Travel Etiquette
India
Currency
Indian Rupee
Official Languages
Hindi
English
Dress
Men should wear a suit and tie for
business. Women should keep their arms,
chest, back and legs covered at all times.
Be careful when wearing leather products
such as bags, shoes or belts as cows are
considered sacred animals and this could
offend your host.
Meetings
Business meeting are formal in India and
do not usually take place over a meal.
Gifts
Gifts are not a major part of business in
India; however, if you receive a gift, wait
until the giver has left before opening it.
Hand Gestures and Body Language
Never touch the top of someone’s head or
pat the head of a child. The top of the
head is considered to be related to one’s
soul and will greatly offend an Indian host.
Never point your foot or touch someone
with your feet. If this happens apologize
immediately.
Formalities
If you are invited to someone’s home for
dinner, do not thank your hosts at the end
of a meal as it is considered a form of
payment and therefore insulting.
