Explore India
Ancient spirituality, incredible diversity, and a culture that embraces guests as honored visitors.
India is a sensory kaleidoscope of colors, flavors, and traditions spanning thousands of years. The diversity is staggering -- every region has its own language, cuisine, and customs. Travelers who approach India with patience and openness are rewarded with unforgettable experiences and extraordinary hospitality.
Quick facts
Essential phrases
All phrasesCultural norms
All tipsNamaste is the universal greeting
GreetingsPressing your palms together at chest level and saying "Namaste" is appropriate in virtually any situation across India. It works for hellos, goodbyes, and as a gesture of respect. Handshakes are common in business settings, but a Namaste is always welcome and appreciated.
Eating with your hands is normal and has rules
DiningIn many parts of India, eating with your hands -- specifically the right hand -- is traditional and preferred for certain foods like rice, roti, and dosa. The left hand is considered unclean. If utensils are provided, use them, but don't be surprised if locals eat with their fingers.
Remove shoes before entering homes and temples
EtiquetteAlways remove your shoes before entering someone's home, a temple, a mosque, or a gurudwara. Look for shoes at the entrance as your cue. Many temples provide shoe storage. Wearing clean socks or going barefoot are both acceptable.
Tipping guide
Full guideTipping is appreciated but not obligatory. In restaurants, 10% is generous if service charge is not included. Small tips for drivers, porters, and guides are customary.
Restaurants
10%
Many restaurants add a service charge to the bill. If no service charge is included, 10% is generous. At street food stalls and dhabas (roadside eateries), tipping is not expected.
Hotel staff
INR 50-100 per service
Tip bellhops INR 50-100 per bag, housekeeping INR 50-100 per day, and room service INR 50. At luxury hotels, tip more generously.
Taxis & auto-rickshaws
Round up
Metered taxis and auto-rickshaws do not expect tips. Rounding up to the nearest 10 rupees is a kind gesture. For app-based rides (Ola, Uber), you can tip in-app.
Tour guides
INR 300-500 per day
Tip guides INR 300-500 per day for private tours. For group tours, INR 100-200 per person per day is appropriate. Tip drivers separately (INR 200-300 per day).
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