Prices are always negotiable
India is a trade hub. People who visit it are filled with awe when they see the beautiful handicrafts and artistry. When buying from stalls and vendors always remember, the asking price is not the final price. It is always negotiable and the prices are generally marked-up. You might want to offer half of what has been asked. Happy shopping.
Temple etiquette
Indians are very sensitive when it comes to respecting their respective Gods. You might not want to offend their beliefs. Always ask your guide to let you know the rules of the temple. Never enter any temple with shoes on and never sit with your back to an idol. There are many temples in India you can visit.
Always carry some cash
Though the country is facing major demonetization issues and a major section is going cashless, you might still want to carry some handy cash just in case because a lot of shops still do not have card or mobile wallet payment systems. So, some cash will always come in handy when buying water, munchies, booze, or whatever you may need.
Book tickets in advance
You do not want to stuff up your trip just because you could not get reservations on a train or flight, right? Last minute ticket bookings are a great challenge here and very difficult to get and even if a travel agent gets you a ticket, you will be overcharged. So, it is best to have your reservations done prior to your trip.
Learn a few common Hindi words
Language might come as a bit of a problem for people coming to India. A huge portion of the country doesn't speak English and you do not want to waste time over small issues just because of some language problem. So, it is best to learn a few common Hindi words so that your time here goes smoothly and also, you will get to know the country a bit better.
Stay alert, always
The most important thing of all is to always keep your eyes and ears open. Though Indians are known for their hospitality, a lot of people trick visitors and rob them of their belongings. Avoid deals that seem too good to be true, never rush to believe people and remember appearances can be deceiving.
Overall, a trip to this wonderful country will turn out to be one of your fondest memories. From wonderful delicacies to spiritual enlightenment, this country has everything to offer. So, plan ahead, keep these points in mind and you will have a vacation you wish had no checkout date. (asw)