What do you need to know and what should you definitely take with you to India?
India is one of those countries that's impossible to fully understand in just a few days. It can simultaneously surprise, delight, shock, and leave a lasting impression.
My main advice to first-time travelers: don't limit yourself to just one place. India is vast and incredibly diverse.
If you have time, I would definitely include Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur in your itinerary. This is the region where you can truly experience India's history: palaces, forts, old cities, and the famous Taj Mahal.
And after a busy trip, you can relax on the beaches of Kerala or, for example, Goa, where the atmosphere is completely different: ocean, palm trees, and a relaxing holiday.
Now the most important thing is what to pack.
My bag in India always contains hand sanitizer and wet wipes. This doesn't mean you should turn your trip into a battle against bacteria, but basic hygiene is very important.
It's best to drink water only from sealed bottles. There's no need to go to extremes and brush your teeth exclusively with bottled water, but drinking water from unknown sources is definitely not a good idea.
Another important point is food.
Indian cuisine is incredibly delicious, but if your body isn't used to a lot of spices, don't try the spiciest dishes right away. Sometimes, the urge to try everything can end in unpleasant consequences.
I would recommend taking a small first aid kit with essentials. When traveling, it's better to have everything on hand than to search for medications in an unfamiliar country.
There's also a simple tip for restaurants: check reviews and choose places with good ratings. Personally, I try to choose establishments with ratings closer to 4.8 and above. Sometimes even a small difference in ratings can make a big difference.
That said, India has some excellent places to eat. For example, New Delhi has many modern shopping malls with good food courts where you can try a wide variety of dishes in comfortable surroundings.
If you're really craving something familiar, McDonald's can sometimes do the trick. Not because it's the best food in India, but simply as a safe option when you want to take a break from the spice.
And of course, be sure to visit the Taj Mahal. It's truly a sight to behold. You can hire a guide at the entrance who will tell you the history of the place, and at the end, you can decide whether to leave a thank you note.
And most importantly, come with the right mindset.
India is not like Europe. It can be noisy, vibrant, chaotic, and sometimes unusual. But that's precisely its beauty. As they say, beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
Some people will find India too challenging, while others will fall in love with it on their first visit.
Be mindful of hygiene, respect local rules, and simply give this country a chance to surprise you.