11 Incredible Tips for Responsible Travel to India
India is no longer referred to as the "Land of Snake Charmers"! Although there are many differences in lifestyles from rural to urban and metropolitan areas, the underlying customs and practises remain universal. Given the staggering number of individuals from many communities and places in India, each with their own beliefs and backgrounds, travellers must go the extra mile and conduct thorough study! This not only ensures that you are up to date on current situations when visiting India, but it also assists you in packing for the trip and recognising appropriate behaviour on the ground. India is likely to tickle your senses and provide a shift in cultural interaction, from stunning world-class buildings and amenities to slum neighbourhoods and protracted power outages to enormous green fields. Below is a list of our best picks for safe and memorable travel in India.
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Help in Environmental Protection- India is under a lot of pressure as a country that has contributed so little to carbon emissions in recent years. It doesn't take long to notice the mountains of plastic strewn everywhere. India still lacks a strong waste collection infrastructure in some sections of the region, and dumping waste anywhere is a major concern in others. By not littering and opting for sustainable options such as cloth shopping bags or a reusable water bottle instead of plastic bottles, you may significantly reduce the amount of garbage that needs to be processed.
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Discourage Begging- Everyone has an opinion about begging (from adults), but most people are aware that professional begging gangs are common in Indian cities, especially among minors, and that they frequently operate around important centres and railway stations. The giving of money, pens, sweets, books, or whatever else is perpetuated by the loop of asking for items from tourists and begging, a dependency on tourists, as well as (over time) providing a potential reason for youngsters not to attend school. Many homeless persons seek relief from their problems by turning to drugs and alcohol. You may help individuals without costing them money by donating to recognised charity.
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Dress Modestly- In India, more is better in almost everything including clothes. Clothing culture in religious and conservative countries differs significantly from that in European (and other Western) countries. Women, in particular, do not dress in anything that exposes their legs above the knee. Sleeveless tops are ideal, but ones with tiny straps or scant clothes of any kind can attract unwanted attention.
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Shop Locally- Supporting a community-based organisation is beneficial to the larger society. Furthermore, it is always preferable to hire a local to show you about their nation responsibly. If you want to experience the actual colours of a place, avoid the huge corporations. For the best experience, schedule tours using public transportation or community-run guesthouses. Also, if you enjoy collecting souvenirs and gifts that are truly unique in their originality, look for local artisans and their stores. Your tour guide can assist you in selecting such locally run facilities. TripIndia is honoured to be one of these community-based organisations, and we would be delighted to serve you in any way possible.
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Wildlife Safaris- We strongly advise hiring the services of qualified tour operators and guides to plan a wildlife safari because they are familiar with all of the issues that exist in their particular region. It is also crucial to grow wildlife tourism as a source of income for local populations, so there should be groups that deal entirely with local communities, not just with national park authorities. When going on a tiger safari, you should plan on staying for at least a few days, and you should follow the basic regulations for animal viewing. Your guide should not lead you too close to a tiger, and you should never tip more money to get closer to one. Of course, wild animals should not be fed, touched, or teased in any manner. When going on a wildlife tour, it is recommended that you stay for at least a few days, and the typical regulations for wildlife experience apply. Your guide should not lead you too close to an animal, and you should never tip more money to get closer to an animal. Of course, wild animals should not be fed, petted, or teased in any manner.
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Respect Local Customs- Remove your shoes and cover your shoulders and legs before entering temples and mosques. Don't bother folks when you're praying or meditating. Finally, always obtain permission before photographing others. Being aware of your surroundings is also an important part of responsible travel.
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Don't be a 'Voluntourist'- There are orphanages in India that invite 'voluntourists,' meaning Volunteers, which we discourage because orphanages can sometimes become corporations rather than treatment centres. Volunteers who are not well-trained, even if they are well-trained in their own country, should not be allowed to work with vulnerable children. These are distracting for youngsters, and they frequently put them in the position of becoming a "tourist attraction," which we would never encourage.
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Tip Thoughtfully- Tipping in India is a little confusing. It is not typical to tip servers in restaurants because almost every shared meal includes a service fee that goes to the workers. Tips, on the other hand, can rely on designated drivers and local guides more frequently than not. Request clarification from your tour guide, but if you're still unsure, don't tip! Offering money can be perceived as impolite or inappropriate.
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Participate in India's Growing Responsible Tourism Movement- Although India may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of responsible travel or ecotourism, there is an astonishing range of possibilities and reasons for the conscientious traveller to stay in India. Every year, India organises the Responsible Tourism Awards, which attract an increasing number of entries from eco lodges, wildlife conservation programmes, sustainable resorts, community tourism projects, and more! There are far too many to name in a single post, but many of our favourites may be found in the extensive guides listed above. Supporting such projects not only helps India's environment, but it also helps the country's economy.
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Plan a land journey initially, and if that isn't possible, fly responsibly- Flying and even driving have much greater carbon footprints than trains and buses. When travelling to India, or any other place for that matter, try to avoid flying as much as possible. As exciting as travelling can be, it may inspire you to take some epic slow land excursions. When ground transportation isn't an option, look into how our flying decisions can affect the environment.
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Pack Light- We all are apprehensive about sudden weather changes whenever planning to travel. Considering the fact, it is always good to check the forecasts beforehand and pack what might be needed. Rain ponchos are great when it comes to be ready for a rainy place, similarly a lightweight, insulated sweatshirt may come handy. Packing the essentials will not only save time and effort in moving around but also keep the carbon emissions in check while using transport.
