How should I dress as a tourist in India? Are there any cultural considerations?

5 min readOct 7, 2023

India, the land of vibrant traditions, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, is a dream destination for many travelers. From the snow-capped Himalayas in the north to the tropical beaches in the south, India offers an array of experiences for tourists. However, when planning a trip to this diverse country, it’s crucial to consider the cultural norms and etiquette, including how to dress appropriately. This blog will guide you through the dos and don’ts of dressing as a tourist in India, ensuring a respectful and comfortable journey.

Understanding India’s Diversity

Before delving into the specifics of dressing in India, it’s essential to understand the country’s remarkable diversity. India is a nation of 1.3 billion people, and it boasts a wide array of languages, religions, and traditions. Each region and state can have distinct customs and clothing styles. Therefore, what might be considered appropriate attire in one part of India may not be the same in another. While it’s impossible to cover every nuance, we can provide some general guidelines to help you dress respectfully and comfortably during your visit.

Dress Modestly

One of the most critical aspects of dressing appropriately in India is modesty. India is a conservative society when it comes to clothing, especially in rural areas and religious sites. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Covering Shoulders and Knees: For both men and women, it’s advisable to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Sleeveless tops and short skirts or shorts are generally not recommended, especially when visiting religious places.

Avoid Tight Clothing: Wearing tight-fitting clothing can attract unwanted attention and may be seen as culturally insensitive in some areas. Loose-fitting, comfortable clothing is a better choice.

Respectful Necklines: Avoid low-cut tops or clothing with plunging necklines. A modest neckline is considered more appropriate.

Cultural Sites and Temples: When visiting temples or other religious sites, you should dress conservatively. For both men and women, it’s often necessary to cover your head, shoulders, and knees. Many temples have specific dress codes, so it’s a good idea to check before visiting.

Traditional Indian Clothing

While it’s not mandatory for tourists to wear traditional Indian clothing, doing so can be a way to show respect for the culture and immerse yourself in the local experience. Here are some traditional Indian outfits to consider:

Sari: A sari is a beautiful and elegant piece of clothing worn by Indian women. If you’re comfortable, you can try wearing a sari, which consists of a long piece of fabric draped around the body. It’s often accompanied by a blouse and a petticoat.

Kurta-Pajama: For men, a kurta-pajama is a comfortable and traditional outfit. It consists of loose-fitting trousers (pajama) and a long tunic (kurta). It’s suitable for various occasions, from casual outings to more formal events.

Salwar Kameez: Another option for both men and women is the salwar kameez. It consists of loose-fitting pants (salwar), a tunic (kameez), and a scarf (dupatta). This outfit offers comfort and modesty.

Respecting Regional Differences

As mentioned earlier, India’s diversity is its defining characteristic. Each state and region has its own cultural and sartorial identity. While the general guidelines of modesty apply across the country, it’s essential to be aware of regional variations.

North India: In North India, you’ll find a mix of traditional and contemporary clothing. In cities like Delhi and Jaipur, people often dress in modern Western-style clothing, but it’s still a good idea to dress modestly when visiting temples or rural areas.

South India: South India tends to be more conservative in terms of clothing. Here, you’ll often see men wearing dhotis (a type of draped cloth) and women in saris. Dressing traditionally can be appreciated in this part of the country.

Western India: Cities like Mumbai and Goa are known for their relaxed dress codes, influenced by Western fashion. However, it’s advisable to be more conservative when visiting religious sites.

Eastern India: Eastern India has its own unique cultural attire. While Western clothing is common in cities like Kolkata, traditional clothing such as the dhoti and saree are still prevalent in rural areas.

Respect for Local Customs

Understanding and respecting local customs is crucial for any traveler. Here are some additional tips to ensure you dress appropriately while traveling in India:

Remove Shoes: When entering someone’s home or a place of worship, it’s customary to remove your shoes. Make sure your socks are clean and without holes.

Head Coverings: In some regions and religious places, covering your head with a scarf or a hat may be required. Be prepared to follow this custom when necessary.

Footwear: Sandals or slip-on shoes can be convenient for quickly removing and putting back on, especially when entering temples or homes.

Jewelry: Wearing excessive jewelry can attract attention and potentially make you a target for theft. It’s best to keep your jewelry simple and minimal.

Tattoos and Body Art: In some rural areas, tattoos and body art may be associated with certain tribes or communities. It’s a good idea to cover tattoos in such areas to avoid any misunderstandings.

Bathing Suits: While it’s fine to wear bathing suits at beaches or poolside in tourist areas, it’s not appropriate to wear them in public spaces away from the shore. Always carry a cover-up or sarong to use when needed.

Local Advice: If you’re unsure about what’s appropriate in a particular area, don’t hesitate to ask locals or your tour guide for guidance. They can provide valuable insights and ensure you’re respecting local customs.

Conclusion

Dressing appropriately as a tourist in India is not only a matter of etiquette but also a way to show respect for the country’s rich and diverse culture. By adhering to modesty guidelines, respecting regional variations, and being mindful of local customs, you can have a comfortable and culturally enriching experience in this incredible nation. Remember that while these guidelines are helpful, the most important thing is to approach your travels with an open heart and a willingness to learn from the beautiful tapestry of Indian culture.