8 Mistakes First-Time Travellers Make In India (And How To Dodge Them Like A Local)

India is a land of contrasts - snow-capped Himalayan peaks, sun-soaked Goa beaches, golden Rajasthan deserts, and lush Assam tea gardens. But beyond the scenery, it's the people, festivals, traditions, and food that truly define the experience. For centuries, travellers have arrived seeking colour, spirituality, and stories. Today, millions still visit every year, from street food adventures in Old Delhi to backwater cruises in Kerala. While India rewards open-hearted explorers, first-timers often make small but costly mistakes. The good news? They're easily avoidable.

Also Read: Flying For The First Time? These 6 Airport Terms Will Make You Feel Less Lost

Here're 8 Mistakes First-Time Travellers Make In India And How To Dodge Them:

1. Overpaying For Taxis And Autos:

The mistake:

Jumping into a taxi or auto-rickshaw without knowing the going rate. Tourist-heavy areas (especially airports and railway stations) often see inflated "special prices".

How to dodge:

• Use ride-hailing apps like Ola or Uber for upfront fares.

• In meter-using cities (Mumbai, Bengaluru), politely insist the driver switch it on.
• Ask locals about fair rates before heading out to negotiate confidently.

2. Underestimating Travel Time:

The mistake:

Assuming a 10 km ride will take the same time every day. Indian traffic can go from breezy to gridlock in minutes, thanks to roadworks, festivals, or rush hour.

How to dodge:

• Always add buffer time, especially for flights or trains.
• Better to arrive early and sip chai than miss your departure.

Also Read: Vande Bharat Train Guide: CC vs EC, Ticket Price, Food, Routes And Sleeper Plans

_{Photo Credit: Pexels}

3. Misunderstanding Trains And Buses:

The mistake:

Booking a "waitlist" train ticket without realising it means no guaranteed seat, or boarding a local bus expecting Western-style schedules.

How to dodge:

• Book trains early via the IRCTC website or authorised agents.
• Learn the class differences (AC vs Sleeper vs General).
• On buses, carry small change - conductors rarely have big notes.

4. Ignoring Public Transport Gems:

The mistake:

Relying only on taxis or private cars and missing out on unique local rides.

How to dodge:

• Try the Delhi Metro for clean, air-conditioned comfort.
• Use cycle rickshaws in old city lanes for an intimate view of local life.
• Hop on a ferry in Mumbai Harbour for a breezy, scenic ride.

5. Mishandling Money:

The mistake:

Only carrying large notes, assuming cards work everywhere, or exchanging all your currency at the airport.

How to dodge:

• Keep small denomination notes for markets and local travel.
• Use ATMs in cities but plan ahead in rural areas.
• Many urban spots accept UPI and cards, but small vendors are cash-only.
• Avoid airport exchange counters for large amounts; rates are better in town.

Also Read: 7 Rookie Mistakes That Could Get Your Visa Rejected

_{Photo Credit: Pexels}

6. Over- Or Under-Tipping:

The mistake:

Tipping 20% in restaurants like back home, or forgetting to tip porters and drivers altogether.

How to dodge:

• In mid-range restaurants, 5-10% is generous; check if service charge is already added.
• Tip small amounts to porters, hotel staff, and drivers.
• Don't tip for casual favours - a "Namaste" goes a long way.

7. Skipping A SIM Card:

The mistake:

Relying solely on roaming or random Wi-Fi and getting stranded without navigation or translation help.

How to dodge:

• Buy a prepaid SIM at the airport or city mobile shop (passport & visa required).
• Jio, Airtel, and Vi have the best coverage.
• Download offline maps for rural or hilly areas.

8. Diving Into Street Food Too Soon:

The mistake:

Landing in India and immediately loading up on pani puri, kebabs, and jalebis.

How to dodge:

• Start with freshly cooked meals at trusted cafes or restaurants.
• Try street food after your stomach adjusts - pick busy stalls with high turnover.
• Stick to bottled water, avoid ice unless you're sure it's safe, and keep sanitiser handy.

Bonus Tip: Pick The Right Season

• The best time to visit most of India is October to March for pleasant weather.
• April-June: Hot in much of the north/central regions, but hill stations are cooler.
• June-September: Monsoon season - lush and beautiful in places like Kerala, but expect heavy rain.

Also Read: Train vs Road: What Is The Best Way To Travel Through The Himalayas?

_{Photo Credit: Pexels}

Bottom line:

India isn't a country you just "see" - it's one you experience with all your senses. Arrive prepared, stay flexible, and you'll come home with more than just photos - you'll have stories you can't wait to tell.