India is a country that leaves no traveler indifferent. Its ancient culture, bright colors, aroma of spices and amazing combination of tradition and modern technology create a unique atmosphere. But precisely because of this identity, India can be a challenge for anyone visiting it for the first time.
Many tourists come here with certain expectations but face unexpected challenges: unfamiliar cuisine, chaotic traffic, strict cultural norms and even counterfeit bills or coins in the market. Preparing for a trip to India is like grading coins in numismatics: the better you understand what's in front of you, the less risk of making a mistake. If you know which coins are valuable and which are fake, you won't lose money. It's the same with traveling: knowing common mistakes, you can avoid many unpleasant situations.
That is why today we would like to discuss six typical mistakes that tourists make in India and tell you how to avoid them. If you want to enjoy your trip without unnecessary problems, read on!
Planning and Preparation Mistakes
Ignoring Health Precautions
Many travelers arrive in India excited for the adventure ahead but they mostly always underestimate the importance of basic health precautions. As a result, some find themselves confined to their hotel rooms, struggling with stomach issues just a few days into their trip. The main threats? Contaminated water, unfamiliar spices, and exposure to bacteria that their immune system isn’t used to. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 80% of travel-related illnesses are caused by food or water contamination, i.e. you need to be vigilant from the start.
One of the easiest ways to stay healthy is to be mindful of water sources. Tap water in India isn’t always safe for drinking, even in high-end restaurants or hotels, so rely only on bottled or filtered options. And yes, that includes brushing your teeth! Ice cubes can also be a concealed risk, as they are often made from unfiltered water. Many experienced travelers carry a small health kit with probiotics, activated charcoal, and rehydration salts - simple items that can prevent minor digestive discomfort from turning into a ruined trip.
Food is a major part of the Indian experience, and trying street food is highly recommended, but it should be done wisely. A good rule of thumb is to eat where the locals eat - stalls with long lines and high turnover are a strong indication of fresh ingredients and better hygiene. If a vendor has pre-cooked food sitting out for long periods, it’s best to move on.
Unrealistic Expectations About India
Many first-time visitors arrive in India expecting a land of ancient temples, peaceful yoga retreats, and spiritual enlightenment. While those elements certainly exist, India is also a country of intense urban energy, noisy streets, and rapid technological progress. Tourists who arrive unprepared for the diversity and complexity of India’s landscapes often experience culture shock.
One of the biggest surprises for new visitors is the traffic. Roads are alive with movement - cars, rickshaws, motorbikes, and pedestrians all navigating through an unspoken set of rules, accompanied by an orchestra of honking. It’s chaotic but efficient in its own way. Personal space is another adjustment for many; crowded markets, packed trains, and busy streets are all part of daily life, thus what may feel intrusive in other countries is simply a normal part of navigating India.
The best way to understand India is with flexibility and an open mind. Trains might be delayed, bargaining with vendors is expected, and plans often change unexpectedly - but that is also a part of the adventure.
Cultural and Behavioral Mistakes
Public Displays of Affection – A Cultural Misstep
For many travelers, hugging, holding hands, or kissing in public feels natural. However, in India, public displays of affection (PDA) are generally frowned upon - especially in smaller towns and traditional communities. While urban areas like Mumbai and Delhi are more lenient, in many parts of the country, open affection between couples is considered inappropriate.
What may seem like an innocent gesture could draw uncomfortable stares or even disapproval from locals. In some states, excessive PDA can even lead to fines, as public morality laws are taken seriously. The best way to behave for you? Be discreet. Holding hands is generally acceptable, but it is best to save the more intimate moments for private settings. Another good idea is to observe how locals interact in public to gauge what is considered appropriate.
Misunderstanding Queues and Public Transport – Organized Chaos
If you expect neat, orderly lines at ticket counters, metro stations, or boarding gates, prepare for a reality check. Queues in India don’t always follow a strict first-come, first-served order. In many places, people move forward as space allows, which can feel frustrating for people used to structured waiting lines.
Public transport (especially in crowded metros and trains) operates with its own unspoken rules. Women-only metro sections provide a more comfortable option for female travelers, and understanding how locals navigate the system makes the experience far easier. So, instead of being frustrated, you need to observe, adapt, and go with the flow to understand India’s fast-paced movement - part of your trip.
Money and Safety Mistakes
Money Mistakes - Currency Exchange and Fake Coins
Handling money in India can be tricky for first-time visitors, and making the wrong move can cost you more than expected. Many tourists assume that credit cards are widely accepted, only to find out that cash is still king in many places. While high-end hotels, shopping malls, and airports take cards, you will need cash for street vendors, rickshaws, local markets, and small eateries.
Here’s where mistakes happen:
Assuming you won’t need small change - Vendors often refuse large bills, and carrying smaller denominations makes transactions smoother.
Falling for counterfeit or demonetized notes - Some old rupee notes are no longer valid, yet they still circulate. Unsuspecting tourists might receive them as change.
Accepting fake coins - Counterfeit coins are a known issue in busy areas, especially where transactions happen quickly.
Exchanging money at unreliable sources - Some street currency exchangers offer attractive rates but may slip in fake notes or take a hefty commission.
Well, here one smart trick is to always check your change carefully before walking away. If you’re dealing with rare or unfamiliar coins, use a Coin ID Scanner app to verify authenticity and interesting details of the local coins. Another golden rule when exchanging currency is to stick to official exchange counters and ATMs - you need to avoid street vendors offering “better rates,” as scams are common.
Poor Bargaining Skills
If you are not used to haggling, shopping in India’s markets can be overwhelming. Unlike fixed-price stores, most bazaars and street vendors expect customers to negotiate. First-time tourists often pay way more than they should, simply because they are uncomfortable with the bargaining process or do not know about it.
Here is a little secret for you - vendors usually start at 2-3 times the real price, expecting customers to negotiate. The trick is to start low and offer a half the asking price, this is a good way to gauge their reaction. If they hesitate but don’t walk away, you are close to the real price. If they quickly agree, you probably could’ve gone lower! Also remember that respectful attitude is key - bargaining is part of the fun, but keeping it lighthearted ensures a better experience for both you and the seller.
Traveling Learns More Than Textbooks
First-time visitor mistakes are inevitable, but they are what make traveling a real adventure. India does not like people who expect comfort and predictability, but generously rewards the ones who are ready to learn on the go. The main rule of a successful traveler in India is not to be afraid of chaos, but to find harmony in it. And then this country will reveal itself to you in all its glory, leaving you with memories that you will want to return to again and again.
