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India

भारत

Incredible India

Last updated: 2025-03-25
6/10

Essential Phrases

Hello

नमस्ते

Na-mas-tay

Thank you

धन्यवाद

Dhan-ya-vad

Yes

हाँ

Haan

No

नहीं

Na-heen

Excuse me

सुनिए

Su-ni-yeh

Sorry

माफ़ कीजिए

Maaf kee-ji-yeh

Please

कृपया

Kri-pa-ya

Help!

मदद!

Ma-dad

Where is...?

...कहाँ है?

...ka-haan hai

How much?

कितना?

Kit-na

Cheers!

जय हो!

Jai ho

Goodbye

अलविदा

Al-vi-da

Emergency Contacts

Police

100

Police

Ambulance

102/108

Medical emergency

Fire

101

Fire

Tourist Police

1363

Tourist hotline (Delhi)

US Embassy New Delhi

+91 11 2419 8000

Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110021

Money & ATM Reality

Currency

Indian Rupee

INR

1 USD ≈ 83 INR (approximate)

ATM & Card Access

ATM Availabilitywidespread
Card Acceptancemoderate
Cash PreferredYes

ATM Fees: 0-20 INR

  • • Cash preferred in small towns/remote areas
  • • ATMs widely available in cities
  • • Tip 10% in restaurants

Internet & Connectivity

Free WiFimoderate
VPN Recommended

Restrictions:

• Some social media apps blocked at times

SIM Card Tips
  • • Airtel
  • • Jio
  • • Vodafone - Tourist SIM: ₹500-1500

Popular Apps

WhatsAppGoogle MapsUberOla

Safety Index

6
Overall
/ 10
Based on Global Peace Index & US Dept of State Travel Advisories

Crime Overview

Petty Theftmoderate
Violent Crimemoderate

Transportation

Chaotic traffic - be careful crossing roads

Common Scams

  • •Taxi/rickshaw overcharging
  • •Fake guides
  • •Temple donation scams

Areas to Avoid

  • • Some border areas - check advisories

Natural Disaster Risks

  • • Monsoon floods (June-Sep)
  • • Earthquakes (north)

Note: Safety ratings are based on Global Peace Index, US Department of State Travel Advisories, and local government sources. Ratings are subjective and should be used as a general guideline only. Always verify current travel advisories before your trip.

Solo Women Travelers

5
Overall
/ 10
Based on solo female traveler reviews & government advisories

Night Safety

caution

Dress Code

Modest - cover shoulders and knees, especially at religious sites

Harassment Risk

occasional

Women-only transport options available

Tips

  • •Dress modestly
  • •Use women-only train carriages
  • •Avoid isolated areas
  • •Use registered taxis apps

Note:Women safety ratings are based on solo female traveler experiences, TripAdvisor reviews, and US Department of State advisories. Every woman's experience may vary. Trust your instincts and research specific destinations.

Festivals & Events

October-November• Varies (Oct/Nov)

Diwali

religious

Festival of Lights

Impact:Amazing experience - book early, many closures
March• March

Holi

religious

Festival of Colors

Impact:Fun but crowded - wear old clothes

Offline Survival Kit

Documents

Passport (valid 6+ months)
India visa
Travel insurance
Medical documents

Apps

Google Maps
Uber
Ola
WhatsApp

Downloads

Offline Google Maps
India travel guides

Essentials

Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Comfortable walking shoes
Reusable water bottle

Frequently Asked Questions

Is India safe for tourists?
India has an overall safety rating of 6/10, making it generally safe for tourists. Petty theft is moderate and violent crime is moderate. Areas to be cautious in include: Some border areas - check advisories. Always stay aware of your surroundings and take standard travel precautions.
Is India safe for solo female travelers?
India has a women's safety rating of 5/10, making it requires extra caution for solo female travelers. Night safety is rated as "caution" and harassment is occasional. Women-only transport options are available. Dress modestly
Do I need a VPN in India?
Yes, a VPN is recommended when visiting India. Internet restrictions include: Some social media apps blocked at times. Popular apps include WhatsApp, Google Maps, Uber.
What scams should I watch out for in India?
Common scams in India include: Taxi/rickshaw overcharging; Fake guides; Temple donation scams. Always use reputable services, agree on prices before committing, and trust your instincts if something feels off.
Should I use cash or card in India?
Cash is preferred in many places in India. The currency is Indian Rupee (INR). Card acceptance is moderate - carry cash as backup. Cash preferred in small towns/remote areas
What are the emergency numbers in India?
Emergency numbers in India: Police: 100. Ambulance: 102/108. Fire: 101. Tourist Police: 1363. The US Embassy in India (US Embassy New Delhi) can be reached at +91 11 2419 8000.