Bangalore Travel Tips

The customary Indian way of greeting is to bring the hands together while tilting the head forward and saying 'namaste'. Although the handshake is also a common greeting among many, Indian women prefer not to shake hands. India is a country which abides by strong cultural and religious rules, and it is recommended that tourists be aware of the conventions of the local community.

Places of religious worship are revered and all visitors are required to take off their footwear and headgear when entering such sites. Majority of the population takes off their shoes when entering a house. Small gifts are accepted as tokens of appreciation.

Casual clothes are accepted among the business community, except when attending important meetings or formal social events. Conventional styles of clothing are seen in India and women, especially, are expected to dress modestly, in unrevealing attire. Many Hindus are vegetarians and do not consume alcohol, particularly women.

English-speaking, authorised travel guides are present near most major tourist attractions. Their charges are fixed and travellers should contact the nearest Government of India Tourist Office for further information. Tour guides are certified by the Ministry of Tourism or the Government of India Tourist Office, and unauthorised guides are prohibited from entering protected sites.

A fee is applied to photographing wildlife sanctuaries and permission must be obtained from the Archaeological Survey of India, New Delhi, prior to using a tripod or artificial lighting for photographing monuments.

Tipping taxis and restaurants is not expected although hotel and airport porters should be tipped around 20 rupees, and guides and drivers around 100 rupees per day.