Packing for India is about modesty, heat and dust. Light, loose clothing that covers shoulders and knees will get you into every temple and keep you cool; a small daypack with water, sunscreen and tissues will get you through every sightseeing day. Here is the list our tour managers hand to every traveller, organised by category so you can tick it off.
Clothing
- Lightweight long trousers or maxi skirts (3–4) – required for temples and mosques.
- Loose shirts or tops with sleeves (5–6) in cotton or linen.
- A scarf or shawl – covers your head in religious sites and doubles as a blanket on trains.
- Warm layer: a fleece or light jacket for winter mornings in the north; a proper down jacket for Ladakh.
- Comfortable walking shoes that slip off easily – you will remove them many times a day.
- Flip-flops or sandals for hotel rooms and beaches.
- Swimwear for Goa, Kerala and hotel pools.
- A sun hat and sunglasses.
Electronics and documents
- India uses Type C, D and M sockets at 230 V. Bring a universal adapter; most hotels also have a European 2-pin socket.
- A power bank – long sightseeing days and photo-taking drain phones quickly.
- Your passport, printed e-Visa, travel insurance details and two photocopies kept separately.
- A credit or debit card with no foreign transaction fee and some US dollars or euros as backup.
- An unlocked phone if you want an Indian SIM card (we help you buy one on day one).
Health kit
- Any prescription medicine in its original packaging, with a copy of the prescription.
- Oral rehydration salts, an anti-diarrhoea remedy and a probiotic.
- Insect repellent with 30–50% DEET and after-bite cream.
- High-factor sunscreen, lip balm and hand sanitiser.
- Plasters, painkillers and a small pack of tissues (public toilets rarely have paper).
- For Ladakh: ask your doctor about altitude medication (acetazolamide).
What to leave at home
Drones (banned without a permit), satellite phones (illegal), expensive jewellery and anything you would hate to lose. Leave space in your bag: Indian textiles, spices and tea are irresistible, and most travellers fly home with more than they came with.
Frequently asked questions
In Goa and at beach resorts, yes. In cities and at any religious site, cover your knees – both men and women. Lightweight trousers are cooler than you think.
Every hotel we use offers same-day laundry at low cost, so you can pack for one week even on a three-week tour.
Still have questions? Our team answers within one working day. Call +44 7915 382603, write to contact@visit-to-india.com or see the FAQ.