Abundant in history, culture and wildlife, it is little surprise colourful India holds a firm position on so many keen traveler’s bucket lists. However, with such a unique culture, it can be difficult to decide on what to wear and what to take to make sure you travel its vast land with ease and in the utmost luxury. Here are some top tips to consider ahead of your trip:
Womenswear
While India, particularly its capital Delhi, is modernising its approach to the way women dress, it is still important to adhere to its culture and dress in a respectful manner. As a general rule, we would advise wearing broader straps and tops that cover the upper half of your arms. T-shirts and loose, long blouses are ideal and will also mean you won’t have to change your outfit when entering religious sites.
On your lower half we would suggest opting for loose trousers or skirts that sit below your knees. This will help with the heat, keeping your skin cooler, in the shade and less at risk of burning.
In general, opt for light breathable clothes to deal with the weather. Pack layers if your trip involves journeying to the Himalayas and a raincoat if you’re traveling in monsoon season.
Accessories will also prove beneficial on your trip. Keep a scarf or pashmina close by, allowing you to protect yourself from the sun or act as a cover when heading to religious sites.
- Loose cotton t-shirts and long blouses
- Skirts and dresses below the knee
- Loose linen trousers
- A light raincoat
- Sunglasses
- A hat
- Pashimas/scarves
- Structured sandals
- Slip on trainers
- Walking shoes
Menswear
Similar to our female travelers, men should opt for loose, breathable clothing. Cotton t-shirts and linen trousers are a perfect combo. Men don’t tend to wear shorts too often, but if you are wanting to wear a pair, make sure they are longer or below the knee for visiting temples. Pack loose shirts to cover yourself when required.
Select sturdier walking shoes when walking on rougher terrain, particularly outside the main cities or on our excursions in Ranthambore. Slip on trainers and sandals are ideal for when you need to remove your shoes quickly to enter temples or religious sites, in Delhi for example.
- Cotton t-shirts and long-sleeved shirts or tops
- Loose linen trousers
- A light raincoat
- Slip on shoes or sneakers
- Sunglasses
- A hat
For your suitcase…
One thing any traveler will note on their journey to India is their need to be reactive. No two days, or trips for that matter, will be the same.
Don’t let the dreaded “Delhi belly” ruin your trip. Plan ahead and pack probiotics, vitamins and medicines to avoid body aches and fever.
Protect yourself from the weather and local wildlife with sun lotion and insect repellent. Always keep some toilet paper, wet wipes and hand sanitizer in your bag to avoid germs and make sure you have a power adapter and charger to keep your phone powered throughout your trip. You may not always have great signal, but a charged phone is essential in case of emergency.
Pack for success with the following:
- Probiotics and vitamins
- Personal medicines
- Sun cream
- Insect repellent
- Hand sanitizers and wet wipes
- Toilet paper/tissue
- Power adapter and charger
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