Is it safe to drink the water?

No. Never drink tap water. Drink only sealed bottled water or carbonated drinks. Avoid ice cubes in drinks.

Do I need to tip for business services?

Tipping is expected in high-end business contexts. Tip roughly 10% in restaurants and a small amount for baggage handlers or drivers.

How do I dress for meetings?

Business attire in India is conservative. A suit and tie or a formal button-down shirt is standard for men; professional, modest attire that covers shoulders and knees is standard for women.

Preparing for Your First Business Trip to India

Secure your e-business visa at least two weeks before departure and prioritize setting up a local eSIM for reliable connectivity. You must also pack a comprehensive medical kit, including prescription-strength anti-diarrheal medication, to avoid common travel-related illnesses.

Get your e-Business Visa. Apply through the official Indian government e-visa portal. You will need a digital business card, a scan of your passport's bio page, and a letter of invitation from your host company in India. Do this at least 14 days before your flight.
Manage your health. Visit a travel clinic 6 weeks before you leave. Get vaccinated for Typhoid and Hepatitis A. Pack a 'Delhi Belly' kit: Imodium, rehydration salts, and an antibiotic like Ciprofloxacin (consult your doctor).
Sort your connectivity. Do not rely on roaming data. Use an app like Airalo to buy an India-specific eSIM before you land. You will need a functioning mobile number to use apps like Uber and to navigate airport Wi-Fi authentication.
Download critical apps. Install Uber or Ola for reliable, trackable transport. Download Zomato for food delivery if you are stuck at a hotel and Google Maps for offline navigation.

Is it safe to drink the water?: No. Never drink tap water. Drink only sealed bottled water or carbonated drinks. Avoid ice cubes in drinks.
Do I need to tip for business services?: Tipping is expected in high-end business contexts. Tip roughly 10% in restaurants and a small amount for baggage handlers or drivers.
How do I dress for meetings?: Business attire in India is conservative. A suit and tie or a formal button-down shirt is standard for men; professional, modest attire that covers shoulders and knees is standard for women.