This year I chose to backpacking India alone for 2 months.
It was one of the most challenging and unpredictable trips, but at the same time the most spiritual and eye-opening experience. The first month of backpacking India was kind of crazy!
I rode a camel in the desert of Jaisalmer, explored jungles and waterfalls in Bhagsu and sacred Vashisht village, roamed along the busy streets of Jaipur, survived the most dangerous route in India and hiked in the desert mountain valley called Spiti. After a month, I arrived to Rishikesh and the only thing I really wanted was a home for a while.
It is still hard to believe that those two months already passed and I am in Sri Lanka right now.
Based on my experiences, my ups and downs in India, I completed a list of 10 tips for backpacking India. There are few things which I wish to know before traveling India! And some of them are essential when backpacking as a solo female traveler!
1. First of all E-visa!
I had some troubles, when searching information online about E-Visa to India. There are plenty of incorrect opinions. The validity of e-Visa is 60 days from the date of arrival to India (not 30days). The holder of an e-Tourist Visa or e-Business Visa is allowed to enter India two times. The e-Visa fees are $0, $25, $50 and $75, depending on nationality. There is also an additional bank fee, which is 2.5%. Remember to apply online minimum 4 days before your flight here.
2. Backpacking India alone is safe
It is sometimes very challenging, but I never felt any danger. However, if you find yourself in an uncomfortable situation, show your confidence and speak decisively. If you don’t like something at all, show it. Don’t be afraid of it. When traveling solo in India, you need to be confident and assertive. Being a strong and independent woman is a key.
3. Currency exchange
Don’t exchange too much money at the airport ($50). The exchange rate is very unfavorable. I can recommend two exchange offices in New Delhi: CurrencyKart and UAE exchange & financial services, which provide excellent service and good rates.
4. Book buses and trains in advance!
Especially, the longer routes. It happens very often that all tickets are sold out, few days before the departure. If you are planning to take an overnight bus, remember to book this one with good reviews to sleep safe and comfortable. I used Redbus and MakeMyTrip apps.
5. Never ever drink tap water, only bottled one.
6. Be careful with spices
Always ask for less spicy food and less sugar in your coffee/tea/smoothie (they will put it anyway). Unless, you are a big lover of sugar or chili. It seems that instead of using a teaspoon, Indians prefer to use a ladle, when preparing your favorite mango smoothie. Especially in local restaurants, be aware of it. To say less spicy/less sugar, please in Hindi – kam cheeni/kam theekha, kripaya.
7. When you arrive to India buy a SIM card
Backpacking India without a SIM card, may be a hassle.It will save your time, money and you will end up less stressed. Keep in mind that you need to have a copy of your passport and a 2×2 photograph. Yeah, it is a quite long process.
8. Blend in!
While backpacking India, an appropriate dress code is very important. Your costume needs to cover the elbows and ankles, while visiting temples and sacred places. But also, it will help you to go deeper into the culture, observe locals and take amazing photos. It’s not fun, when everyone is staring at you.
9. Toilet paper
There is no such thing as a paper roll in the typical Indian restaurant. Indian people use water and hand to get things done 😉 Carry with you a paper roll and wet tissues, unless, you prefer Indian style!
10. Know the price
Before you get in a cab or rickshaw, agree on the price with a driver, unless, he has a meter. There are two great apps called Ola and Uber to order a taxi in India. I really recommend it, as the ride is usually cheaper than taking a cab or rickshaw on the street and you will be charged the right amount every time.
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