5 tips for a first trip in india

Chaotic, disorienting, exhilarating, crazy, horrifying, sordid, intimidating, overwhelming. India is all at once - and much more. So how do you prepare? Start by following our advice before you embark on the ultimate journey - from India for the first time.

1. Choose the right route

Think about what you want, what you love to do, and call your travel accordingly (Itineraries pages of our guide India will be helpful).

The most popular circuit remains the timeless "Golden Triangle". If you lack the time, this somewhat stereotypical route will offer a fabulous taste of three major Indian destinations. Begin your journey by Delhi (Mughal Humayun's Tomb, Old Fort) and continue with Agra (Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri) then Jaipur (Pink City, Amber Fort). Finally back by the wonderful markets in Delhi for some last minute shopping before our flight.

For a more "focused" stay, here are some ideas:

•      Purchasing - Delhi
•      Beaches - Goa
•      Hiking - Himachal Pradesh
•      Yoga - Rishikesh
•      Food - everywhere!
•      Tigers - Madhya Pradesh
•      Search chills - Manali
•      Religious fervor - Varanasi
•      Relax - Kerala

2. Take your time

Many tourists want to see all of India in one stay. Do not imitate. It is infinitely more rewarding to visit a place at their own pace than to go to several hastily. You'll be more relaxed, you better be able to watch the visited location, and you will have more time to connect with the people we met along the way.

3. Avoid the crowds

Faced with a population of one billion people, some travelers will feel suffocated. Fortunately, India also has many places of retreat. If you feel the need to escape the hustle and bustle of big cities, win the isolated villages of Kerala to the south, the highlands north Tibetan culture as Ladakh, or take a break in one of the many mountain villages.

4. Any do to stay healthy

Systematically avoid tap water and any food that may have been washed in this way. Do not consume ice or salad or fruit that you have not peeled yourself.

During their stay in India, many travelers choose the vegetarian option. The idea is not bad. A piece of meat will doubt much more damage than a plate of undercooked vegetables. Also, many Indians are vegetarians, which translates into a fabulous enough variety in this area. If you must eat meat, make sure it is well cooked. If in doubt, take your meal in a very establishment frequented by locals.

The notorious bad reputation of Indian toilets do not mean that you have to put your health at risk. Consider the left hand method / water jug, favored by many people (more hygienic, after all, toilet paper), but do not forget to provide soap to wash your hands properly.

5. Stay zen

India is well known for its touts and scammers, its endless bickering and frantic side in general. If there are several ways to reduce the risk of abuse or fraud, there is no way to protect themselves fully. The best advice for the novice traveler is to stay calm in any situation. In India, small annoyances quickly transformed into anger. Your ability to control them, to breathe deeply and continue your path will be the key to a satisfying overall experience.