Culture & Etiquette

Pressing your palms together at chest level and saying "Namaste" is the most respectful greeting across India. It works in both formal and informal situations and avoids the complexities of physical contact greetings, which vary by region and religion.

Many Indians eat with their hands, especially in South India. Always use your right hand — the left is considered unclean. When eating rice or bread, use your fingertips to scoop food. In restaurants, cutlery is usually available if you prefer.

Always remove your shoes before entering someone's home, a temple, a mosque, or a gurudwara. Look for shoes piled at the entrance as your cue. Many shops and some restaurants also expect this. Wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off.

Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting temples, mosques, and gurudwaras. Some Sikh temples provide head coverings. In Hindu temples, leather items (belts, bags) may need to be removed. Dress conservatively in rural areas regardless of the heat.

The famous Indian head wobble (a side-to-side tilt) can mean yes, okay, I understand, or thank you depending on context. It is not a shake of the head meaning "no." Watch for it — once you recognize it, communication becomes much smoother.

In bazaars, street markets, and with auto-rickshaw drivers, the first price is always negotiable. Start at about 40–50% of the asking price and work toward a fair middle ground. Fixed-price stores and malls do not bargain. Always negotiate with a smile.

Drink only bottled or filtered water — check that the seal is intact. Street food is an incredible part of India, but choose stalls with high turnover and freshly cooked items. Avoid raw salads and unpeeled fruits from street vendors. Carry hand sanitizer.