🙏 Cultural Etiquette & Do’s & Don’ts in India – Advice for German Tourists 🇩🇪🇮🇳

India’s rich traditions and diverse cultures may be very different from Germany’s. Understanding local customs will help German travelers enjoy respectful and rewarding experiences.

✅ Do’s

• Dress modestly: Cover shoulders and knees, especially in temples and rural areas.

• Greet respectfully: Use “Namaste” with palms pressed together as a polite greeting.

• Remove shoes: Always take off your shoes before entering someone’s home or religious places.

• Use right hand: For eating, giving, or receiving items, use your right hand as the left is considered unclean.

• Respect religious sites: Follow rules, stay quiet, and avoid touching idols or sacred objects.

• Ask permission: Before taking photos of people, especially in villages or at religious ceremonies.

❌ Don’ts

• Avoid public displays of affection: They are generally frowned upon in many parts of India.

• Don’t point feet: Feet are considered impure; avoid showing soles or pointing feet at people or religious objects.

• Avoid touching heads: Especially of elders or children, as it is considered disrespectful.

• Don’t use the left hand for eating or handing items: It’s considered unhygienic.

• Don’t discuss politics or religion: Unless you know someone well, avoid sensitive topics.

• Avoid raising your voice: Indian culture values calm and polite conversation.

💡 Additional Tips

• Bargaining is common in markets but always do so politely.

• Tipping is customary but modest amounts are appreciated.

• Be patient with delays or crowds — flexibility is key in India.