities like Delhi have good hospitals like Apollo Hospital; rural areas have limited facilities—travel insurance is advised.
• Emergency Contacts: Call 112 for emergencies. The US Embassy in New Delhi can be reached at +91 11-2419-8000.

Culture & Etiquette in India: What to Know

• Greetings: A “Namaste” with palms pressed together is a respectful greeting. Handshakes are common in cities but may be less so in rural areas.
• Dining Customs: Eating with your right hand is customary—avoid using your left. Tipping 5-10% is appreciated in restaurants if service isn’t included.
• Community Respect: Dress modestly at religious sites like the Golden Temple—cover shoulders and knees. Remove shoes before entering temples or homes.
• Festivals: Diwali (October/November) features lights and fireworks; Holi (March) involves throwing colored powder in vibrant celebrations.
• Language Tips: English is widely spoken in tourist areas; learning basic Hindi phrases like “Dhanyavaad” (thank you) is appreciated.
• Social Practices: Avoid pointing with your feet—it’s disrespectful. Bargaining is expected at markets like Delhi’s Sarojini Nagar.

Local Cuisine in India: Dishes & Drinks to Try

• Biryani: Spiced rice with meat or vegetables—$4-$10.
• Butter Chicken: Creamy tomato-based chicken curry—$5-$12.
• Dosa: Crispy rice pancake with chutney—$2-$6.
• Lassi: Yogurt-based drink, sweet or salty—$1-$3.
• Chai: Spiced tea with milk—$0.50-$2.
• Where to Eat: In Delhi, Karim’s near Jama Masjid offers authentic Mughlai cuisine, a highlight near attractions in our Top Attractions tab. In Mumbai, Bademiya serves delicious street food kebabs.

Top Attractions in India: Must-Visit Places

• Taj Mahal (Agra): A stunning white marble mausoleum, a UNESCO site. Search for tours on Tiqets.
• Amber Fort (Jaipur): A majestic hilltop fort with intricate architecture. Search for tours on Tiqets.
• Goa Beaches (Goa): Relax on beaches like Palolem with vibrant nightlife. Search for tours on Tiqets.
• Golden Temple (Amritsar): A sacred Sikh site with serene surroundings. Search for tours on Tiqets.
• Backwaters (Kerala): Cruise through serene waterways on a houseboat. Search for tours on Tiqets.
• Varanasi Ghats (Varanasi): Spiritual riverfront steps along the Ganges. Search for tours on Tiqets.
• Where to Eat: In Delhi, Karim’s near Jama Masjid offers authentic Mughlai dishes. In Mumbai, Bademiya near Gateway of India serves excellent kebabs.

Flights to India: Travel Options

Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi is the main entry point, with flights from London, New York, and Dubai. A taxi from DEL to central Delhi costs $5-$15 and takes 30 minutes. In Mumbai, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) serves the west; a taxi to the city center costs $3-$10 and takes 40 minutes.

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