India Travel Guide: What to Do Before & After You Land

Visiting India for the first time? It’s going to be an unforgettable adventure—if you get the details right. A small mistake, like missing a visa requirement or not planning your airport transport, can lead to unnecessary delays—especially if you arrive late at night or in a city where ride-hailing services have long wait times.

Many first-time travelers to India say the real challenge isn’t just adjusting to the vibrant sights and sounds—it’s the little things they didn’t expect. Like landing after a long flight and realizing there’s no mobile data to book a ride.

To help you avoid these common pitfalls, we’ve mapped out essential India travel tips—what to prepare before you fly and how to navigate like a pro once you land.

A little preparation now, and you’ll be soaking in the magic of India, stress-free!

Pre-Arrival Prep:

1) Where to Go in India and When

India’s diverse landscapes mean the best time to visit depends on where you’re headed. Whether you’re exploring Rajasthan’s deserts, Kerala’s backwaters, or the Himalayan peaks, each region has an ideal season. Here’s a guide to help you choose the right destination at the right time.

• North India (Delhi, Rajasthan, Agra, Varanasi, Khajuraho) – The best time to visit is October to March when the weather is cool and comfortable for sightseeing. Summers here can be brutally hot, so avoid April to June unless you can handle the heat.

  
  

• The Himalayas (Ladakh, Himachal, Uttarakhand) – The best time to visit? That depends on what kind of adventure you’re chasing. Ladakh is your go-to from May to September—the roads are open, the skies are clear, and every view looks straight out of a postcard. Himachal and Uttarakhand are perfect from April to June, with cool mountain air and endless trekking trails. But monsoon season (June to September)? That’s when nature turns up the drama—heavy rains, misty valleys, and landslides that can put a pause on your plans. Craving snow? November to March transforms the region into a winter wonderland, but brace yourself for icy roads and bone-chilling temps.

• South India (Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka) – The sweet spot is October to March, when the weather is pleasant and breezy—ideal for exploring beaches, temples, and backwaters. Summers (March to May) can be hot and humid, so prepare for the heat if you visit during this time.
  

• Northeast India & Kolkata – Plan your trip between October and April to enjoy clear skies and cool temperatures. This region sees heavy rains from May to September, which can disrupt travel plans, so it’s best to avoid the monsoon season.
  

• Mumbai & Goa – If you're after beach vibes and coastal fun, visit between November and March when the weather is dry and pleasant. The monsoon season (June to September) brings heavy rain, rough seas, and closed beach shacks—not ideal for a relaxing getaway.
  

• Monsoon Season (July–September) – If you love lush green landscapes and don’t mind getting a little wet, the monsoon season offers breathtaking scenery. Just be prepared for occasional travel delays, slippery roads, and unpredictable downpours.

2) Visa & Travel Documents: What You Need Before Flying to India

Before you even think about packing, sort out the essentials—your passport and visa. Missing a step here can derail your trip before it even begins.

✅ Passport Requirements – Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your return date and have at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps.

✅ India Visa Requirements – Most travelers need a visa to visit India. The e-Visa is the quickest and easiest option—apply online in advance to skip last-minute hassles. But if you’re not eligible for an e-Visa, you’ll need to apply for a regular tourist visa at the nearest Indian consulate or embassy, which may take longer, so plan accordingly.

✅ Keep Copies Handy – Always carry printed and digital copies of your visa, passport, and travel insurance in case of emergencies.

3) Stay Healthy on Your Trip: Essential Prep Before You Fly

Nothing ruins an adventure faster than falling sick. From stomach troubles to pesky mosquito bites, a little smart prep before you fly can keep you feeling your best.

Here’s what to check off before takeoff:

• Vaccines: What’s Essential vs. What’s Smart – No mandatory vaccines for India—unless you’re arriving from a yellow fever-affected country, in which case you’ll need proof of vaccination. Otherwise, Hepatitis A & B, typhoid, and tetanus are highly recommended, especially if you plan to enjoy India’s famous street food.

  
  

• Pack Meds Like a Pro – If you take prescription meds, bring them in original packaging with a doctor’s note, as some medicines may be restricted in India. Also, pack ORS (Oral Rehydration Salts)—because Delhi Belly is real, and these little packets can be a lifesaver if your stomach protests all that delicious (but spicy) food.

  
  

• Mosquitoes? Don’t Take Chances – In tropical regions, mosquitoes can carry dengue and malaria. A strong mosquito repellent is a must, but also consider wearing long sleeves, sleeping with a fan or AC, and staying in well-screened rooms to keep bites at bay.

  
  

• Pollution Prep for Big Cities – If you have asthma or respiratory issues, know that cities like Delhi can get highly polluted, especially in winter. Carry an N95 mask or inhalers to stay comfortable and explore stress-free.

4) Everything You Need for a Hassle-Free Trip

Overpacking is a rookie mistake—dragging around a heavy suitcase isn’t fun. Instead, pack only what you’ll actually need so you can move around easily and travel stress-free.

Clothes: Dressing Right for Every Place

• For Cities & Cultural Sites – India leans conservative in dressing, so modest clothing is best, especially in religious places. Covering shoulders and knees is expected at temples, mosques, and Gurudwaras. A light scarf or shawl comes in handy for quick cover-ups.

• For Beaches & Resorts – Bikinis and swimsuits are fine in Goa, Kerala, and private resorts, but once you leave the beach or pool, a cover-up or light dress is a good idea. Walking around in just a bikini outside the beach can attract unwanted attention.

• For Hot Weather – Breathable fabrics like cotton and linen will keep you cool in hot regions like Rajasthan and South India. Loose, airy clothing, along with a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, is a must.

• For Cold Regions – If you’re heading to the Himalayas, Ladakh, or North India in winter, pack thermal wear, lip balm, gloves, and a heavy jacket. Layering is key, as temperatures can fluctuate.

  
  

Shoes: Comfort Over Style

• You’ll be walking more than you think, so comfortable sneakers or walking shoes are a must.

• Many religious sites require you to remove your shoes, so slip-on footwear or sandals are more convenient.

• If you’re trekking or heading to the mountains, pack sturdy hiking shoes.

  
  

Accessories That Matter

• Power Bank & Universal Adapter – India uses Type D & M sockets, so bring an adapter.

• Offline Maps – Internet can be patchy, so download maps in advance (Google Maps or Maps.me).

• Water Bottle with Filter – Tap water isn’t safe to drink, so stick to bottled or filtered water.

• Small Padlock – Useful for trains and budget hostels to keep your belongings secure.

5) Learn a Few Hindi Phrases: Connect & Navigate with Ease

You don’t need to be fluent in Hindi, but a few key phrases can go a long way—especially outside major cities. Locals appreciate the effort, and it might even help you score better deals while shopping!

Essentials to Get You Started:

• Namaste! (Hello) 

• Shukriya! (Thank you) 

• Yeh kitne ka hai? (How much is this?) 

• Yeh kaha hai? (Where is this?) 

• Haa (yes)

• Naa (No)

• Madad chahiye! (I need help!)

Post Arrival Prep:

1) How to Stay Connected in India: SIM, eSIM & Wi-Fi Guide

Staying connected in India is easy and affordable, but choosing the right option can save you time, money, and hassle. While Wi-Fi is available in hotels, cafés, and airports, it’s often slow and requires OTP verification, which needs an Indian number. For seamless connectivity, getting a local SIM or eSIM is the best choice. If you prefer a physical SIM, grab one at the airport or visit an official Jio, Airtel, or Vi store—just bring your passport and visa. Activation usually takes a few hours, and tourist SIMs last 30 days, deactivating automatically. If you want zero paperwork, an eSIM from providers like Airalo lets you activate data before landing, though it won’t support local calls or SMS. International roaming? Skip it! It’s expensive and slower than local options. If you rely on apps like Uber or mobile banking, keep your home SIM active for OTP verification. Whether you choose a SIM or eSIM, having a reliable internet connection will make your India trip smooth and stress-free.

2) Essential Tips for Traveling in India

India is a fantastic destination, and a little street-smart sense can make your trip even smoother.

• Keep Your Valuables Secure – In crowded markets, train stations, and tourist areas, use a crossbody bag or money belt to keep cash, cards, and passports safe. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in busy areas.

  
  

• Choose Safe Transport – Ride-hailing apps like Ola and Uber are the best way to get around hassle-free. When booking, go for Uber Black or premium options for a more comfortable and secure ride, especially at night.

  
  

• Stay Aware at Night – Stick to well-lit areas and avoid walking alone in unfamiliar places. If you’re out late, pre-book a reliable ride rather than hailing a taxi on the street.

  
  

• Tips for Women Travelers – Dressing modestly can help reduce unwanted attention, but that doesn’t mean dull! Bold prints and bright colors are embraced in India—so feel free to wear vibrant outfits. Carrying a scarf or shawl is useful for temples and more conservative areas.

  
  

• Trust Your Instincts – If something doesn’t feel right, move to a busier or safer location. A little awareness can go a long way in ensuring a stress-free trip.

3) Essential Transport & Baggage

Navigating Indian cities is simple when you know your options. Uber and Ola are the most reliable for taxis. Want the classic auto-rickshaw (tuk tuk) experience? Negotiate the fare upfront or use an app-based service to avoid overpaying.

For domestic flights, keep these baggage rules in mind:

• Checked luggage: 15 kg (33 lbs) limit

• Carry-on baggage: 7 kg (15.4 lbs) limit

• Overweight bags: Extra charges apply

4) Eating Like a Local in India—Without the Upset Stomach

Indian food is a must-try, but your stomach might need time to adjust. Stick to freshly cooked, hot meals and avoid raw salads. Street food? Go for busy stalls with high turnover—they’re more likely to serve fresh, safe food.

For drinks, keep these tips in mind: 

✔️ Water – Always choose bottled or filtered water and skip the ice.

✔️ Alcohol – Laws vary by state, and some places have strict restrictions or bans, so check local rules before ordering.

Miscellaneous Travel Tips

✔️ E-Cigarettes – Completely banned in India, so don’t bring them along.

✔️ Marijuana – Illegal in most of India, and possession can lead to serious legal trouble. Laws vary by state, so it's best to avoid it altogether.

5) Cultural Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts

India has deep-rooted traditions, and small gestures can make a big difference. Dress modestly, especially at religious sites—covering shoulders and knees is expected, and always remove your shoes before entering temples or homes.

When greeting people, a polite "Namaste" with folded hands is widely accepted. Handshakes are fine in business settings, but not everyone prefers them. Public displays of affection are uncommon, so while holding hands is okay, kissing or hugging in public might attract unwanted attention.

6) Stay Safe & Avoid Tourist Scams

Like any major destination, India has its share of scams and petty theft. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places like markets and train stations. Use ATMs inside banks for added security, and be cautious when handling credit cards.

Scams to Watch Out For:

• Airport Taxi Hustle – Ignore offers for “cheap rides” or hotel deals. Use official taxi counters or ride-hailing apps like Uber and Ola.

• Fake Jewelry Deals – If someone offers you a “great business opportunity” to carry jewelry abroad for a deposit, don’t fall for it.

• Overly Helpful Strangers – Be wary of unsolicited offers to help with directions, currency exchange, or “local secrets.”

7) Managing Money & Payments in India

While international credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted at hotels, malls, and upscale restaurants, cash is still essential for smaller purchases. Many local vendors, street markets, and tuk-tuk drivers prefer cash, so keeping small bills (₹10, ₹50, ₹100) handy is a smart move.

Digital payments via UPI apps like Google Pay and PhonePe are extremely popular, but they typically require an Indian bank account, making them tricky for tourists to use. However, services like Chequpi allow international travelers to make UPI payments using foreign credit cards, making cashless transactions much easier.

A few extra tips:

 - ATMs – Widely available, but it’s best to use ones inside banks for security.

 - Currency Exchange – Keep the receipt—you might need it if you convert rupees back before departure.

Tipping in India: Quick Guide:

Drivers (including helpers) – $2-3 per person per day

Guides – $5-10 per person per day

Porters (at hotels, train stations, airports) – $1 per bag

Restaurants – Some include a 10% service charge; if not, tipping 5-10% is a good rule

Traveling in a group?

Consider a “group kitty”—everyone chips in at the start, and one person handles tips throughout the trip. Any unused money gets returned at the end!

Ready to Explore India Like a Pro?

With these insider tips, you’re set to navigate India with confidence—whether it’s tasting street food like a local, mastering transport, or staying connected hassle-free. Every trip comes with surprises, but now you’re prepared to embrace them all!

At WizTrek, we make travel seamless, so you can focus on what truly matters—the adventure.

Let’s plan your perfect trip! Reach out today, and we’ll take care of the rest.