There are several reasons India impresses Westerners most. It’s a symbol of the exotic East. It’s jammed pack with people—soon to be the most populated country in the world in only the seventh largest area. It gave humanity two of its major religions, Hinduism and Buddhism. It’s home to the Taj Mahal, bengal tigers, Harmandir Sahib (pictured), the Sand Dunes of Rajasthan and Radhanagar Beach.
Here’s what you need to know to maximize your sanity while there:
1. You Will Be Overwhelmed
Most people, including locals, express this point with multiple exclamation points. So expect maddening crowds. Crushes of people. Sharp sounds and pungent smells. Hounding, break-your-heart but best-to-ignore child beggars. Sensory overload. Slumdog millionaire(s). “After India, other countries feel like they have the sound turned down,” writes Lonely Planet.
2. Don’t Drink The Water
As a foreigner, you’ll be advised to take a number of vaccinations before visiting. Even still, you probably get a harmless case of “Delhi belly,” upset stomach, or other digestive fun days. To minimize their occurrence, drink bottled water and avoid both tap water and ice, filtered or not. Also avoid street food. Never mind how tempting it looks. The short-lived excitement likely won’t justify the associated—albeit temporary—health risks. You’ve been warned.
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