India is a country of contrasts and complexity. For Canadian travelers, it offers an enriching experience filled with diverse landscapes, vibrant colors, spicy cuisine, ancient history, and spiritual depth. But it also comes with a different pace, cultural nuances, and social customs that might seem unusual at first.
To make the most of your journey, and to avoid unintentionally offending your hosts, it’s important to understand the core cultural etiquette of India. This guide will help Canadian travelers navigate India respectfully, confidently, and with an open heart.
1. Respect for Elders and Hierarchy
India places strong emphasis on respect for age and hierarchy. Whether you’re interacting with someone at a homestay or a local guide, politeness goes a long way.
What to Know:
- Greet older people with a gentle bow or by bringing your hands together with a soft “Namaste.”
- Let elders speak first in conversations.
- Avoid calling elders by their first names unless invited to.
- In family settings, it’s common to touch the feet of elders as a sign of respect, although this is not expected from foreigners.
2. Greetings and Physical Contact
Canada is relatively informal when it comes to greetings, a hug, a handshake, or even a pat on the back. India is different.
What to Know:
- A polite “Namaste” is widely accepted and appreciated. It’s done by pressing your palms together near your chest and saying “Namaste” or “Namaskar.”
- Avoid hugging or touching members of the opposite sex in public, especially in rural or traditional areas.
- Handshakes are common in business or urban settings but should be initiated respectfully and usually between the same genders.
3. Dress Modestly
India is a conservative society when it comes to clothing. While fashion is evolving in urban centers, modesty remains key in most parts of the country.
What to Know:
- Women should wear clothing that covers the shoulders, chest, and legs. Avoid short skirts, low-cut tops, or spaghetti straps, especially in rural areas or places of worship.
- Men should avoid shorts in temples and government buildings.
- In temples or religious sites, always remove shoes and cover your head if required (especially in Sikh Gurdwaras).
4. Religious Sensitivity
India is home to several major world religions – Hinduism, Islam, Sikhism, Christianity, Buddhism, Jainism, and religious life is deeply woven into daily living.
What to Know:
- Always remove your shoes before entering a temple, mosque, or even someone’s home.
- Don’t touch religious idols or shrines unless invited to do so.
- Avoid taking photos inside temples or during prayers unless explicitly permitted.
- Avoid pointing your feet toward religious items or people.
- In Sikh Gurdwaras, cover your head (men and women) and wash your hands before entering.
5. Public Behavior and Displays of Affection
What’s considered normal in Canada, holding hands with your partner, kissing in public, or speaking loudly in public spaces, may be frowned upon in India.
What to Know:
- Public displays of affection (kissing, hugging, or intimate touching) between couples are generally avoided in public.
- Holding hands between same-gender friends is common and not romantic.
- Avoid raising your voice or using profanity in public spaces, it’s seen as disrespectful.
6. Hospitality and Guest Etiquette
India follows the saying: “Atithi Devo Bhava” — “The guest is equivalent to God.” Hospitality is heartfelt and generous.
What to Know:
- You’ll often be offered food or drinks even if you just dropped by. It’s polite to at least accept a small bite or a drink.
- Don’t enter someone’s home wearing shoes unless they insist.
- If staying in a homestay, bringing a small gift from Canada is a thoughtful gesture.
7. Eating Etiquette
Indian cuisine is a highlight of any trip, but the eating customs are different.
What to Know:
- Many Indians eat with their right hand only. The left hand is considered unclean.
- Use your right hand for passing dishes, eating, or receiving gifts.
- Don’t waste food – it’s considered disrespectful.
- In many homes and traditional restaurants, eating with your hands is normal (you can always ask for cutlery).
8. Bargaining and Street Shopping
Unlike Canada, fixed prices are often negotiable in India, especially in markets, bazaars, and tourist areas.
What to Know:
- Bargaining is expected, but always do it politely.
- A good rule is to offer half the quoted price and negotiate from there.
- Don’t bargain over very small amounts, it may seem disrespectful to local vendors.
9. Gender Dynamics and Safety Awareness
India is safe for most travelers, but gender roles and personal space norms may differ from what you’re used to.
What to Know:
- Solo female travelers should be cautious, especially at night.
- It’s safer to use women-only compartments in trains and metro systems.
- Avoid isolated areas and trust your instincts.
- Dress conservatively to avoid unwanted attention.
10. Communication and Gestures
Body language in India carries different meanings.
What to Know:
- Nodding side to side means “yes” or “I understand,” not “no.”
- Shaking your head up and down (like in the West) may confuse people.
- Avoid pointing fingers directly at people—it can seem accusatory.
- Use your whole hand if you need to gesture.
11. Personal Space and Queues
Crowds in India can be intense, especially for Canadians used to more personal space and strict queuing systems.
What to Know:
- Don’t be surprised if people stand close to you in lines or public transport.
- Sometimes, queues may not be strictly followed, especially in busy places.
12. Tipping and Gratitude
Tipping isn’t mandatory everywhere, but it’s appreciated.
What to Know:
- Restaurants: 5–10% tip is customary if a service charge isn’t included.
- Porters, guides, and drivers: Tip based on quality and duration of service.
- In temples or religious places, donations are optional.
Final Thoughts: Travel with Curiosity, Not Judgment
India is not just a place – it’s an experience. You’ll encounter moments of chaos and serenity, tradition and modernity, humility and grandeur, all in the same day. Cultural etiquette may sometimes seem rigid or unfamiliar, but it stems from deep-rooted values of respect, hospitality, and harmony.
As a Canadian traveler, your openness, adaptability, and willingness to engage will enrich your experience tenfold. Ask questions, listen deeply, and remember: India rewards those who travel with humility and heart.