A trip to India is not just a change of continent, but a total immersion in a world that vibrates with colors, scents, spirituality, and pure energy. Before leaving, however, it’s a good idea to prepare carefully: India is intense, fascinating, and sometimes complex. Here is a comprehensive checklist to arrive ready and enjoy every moment with a light mind (and backpack).
1. Passport and visa: the starting point
The passport must have at least 6 months remaining validity. The visa for India is applied for online in a few steps through the officiale-Visa website(https://indianvisaonline.gov.in). You can choose from several types (tourist, business, medical…), but for a classic trip, the tourist one is more than enough. Apply for it at least 10 days before departure.
2. Vaccinations and health: better to prevent
No mandatory vaccines are required, but health authorities recommend:
hepatitis A and B, typhoid, tetanus, rabies (for long or rural trips).
Bring a well-stocked travel pharmacy: basic antibiotics, antidiarrheals, milk enzymes, mosquito repellent, disinfectant gel, and perhaps a few sachets of mineral salts. Antimalarial prophylaxis may be useful in some areas: talk to your doctor.
3. Travel insurance: essential
India is a wonderful country but also unpredictable. Good medical insurance is a must, best if it also covers trip cancellation, theft, loss and delay.
4. Money and payments
The currency is the Indian rupee (INR). Change a small amount upon arrival at the airport, or withdraw with an ATM or prepaid card at the many ATMs (check first that your bank enables them for India). In cities and hotels cards work, but in markets, temples, and villages cash is essential.
5. What to pack
Light, comfortable clothes, preferably made of natural fibers.
A pashmina or scarf is useful for covering yourself in temples or protecting yourself from the sun.
For northern winters (e.g., Rajasthan, Delhi, Varanasi), warmer layers are needed.
Important: respectful clothing that is not too tight, especially for women. Comfortable shoes, shower slippers, a thermal water bottle.
6. Connection and adapters
- Type C, D and M sockets are used in India: bring a universal adapter.
- Local SIM cards (such as Airtel or Jio) are inexpensive and give you access to fast Internet, which is very useful for getting around, communicating and orienting yourself.
- Download apps such as Google Maps offline, Paytm, and maybe some PDF guides before you leave.
7. Culture and respect
In India, every gesture has meaning. Before you leave, read some cultural guides or follow some videos to get in the mood. Remember:
- Never touch people’s heads, especially children’s heads.
- Eat with the right hand.
- Temples are entered barefoot and with shoulders/legs covered.
- Public outpourings are frowned upon.
- Always ask permission before photographing people, especially in villages.
8. Itinerary and flexibility
India is immense. If it is your first time, best to focus on one region or rely on an experienced operator who knows the local culture well. Trains and buses are authentic experiences but not always on time. Leave room for the unexpected: it is part of the journey in India.
One last piece of advice? Leave with an open mind.
India is a journey that shocks, enriches, surprises. Each day will be different from the last, and each encounter will have something to teach you. You don’t need control, but curiosity and respect. The checklist is just the beginning: the rest, you will write down as you go.