Let me look at the basic reason behind writing this article. At times I have received a number of questions, from my foreign friends around India. Few of them are true, realistic, and as generic as what India is famous for and a few of them are too far from reality. I thought of busting a few myths and explaining realities better.
India is a daunting country and the thought of exploring it is exhilarating as well as scary at the same time.
There are two extremes, immense richness and poverty existing simultaneously, so do in most of the Asian countries. Though thanks to the economic developments of India, we have a large segment of the fastest emerging middle class. If I have to sum up India in one sentence, similar to the curry we eat, I will call it "Spicy". It is neither sweet nor sour, fully spicy.
Yes, my country has some flaws just like any other country on the planet. The one thing which I can say with a guarantee- one can love it or hate it but cannot write it off.
Travelers are often shocked by the cultural difference. India living in metros is quite different from that of living in small towns and villages. Even within the country each state follows a different culture. I have heard few complaints around this, my primary question- Why do we travel? As a traveler I believe we travel, to get exposure to a new culture, good or bad let's keep that for later.
One needs to understand India is very different culture-wise, and that is the beauty of the country. Instead of complaining, one needs to look at the diversity and enjoy it.
This is one allegation, which we come across frequently. Well, there is not much to answer and the reason is difficult to explain. However, if we dig deeper we find out genuine causes, like poverty at times give birth to survival skills, which might not always be good. Yes, at times you will find taxi driver, temples fleecing you. I know this cannot be an excuse for unacceptable behavior. In order to curb the menace of these lying touts, state governments have intervened and have put a process in place.
The trick is to get away from touts and go for authentic booking agencies. And always remember, at none of the religious places, it is compulsory to donate. Many Indians visit the temples, shrines, or churches and don't donate.
I call my country a pandora's box where one moment a stranger will happily give his/her train seat so that you sleep peacefully. Whereas on the other hand, a stranger would dupe you. India is definitely a roller coaster ride, where you will also come across a few of the warmest people.
This is another such allegation which I vehemently refute. While booking a room opt for OYO, AirBnB, and choose from amongst proper hotel chains. Go for at least 3-star hotels, and you will not feel the hassle.
We being Indians don't prefer staying in those shady rooms at Paharganj Delhi. If you have a budget of $20, you will easily get a decent stay.
Trust me you will get luxury at one-fifth of the cost of what you get in the west. Please book your rooms in advance and don't rely on these drivers, who will take you to places where their commission is fixed. You are not the only ones, they apply this trick on us too.
When you plan to visit any state for eg. Rajasthan or Gujarat visit the state tourism website like http://www.tourism.rajasthan.gov.in/, they have authentic staying options along with separate foreign travelers tab. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, always try out state tourism guest houses. They provide comfortable living at a bearable price.
India has got OLA and UBER, download the app enter the destination, and get the authentic cab ride. If you are in metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai please take the metro. I have seen so many foreigners purchasing metro cards, and traveling happily.
At the airport there is a government taxi booking agency, one can ask for the location from the security forces, present at the airport or those stall owners. They will definitely guide you. You have to reach the booth, tell them your location, the officer will show you the charges list. Book your taxi through them. As all the taxis are registered under the government, so they cannot act funny.
I will give you a rough estimate, if you are at Indira Gandhi Airport Delhi, during the day and you want to take a cab and travel anywhere within the city, it will not cost you more than $14. I am talking about authentic cab service and not something dicey.
Also, go on tuk-tuk only once or twice to experience India.
Regarding women's safety, we do have our issues but now strict laws are in place.
Please understand the documentary "Daughters of India", is not a completely honest depiction. They have picked up the males from the lowest strata of society. Had that been the case, Indian women wouldn't have been working and creating impact in different fields.
You will come across a few of the finest males here, who are ready to protect you. I have been born and brought up here, trust me things are not that bad. We don't get raped the moment we step out of our homes, as it is sadly depicted at few places. This is true you cannot roam around alone in the night. Or while returning late, it is always better to inform someone or see if someone can accompany you. If you have to travel, go for authentic cab booking agencies.
India is an intense experience, being an Indian the more I travel, the more I am amazed at the natural beauty and the diversity this country has to offer. Things are changing fast and cleanliness is being taken care of. I would suggest, if it is your first time, try traveling in groups. There are many travel women groups on Facebook.
FINAL WORDS
I believe partially the problem lies in the fact when travelers mention, India can be covered in a dirt-cheap budget. Yes, it can be but then the experiences might not be that good. If you want to be safe and enjoy the country, ensure making a realistic budget.
Also, in case of trouble head to the nearest police station, they are there to help you out. Fortunately, these days you will find many young Indians on the road out traveling and experiencing things. They can also be a good guide.
Traveling to India is an experience where you will witness many things, with an open mind you will relish this experience forever.
