Important Instructions for Tourists in India

Things you should avoid when you travel to India :
Do not offer to shake the hand of a person of the opposite sex unless they offer first
Do not use the same hand to take meals from the common dish with which you are already eating. Also try to avoid drinking water from common glass by touching it on your lips
Follow the rules when you visit the temples. Shoes are not allowed in any of the temple. Many temples have their own rules so take proper information from your hotel or driver or guide before you visit any particular temple.
Do not drink or smoke at public places. It’s offense.
Do not indulge yourself in hunting with the locals, as killing wildlife is illegal and it can get you in serious trouble. Do not hurt a cow, as many Hindus consider the cows are holy, and are offended if they are hit by strangers.
Do not discuss about religion with any local person, however if you want information you can ask your guide for the same.
Do not do any public preaching as this is prohibited when you are in India on a tourist visa.
Do not walk alone if you travelling to Kashmir or North East India.
Do not buy food from roadside stalls or mobile canteens. Do not drink local tap water, drink bottled water only. Do not eat fresh fruit and vegetables that you cannot peel.
Do not accept offers from local saints or ascetics claiming of mystical powers, you may be cheated.
Do not try to self drive in India unless you have been trained on Indian roads.
Do not ever purchase air, rail or bus tickets through strangers or unauthorized travel agents or tour operators. Avoid touts and taxi-drivers at airport/stations/bus stand to help you find your hotel. You can contact tourist help desk for any information or assistance.
Do not hire any type of transportation from unlicensed operators. In case of taxis and auto-rickshaws, try to hire them from the pre-paid booths if possible. Otherwise, insist on going by the meter or set a fare in advance to avoid being over charged.

Here is the list of some things which you can do while you are in India :
Do dress modestly to respect the sentiments of the local population. When you visit temples please try to wear full pants and shirts with sleeves.
If you have to get train or flight do start from your place well in advance. Sometimes it can take longer in the traffic.
Do greet people by folding hand (Namaskar pose).
Do exchange money only through authorized banks or money changers.
Do get proper immunization against various diseases like typhoid, malaria, hepatitis and tetanus that are prevalent in India. If you already taking any medicines please carry them with you.
You can bargain well at shops where there are no proper price tags on the articles.
Always carry your valuable articles like cash passports with you and take proper care of them.