India’s tap water isn’t safe for drinking or brushing teeth. Stick to bottled water from trusted brands like Bisleri, Kinley, or Aquafina. Check the seal before buying to ensure it’s not tampered with. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it at hotels or restaurants with RO (reverse osmosis) purified water stations. Avoid ice in drinks unless you’re sure it’s made from purified water.

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Indian food is a highlight, but choose wisely. Go for freshly cooked meals served piping hot, like dal (lentil curry), tandoori dishes, or biryani from busy restaurants with high turnover. Street food, like pani puri or vada pav, is tempting — pick vendors with clean setups and crowds (locals know best). Avoid lukewarm buffets or pre-prepared dishes sitting out, as they can harbor bacteria in India’s warm climate.

👍 Safer street & restaurant choices:

• 🍛 Dal (lentil curry)
• 🍖 Tandoori dishes
• 🍚 Biryani (fresh)
• 🫓 Plain naan / roti
• 🥞 Dosa
• 🫔 Idli
• 🍗 Butter chicken

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Fruits with thick skins, like bananas, mangoes, or oranges, are safe bets — peel them yourself. For other produce, like apples or carrots, use a knife to peel them or ensure they’re washed with purified water. Skip raw salads at smaller eateries, as they may be rinsed with tap water. In upscale restaurants in cities like Jaipur or Goa, salads are usually safer — confirm with staff.

Indian cuisine — from fiery Andhra curries to creamy North Indian kormas — is spice-heavy. If your stomach is sensitive, start with milder dishes like butter chicken or plain naan. Ask for “no chili” or “mild” when ordering — most cooks are happy to adjust. South Indian dishes like dosa or idli are often lighter and easier on the stomach.

India’s heat, especially in summer (March to June), can dehydrate you fast, making you more prone to stomach issues. Sip bottled or purified water throughout the day. Electrolyte powders like Electral or ORS, available at any Indian pharmacy, are a lifesaver during long sightseeing days in places like Agra or Varanasi. Aim for 2–3 litres of water daily.

Probiotics can strengthen your gut against unfamiliar bacteria. Start taking them a week before your trip and continue during your travels. Brands like Yakult or Sporlac are available in India, but it’s easier to bring your own from home.

Pack over-the-counter remedies before you travel. Indian pharmacies like Apollo or MedPlus are well-stocked and found in most cities, but having these on hand saves time — especially for rural trips to the Himalayas or Kerala backwaters.

If symptoms like diarrhoea or fever last over 24 hours, see a doctor. Major cities have excellent hospitals like Apollo, Fortis, or Max, with English-speaking staff used to treating tourists. In smaller towns, ask your hotel for a trusted clinic. Save emergency numbers and keep your hotel’s address handy.

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