Cultural differences extend to all sorts of little things. While allowances will usually be made for foreigners, visitors unacquainted with Indian customs may need a little preparation to avoid causing offence or making fools of themselves. The list of Things to do and not to do here is hardly exhaustive.
Tip: When in doubt, watch what the Indians around you are doing.
Try Not Wearing Tight or Revealing Clothes
Indians adopt a very conservative standard of dress, particularly in rural areas. Sure you can wear what you like, and most likely no one will say anything. But if you are on this land, you are one of us and are expected to use good judgment and show courtesy to local culture and views, especially while visiting a place religious interest one must be dressed appropriately.
Do Not Wear Your Shoes Inside
It will be expected of you to take your shoes off before entering a temple or a mosque. Shoes are sometimes also removed before entering a shop. If you see lots of shoes at an entrance of a shop, it's a good idea to take yours off as well. When entering a private home, follow your host.
Avoid PDA
In India, it's okay to piss in public but not kiss in public. Unfortunately, there is much truth to this. Indian society is conservative, particularly the older generation. Public display of affection is considered incorrect. ‘Moral policing’ does occur. While it's unlikely that you'll be arrested for doing this, but it's best to keep it low in public places.
Do Not be Offended by Intrusive Questions
As a traveler, you will constantly come across people who want to strike up a conversation. You may find it odd or even intrusive that complete strangers should want to know a few things about you, but these subjects are considered polite conversation between strangers. Asking the same questions back will not be taken amiss – far from it.
Do Not Enter a Temple/Mosque without covering your head
Religion is taken very seriously in India; it’s important to know that when entering a temple or mosque, remove your shoes and leave them at the door, cover your head using a scarf as a mark of respect. Some temples do not allow you to enter wearing or carrying leather articles as-well.
Do Not Forget the Right Hand Rule
The biggest minefield of potential faux pas in India has to do with eating. This is usually done with the hand, and requires practice to get absolutely right. But if you decide to eat an Indian meal with your hand, rule one is: eat with your right hand only. Period! But this rule extends beyond food. In general, you should accept things given to you with your right hand, especially in a temple – though using both hands is a sign of respect.
Other Possible Gaffes
Do not take offers of spiritual salvation's from saints, god-men and quacks. There is no way you can distinguish the genuine ones from the crooks.
Do not try and explore the Indian road yourself. There are chances you may be misguided by a few.
'Jhutha', or sullied food, is strictly taboo. For example, when drinking out of a cup or bottle to be shared with others, don’t let it touch your lips, but rather pour it directly into your mouth.
Despite its size, a cow is considered a calm and non-threatening animal, most of all sacred to the Hindu religion. You will be able to spot a lot of cows quietly and casually roaming amidst traffic on Indian roads. Do not let it bother you.
