What is not acceptable in India?

In general, do not pass anything to anyone with your left hand, or point at anyone with it either; and Indians won't be impressed if you put it in your mouth. In general, you should accept things given to you with your right hand – though using both hands is a sign of respect.

What is considered rude in India?

The following may be considered offensive:

Whistling and winking are usually perceived as rude and unacceptable – these actions have sexual connotations. Feet are considered unclean in India; avoid pointing your feet at a client. In the event your feet or shoes touch another person, apologize.

What is not allowed to do in India?

Don't point with your fingers or touch things with your feet. Pointing with your finger is considered rude in Indian culture, no matter if you're pointing at a person or an object. If you have to point at something or someone, you can do so using your entire hand or your thumb.

What can I not take into India?

What not to wear in India?

When you're in India, please don't wear shorts. Wear ankle length skirts and cotton blouses that can be washed out and quickly dried. No tight tee shirts -- they are trashy and dry slowly. Wear sandals that you can slip out of easily when visiting temples. If you are trekking, a blue jean skirt and camp shirt is ideal.

5 places in India where Indians are not allowed

Can females wear shorts in India?

You'll be fine with jeans and a t shirt in most places, although you will probably be more comfortable in lightweight trousers than thick denim. Can I wear shorts in India? The 'short' (no pun intended) answer is yes – you can wear shorts in India.

What should foreigners wear in India?

Opt for loose-fitting shirts, t-shirts, long dresses, knee-level or below-knee shorts, pants and skirts. Clothing made from linen or a linen blend is great to wear in hot weather.

What is not allowed in hand luggage in India?

Indian airports enforce strict hand luggage rules: sharp objects, liquids over 100ml, lighters, large power banks, tools, sports gear, e-cigarettes, and large sprays are banned. Essentials, electronics, documents, and small toiletries under 100ml are allowed.

Can I bring snacks to India?

Usually, International Flights allow carrying food or snacks that include (as of 2025 guidelines): ✔ Dry, Sealed, Packaged Items (Mostly Allowed) ✔ Snacks: Chips, biscuits, chocolates, energy bars. ✔ Spices: Ground spices in sealed packaging (turmeric, cumin, garam masala)

Is perfume allowed in flights in India?

Anything that has, or is capable of having, or emitting, a conspicuous and/or offensive odour. Perfumes and deoderants. If they are carried in checked-in baggage, total quantity should not exceed 2 kg or 2 litres and the net quantity of each single article must not exceed 0.5 kg or 0.5 litres.

What are the rules for tourists in India?

India Travel whether for tourism, business, studies or other purposes requires a valid passport and an entry visa. Visas can be obtained and issued from the Indian Embassies or Indian High Commissions abroad. One thing worth remembering is that the entry visas are not issued at the entry point.

How to greet someone in India?

Meeting and Greeting

Westerners may shake hands, however, greeting with 'namaste' (na-mas-TAY) (placing both hands together with a slight bow) is appreciated and shows respect for Indian customs. Men shake hands with men when meeting or leaving. Men do not touch women when meeting or greeting.

What food is not allowed into India?

Raw Meat and Seafood: Raw, fresh, or frozen meats and seafood are typically prohibited. Homemade Foods: While it might be tempting to bring homemade foods, these are generally not allowed unless properly sealed and labeled.

Do and don'ts in India?

When visiting temples or entering an Indian home, remove footwear and hats. Dress conservatively in a way that expresses respect for the place of worship or household. Wash your hands before and after eating. Avoid touching people with the left hand, as it is considered unclean and will cause insult.

What is the biggest disease in India?

What is considered unlucky in India?

Common superstitions in India today include a black cat crossing the road being bad luck, cutting fingernails/toenails at nighttime is considered to give bad luck, a crow calling meaning that guests are arriving, drinking milk after eating fish causing skin diseases, and itchy palms signaling the arrival of money.

Can you wear white in India?

In the Hindu tradition, wearing white to an Indian wedding as a man or a woman is a sign of disrespect. In this context, the color white is associated with mourning and funerals.

Is it okay to wear jeans in India?

In urban cities, you can wear Western clothing like jeans, T-shirts, and dresses, but it's wise to avoid anything too revealing. Long skirts, loose-fitting pants, and flowy tops are great options, especially in rural areas where local customs may be more conservative.

Is there any dress code for the Taj Mahal?

The Taj Mahal is not an active place of worship so no special clothing rules are upheld, though as with all public places in India you should dress modestly – men should avoid shorts, women short skirts and sun tops (wear a long, loose scarf to cover your body).

What to wear in India as a tourist for ladies?

Opt for loose-fitting shirts, t-shirts, long dresses, knee-level or below-knee shorts, pants and skirts. Clothing made from linen or a linen blend is great to wear in hot weather.

Can I wear sleeveless tops in India?

Female travellers dressing modestly in India doesn't mean you have to wear Indian clothes like sarees or wear salwar kameez. It typically means skirts or pants below the knees, opaque tops, and t-shirts with or without sleeves – it's that simple.

What footwear to wear in India?

Bring Sensible Footwear

If you don't like walking around barefoot, pack a pair of socks. Note that India's monsoon season lasts from July and September, during which time you could get caught in an unpredictable, torrential downpour. Flip flops are ideal for walking in floods.

What toiletries are not allowed on a plane?

We recommend packing all liquids, gels, and aerosols that are over 3.4 oz or 100 ml in your checked baggage, even if they are in a secure, tamper-evident bag. Liquids more than 3.4 oz or 100 ml not in a secure, tamper-evident bag must be packed in checked baggage.

Do phone chargers go in hand luggage or suitcase?

Standard charging cables and wall plug adapters can be packed in either, but portable chargers (power banks with batteries) are restricted to carry-on bags only​. Here's a breakdown of official guidelines from global aviation authorities (IATA, TSA, EASA) on where to pack your phone charging gear when flying.

What not to carry in a flight?